South Asia’s women entrepreneurs to hit the ramp in a first
View(s):The Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs (CCWE) officially announced the first-ever fashion week in Sri Lanka and the South Asian region dedicated exclusively to women entrepreneurs – the CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026.
Held under the theme ‘Threads of Inclusion Woven from Every Walk of Life’, it will take place from July 16- 20 at Cinnamon Life, Colombo.
This initiative looks to go beyond fashion to create meaningful social and economic impact by empowering women entrepreneurs across diverse communities, industries, and regions. By bringing together designers, artisans, SMEs, policymakers, investors, development partners, and international stakeholders, the platform aims to create market access, strengthen financial inclusion, promote sustainable livelihoods, and foster regional collaboration across South Asia.
The summit aims to support women-led enterprises, encourage youth participation in the creative economy, and position Sri Lanka as a regional hub for inclusive entrepreneurship and sustainable fashion.
Supported by a strong network of public and private sector partners, the initiative is spearheaded by Hatton National Bank (HNB) as the Title Sponsor and United Nations ESCAP Subregional Office for South and South-West Asia as Knowledge Partner.
Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Ayanthi Gurusinghe, President of CCWE and Chairperson of the Fashion Week, stated, “Today we are announcing more than an event—we are introducing a national movement that will transform the way women entrepreneurs are seen and supported in Sri Lanka. This platform is designed to open doors for women from every walk of life, enabling them to convert talent into enterprise, gain access to markets, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Through this initiative, Sri Lanka has the opportunity to lead the region in building a future where inclusion meets opportunity and equality.”
HNB, Managing Director / CEO, Damith Pallewatte, said, “This initiative creates a platform where women can access markets, build sustainable businesses, and contribute meaningfully to national economic development. When women are empowered with the right access and support, the impact extends to families, communities, and the broader economy. Our decision to serve as Title Sponsor is driven by our commitment to enabling that access and supporting pathways for long-term growth through financial inclusion and enterprise development.”
Extending regional support, Premila Acharya, President of the South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF), stated, “The CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026 is a landmark initiative that reflects the strength and potential of women entrepreneurs across our region. It is inspiring to see Sri Lanka take the lead in creating a platform where inclusion, opportunity, and equality come together. SAWDF is proud to stand in partnership with CCWE in empowering women through collaboration and shared progress.”
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific Subregional Office for South and South-West (ESCAP-SSWA) will come in as Knowledge Partner. Mikiko Tanaka, Head and Director noted, “This initiative reflects our shared commitment to enhance women entrepreneurs’ access to markets, finance and digital networks. Connecting women-led businesses to regional networks can further unlock opportunities outside Sri Lanka. We commend CCWE’s leadership in creating an enabling environment for women from diverse backgrounds to innovate, participate and contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic development.”
Supporting the initiative as co-sponsor is Fems by Hemas Consumer Brands. Sachini Gamage, General Manager – Marketing (Feminine Hygiene and Oral Care), stated, “We are proud to support an initiative that celebrates inclusion, entrepreneurship, and opportunity for women from every walk of life.”
Hosting the event at Sri Lanka’s newest integrated lifestyle destination, Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President – Colombo Hotels, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, stated, “City of Dreams Sri Lanka was envisioned as a platform for transformative experiences that go beyond hospitality. We are proud to host this initiative with CCWE and provide a stage for women entrepreneurs to be seen, celebrated, and empowered while fostering visibility and growth for changemakers shaping Sri Lanka’s future.”
Asha Jayamana, Chairperson of the South Asian Women Leadership Awards 2026, will lead the regional recognition component of the event by honouring outstanding women leaders and change-makers across South Asia.
Well-known choreographer Gihan Dassanayake will lead the choreography of the fashion segments, while leading designers including Charini Suriyage and Kamil Hewavitharana will also support the show as will Hasini Gunesekara, Chairperson of Naturals Salon who joins the event as the Official Beauty Partner.
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