Women in Management Celebrates 15 Years of Impact with Three Ground-breaking Initiatives.

By: Rishini Weeraratne

Women in Management (WIM), a pioneering organization focused on empowering women, men, youth, and children, is marking a significant milestone in its journey as it celebrates its 15th anniversary. Over the years, WIM has become a powerful force in shaping Sri Lanka’s socio-economic landscape by fostering leadership, diversity, and inclusion. This year, the organization has launched three ground-breaking initiatives that will not only celebrate its achievements but also have a profound impact on Sri Lanka’s economy, particularly in the areas of leadership development, tourism, and education.

The 100 Impact Leadership Calendar 2025: Celebrating Visionary Leaders

For the past three years, WIM has featured its annual Top50 Calendar, a publication that highlights the incredible achievements of female leaders across various sectors. However, this year, WIM has taken a bold step forward by expanding its reach to include a wider spectrum of leadership talent. Introducing the 100 Impact Leadership Calendar 2025, the organization combines three of its signature programs: Women Top50, Youth Top40, and Men Top10, into one powerful publication. This new calendar celebrates the remarkable achievements of individuals who have demonstrated leadership excellence in their respective fields.

The 100 Impact Leadership Calendar is an eclectic mix of New Generation leaders, corporate men and women, family-owned entrepreneurs, women-led businesses, non-traditional businesswomen leaders, and social entrepreneurs. It represents a diverse array of inspiring individuals across various industries, each of whom has made a significant contribution to Sri Lanka’s economy and society.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, WIM member Kushlani Perera shared the significance of this new initiative: “The calendar starts with us, WIM, in January, symbolizing not just the organization’s growth but also the personal and professional growth of those who have been with us for over a decade. Our goal is to inspire the younger generation while also raising funds through this initiative to support our WIM Free Kitchen, which has been providing meals to people and children in need for the past five years.”

The 100 Impact Leadership Calendar 2025 is a testament to WIM’s commitment to recognizing and empowering individuals who have shown outstanding leadership and vision. Each month of the calendar features an exceptional leader, such as Manoji Wadugodapitiya, the Chairperson and Managing Director of Pams Hydro Power, Arsulana Eco Lodge, and Simply Women Pvt Ltd (February), Prof. Jude Rodrigo and his family (April), and many others who continue to inspire and lead with purpose.

‘She Voyages’: A Women-Led Tourism Brand Empowering Female Travelers

Another monumental initiative launched by WIM is She Voyages – Where Her Journey Finds Freedom and Strength, a ground-breaking project aimed at increasing women’s participation in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. The initiative addresses the challenges faced by women travellers, particularly solo travellers, who often feel excluded or unsafe when visiting new destinations. Despite Sri Lanka being ranked as one of the safest countries for women travellers, WIM has observed limited participation of women in the tourism industry. This led to the creation of She Voyages, which is designed to attract solo female travellers and women’s groups to explore Sri Lanka in a safe, comfortable, and empowering way. The initiative integrates women focused Ayurvedic wellness programs that cater to both the body and mind, ensuring that female travellers have a holistic and rejuvenating experience.

WIM Secretary, Waruni Algama, who played a pivotal role in launching this project, shared her vision: “Through She Voyages, we aim to create an inclusive tourism ecosystem where women are encouraged to embark on journeys that empower them. Sri Lanka offers a wealth of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and wellness experiences, which are perfect for women who seek peace, relaxation, and self-discovery.” To kickstart this initiative, WIM has partnered with two centres owned by their members: a villa in Galle and a homestay in Colombo. These establishments will serve as safe, welcoming spaces for women travellers, offering personalized experiences that focus on wellness, sustainability, and empowerment.

She Voyages not only promises to boost Sri Lanka’s tourism industry but also offers economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs in the hospitality and wellness sectors, making it a truly empowering initiative for both women and the Sri Lankan economy.

Children Digital Bank - Stay in School Initiative: Combating Financial Barriers to Education

Education has always been one of WIM’s top priorities, and for its 15th anniversary, the organization has introduced the Children Digital Bank - Stay in School Initiative, which aims to address the financial struggles faced by children from low-income families. The initiative is a direct response to the harsh reality of many children dropping out of school due to a lack of financial resources. These children often face hardships such as hunger, lack of school supplies, and the need to take on odd jobs to support their families. Dr. Sulochana Segera, Founder of Women in Management, explained the inspiration behind this innovative project: “I have witnessed the harsh reality of children from low-income families struggling with basic necessities, such as food and school supplies. Many boys drop out of school before their Ordinary Level exams to take on odd jobs, while some girls seek unsafe relationships, leading to teenage pregnancies. To counter this, we have created a school-based digital banking system where children can deposit trash in exchange for money.” The digital bank allows students to accumulate funds through eco-friendly actions, such as recycling trash. Once the children accumulate enough funds, they receive a digital card that enables them to purchase food, books, and stationery. This initiative ensures that children remain in school with dignity, free from hunger and financial barriers. The Stay in School Initiative was first implemented at Veluwana Maha Vidyalaya, a school in Sri Lanka, and aims to expand to more schools across the island. This initiative provides a sustainable solution to combat poverty and prevent school dropouts, ensuring that children can continue their education and reach their full potential.

WIM’s Vision for 2025: Empowering Humans to Embrace Family and Nature

As WIM moves into 2025, its vision remains focused on creating sustainable change and empowering future generations. The organization is committed to helping individuals embrace their roles as family members while fostering economic and social growth. WIM’s initiatives align with its broader goal of promoting leadership, sustainability, and social well-being, with a particular emphasis on nurturing the next generation of leaders and changemakers. The three initiatives launched in celebration of WIM’s 15th anniversary, the 100 Impact Leadership Calendar 2025, She Voyages, and the Children Digital Bank - Stay in School Initiative, are a testament to WIM’s unwavering dedication to creating positive and lasting change. These programs have the potential to impact not only the lives of individuals but also the broader Sri Lankan economy and society.

As WIM looks ahead to the next 15 years, it continues to be a beacon of hope, empowerment, and leadership, inspiring future generations to follow in the footsteps of those who have paved the way for change. With a strong focus on empowering both men and women, WIM is leading the charge for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for Sri Lanka.