Women’s Day at Mariott Courtyard

:Dr Shanika,Tanuja and Charini share thier personal journeys

Every year on March 8th, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) a day dedicated to honoring the achievements of women, advocating for gender equality, and inspiring action towards a fairer and more inclusive world. This year, the theme for International Women’s Day 2025, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”, highlights the critical need to create a society where every woman and girl has equal opportunities. rights. and the power to shape her own future.

The invaluable contributions of women are seen not only within the Sri Lankan community but also around the world. Women have continuously made remarkable progress in science, politics, business, education, arts, sports, and beyond. Their accomplishments and resilience have paved the way for a more equitable society. However, despite significant progress, many women still face social, economic, and cultural challenges such as gender discrimination, unequal pay, limited access to education, and workplace bias. International Women’s Day calls upon individuals, organizations, and communities to unite to break down barriers and foster an environment of inclusivity and opportunity for all women and girls.

By fostering an inclusive society where women and girls have the resources and support they need, all of us can collectively contribute to a better and more equitable future. As we celebrated International Women’s Day 2025, it is the responsibility of all women to reflect on the importance of gender equality and to support policies, programs, and initiatives that amplify women’s voices, rights, and opportunities.

Happy International Women’s Day 2025 from all of us at Sri Lanka Foundation International. Together, let’s build a future where every woman, regardless of her background, has the power to thrive.

This year Women’s Day was celebrated under the theme Equality. Empowerment. “This year’s theme calls for action that can unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all and a feminist future where no one is left behind.

This event ‘lady who brunch was curated by Dhanu

In keeping with this spirit of womanhood ,Women Day was celebrated by Courtyard by Mariott recently with three remarkable women.With hearts full and spirits lifted, Courtyard by Mariott Colombo in partnership with Christell luxury, wellness celebrated this great event admist a large gathering. It was a celebration of empowerment, wellness and connection held at the Emerald ballroom. This place was transformed into a haven of warmth and camaderie, insightful conversations and experiences of women were shared and this event was followed by a brunch.

It was a moment to pause, reflect and celebrate for women, a panel discussion by three remarkable women Dr. Shanika Arseculratne, Tanuja Perera Raymond and Charini Suriyage, Moderated by Danu Innasithamby, these three women shared their personal journeys and professional expertise offering invaluable perspectives on holistic wellness sustainable fitness and the art of cultivating confidence and professional presence. What resonated most from ‘Ladies who Brunch’ was the sheer resilience and practical wisdom of women .They addressed the complexities of modern womanhood, body changes mental health and work life balance. This event resonated a powerful reminder that empowerment is built on both inner strength and practical looks for navigating life’s challenge” This was shared by Elton Hurtis, General Manager Courtyard by Mariott Colombo.

Some of the staff members with Manager Marketing Communications Christina

The tropics discussed and curated by Dhanu were topics of interest for women ,like embracing change with grace, discussing body changes and self acceptance, emphasising self compassion and personal wellness journeys,nurturing inner strength, highlighting the importance of mental health and wellbeing and sharing practical tips for mindfulness and encouraging a open dialogue. The other topics were the

power of sisterhood, celebrating the strength of women supporting women, fostering a culture of empathy and encouragement.

Finding balance in a busy world: Addressing stress management, multinational well being and strategies for healthy living. The other topics were

Leadership and partnership: Discussing work life balance, the role of supportive partners; and the importance of raising emphatic sources.

Choosing your path. Emphasizing the significance of wwas was selecting supaportive partnership that honouring career aspiration.

“As a woman, embracing body positivity is not just about how we look but about we fell in our own skin. True wellness means prioritising our health mind, body and spirit because when we take care of ourselves, we’re better able to care for those we love empowering ourselves with self love and wellness is the greatest gift we can offer to both ourselves and the ones.” echoed Dr. Shanika Arseculartne.

This event served as a powerful reminder that empowerment is a journey of shared experiences practical wisdom and unwavering support. This gathering was more than a brunch; it was a moment of connection that undoubtedly left a lasting legacy on the minds of women.

By Zanita Careem