The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka conducted a special program titled “ELEVATE: Upskilling Women Entrepreneurs”, in view of celebrating the International Women’s Day, on Tuesday, 12th March 2024 at the National Chamber Auditorium.
Objectives of the program was twofold where the significance of the women’s day was discussed in an open forum with the participants followed by a skills building session for the MSME sector women entrepreneurs focusing on the need for women’s economic empowerment and fostering gender equality. This significant event was graced by distinguished invitees representing women leaders in the state and private sector establishments.
Program Highlights: Focused onupliftingWomen’s economic empowerment to ensure that women can equally participate in and benefit from decent work and social protection, access markets and have control over resources, increased voice, and meaningful participation in economic decision-making at all levels. As such the core focus of this program was to equip women entrepreneurs with the essential skills necessary for achieving success in their business endeavors. The sessions are tailored to empower and provide valuable insights, further strengthening the commitment to fostering women’s equality within the economy.
Women’s day program was addressed by Ms. Renuka Jayamanna, A Senior Council member of NCCSL, emphasised that, “ International Women’s Day which falls on 8th of March, a day dedicated to recognizing the remarkable contributions of women around the world.
Today, we shine a spotlight on the women entrepreneurs who play a pivotal role in shaping our world. In this hall, we are surrounded by visionaries, leaders, and innovators – women who have defied the odds, shattered glass ceilings, and emerged as beacons of inspiration for generations to come.
Their resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination have not only transformed industries but have also paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
As we acknowledge the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs, let us also reflect on the challenges they have overcome and continue to face. It is through their tenacity that they have become catalysts for change, breaking barriers and forging new paths in business and beyond.
Today is not just about recognizing achievements; it’s about fostering a collective commitment to empower, support, and amplify the voices of women entrepreneurs. Let this celebration be a reminder that we are united in our pursuit of a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and make a lasting impact. Let us join hands in applauding the indomitable spirit of women entrepreneurs, whose dedication and brilliance illuminate the path towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.”
Program was specifically designed for women entrepreneurs within the MSME sector, as well as aspiring youth with a keen interest in entrepreneurship. It offered a unique opportunity for both existing women entrepreneurs and potential youth interested in getting into their own startups to embark on an entrepreneurial journey.
A well experienced Certified Professional Leadership Coach, Mrs. Dayalani Abeygoonawardene, served as the resource person. Mrs. Abeygoonawardene delivered the session with more practical oriented coaching techniques to enhance the essential skills set of participants and guided them through the program. Her inspiring session focused on empowering and motivating women entrepreneurs to drive success in their business ventures.
Success Stories and Experience sharing session:
The program was enriched with an experience sharing session of success stories of three women entrepreneurs from Ms. Maduwanthi Kumari of BMP Products, Ms. Jayomi Lokuliyana of ZMessenger and Ms. Senani Warusawithana of Senani Products.
The Secretary General of NCCSL, Mrs. Nilupul Chandrasena addressed the gathering highlighting the significance of a day dedicated for women around the world, she emphasized that, ‘the significance of International Women’s Day lies in its ability to bring attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women across the world and it is a platform for collective action and collaboration in advocating for women’s rights and empowerment. It is the day to recognize the women across the world irrespective of their cultural or social roots. We believe every women is extraordinary with talent and capabilities.”
Emphasized about the United Nations theme for International Women’s Day 2024 and the importance of accelerating gender equality through economic empowerment’ . “ it is much needed to create more pathways to greater economic inclusion for women, highlighting the vital role it plays in creating a gender equal world. All women need empowerment and equal opportunity.
Further discussed about the multiple roles that a woman plays while balancing the wheel of life with work and home and the challenges she faces in the cultural and social sphere. “It is the woman who builds the foundation of family, the fundamental unit of any community. Woman plays diverse roles throughout her life and she acts as a strong link that binds families, which make up the society, together. She is committed to her duties equally at home and work and has more tolerance for holding responsibilities.
Her contribution to the GDP, though not often calculated on monetary value, without doubt remains very high and her role as a mother or a housewife is an unpaid job. It has become a social responsibility of every one of us to safeguard and nurture women’s dignity, honour and happiness all the time.”
The National Chamber of Commerce remains committed to creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs, empowering them with the tools and knowledge to thrive in their respective industries.
