Amari Colombo presents “Catalysts of Change” with Savithri Rodrigo: Two nights. Bold conversations

Debrief session with Savithri along with the ladies and Amari Colombo team

Amari Colombo has announced the launch of “Catalysts of Change,” a powerful two-week initiative dedicated to advancing gender parity, empowering women, and igniting meaningful conversations about equality across industries. 

The event, which runs from 17 to 24 March, will celebrate the exceptional achievements of women in diverse sectors, from hospitality to aviation, shipping, foreign affairs, and beyond, creating a dynamic platform for progress, collaboration, and actionable change.

In a world where the need for gender equality is ever more pressing, Amari Colombo is stepping up to the plate with this transformative initiative. Located in the vibrant heart of Colombo, the hotel’s stylish spaces will be the backdrop for a series of discussions, panel events, and activations, each designed to inspire change and propel women’s participation in traditionally male-dominated fields. This two-week initiative is more than just a series of events—it is a catalyst for change, encouraging dialogue that leads to real-world impact.

“We are excited to bring ‘Catalysts of Change’ to Colombo, a city that has long been at the forefront of the conversation on women’s empowerment,” said Amari Colombo Hotel Manager Indika Jayawardena. “This initiative reflects our commitment to gender equality and aligns perfectly with Amari’s core values. It is our privilege to provide a platform where women can not only be celebrated but also lead important conversations about the future of their industries.”

A vision for empowerment: Key events and activations

The heart of “Catalysts of Change” lies in its thought-provoking events, which will bring together industry leaders, trailblazers, and advocates of women’s empowerment. These engaging discussions will cover critical topics, from how to break barriers in male-dominated fields to showcasing the power of women in leadership roles.

17th March – Dining for Change: Empowering Women in Sri Lanka’s Hospitality Industry

Theme: Accelerating Corporate Action and Inspiring Lasting Change

Location: Saffira Ballroom

Time: 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. | Panel discussion, 7:00 p.m. onwards | Three-course dinner (ends by 9 p.m.)

A special evening will feature a panel discussion focused on the role of women in Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry and the actions required to foster lasting change. Moderated by Savithri Rodrigo, a well-respected advocate for gender equality, the discussion will include esteemed panellists such as RETRACE Hospitality Founder Chalana Perera, Thema Collection Director Maxime Wickramasinghe, , Nyne Hotels & Taru i.e. Chairman/Managing Director Nayantara Fonseka, and Jetwing Travels Ltd. Chairperson and Managing Director Shiromal Cooray. These influential figures will share their insights and personal experiences of empowering women in the industry, followed by a celebratory three-course dinner designed to spark further discussions on action and impact.

24 March – The Accelerator’s Summit and Closing Night: Breaking Barriers in Male-Dominated Industries

Time: 5 p.m.-8:45 p.m. | Followed by dinner at Ahara

This impactful closing event will showcase a series of compelling panel discussions, each highlighting women’s achievements in traditionally male-dominated sectors. The summit will feature the following panels:

nAviation – Breaking Stereotypes (5:30-6:10 p.m.)

Panellists from SriLankan Airlines will discuss their experiences navigating and overcoming challenges in the aviation industry.

nForeign Affairs – Diplomacy and Women’s Participation (6:20-7 p.m.)

Led by Foreign Affairs Ministry Director General Sashikala Premawardhane, this panel will delve into the critical role women play in diplomacy.

nWomen Migration – Empowering Migrant Women (7:15-7:45 p.m.)

IPS Head of Migration and Urbanisation Policy Research Dr. Bilesha Weeraratne will lead the discussion on empowering women through migration opportunities.

nShipping – Women in Leadership (7:45-8:05 p.m.)

Panellists such as McLarens Shipping Managing Director Shehara De Silva will share their leadership journeys in the traditionally male-dominated shipping industry.

nApparel – Inclusion and Innovation (8:05-8:25 p.m.)

MAS Holdings Corporate Affairs Director Rajitha Jayasuriya will highlight how inclusion is driving innovation in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry.

The evening will close with an interactive Q&A session and closing remarks, followed by a networking dinner.

Additionally, the Vibe Market in the Foyer will showcase a curated selection of sustainable, women-led brands like Linen Atelier, Healing Island, and Made by Her, further championing the cause of female entrepreneurs and artisans.

In line with its core values, Amari Colombo will contribute part of the proceeds from the “Catalysts of Change” initiative to the Indira Cancer Trust, supporting women battling cancer in Sri Lanka. This is part of the broader ONYX For Planet initiative, which focuses on sustainability and social responsibility.

Amari Colombo invites individuals from all walks of life to join this transformative movement. By participating in “Catalysts of Change,” you will be supporting a global call for women’s empowerment and gender equality. To reserve your spot for any of the events or learn more about the initiative, contact us at [email protected] or call +94 7285 285.