Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce holds 39th AGM

WCIC Board Members 2024-2025 

• Gayani De Alwis elected as Chairperson for 2024-2025

Chief Guest UNDP Sri Lanka Resident Representative Azusa Kubota

New Chairperson Gayani De Alwis

Outgoing Chairperson Anoji De Silva

The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), marking a pivotal moment in the organisation’s 39-year journey. 

Established in 1985 as the world’s first chamber dedicated to empowering women, the WCIC remains committed to fostering female entrepreneurship, leadership, and professional development across Sri Lanka. This year’s AGM, led by Chairperson Anoji De Silva and the 15-member Board, celebrated the Chamber’s achievements during the 2023/24 term while setting the stage for future growth.

During the event, the leadership team highlighted the WCIC’s enduring commitment to creating sustainable businesses, advocating for women’s participation in the economy, and breaking down barriers for female entrepreneurs. 

Over the past year, the Chamber has made significant strides, forging impactful partnerships with organisations such as the Centre for Private Enterprise (CIPE), OAV (German Asia Pacific Organisation), UNESCAP, Globally Cool, SAARC Chamber of Commerce, and USAID to name a few. These collaborations have provided vital support to women entrepreneurs, particularly in financial literacy, export readiness, and digital marketing. 

The WCIC made a notable stride in its efforts to spread the wings with the first provincial chapter being set up in the Northern Province.

As part of the official proceedings, Gayani De Alwis was elected as the Chairperson for 2024-2025 and a new Board appointed. In her acceptance speech, she expressed deep gratitude to the WCIC’s Founders and past Chairs for their visionary leadership, vowing to build on their legacy by growing membership, expanding reach, and empowering women entrepreneurs to build inclusive, sustainable businesses.

“I am honoured and humbled to accept the role of Chairperson at the 39th Annual General Meeting of the WCIC. Together with our dynamic Board, we will continue to build on the WCIC’s rich history of supporting women entrepreneurs and leaders. We are stronger together, and I am committed to giving my best to empower women and drive economic growth,” said De Alwis.

Outgoing Chairperson Anoji De Silva expressed her appreciation for the Board’s support during her three-year tenure, noting the successful completion of numerous impactful programs aimed at empowering women. She wished the new Board success in continuing the WCIC’s exceptional work and elevating the organisation to new heights.

Notable achievements and collaborations in 2023/24

The WCIC, with 67% of its membership comprising women entrepreneurs and 33% businesswomen, has been instrumental in empowering its members through various initiatives.

Key achievements include:

• Strategic partnerships: The WCIC’s collaborations with the SAARC Chamber of Commerce, DFCC Bank, and USAID provided critical resources to women entrepreneurs, especially in the areas of financial literacy and digital marketing.
  
   
• Regional engagement: Increased participation from the Northern Province reflected the WCIC’s expanding influence across the country, empowering women entrepreneurs beyond the Western Province.
  
   
• Advocacy against gender-based violence: The Chamber continued its efforts to address workplace gender-based violence and harassment through partnerships with the CIPE. 

Celebrating women entrepreneurs

The AGM also celebrated the success of the WCIC’s flagship event, the Prathibhabhisheka Women Entrepreneur Awards, which recognised the contributions of 86 women entrepreneurs generating a combined revenue of Rs. 37.1 billion. The awards honoured nine overall winners, 19 category winners, nine provincial winners, and 12 special recognitions.

In addition to the awards, the WCIC provides valuable platforms for women entrepreneurs through events like Santa’s Village and Avurudu Udawa, as well as new initiatives such as Ramp Up, a fashion show that highlights local female designers. The WCIC Virtual Marketplace further supports female SMEs by offering them market access and visibility.

Support for women with limited skills

The WCIC has remained steadfast in its commitment to uplifting limited-skilled women through inclusive livelihood programs. 

One such initiative is a collaboration with the Direct Aid Program (DAP), funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which provides training and entrepreneurial opportunities for women in the Kurunegala District. These efforts have helped women gain qualifications in elder and child care, as well as launch their own businesses, contributing to sustainable livelihoods in the informal sector. Chief Guest United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Resident Representative in Sri Lanka Azusa Kubota honoured the AGM with her presence. In her address, she highlighted the significant contributions made by the WCIC to the advancement of working women in Sri Lanka. She emphasised how the Chamber’s initiatives have created meaningful impact for both rural and urban women, empowering them in their professional journeys. Kubota also shared her personal involvement with the WCIC’s activities, highlighting the Chamber’s vital role in supporting women’s economic empowerment across the country.

As the WCIC prepares to enter its 40th year, the Chamber is focused on continuing its advocacy for gender-inclusive workplaces, promoting businesses that are export-ready, and supporting women entrepreneurs in overcoming barriers to success. With a clear vision for the future, the WCIC is committed to driving positive change for women in business and contributing to Sri Lanka’s economic growth.