American Chamber kicks off Bootcamp 2025

The American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (AmCham SL), in collaboration with the US Embassy, launched the second edition of AmCham Bootcamp 2025. 

The initiative continues to serve as a premier mentorship and professional development platform for young Sri Lankan talent, fostering leadership, career skills and industry exposure.

The bootcamp pairs 20 promising mentees—drawn from both public and private universities across diverse disciplines, including IT, marketing, HR, finance and international relations—with 20 esteemed mentors from AmCham SL’s board and member organisations. This six-to-eight-week programme offers not only internship placements in leading companies but also career and life skills training, field visits to corporate offices and manufacturing facilities and leadership development sessions with corporate executives.

US Ambassador Julie J. Chung said, “The US Embassy is proud to support this programme, which offers a unique opportunity for Sri Lankan students to receive one-on-one mentorship from industry leaders at the forefront of their fields. 

American companies are dedicated to developing the next generation of business leaders and we believe that the prosperity of the United States grows when American companies can attract and nurture top talent from around the world.”

AmCham Board Member and Bootcamp Lead Rasika Karunatilake stated, “The AmCham Bootcamp is a holistic soft skills internship:  the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. The programme also focuses heavily on learning and development initiatives and gives exposure to multiple industries through field visits, periodic assessments and a pitch contest. The overarching aim of the programme is to produce future business leaders who are industry ready from day one.”

As the exclusive event partner, Mastercard has played a crucial role in enabling this initiative. 

Mastercard Sri Lanka and Maldives Country Manager Sandun Hapugoda remarked, “Mentorship and industry exposure are crucial for the development of young professionals, equipping them with the real-world skills needed to thrive. The AmCham Bootcamp plays an essential role in bridging the gap between academia and the corporate sector, providing invaluable hands-on experience.”

Reflecting on last years’ experience, Vimoksha Jayasinghe, a past participant, shared, “I had the privilege of being mentored by Caltex Lubricants PLC CEO Bertrum Paul.”