The Women’s Forum of the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka hosted a special knowledge-sharing program in celebration of International Women’s Day on Thursday, 6th March 2025, at the National Chamber Auditorium.
Aligning with United Nations theme for International Women’s Day 2025, “Accelerate Action, Act Now for Equal Rights, Power, and Opportunities’ the program emphasized the need for women to be empowered to become financially independent with their own source of income and also be concerned by their health and well-being. Informative sessions on ‘Nutrition for women’, recognizing its vital role in overall well-being and economic productivity. The event featured expert guest lectures, inspirational success stories of women entrepreneurs, and an interactive culinary session focused on preparing a nutritious meal.
The audience comprised women entrepreneurs from the MSME sector, professionals, and homemakers, all of whom play a significant role in driving the economy. The event underscored the importance of women’s economic empowerment and gender equality, reinforcing the need for continued action to create inclusive opportunities for women.
The celebration was further enriched by the presence of distinguished women leaders from both state and non-state sectors, who shared valuable insights and reinforced the Chamber’s commitment to fostering an environment where women can thrive and lead.
Empowering Women Through Knowledge:
Speaking at the event, Ms. Nilupul Chandrasena, Secretary General of the National Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka, emphasized the importance of women uplifting and supporting each other, especially in these challenging economic conditions of the country. Stated, “…Women must uplift and support each other. We come across many young women entrepreneurs who not only create employment opportunities for other women but also provide financial support and economic independence for women. Equal opportunities for women are essential, and their contributions must be valued and recognized. The role of a mother within a family is paramount, yet many women tend to neglect their own well-being, particularly their nutritional needs, due to the multiple responsibilities of work and family life. This is why we have dedicated this knowledge-sharing session to women’s nutrition—because their health and well-being matter…”
Program Highlights: Key highlight of the event was an informative session titled “Nutrition Plays a Crucial Role in a Woman’s Overall Health and Well-being at Every Stage of Life.” The session, presented by Ms. Imihiri Pathirana, Chief Dietitian at Nawaloka Hospitals PLC, and Dr. Amilani Rathnayake, an experienced Ayurvedic doctor, provided valuable insights into the nutritional requirements of women at different life stages. It also highlighted how a balanced diet contributes to a healthy work-life balance and the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and other critical illnesses that women are particularly vulnerable at present.
Nutritional Awareness Session: “Nutrition Plays a Crucial Role in a Woman’s Overall Health and Well-being at Every Stage of Life”—presented by Ms. Imihiri Pathirana, Chief Dietitian at Nawaloka Hospitals PLC, and Dr. Amilani Rathnayake, an experienced Ayurvedic doctor, provided valuable insights into the nutritional needs of women at different life stages and the importance of a balanced diet in maintaining a healthy work-life balance while preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and other health risks.
Culinary Experience on Balanced Diet and Nutrition for Women: A live cooking demonstration by Chef Chathurika, sponsored by Unilever Sri Lanka, showcased practical ways to prepare nutritious meals tailored to women’s dietary needs.
‘Beautiful You’ – Women Empowerment Session: Conducted by Ms. Dulari Fernando, Certified Trainer, this engaging session focused on self-confidence, personal development, and the importance of self-care in a woman’s journey to success.
Inspiring Entrepreneurial Journeys: Three women entrepreneurs Ms Sasiru Lokuge – Sensa Solutions Pvt Ltd, Ms. Sammu Upeka Tharindi Thilinimali – Ample clothing and Deshamanya Benari Nelum Senarathna-Berni Creations shared their remarkable success stories, highlighting the hardships they overcame through perseverance and courage to establish themselves as successful business leaders contributing to the economy.
Acknowledgment of Sponsors
The Women’s Day program was powered by the Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, along with Asia Pacific Institute of Information Technology (APIIT), Esna Allied Enterprises Ltd., Pussalla Meat Producers (Pvt) Ltd., Salota International Pvt. Ltd., Illukkumbura Industrial Automation (Pvt) Ltd., Akbar Brothers (Pvt) Ltd., Bellose Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., Country Style Foods (Pvt) Ltd., Darley Butler & Co. Ltd., Edinborough products (Pvt) Ltd., Fadna – Food & Nature (Pvt) Ltd., Hettigoda Industries (Pvt) Ltd., Mega Life science and Unilever Sri Lanka, who contributed immensely to the success of the event. The Chamber extends its heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors for their generous support in making this event a meaningful and impactful celebration of women empowerment.
