Manori Gunawardena is a Wildlife Biologist with 25 years of experience in Asian elephant conservation in Sri Lanka. Since 1995, she has led significant research on elephant-ranging patterns using radio collar technology to improve conservation management and policies. Her work shapes strategies that balance wildlife conservation and human livelihoods. An advocate for multidisciplinary environmental governance, Manori combines ecological, social, and policy frameworks to develop sustainable conservation solutions. She focuses on strengthening local initiatives to tackle human-wildlife conflict, biodiversity conservation, and wildlife protection.

As the Director of Environmental Foundation Ltd, Manori is involved in environmental conservation litigation, combating wildlife trade and enhancing legal protections against illegal trafficking. She promotes integrated legal frameworks to connect environmental crime with conservation efforts.

Manori is a member of global conservation groups, including the IUCN SSC Asian Elephant Specialist Group and the Crocodile Specialist Group, contributing to international conservation strategies. She also participates in the Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Working Group to create solutions for human-wildlife issues. An Eisenhower Fellow in leadership, Manori is a recognised leader in wildlife conservation focused on Asian elephants, biodiversity protection.