The Export Development Board (EDB) successfully conducted a networking and knowledge sharing session for the women entrepreneurs registered under the “Women Entrepreneurship Development Program” recently at the EDB-NDB Tower, Colombo 02. The event addressed one of the key barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, lack of networking opportunities with industry leaders.

This exclusive session brought together 50 women entrepreneurs registered with EDB, including SME direct exporters and indirect exporters, along with leading exporters and academics. Designed to inspire and educate, the event fostered connections, facilitated knowledge sharing, and encouraged collaboration to help women entrepreneurs navigate international markets. The event featured a distinguished panel of speakers who shared their expertise on various topics critical to succeeding in the global marketplace:

Mrs. Mano Sheriff, Managing Director of Ceylon Natural Rubber (Pvt) Ltd, discussed the importance of sustainable exporting practices. She highlighted strategies to incorporate sustainability into export operations.

Mr. Adrian Gabriel, General Manager (Tea) at Akbar Brothers (Pvt) Ltd, shared real-life examples of thriving in competitive international markets. As a Senior Tea Taster managing markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Australasia, he provided insights into overcoming market entry challenges.

Prof. Arosha Adikaram, Chair Professor of Human Resource Management at the University of Colombo, emphasized the importance of understanding and mitigating legal risks in labor management. Drawing on her extensive research and consultancy experience, she underscored strategies for creating safe and compliant workplaces.

Mrs. Priyanka Perera, Head of Operations at Orel Academy, explored the nuances of cultural differences and their impact on international negotiations. Her diverse industry experience provided attendees with actionable tips for successful cross-border collaborations.

Mrs. Priyadarshinie Karunarathne, a Business Consultant and Sustainability Practitioner, illuminated the growing global demand for sustainable practices and the opportunities it presents for export businesses.

Mrs. Nirosha Jagoda, Managing Director of British Cosmetics (Pvt) Ltd and Mr. Christopher Fernando, Executive Director of Malwatta Valley Plantations PLC captivated the audience with their journey of entering and excelling in challenging markets, offering valuable lessons for aspiring exporters.

The session was a resounding success, enabling women entrepreneurs to expand their networks and gain insights from industry leaders. By addressing barriers and fostering an environment for shared learning, the EDB continues to empower women entrepreneurs to achieve greater heights in the export sector.

This event is part of EDB’s ongoing commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs under its “Women Entrepreneurship Development Program”. Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the EDB, Mrs. C. D. Dharmasena, Director General of the EDB, along with EDB Directors and officials, also participated in the event.

It was a heist for the ages in Mount Maunganui as New Zealand secured an eight-run win in the first T20I, and with it took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. But more importantly it was a lesson in fight from the hosts, one the visitors would do well to take note of.

For much of the game it had looked Sri Lanka’s to lose. The first instance was when New Zealand were reeling on 65 for 5 midway through their innings, and the second when Sri Lanka were cruising after a 121-run opening stand needing just 52 off 40 deliveries.

On both occasions New Zealand fought back, and hard – initially through a 105-run stand between Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell to post a competitive 172 for 8, and then finally through a late strangle that saw Sri Lanka lose eight wickets for 38 runs after being in total control of proceedings.

Jacob Duffy was at the heart of the collapse with a three-wicket 14th over, as he set the wheels in motion for a sterling New Zealand comeback – which also earned him the player of the match award. Sri Lanka though will be at a loss for words in attempting to explain how they let this game slip.

Brief scores:
New Zealand 172 for 8 in 20 overs  (Daryl Mitchell 62, Michael Bracewell 59;  Binura  Fernando 2-22, Maheesh Theekshana 2-29, Matheesha Pathirana 1-60, Wanidu Hasaanga 2-33) beat  Sri Lanka 164 for 8 in 20 overs  (Pathum Nissanka 90, Kusal Mendis 46; Matt Henry 2-28, Jacob  Duffy 3-21, Zakary Foulkes 2-41) by 8 runs

[Cricinfo]