WCIC celebrates 40 years of empowering SL’s women entrepreneurs

From left: WCIC Immediate Past Chairperson Anoji De Silva, WCIC Treasurer Nilani Seneviratne, WCIC Joint Secretary Tusitha Kumarakulasingham, WCIC Second Vice Chairperson Nayana Karunaratne, WCIC Chairperson Gayani De Alwis, CSE CEO Designate Vindhya Jayasekera, WCIC First Vice Chairperson Ramani Ponnambalam, WCIC Joint Secretary Ashanti Fernando and WCIC CEO Chitranjali Dissanayake

• Promotes women-owned and women-led businesses

The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC), in collaboration with the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), recently rang the bell in celebration of the WCIC’s 40th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its journey of empowering women in business.

The WCIC, the national chamber for women in business, was founded in 1985 by a group of visionary and successful women. They envisioned the WCIC as a powerful force to empower women entrepreneurs, helping them integrate into the mainstream of business activity and encouraging greater economic contribution from women across the country. Today, as the WCIC celebrates 40 years of engagement, enrichment and empowerment, it continues to be a driving force for women entrepreneurs and professionals in Sri Lanka.

The WCIC’s vision is to be the ‘think tank’, ‘voice’ and ‘platform’ that empowers women to become powerful nation builders, actively participating in transforming the economic landscape of Sri Lanka.

Delivering the opening remarks, CSE CEO Designate Vindhya Jayasekera stated, “The impact of women-led businesses on an economy is not insignificant, driving job creation, innovation and ultimately promoting sustainable economic growth. Economies can foster more diverse and inclusive industries with higher employment rates and more dynamic labour markets. Women entrepreneurs are more likely to address specific needs, which are sometimes overlooked, originating solutions and positively impacting socioeconomic development. By championing their progress, we are not only fostering individual success but also strengthening the country’s business landscape.”

WCIC Chairperson Gayani De Alwis mentioned, “Today marks the 40th anniversary of the WCIC’s founding, with the official incorporation date being March 5, 1985. As the world’s first women-owned chamber, we celebrate this milestone by ringing the bell in support of women-owned and women-led businesses.

To commemorate this significant anniversary, the WCIC has planned a series of exciting events, including a walk, member engagement activities, community outreach and mentorship programmes as well as a unique 40 Under 40 Women Entrepreneur Development Programme.”