The Export Development Board (EDB) successfully conducted a networking and knowledge sharing session for the women entrepreneurs registered under the “Women Entrepreneurship Development Program” recently at the EDB-NDB Tower, Colombo 02. The event addressed one of the key barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, lack of networking opportunities with industry leaders.

This exclusive session brought together 50 women entrepreneurs registered with EDB, including SME direct exporters and indirect exporters, along with leading exporters and academics. Designed to inspire and educate, the event fostered connections, facilitated knowledge sharing, and encouraged collaboration to help women entrepreneurs navigate international markets. The event featured a distinguished panel of speakers who shared their expertise on various topics critical to succeeding in the global marketplace:

Mrs. Mano Sheriff, Managing Director of Ceylon Natural Rubber (Pvt) Ltd, discussed the importance of sustainable exporting practices. She highlighted strategies to incorporate sustainability into export operations.

Mr. Adrian Gabriel, General Manager (Tea) at Akbar Brothers (Pvt) Ltd, shared real-life examples of thriving in competitive international markets. As a Senior Tea Taster managing markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Australasia, he provided insights into overcoming market entry challenges.

Prof. Arosha Adikaram, Chair Professor of Human Resource Management at the University of Colombo, emphasized the importance of understanding and mitigating legal risks in labor management. Drawing on her extensive research and consultancy experience, she underscored strategies for creating safe and compliant workplaces.

Mrs. Priyanka Perera, Head of Operations at Orel Academy, explored the nuances of cultural differences and their impact on international negotiations. Her diverse industry experience provided attendees with actionable tips for successful cross-border collaborations.

Mrs. Priyadarshinie Karunarathne, a Business Consultant and Sustainability Practitioner, illuminated the growing global demand for sustainable practices and the opportunities it presents for export businesses.

Mrs. Nirosha Jagoda, Managing Director of British Cosmetics (Pvt) Ltd, captivated the audience with her journey of entering and excelling in challenging markets, offering valuable lessons for aspiring exporters.

The session was a resounding success, enabling women entrepreneurs to expand their networks and gain insights from industry leaders. By addressing barriers and fostering an environment for shared learning, the EDB continues to empower women entrepreneurs to achieve greater heights in the export sector.

This event is part of EDB’s ongoing commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs under its “Women Entrepreneurship Development Program.”Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the EDB, Mrs. C. D. Dharmasena, Director General of the EDB, along with EDB Directors and officials, also participated in the event.

From  left : Champika D Dharmasena – Director General, EDB, Mangala Wijesinghe – Chairman , EDB, Sanjeewa Rathnasekera – Director Trade Facilitation and Trade Information division of EDB, Nirosha Jagoda, Managing Director British Cosmetics (Pvt) Ltd

Image Caption : From left : Andrian Gabriel – General Manager (Tea) - Akbar Brothers (Pvt) Ltd, Priyadarshinie Karunarathne, Business Consultant / Sustainability Practitioner, Priyanka Perera, Head of Operations Orel Academy, Arosha Adikaram - Professor of Human Resource Management, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, Mano Sheriff, Managing Director Ceylon Natural Rubber (Pvt) Ltd, Christopher Fernando, Executive Director Malwatta Valley Plantation PLC