Business
Crosswinds’ Walk to Riverston:a call to adventure lovers to conquer spectacular trails
An exhilarating hiking competition for the entire family is calling adventure lovers in Sri Lanka to experience one of the country’s most spectacular hill country trails, vie for exciting prizes and help a worthy cause.
The 2023 edition of ‘A Walk to Riverston’ takes place on 28th and 29th October on a 22-kilometer trail across the Riverston mountain range in Matale, whose attractions include ‘mini world’s end’ and the Bambaragiri ella waterfall.
Organised by Crosswinds Adventures, endorsed by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), and approved by the District Forest Office Matale, the hike comprises of three events – the ‘Extreme’ hike extending to the full distance for the fit, daring and adventurous, a 10-kilometer Ladies only hike, and a five-kilometer hike for children under the age of 15.
The winner of each of these events will receive a cash prize of Rs 100,000 and a return ticket to Thailand, the organisers said.
‘A Walk to Riverston’ has multiple objectives – to promote Sri Lanka as a global hiking destination, to encourage locals and visitors alike to participate in a memorable adventure and test their hiking skills and endurance, and to support a worthy cause: all proceeds raised from the event are to be donated to the Kubulgolla Primary School in Meemure.
Participation is by registration at www.crosswinds.lk and the participation fee will cover transport to the location from Colombo, via Negombo, Kurunegala and Kandy; two meals and snacks, camping site and tents, doctors and ambulance services and the services of a recovery team.
Buses leave Colombo at midnight on 27th October to arrive at Riverston at 6.30am on the day of the hike. Competing hikers will be provided breakfast and a briefing, and the hike is scheduled to commence at 8.30 am. Stage 1 of the hike ends at 10 am, the “amateur” stage at 12 noon and the “extreme” stage at 5.30 pm, and day one ends with a campsite dinner. The presentation of awards takes place at 10am on day two, and the buses depart for Colombo at 11.30am on 29th October.
Crosswinds Adventures was founded by a group of adventure enthusiasts who wanted to share their love for the outdoors and competitive spirit with the world. Drawing from their own experiences in hiking, rafting, boating, rallying, and racing, they envisioned a platform where like-minded individuals could come together to challenge themselves, create lasting memories, and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sri Lanka.
The company’s goal is not just to host events but to create unforgettable experiences, forge lasting memories, and foster a community of adventurers who share its enthusiasm for the extraordinary.
Business
Ambeon Securities hosts exclusive investor forum on Sri Lanka’s economic and market outlook
Ambeon Securities recently hosted an exclusive investor forum, bringing together clients, investors, business leaders, and market professionals for an insightful discussion on Sri Lanka’s economic outlook and investment opportunities amidst a challenging global landscape.
The event was organized with the objective of providing investors with valuable insights to make better-informed investment decisions while further strengthening the firm’s engagement with its growing client base.
The forum featured Baqar Zaidi, Director and Chief Economist for Sri Lanka and India at Citi Research, as the keynote speaker. Sharing his perspectives on the evolving global macroeconomic environment, Mr. Zaidi discussed key themes influencing emerging and frontier markets, Sri Lanka’s economic trajectory, and the opportunities lie ahead.
The keynote address was followed by an engaging panel discussion comprising Baqar Zaidi, Aravinda De Silva, respected investor, entrepreneur, and the Chairman of Arcasia Holdings. Hasitha Premaratne, Group Managing Director of Brandix and Asanka Herath, Chief Executive Officer – Unit Trusts and Head of Equities at LYNEAR Wealth Management.
Moderated by Imran Furkan, the panel explored a range of topics including Sri Lanka’s macroeconomic outlook, the future of the Colombo Stock Exchange, sectoral opportunities, capital allocation strategies, investor confidence, and the role of policy reforms in attracting investment and supporting long-term growth.
Speaking at the event, Charith Kamaladasa, Chief Executive Officer of Ambeon Securities, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to facilitate quality insights, informed perspectives, and meaningful dialogue to support their clients while building lasting relationships with them. He noted that in an environment where uncertainty has become the new normal, equipping investors with timely information and expert perspectives is essential for successful wealth creation.
The event was well attended by a distinguished gathering of institutional investors, high-net-worth investors, and business leaders. Among those present were members of the Ambeon Group Board, including Group Chairman Sujeewa Mudalige, Group CEO Dr. Sajeeva Narangoda, and Chairman of Ambeon Securities Mangala Boyagoda. Their presence, together with the participation of Ambeon Group shareholders and valued clients, enriched the discussions and contributed to a vibrant networking session, fostering meaningful dialogue and stronger connections within the investment community.
Through initiatives such as this, Ambeon Securities continues to reinforce its commitment to helping clients navigate evolving market conditions, make informed investment decisions, and achieve their long-term financial goals.
Business
Tata Group leads humanitarian education support initiative with DIMO and ChildFund
The Tata Group, in partnership with ChildFund and DIMO, has successfully implemented a humanitarian education support initiative for disaster-affected schoolchildren in Sri Lanka, reaffirming its commitment to helping communities recover from the impacts of Cyclone Ditwah and the subsequent floods.
Following a formal request for support from Sri Lanka, an on-ground assessment was conducted in December 2025. Recognizing the urgent need, several Tata companies joined forces to implement the response program.
As part of this initiative, the ‘Hope in a Backpack’ programme, which provides disaster-affected children with essential educational supplies, was launched by the Tata Group at Taj Samudra, Colombo, in the presence of the Chief Guest, Hon. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya; the Guest of Honour, Hon. Indian High Commissioner Santhosh Jha; Ranjith Pandithage, Chairman of DIMO; Chacko Thomas, Group Chief Sustainability Officer, Tata Sons; and Aditi Ghosh, Country Director, ChildFund.
This initiative is part of DIMO’s Social and Community Pillar, under the project theme ‘Lassana Hetak,’ which focuses on giving the future generation a helping hand towards a better future.
This collective effort was further strengthened by volunteers from Tata and DIMO, who actively mobilized on the ground to pack, distribute, and support affected communities. During the proceedings, specially invited schoolchildren received the backpacks with essential supplies as well.
Commenting on the partnership, Ranjith Pandithage, Chairman of DIMO, said: “DIMO is proud to collaborate on this meaningful initiative alongside the Tata Group and ChildFund as the local implementation and logistics partner. Our relationship with Tata spans more than six decades and has been built on a shared commitment to ethical business practices, trust, and creating lasting value for the communities we serve. These values have shaped our partnership over the years, extending beyond business to initiatives that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
Business
NovaNest Properties launches Rainbow Apartments in Ratmalana
NovaNest Properties (Pvt) Ltd has officially launched Rainbow Apartments, a new residential development in Ratmalana. The announcement was made at an official launch event held at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, marking the company’s latest addition to Sri Lanka’s growing apartment market.
The development is designed to cater to homebuyers seeking modern urban living, as well as investors looking for long-term value. Rainbow Apartments is located in Ratmalana, an area of increasing residential interest, and benefits from the suburb’s established social infrastructure, proximity to major transportation links, and accessibility to Colombo.
The project reflects NovaNest Properties’ commitment to delivering quality residential developments that combine contemporary design with practical living. Intended to satisfy the evolving lifestyle demands of today’s homeowners, Rainbow Apartments features thoughtfully designed living spaces supported by modern amenities. These include two infinity pools, a gym, fully functional workspaces, a mini theatre, stylish cafés, a mini-mart, and a children’s daycare. Additionally, it features a full time medical centre backed by Nawaloka Hospitals PLC Colombo, with a 24-hour ambulance service.
Commenting on the launch, the Chief Executive Officer of NovaNest Properties (Pvt) Ltd, Samitha Waidyasekera, said, “Today’s buyers are looking beyond square footage. In addition to providing long-term value, they want homes that are close to the places where they work, learn, and spend their time. With that shift in mind, Rainbow Apartments was created to bring together a strategic location, thoughtful design, and quality construction in a way that will continue to meet buyers’ needs for years to come. Through our promise of ‘Luxury Beyond Expectations,’ we are committed to delivering an elevated lifestyle experience that combines comfort, convenience, and modern living.
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