Work in Sri Lanka relaunches with networking event to support returnees and expats

Friday, 7 March 2025 06:09 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Work in Sri Lanka (WISL), a leading initiative dedicated to supporting professionals returning to the island, is resuming its activities with a networking event on 12 March in Colombo.

After a hiatus, WISL is reactivating its mission at a crucial time—Sri Lanka is emerging from an economic crisis and back on a growth trajectory, making it more important than ever to attract human capital.

This event will bring together returnees, expatriates, and industry leaders to foster connections, share insights, and explore career and business opportunities in Sri Lanka. WISL provides a vital support system, offering mentorship, job matchmaking, and advocacy to ease the transition for those considering a move back.

WISL spokesperson Leah Marikkar said: “Our goal is to create a powerful community for those who have chosen to return and invest their time and resources in Sri Lanka. We aim to help reverse brain drain by making the return process smoother and more transparent. Through our network and events like this, we offer a welcoming space for returnees and potential movers to connect, share experiences, and navigate business and career opportunities that can often be challenging to access.”

Since its inception in 2013, WISL has hosted over 10 networking meet-ups and three major conferences, the most recent of which attracted 150 participants from multiple countries and industries. As the organisation reactivates, it remains committed to supporting professionals looking to integrate into Sri Lanka’s evolving business and social landscape.

WISL’s core committee represents a diverse range of industries, including IT, Law, Finance, Venture Capital, Policy, Tourism, Music and Creative Communications. With an extensive network across these sectors, WISL is uniquely positioned to connect returnees with meaningful opportunities and advice.

The next week’s event is open to professionals, and entrepreneurs that have recently made the move to Sri Lanka or are exploring a move. Attendees will have the chance to engage with industry experts, gain valuable insights, and connect with WISL’s extensive community.

If you are a professional that recently moved to Sri Lanka or are thinking of making the move, please register for the event by reaching out to [email protected].

Work in Sri Lanka (WISL) is a volunteer-driven initiative dedicated to supporting professionals returning to Sri Lanka. Through mentorship, job matchmaking, and policy advocacy, WISL helps returnees navigate the transition while working with Government and private sector stakeholders to foster a more supportive ecosystem.

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