A unique global perspective: Ishara Kotiah, Manager – Spatial Services.
February 13, 2024
News & Insights
Ishara leads Niche’s innovative and growing Spatial Services team
Following on from the UN’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science earlier this week, Niche is excited to introduce Ishara Kotiah, Manager – Spatial Services.
An expert with more than 20 years of experience in spatial systems and architecture, Ishara holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Land Surveying from the University of Natal and was the first female to graduate from the university with this qualification.
Born in South Africa to third-generation Indian migrants, Ishara brings a unique global perspective to her role at Niche’s where she leads an innovative and growing Spatial Services team.
An award winner with wide-ranging experience
Ishara’s journey into the world of GIS was sparked by a lifelong passion for geography, nurtured by her early days as a remote sensing scientist.
Ishara Kotiah
Manager – Spatial Services
Starting out as a GIS developer, Ishara quickly progressed to consultancy, providing expert advice on GIS solutions and architecture to clients across diverse sectors including forestry, water, energy, emergency management and health.
Her wide-ranging experience includes the implementation of numerous enterprise geodatabases and the construction and configuration of GIS systems and applications.
Managing the development of the Western Australian Department of Health’s HealthTracks project, Ishara won the Spatially Enabling Government award at the Asia Pacific Spatial Excellence Awards. She has also received an Excellence award for Innovation, and another for Drone Implementation, from VicForests — testament to her expertise and dedication.
Committed to mastering her craft and exceeding client expectations
Ishara’s commitment to mastering her craft and love of maps continues to drive her forward in her role at Niche, where spatial data is integral to our operations.
Ishara’s team provides high-quality mapping and spatial information, reliable field operations support, and robust data insights to inform project managers and decision-makers.
For Ishara, the most rewarding aspect of her work lies in achieving efficiency in practices. A successful project outcome, she says, entails exceeding client expectations, achieving high-quality deliverables, and adherence to budget and timelines.
Currently, Ishara and her team of Spatial Analysts are supporting landscape-scale projects that will contribute to Australia’s energy transition, as we work together with our clients to create a sustainable future.
