The Chamber of Lankan Entrepreneurs (COYLE) marked a significant milestone with its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 10th March 2025 at the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo. The event celebrated a year of innovation under the leadership of outgoing Chairman Thushira Radella and welcomed the appointment of Manjula Wijesundera as Chairman for the 2025/2026 tenur
Under Thushira Radella’s leadership, COYLE strengthened its role as a key advocate for Sri Lankan entrepreneurs, driving initiatives that enhanced business opportunities and international collaborations. His tenure focused on fostering innovation, policy advocacy, and industry development, leaving behind a strong foundation for future growth.
Manjula Wijesundara is a dynamic entrepreneur with a diversified business portfolio, Mr. Wijesundera brings extensive experience in import and distribution, international trade, industrial equipment and hospitality. As Managing Director of Manju Agencies, he leads one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted motorcycle spare parts distribution networks, overseeing 300 dealers islandwide. His expertise in logistics and supply chain management has positioned his company as a leader in the industry.
Beyond Sri Lanka, Manjula serves as Director at Ningbo Machi Impex Co. Ltd., China, expanding his reach into the global automobile spare parts market. His leadership at Industrial Multiclean Systems (IMS) has introduced world-class industrial cleaning equipment and hotel supplies to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. His latest venture, The Garden Fusion Café, showcases Sri Lankan flavours blended with Italian coffee, reflecting his passion for innovation and cross-industry collaboration.
As he takes on the leadership of COYLE, Manjula Wijesundera has outlined a bold vision centred on entrepreneurial development, global expansion, policy advocacy and collective growth. Under his guidance, COYLE will continue to empower entrepreneurs through training, mentorship, and learning opportunities, fostering business innovation. Strengthening COYLE’s global presence is also a priority, leveraging its membership in the G20 Young Entrepreneur Alliance to enhance international networking and facilitate cross-border collaboration through new MOUs with institutions in Myanmar, South Korea and beyond. A strong advocate for policy reform, Manjula is committed to improving Sri Lanka’s Ease of Doing Business ranking, working with policymakers to streamline business regulations while promoting good governance, transparency and efficiency. He also highlights the importance of unity and knowledge sharing among COYLE members, ensuring that the chamber’s collective strength contributes to Sri Lanka’s economic progress and a thriving business community.
With “Vision to Reality” as the theme for 2025/2026, COYLE is set to build on its strong foundation, uniting Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurial talent to drive innovation, expand international networks and advocate for impactful policy reforms. As Manjula Wijesundera takes the helm, COYLE is poised for an era of growth, global partnerships and transformative progress.

BY NELUM BUDDHADASA

In a celebration of International Women’s Day, Diva, the premier laundry brand from Hemas Consumer Brands, launched an online marketplace for ‘Diva Daathata Diriyak Women Entrepreneurs’, opening up the world to them. Diva Daathata Diriyak Entrepreneurial Skills Development Program has been empowering women entrepreneurs island wide and the “online marketplace” is a key initiative under this program. A special event was hosted to officially launch the online marketplace and to honour the remarkable journey and success of the Diva Daathata Diriyak Entrepreneurs who have now got the opportunity to expand their horizons through this online marketplace. The event not only highlighted the resilience, growth, and achievements of women entrepreneurs but elaborated the expansion of their businesses from regional to national and even to international levels.

The Diva Daathata Diriyak Entrepreneurial Skills Development Programme has already transformed the lives of over 400 women entrepreneurs across six provinces in Sri Lanka, including North Western, Central, Uva, Northern, Southern, and North Central. Through comprehensive training sessions, conducted in partnership with Women in Management (WIM), these women entrepreneurs were equipped with essential entrepreneurial skills, financial knowledge, and the confidence to grow their businesses. The top-performing entrepreneurs from each province were further supported with monetary grants to boost their capital, enabling them to scale their ventures.

Building upon this success, Diva is now launching an online platform for Diva Daathata Diriyak women entrepreneurs. This digital space, created in collaboration with a leading Ecommerce solutions provider, Daraz Sri Lanka, provides a gateway for these talented women to showcase their products, connect with a broader audience, and access new markets. The platform is a testament to Diva’s commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for women to thrive on a global stage.

The highlight of the event was the launch of the “Diva Daathata Diriyak Online Platform” where the entrepreneurs would get access to a wider marketplace. The event was then, centred around a panel discussion highlighting the collaboration of 3 parties for the empowerment of Women entrepreneurship and the success stories of Diva Daathata Diriyak Women Entrepreneurs. The dynamic panel discussion brought together Mr. Shiyan Jayaweera, Director Marketing at Hemas Consumer Brands; Dr. Sulochana Segera, Founder and Chairperson of Women in Management (WIM); Mr. Oshan Ranathunga – Chief Commercial Officer, Daraz Sri Lanka and 3 Diva Daathata Diriyak Women Entrepreneurs. The conversation explored the strategic importance of the Diva Daathata Diriyak programme, its alignment with Diva’s brand purpose, and the collaborative efforts to support women-led businesses.

Mr. Shiyan Jayaweera emphasized Diva’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, stating, “At Diva, we believe in the limitless potential of women. With the launch of the Diva Daathata Diriyak online platform, we are opening the world to women entrepreneurs, giving them the tools to succeed on a global stage. This is more than just a platform; it’s a movement to create a brighter future for women everywhere.”

Confirming the above statement, R. K. Lakmali (Owner of GTS Products) stated that the “Online Platform has helped me to take my products not only island wide but also to the export market. I never imagined that my business will reach the international market in such a short time. I am grateful to Diva and all parties involved in this for all the support”. H. K. Shanika Prabhashini (Owner of Sufisen Grinding Mills) stated “I had been distributing my products only in and around Dankotuwa area but the new Online Platform has paved the way for me to distribute my products island wide. This has helped me grow my revenue than before.”

Adding to the panel discussion, Dr. Sulochana Segera highlighted the transformative impact of the training and mentorship provided through the initiative, noting how it has shifted mindsets and prepared women for future challenges. Mr. Oshan Ranathunga – Chief Commercial Officer, Daraz Sri Lanka underscored the role of digital platforms in business growth, explaining how the collaboration with Diva Daathata Diriyak has enabled women entrepreneurs to develop digital skills, access new markets, and scale their businesses effectively.

Another highlight of the evening were the success stories shared by women entrepreneurs who have been part of the Diva Daathata Diriyak programme. They shared their personal journeys, reflecting on how Diva’s support has helped them overcome challenges, grow their businesses, and achieve financial independence. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of the programme’s success in creating meaningful change and empowering women to take control of their futures.

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, Diva reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the Diva Daathata Diriyak initiative and further strengthening its role in uplifting women and driving economic progress.

Caption: The Diva team, Women in Management (WIM), Daraz Sri Lanka, and the women entrepreneurs of Sufisen Grinding Mills, GTS Products, SuSaYeLi Grains & Spices, Supiri Products & M Shoes launching the Diva Daathata Diriyak online marketplace and participating in the panel discussion.

Perera & Sons, (P&S), is a company that is deeply rooted in Sri Lanka’s corporate landscape and the company continues demonstrate its unwavering dedication to sustainability and community well-being through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, Manumehewara.

The company’s latest initiative saw the donation of a state-of-the-art Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant to the Barampola community in the Paduwasnuwara Western Divisional Secretariat. The initiative ensures access to clean, safe drinking water to almost 100 families. The RO Plant was ceremoniously opened on the 21^st of February 2025. The event was graced by Avishka Perera, Director, Perera & Sons, a multitude of other representatives from Perera & Sons, Navy Officials, and members of the Barampola community.

The donation of this RO plant is a testament to P&S’s commitment to improving lives and creating a lasting positive impact on the communities it serves. By addressing a vital, fundamental need, the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Furthermore, P&S broader CSR efforts extend further, contributing to SDG 10: Reduced Inequality and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

“At P&S, corporate responsibility is at the heart of everything we do. The donation of this RO plant under our Manumehewara initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for our communities. By ensuring access to clean water, we are taking a significant step in safeguarding the well-being of the residents in Barampola,” said Avishka Perera, Director of P&S and a fifth-generation member of the company’s leadership.

P&S has been actively supporting RO plant projects since 2021, demonstrating a consistent track record of making tangible and highly beneficial contributions to society. This latest initiative is another milestone in the company’s mission to uplift communities and create meaningful impact, beyond its business operations.

A proudly Sri Lankan company, P&S remains dedicated to giving back to the nation and its people. By integrating sustainability into its ethos and CSR initiatives, the company continues to lead by example, solidifying its reputation as a responsible and caring brand that prioritises the wellbeing of society as well as its corporate ambitions.

Through Manumehewara and other impactful CSR Projects, P&S continues to address an immediate community need and is laying the foundation for a more equitable and sustainable future for all Sri Lank

Image 01- Commemorative stone plaque on the P&S donation Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant to the Barampola community, Paduwasnuwara Western Divisional Secretariat

The most awaited Food Industry Show, Profood Propack & Agbiz Exhibition, organized by the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA) together with Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services (LECS), was launched on March 5, 2025 at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Colombo.

The event will be held from August 22^nd to 24^th at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Exhibition and Convention Center at BMICH Colombo and is endorsed and supported by the Ministry of Industries, the National Agribusiness Council, and the Institute of Food Science and Technology Sri Lanka.

The exhibition is well known over the last two and half decades as SLFPA’s flagship event to foster Food Industry advancement and drive economic growth in Sri Lanka. The event serves as a driving force, uniting leaders from the Food Industry, various stakeholders, and decision-makers in agriculture-based businesses, food processing industries, packaging and all service providers related to the Food Industry.

President of the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, Mr. Thusith Wijesinghe, remarked, “As we near the 22^nd consecutive year of this dynamic exhibition, we acknowledge its crucial role in fostering growth and sustainability within the agricultural and food sectors. This platform acts as a catalyst for professionals to explore state-of-the-art technologies, present innovative products and processes, and boost global competitiveness”.

Co-Chairman of the Organizing Committee for Profood, Propack & AgBiz 2025, Mr. Aruna Seananayake, opined that the upcoming exhibition promises to be an outstanding gathering of industry leaders, innovators and food science graduates. He emphasized their unwavering commitment towards facilitating knowledge exchange through the “Knowledge Hub”, which was introduced at last year’s exhibition.

This year, the committee has expanded the Knowledge Hub to include a well-structured Consumer Assistance Desk (CAD), serving as a crucial touchpoint for new entrepreneurs seeking assistance and guidance in identifying opportunities. The exhibition will also showcase technological innovations and facilitate strategic partnerships within the sector. Mr. Seananayake expressed their dedication to delivering an event that exceeds expectations and propels the industry to greater heights, comparable to international food shows.

The exhibition provides numerous opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to showcase and promote their products. SMEs are crucial to the industry’s growth, and this event allows them to gain exposure, find new markets, build relationships and explore potential collaborations with key stakeholders.

The event will feature a diverse array of products, services, and innovations related to agriculture, processed food and beverages, and packaging.

Participating in the Profood Propack & Agbiz 2025 exhibition provides SMEs with exceptional opportunities to broaden their reach, boost brand visibility, and establish strategic partnerships by engaging with key stakeholders and accessing a network of buyers and investors.

14th Sri Lankan Edition of CEMS-Global USA’s Textile Series of Exhibitions: A Premier Exhibition and congregation for the Textile and Garment Industry of Sri Lanka

Colombo, Sri Lanka – [March 5, 2025] – CEMS-Global USA is proud to be back in Sri Lanka to organize the 14th Sri Lankan edition of its acclaimed Textile Series of Exhibitions, featuring the 12th Textech Sri Lanka 2025, 14th Colombo Yarn & Fabric Show 2025, and 47th Dye+Chem Sri Lanka 2025. This highly anticipated exhibition will be held at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC) in Colombo 10, from 13th to 15th March 2025, and is set to be the most influential congregation of the entire textile and garment industry of Sri Lanka.

CEMS-Global USA’s Textile Series of Exhibitions is held annually across three continents in Bangladesh, Brazil, Morocco, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The 14th Sri Lankan Edition comes at a transformative time for the industry, as businesses seek sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology to enhance productivity. With global supply chains recovering and evolving post-pandemic, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for Sri Lankan manufacturers to reposition themselves in the international market, highlighting Sri Lanka as a competitive player in the global textile and apparel industry, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

The Textile Series of Exhibitions is not just a local event; it’s a global phenomenon. It brings together manufacturers and industry leaders from around the world, fostering international trade relations and knowledge exchange. By strategically organizing events in major textile hubs, CEMS-Global USA contributes to the global textile economy, facilitating innovation and collaboration on a grand scale.

The Textile Series of Exhibitions is renowned for bridging gaps between global manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers. Originating to support the textile and apparel industry, the series has grown exponentially, reflecting the dynamic shifts in global markets and technological advancements.

This year’s edition will showcase a comprehensive range of Textile & Garment Machinery, Yarn, Fabric, Accessories, Dyestuff, and Chemicals, bringing together leading international and local manufacturers, suppliers, and industry experts under one roof. The event aims to serve as a powerful platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and discovering the latest innovations, trends, and technologies in the textile and apparel industry.

Sri Lanka’s textile and garment sector is a cornerstone of its economy, contributing significantly to export revenues. This event supports the industry’s growth by facilitating access to the latest technology, sustainable practices, and global market trends.

The exhibition is not just a showcase but a business platform where stakeholders can engage in meaningful dialogues, gain insights into emerging trends, and expand their market reach. It provides unparalleled opportunities to learn about the latest advancements and establish valuable business connections.

With participants from across the globe, this series promotes networking, cross-border collaborations, strategic alliances, and investment opportunities, making it a must-attend exhibition for anyone involved in the textile value chain.

With these three comprehensive exhibitions for the Textile and Garment Industry, the visitors from the Sri Lankan industry can Discover Cutting-Edge Technology and Explore the latest advancements in textile and garment machinery that are driving efficiency and productivity in the industry; Source High-Quality Yarn & Fabric and Engage with renowned suppliers offering premium yarns, fabrics, and accessories tailored to meet the evolving needs of the Sri Lankan market; Learn About Sustainable Solutions and Discover sustainable dyestuffs and chemical solutions that are transforming the textile industry towards a greener future; Enhance Business Opportunities, Foster strategic partnerships and expand their business footprint in the dynamic textile and garment industry.

Established in 1992, CEMS-Global USA is a leading multinational exhibition organizer renowned for its high-profile B2B trade shows and has been a pioneer in creating trade platforms across multiple countries. With operations spanning across several countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, CEMS-Global has been instrumental in driving international trade and fostering business collaborations. The Textile Series of Exhibitions is one of its flagship events, celebrated globally for its contribution to the textile and garment industry.

With over three decades of experience, CEMS-Global continues to contribute significantly to the growth and development of international trade and commerce. CEMS-Global has partnered with several Business Associations, Chambers of Commerce, Export Promotion Councils, International Trade Promotion organizations, and Governments. Their successful 40 Trade shows per annum in highly potential and developing countries of the world across 4 continents have benefited hundreds of thousands of Manufacturers, several Industry sectors, and boosted International Trade & Development in many countries.

CEMS-Global entered Sri Lanka immediately after the end of the civil war in 2009 and launched its operations as CEMS Lanka. Since then, CEMS-Global with its CEMS Lanka office has been giving all its efforts and held important B2B Trade Shows for the Textile & Apparel Industry, Logistics & Shipping, and Power & Energy sectors of the country.
The 14th Sri Lankan edition of the Textile Series of Exhibitions has been endorsed by Sri Lanka Export Development Board, Industrial Development Board of Sri Lanka, Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association (SLAEA).
These 3 Comprehensive Exhibitions will run from 13th to 15th March 2025 from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm daily.
For more information, please visit www.cems-textileseries.com , www.cems-textech.com, www.cems-yarnandfabric.com, www.cems-dyechem.com,
Contact us on WhatsApp at +1-212-914-7414 or email [email protected]

Blue Lotus 360, a leading Cloud SaaS ERP solutions provider, has announced the appointment of Vipula Gunaratne as Deputy General Manager – Sales & Marketing. This strategic move strengthens Blue Lotus 360’s leadership team and reaffirms the company’s commitment to driving commercial growth, expanding its customer base, and enhancing its ecosystem around its partner network.
Vipula Gunaratne is a seasoned business leader with extensive expertise in branding, communications, and strategic marketing. He has overseen several subsidiaries, including Abans Environmental Services (Pvt) Ltd, Cleantech (Pvt) Ltd, and Facilities Management Integrated (Pvt) Ltd, as the Head of Branding & Communications at Abans Group. Additionally, he managed AB Securitas (Pvt) Ltd, AB Securitas Bangladesh, ABS Courier (Pvt) Ltd, and DOK Solutions Lanka (Pvt) Ltd in the same capacity before joining Blue Lotus 360. In these roles, he successfully led integrated marketing campaigns, stakeholder engagement projects, and sustainability programs that significantly enhanced the companies’ market presence. He also played a crucial role in developing brand identities, corporate communications, and public relations strategies.
His expertise extends beyond branding and communications into business development, where he has successfully secured nine-figure contracts that helped the businesses he collaborated with grow. His ability to forge strategic partnerships and drive large-scale projects has been a cornerstone of his success.
Vipula’s prior experience includes key roles at Light & Shade and Brown & Company PLC, where he handled renowned brands such as Exide and TAFE. Additionally, he served at the Chartered Institute of Marketing Sri Lanka Region and gained early industry exposure at the National Gem & Jewellery Authority.
Commenting on his new appointment as Deputy General Manager – Sales & Marketing at Blue Lotus 360, Vipula Gunaratne stated: “It is a privilege to join Blue Lotus 360 at this moment of tremendous expansion and innovation. I am excited to apply my expertise in branding, sales, and business development to help the company, which is revolutionizing enterprise software solutions across several industries, grow faster. I’m looking forward to leading effective initiatives that improve Blue Lotus 360’s industry presence both locally and internationally while collaborating with a vibrant team.”
Blue Lotus 360, a leading Cloud SaaS ERP provider, is revolutionizing medium- and large-sized operations in nine countries. The company delivers intelligent, scalable, and user-friendly technology, placing it at the forefront of enterprise software solutions. Blue Lotus 360’s extensive range of ERP modules ensures that businesses can effectively streamline their operations, with a particular focus on sectors including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, trading & distribution, services, and the public sector.
Vipula Gunaratne is also an active member of the business community. He is currently a BNI Gold Club Member and has served as Past President of the BNI Elite Chapter. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK, a Professional Diploma in Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK, and a Diploma in Marketing from LCCI Pearson College, London. His educational journey began at Royal College, Colombo.
The appointment of Vipula Gunaratne marks a significant step in Blue Lotus 360’s continued commitment to innovation, market expansion, and strengthening its leadership team to support its growth trajectory.

Image Caption – Vipula Gunaratne, Deputy General Manager – Sales & Marketing at Blue Lotus 360.

Hayleys Solar, the renewable energy arm of Hayleys Fentons Limited, has successfully completed a 300.31kW solar installation at the CIC Ekala Sales Office and Warehouse Complex within an impressive timeframe.
The newly installed solar system is projected to reduce carbon emissions by 308 tonnes annually, aligning with CIC‘s sustainability goals to improve its environmental footprint.
“We are proud to support CIC in taking this important step towards renewable energy,” said Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited. “Our team worked diligently to ensure the project was completed swiftly and accurately. We deeply appreciate the CIC team for their unwavering support throughout the process.”
Roshane Perera, Chief Executive Officer of Hayleys Solar, added, “This partnership has been crucial in achieving our shared goals. With this successful installation, we continue to set new benchmarks for project execution speed and precision, further solidifying our leadership in the solar industry.”
As to the demand for renewable energy solutions continues to soar, Hayleys Solar remains well-positioned to provide reliable, efficient solar installations powering Sri Lanka’s transition to a greener future. The successful completion of this project further establishes Hayleys Solar as the nation’s leading solar provider.
Image Captions
Hayleys Solar Successfully Completes Solar Installation at CIC Ekala Warehouse,
From Left – Ms. Sonali Senanayaka – Assistant Accountant (CIC), Ms. Uvini Dias – Business Analyst (CIC), Mr. Shamindran Thomas – General Manager Supply Chain and Logistics ((CIC)), Mr. Poovendran Sivathavendran – General Manager Factory Operations (CIC), Mr. Viraj Manatunga – Group

Chief Strategy Officer/ Divisional Director – Pharmaceutical Agencies and Manufacturing (CIC), Mr. Aroshan Seresinhe – Group Chief Executive Officer (CIC), Mr. A. K. Chathuranga – Assistant Manager Maintenance (CIC). Roshane Perera, Executive Director/CEO (Hayleys Solar), Amangi Perera, DGM – Business Development (Hayleys Solar), Lasitha Weerasinghe, Senior Engineer – Projects (Hayleys Solar), Banula Nandasena – Junior Engineer (Hayleys Solar).