Large number of models, designers audition for Sri Lanka’s first Women’s Fashion Week

The Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs (CCWE) held its Model & Designer Open Call recently at the City of Dreams CMB, Colombo, in a step toward Sri Lanka’s first-ever fashion week dedicated exclusively to women entrepreneurs. 

The auditions drew more than 200 models  including a wave of fresh faces making their industry debut  alongside over 50 designers eager to claim a spot on the runway.

Two separate panels of judges assessed the participants. The Designer Panel comprised Prof. Samudrika Wijayapala,  Kanchana Perera, Jagjit Silva, Kalum Udawaththa, Roshan Peris and Nilushi Pawanya. 

The Model Panel featured Dannielle Kerkoven Fernando, Sanjeewani Embuldeniya, Dineth De Silva, Manoji Wadugodapitiya, Kamil Hewavitharana, and Svitlana Melnyk (Lana). Gihan Dassanayake, who will lead the runway choreography at the main event, was also in attendance.

“This Open Call is an invitation to every woman who has dared to dream. The response today is a testament to the incredible talent across Sri Lanka. CCWE Fashion Week 2026 will be a platform that transforms aspirations into opportunity.”

 Dr. Ayanthi Gurusinghe, President, CCWE & Chairman, CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026

The CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026 is scheduled from 16th to 19th July 2026 at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, under the theme “Threads of Inclusion - Woven from Every Walk of Life.” The event,  a first for both Sri Lanka and South Asia  aims to unite designers, artisans, SMEs, policymakers, and investors to create new market pathways and advance economic empowerment for women.

The United Nations ESCAP-SSWA serves as Knowledge Partner, with Head and Director Mikiko Tanaka noting the initiative reflects a shared commitment to enhancing women entrepreneurs’ access to markets, finance, and digital networks. HNB leads as Title Sponsor.

With the Open Call now concluded, the CCWE moves into the next phase of preparations  and the countdown to July begins.