AmCham Sri Lanka to uplift female entrepreneurs in Anuradhapura and Monaragala

The American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (AmCham SL) hosted a vibrant and inspiring celebration in honour of International Women’s Day 2025, bringing together dynamic women professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders for an evening of empowerment, connection, and celebration.

Held on 4 March at Gatz, Cinnamon Life, Colombo, the event provided a platform for women to take a well-deserved break from their daily routines and step into an atmosphere of elegance and self-appreciation. Attendees enjoyed an evening filled with camaraderie, uplifting conversations, and entertainment, all while supporting a meaningful cause. Through this initiative, AmCham SL raised funds that contributed to the empowerment of 100 female entrepreneurs, reinforcing its commitment to fostering women’s leadership and economic growth.

AmCham Sri Lanka Secretary General Neelika Tillekeratne said: “At AmCham Sri Lanka, we believe that empowered women empower economies. This International Women’s Day, we not only celebrated the strength and resilience of our members and partners but also took meaningful action by supporting disadvantaged female entrepreneurs. Through the planned one-day workshops, these female entrepreneurs from Anuradhapura and Monaragala, will gain essential skills in entrepreneurship, financial management, market access, and life skills – empowering them to sustain and grow their businesses effectively. We are proud to collaborate with Dr. Sulochana Segera and Women in Management, who will organise and conduct these workshops. With the resources and partnerships at AmCham SL, it is truly inspiring to see the collective commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable business environment.”

Women in Management Founder and Chairperson Dr. Sulochana Segera said: “In celebration of International Women’s Day, AmCham SL, in partnership with Women in Management, is empowering women entrepreneurs in Anuradhapura and Monaragala. With AmCham’s support, Women in Management is creating opportunities for women in rural communities while helping them build sustainable businesses that strengthen the local economy. True empowerment begins when women are equipped with the right tools, knowledge, and support to transform their potential into progress — and together, we are making that a reality.”

The celebration and workshops were made possible through the invaluable support of esteemed partners, including Commercial Bank, and British Cosmetics, whose contributions added a special touch to the evening.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC Managing Director/CEO Sanath Manatunge said: “Commercial Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering women empowerment through both financial and non-financial interventions. In addition to our comprehensive “Anagi” Women’s Banking portfolio tailored for women, the bank has facilitated the advancement of over 3000 female entrepreneurs through capacity- building initiatives in 2024 alone. We are pleased to collaborate with AmCham on this initiative, extending our efforts to uplift more women entrepreneurs, particularly in outstation regions.”

British Cosmetics CEO Nirosha Jagodaarachchi said: “It was great to be with AmCham and witness the powerful connections being made. To me, International Women’s Day isn’t just a date on the calendar – it’s a celebration of the strength, resilience, and impact women bring to our world every day. At British Cosmetics being a women lead organisation; we’re not just selling products; we’re investing in the confidence that empowers that strength within the company and outside.”

AmCham SL said it remains dedicated to creating opportunities that uplift and empower women in business, ensuring that the path to success is paved with collaboration, encouragement, and recognition.