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Breaking barriers and shaping successes

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With women entrepreneurs-a delegation to Turkiye

Inspirational stories of Shirley Jayawardana

By Zanita Careem

Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world, a statement made by Hilary Clinton that packs quite a punch. It’s obvious that women face many challenges when it comes to establishing them or growing their own business. Shirley Jayawardana has broken the glass ceiling like many others and established herself as a successful business woman.

A die-hard entrepreneur at heart, shirley helps people define what true entrepreneurship is and what it takes to be a leader, and helps people to dispel the myth of business.Shirley Jayawardana is the first women President of Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industries, Sri Lanka which is the Apex body of the chamber movement in Sri Lanka established in 1973. ( 2020/2022.)

Also presently the chairperson of Ceylon Chamber of women entrepreneurs, she is also a long-standing and well-known member in chamber activities. She is the immediate past president of Central Province Women’s Chamber of Small Industry and Commerce and also has served as senior VP of Central province Chamber of Commerce and Industry for several years.

She is wellknown in the SAARC region serving as Vice president (VP) of South Asia women’s development forum (Sri Lanka chapter) in Nepal and Executive committee member of SAARC chamber of Commerce and Industry in Pakistan. She has also been appointed as the Vice Chairman at Sri Lanka chapter of SAARC Council of Women Entrepreneurs ( SCWEC) affiliated to SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Pakistan.

She started her career as a business woman by establishing Media Vision (Pvt) Ltd that was published Kandy Today she functions as chairperson of Wisewell Lanka private Ltd – global trading companies based in USA .

An active social worker, she has many accolades and awards to her credit. The list is too long to mention.

She is the recipient of international award “Professional Women top 50 Global award” and “Priyadarshini Lifetime achievement award”. Also,she has many outstanding achievement awards from Lion’s district 306C1

She has widely travelled and has addressed many international business forums on behalf of FCCISL .and other portfolios, She is also a member of the Institute of Management of Great Britain.

Q Tell us about your background, lifestyle and family life?

A I was a miss Cabraal, eldest in the family of six children. My late father Cyril Cabraal was an Agricultural Instructor.

I studied at the Matara Convent, and did drama, acting and singing in school.I married Dr. Ananda Jayawardana at the age of 24 and a mother and a housewife for twenty four (24) years. My husband Dr. Ananda Jayawardana was a retired Executive Director of Link Natural Products and Ceylon Tobacco Company. I have three grown up children

Q How would you define true entrepreneurship?

A First,to do the stuff I want to do but you have to deliver value and do it constantly and secondly you should have clarity of thought . A true entrepreneur can explain what they do in any language that the stakeholder needs to understand it. Always one should have clarity and purpose.

Q What motivated you to take up entrepreneurship?

A I never thought I will become a business woman. In school, I had multi-faceted talent, everyone thought I might take up acting or singing but my parents were opposed to this move. I started working after 25 years of marriage, when my husband joined the Lion’s Club of Senkadagala Kandy, At the Lion’ Club I gave wholehearted support to my husband, by taking up many responsibilities and challenging projects, which helped me to built up my confidence to give up my role as a simple housewife. I started

“Kandy Newspaper” and took up the post of the Managing director/and Managing editor, this was stepping stone for her career and turned her into an entrepreneur. I was joined by late Lion Professor Samarasinghe who volunteered to be the Chief Editor. .

What are problems faced by women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka?

A Bureaucracy in Sri Lanka is a major obstacle for entrepreneurs to move forward. But if you have courage and determinatio,then nothing can stop you from becoming successful. There were other factors too, like country’s financial constraints, lack of modern technology, labour issues were some of the major impediments. I needed people with high enthusiasm and innovation. Sometimes at the initial stage people are not aware of the intricacies of business and attribution rate remains high.

Luncheon meeting with US envoy

Q Women’s entrepreneurship contributes to economic growth and social empowerment. How does the Chamber support and promote women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka?

A Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs, work as a service provider for all women entrepreneurs. CCWE is always willin to help to initiate projects in different provinces, through regional chambers, who are members. Lobbying with the Government and other institutions to strengthen the regional women’s Chambers and build up the capacity of women entrepreneurs are some of my goals.

We create new projects and businesses to promote Sri Lankan products abroad, one such project is in Turkiye Already the Honorary Consul in Istanbul is helping Sri Lanka to promote Sri Lankan products in Turkiye. All arrangements are made to help local women, in Turkye to open a special branch to sell thier products.

Q Going back to your early life experiences, what factors influenced your decision to be a female entrepreneur?

A The desire I had within me is to be a woman of substance. The support I received from my family, specially my eldest son, who helped me to set up an international trading company Wisewel Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., and as the Chairperson of the company, I had the opportunity to spread my business tentacles far and wide.The support I received from the family was a great encouragement to move forward in my business ventures later on in my career. Building an agile team was the biggest and the best strategy which helped me to be successful.

Q What drives/ motivates you? What is your opinion?

A Success for me is to enjoy every moment of life and look forward to a new tomorrow. I love to take up challenges. any leadership role will have as it needs you to be always inspiring and motivating,Taking responsibility of the “Kandy News” newspaper was a huge challenge. Being the first woman president of FCCISI was aso a benchmark for my career

Q Your achievements and accolades?

A To be a women, from the status of a house wife, to go beyond breaking the glass ceiling was a major achievement . I was the first women president of FCCISL, founder MD/Editor of the first regional newspaper for Sri Lanka, president of central province Women’s Chamber, senior member for several years in the Central province main chamber, chairpersons of Wisewel Lanka private limited, an international trading company, Vice President for Sri Lanka South Asia Women’s Development forum, Executive member of SAARC chambers, Vice President of SAARC women entrepreneur council, Member of the international visitor program organized by the US Embassy and many others.

As the first woman President of Lion’s Club Senkadagala in year 2009

Q How proud are you with your achievements?

A I am very proud by the fact that I can influence and support other entrepreneurs who needs support and encouragement. Women -owned business are increasing in the economies of all countries. Sri Lanka is no exception, they too have emerged into successful business ventures and sending out messages that cannot be dismissed . However I try to empower more women entrepreneurs to empower them by providing financial and other support by providing the challenges they face. These are my proud moments.

Q The Ceylon Chamber of women entrepreneurs and their goals?

A Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs is a national level women’s chamber with members representing different provinces. There are also individual business women and professionals to whom we give new membership

This was concept created by me and Ayanthi Gurusinghe, founder director of Cord 360 e-commerce platform. My main goal is to promote women entrepreneurs for cross boarder trading and support regional women’s chambers to build their leadership capacity.

Q Any support from the government to support women entrepreneurs?

A Yes, we do get much support from government to develop women entrepreneurs. Product technology, financial support, skill development, creating a better bureaucratic environment for women to start thier own business and increase thier participation. I also like to attribute my success to my husband and family who have been a great pillar of strength

Q Your other interests and passion

A My goal has always to help women and give them all the support and encouragement. I am passionate about supporting fellow women to pursue thier dream of entrepreneurship.Any women entrepreneurs who needs my support can contact me on shirley.j@algotechsys.com or www.ccwe.lk



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Fashion

Magic force behind Colombo  Fashion Weeks

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Ramani Fernando and her team has been an intergral part of Colombo Fashion Weeks.She is still riding the high of Colombo Fashion Weeks from inception. Ramani Fernando salons has continued to create stunning hairstyles and make-up looks for the models. Through the eyes of fashion enthusiasts and attendees, Colombo Fashion week sponsored by Master Card presents itself as a series of perfectly organised catwalks, presentations and events. An entire array of stylists from ramani fernando salons works backstage at alldays making sure every part of the show runs smoothly but it is Ramani who is just one of the creatives behind Colombo Fashion Weeks, hair and make-up looks Here she breaks down the inspirations behind the scenes moments, and creative process that brings Colombo Fashion Week to life.

Ramani Fernando, one of the legends in the fashion world, garners the highest praises throughout the Colombo fashion weeks and beyond whether she’s creating a sleek pony tail, crafting an avant garde hairdo or the iconic looks ..

She speaks about the backstage , the buzz behind the scenes and how she colloborates with different designers to create looks ,what brands she is is using with each hairstyle on the models Immense success at all the fashion weeks from inception,has put her in the fashion map leading her to win many accolades and awards.

I absolutely love fashion weeks and the lead up to it. Being part of the designer vision,understanding who they want thier cast to look and feellike when they walk the runaway and executing the look is the most intense but creatively dynamic experience’ she says.

Fashion weeks are a marathon,not a sprint. It’s all about asking the right questions. My job is to dip deep,piece together the creative puzzle and bring out the vision .the designer My work is all about the designer’s vision and never aligning bound or answering to trends sometimes. Each fashion sh was a celebration of diversity and creativity showcasing hairstyles and make up that are unique and authentic as the collections.

Your work at fashion weeks has been legendary. Can you walk us through what it’s like to be backstage at these major fashion shows? How do you find inspiration to create new looks for almost all the runway shows a year?

Backstage is an exhilarating mix of chaos and creativity. There’s a pulse – a certain kind of eclectic feeling that runs through everyone, from stylists to designers to models. It’s fast, intense, but incredibly exciting My inspiration comes from everywhere—architecture, nature, street fashion, even music. But ultimately, it’s the designer’s vision that guides the look. I take that vision and elevate it with a twist that brings edge, elegance, or drama, depending on the brief.

Its no secret that many of the signature looks of your styles lean more toward the avant-garde than traditional styles. What’s your opinion on that?

That’s very true—and intentional. While we absolutely respect timeless, classic beauty, I believe hair should also be an expression of individuality and art. The avant-garde allows us to push limits, question norms, and celebrate boldness. It keeps creativity alive in the salon and challenges us to stay at the forefront of global trends.

How does it all start coming together?

It usually begins with understanding the designer’s vision. From there, I experiment with textures, shapes, and styles to find what best complements the collection. Once we have the direction, I work closely with my team to define the look so it’s practical, beautiful, and ready to handle the fast-paced environment backstage.

What’s it really like backstage for you?

It’s adrenaline-fueled! There are moments of pressure, of course—but also moments of pure magic. You see an idea you’ve carried in your mind come to life in real time. And that buzz, that intensity—it never gets erased and Love the camaraderie, the unspoken communication, the rhythm. It’s like a well-choreographed performance where everyone knows their part.

You’ve had the chance to work with many celebrities, models, and high-profile clients. Can you share some standout moments?

There have been many special moments, but what stands out most is the trust they place in me. Whether it’s for a show or a shoot, it’s always exciting to help someone feel confident and look their best. Every client brings a unique experience.

What’s in your backstage kit?

Oh, everything! A wide range of brushes and combs, of course. My go-to styling products—texturizing spray, heat protectant, finishing spray, strong-hold gel. Pins in every shape and size. A good hairdryer, flat iron, curling wand. And then there are the wild cards—glitter, feathers, hair nets, even sculpting tools—because you never know what the look might demand.

What’s it like to work at fashion weeks so many years?

It’s the most thrilling rollercoaster you’ll ever ride. The pace is fast, the expectations are high, and yet the creative freedom is unmatched. It’s also deeply collaborative—everyone brings out their best. You walk away exhausted but completely fulfilled, with a sense of pride that’s hard to describe.

Who is your favourite designer to work on?

That’s a tough to answer! Each designer brings a unique energy and perspective. But I’ve always loved working with those who aren’t afraid to take risks—who use hair as an extension of their collection’s narrative. I’ve had incredible collaborations with both local and international names, but the ones who trust you to co-create something bold—those are my favourites.

How do you see the evolution of styles from your early days to now?

It’s been fascinating. When I started, there was a strong focus on structured, polished looks. Over time, we’ve embraced more texture, more individuality, and more rebellion. Styles now celebrate diversity, authenticity, and imperfection—and I love that. The industry has grown more inclusive, and that’s reflected in the hairstyles we create today.

You are the recipients of many awards and how has that influenced your career?

Awards are a beautiful recognition of hard work, but they’re also a responsibility. They push me to keep evolving, to mentor others, and to give back to the industry that’s given me so much. They remind me never to settle—and to always aim higher, not just for myself, but for the teams I lead and the young stylists who look up to me.

Pix by Thushara Attapathu

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Breaking barriers and building champions

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Sri Lanka’s largest female-focused Esports event, Pond’s Women’s Cyber Games (WCG) powered by Anchor Newdale, took place recently at One Galle Face Mall, Colombo. Organised by Gamer.LK, the event brought together female gamers from across the country to compete in a range of video game titles and celebrate the growing presence of women in Esports. With this year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Building Champions,” the competition empowered female gamers by providing a platform where they could showcase their skills, stand out, and take their place at the forefront of Esports.

Since its inception in 2019, WCG has played a vital role in fostering female participation in Esports, encouraging players to step into the competitive scene. Expanding beyond gaming, this year’s event also featured a women’s cosplay competition, giving young women across the country a platform to showcase their creativity, embrace their passion for cosplay, and express themselves within the gaming community.

This year’s event was backed by Pond’s as the Title Sponsor and powered by Anchor Newdale, leading the way in embracing Esports as the sport of the future and empowering young women to rise in the industry.

Pix by Thushara Attapathu

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Festive glamour at Nethara

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Nethara Collection ,is a world of export quality garments in Diulpitiya, Boralesgamuwa, is infused with an ultra festive spirit this season catering to the women of today. Unbelievable offers and discounts from Nethara for Sinhala anTamil new year. On selection of women’s clothing, ranges from casual options to formal occasion wear,all at friendly prices,to enhance your wardrobe this festive season.

Nethara collection, started small in 2017, but soon it outgrew, today with an ever increasing customer base, branded and non branded clothing this shopping centre has become very popular. Export quality , stylish dresses, crop tops, fancy blouses, trousers and many more to flaunt yourself and enhance your wardrobe.Their extensive collection, maintain low pricing allowing everybody to have a chance to shop till they drop dead. From casual wear to formal wear,they have women to men’s items like tee shirts, shirts for every occasion.

Nethara clothing has long remained a name that has struck a chord with Sri Lankan shoppers. “We believe our success has been based up on the premise that absolute sincerity towards customers and no matter what the economic situation that prevails, we try our level best to keep our prices low and within everybody’s budget, said managing director, Nethara Collection Sampath Kumara.

This April season Nethara collection brings an all new collection of export quality seasonal wear. Celebrate the season with exclusive offers made just for you! Dresses, blouses, casual, formal wear denim, men’s shirts and many more… world of limitless style and joy!

This festive season Nethara unwraps a celebration of warmth, style and sophistication. Immense yourself in a vibrant festive atmosphere as you explore thier collection under one roof 345 Boralasgamuwa With a focus on quality, affordability and customer satisfaction, Nethara export quality boutique invites you to celebrate the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in style.

(Zanita)

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