RUZAIK FAROOK

Bristol Institute has unveiled an innovative academic initiative, the BA (Hons) International Business Management (Top-Up) program, in collaboration with the esteemed University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE, Bristol). This accelerated program is meticulously designed to equip students with a comprehensive skill set in international business management, enabling them to achieve an esteemed degree within a condensed timeframe.

The program offers a swift pathway for ambitious professionals and students. Notably, individuals with partial qualifications in ACCA, CIMA, CMA, CA-SL, HND holders, and those possessing other advanced diplomas can directly enroll in this program. This academic offering aims to cater to their educational aspirations, allowing completion within a mere 10 months.

Crucially, the university (UWE, Bristol), holds dual recognition from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and World Education Services (WES).

The curriculum is curated to provide comprehensive insights into the nuances of global business, covering a spectrum of subjects pertinent to international business management. Leveraging the expertise of UWE, Bristol’s faculty and the institution’s academic prowess, the program ensures relevance to current industry practices and future business landscapes.

With a commitment to accessible education, Bristol Institute offers a golden opportunity for individuals seeking to fast-track their academic pursuits. This program not only promises accelerated learning but also opens doors to myriad career opportunities, bolstering professional growth and advancement.

Enrollment for the BA (Hons) International Business Management (Top-Up) program is now open, welcoming driven individuals eager to elevate their knowledge and career prospects. For more information and enrollment details, prospective students can contact Bristol Institute directly on 0777907711 or visit No 7, Walukarama road Colombo 03.

RUZAIK FAROOK

Yumna Bridals and Academy Pvt Ltd had organized the Beauty Event Show and Exhibition was held at the BMICH on Tuesday January 9.  It was held under the patronage of CEO / Director  of the Yumna and senior makeup artist Mrs. Sumera Fahir.

Bridal Show, Mehendi Art and Cake and Decoration Exhibition were highlighted at this event.

Students received diploma awards and certificates from different categories such as Henna Artist, Bridal Dressing and Spoken English from chief guest Blossom Unique Beauty Academy Pvt Ltd Director Dr. M. J. Ahaas Ahamed and Anu Beauty Clinic Directress  Mrs.  Anu Kumeresen  and J. Jeyaprakash.

Bridal Academy Management Staff , Parents and Students were present.

KALA in association with the Lionel Wendt Art Centre, is a platform for South Asian Art, and opens on 29^th January 2024 with its inaugural exhibition “Pivot Glide Echo”. The exhibition will run until 25^th February 2024. Kala is the Sanskrit word meaning performing art and was chosen to represent the evolving and encompassing practices of South Asia’s esteemed modern and contemporary artists. KALÀ is South Asia’s newest and educational artistic platform, inspired by the diverse culture and modern art history of Sri Lanka, KALA in association with the Lionel Wendt Art Centre aims to develop a global platform, inviting artists and art practitioners from across South Asia and the diaspora to build a collaborative force based on partnerships. KALÀ will evolve to meet the needs of artists and their supporting institutional partners, an well as the diverse audience who engage with them.

Pivot Glide Echo is the platform’s inaugural exhibition of artists spanning eight decades, curated by KALA  Assistant Curatorial Advisor Mariyam Begum under the guidance of KALA Curatorial Advisor, Sandhini Poddar, Adjunct Curator at Large of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. With celebrated Sri Lankan photographer Lionel Wendt serving as a catalyst, the exhibition provides a unique window into inter generational dialogues that transpire between modern and contemporary artists from Sri Lanka and the diaspora.

Artists featured in the exhibition include: Lionel Wendt, George Claessen, George Keyt, lvan Peries, L.T.P Manjusri, H.A Karunaratne, Kingsley Gunatillake, Raki Nikahetiya, Mahen Perera, Liz Fernando, Sebastian Posingis, Muhanned Cader, Saskia Pintelon, Rupaneethan,Pakkiyarajah, Anoli Porora, Vasantha Yogananthan, Cassie Machado, Kavan Balasuriya,and Muvindu Binoy.

The Lionel Wendt Art Centre, a central cultural fixture in the city of Colombo, will serve as the venue for the exhibition, that will feature many of the most celebrated modern and contemporary artists of Sri Lanka alongside a curated program of talks, workshops and events at the centre, across leading institutions, establishments, online and selected hospitality partners from 29 January to 26 February, 2024.

KALA’s founding Platinum Partners are Cinnamon Life, Paradise Road, CAL and Wijeya Newspapers. The Founding Gold Partner is Chatham Luxury and the Founding Silver Partners are Malca Amit and WineWorld, Other Industry, Hospitality and Media Partners include Art South Asia Project, Barefoot Gallery, Christie’s, Daily FT, Daily Mirror, Echelon, Extremo Web, Films & Stills, Food Prints by Koluu, Gini Outdoor Kitchen, GPR, Hi, HI TV,Jhaveri Gontemporary, Lankadeepa, Mullen Lowe Sri Lanka, Ocula, Paradise Road Tintagel,Sapumal Foundation, Saskia Fernando Gallery, Shrine Empire Gallery, and The Sunday Times.

By Nelum Buddhadasa

The Facets Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Show is one of the most sought-after international gem and jewellery shows on the global procurement and sourcing calendar. The 30^thedition of the three day long event, Facets 2024, was inaugurated on 6^thSaturday, January 2024 by the Industries and Plantations Minister Ramesh Pathirana and was attended by several  distinguished guests, industry leaders, and gem enthusiasts. Ramesh Pathirana, Minister of Industries and Health, served as the Chief Guest for the inauguration. He was joined by  Chamara Sampath Dasanayake, State Minister of Primary Industries, Mr. Viraj De Silva, Chairman of National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA), and Dr. Kingsley Bernard, Chairman of Export Development Board (EDB).

The exhibition was hosted by Cinnamon Grand Colombo and organised by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA). Facets 2024 Sri Lanka signals to the world that the island nation is on the road to economic recovery and open for business and trading. Theexhibition  showcased some of Sri Lanka’s finest gems, including the blue and yellow sapphires. In addition, the Masterpiece Pavilion and a Sustainability Pavilion offered its visitors a rare glimpse into the history of Sri Lanka’s thriving gem industry.

The FACETS exhibitions have always been a celebration of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage in gems and jewels, and this year was no exception. The exhibition showcased the country’s extraordinary collection to the world, drawing in reputed buyers from across the globe. The 30th edition of FACETS Sri Lanka, featured several Pavilions that encapsulated the essence of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery legacy. Attendees were able to explore the Gem Pavilion, Premier Jewellery Pavilion, Sustainable Pavilion, Sapphire Masterpiece Pavilion, NGJA SME Pavilion,and the SLGJA Pavilion, each offered a unique perspective on the exquisite gems and jewellery that Sri Lanka has to offer.

The Sustainability Pavilion showcased Sri Lanka’s 2500-year-old gem industry’s fascinating journey, spanning from its inception to the present day and the Masterpiece Pavilion displayed unprecedentedly large gemstones and unique pieces, never before displayed elsewhere in the world. FACETS Sri Lanka 2024 offered an unforgettable experience, blending tradition with a comprehensive view of Sri Lanka’s vibrant gem and jewellery sector. Going forward, FACETS Sri Lanka will continue to be a beacon for the gem and jewellery industry, showcasing the beauty, diversity, and sustainability of Sri Lanka’s precious treasures to the world

By Nelum Buddhadasa

A Night in Copacabana 31st Night Dinner Dance at the world-famous Terrace of Mount Lavinia Hotel was celebrated grandly to welcome the brand new year of 2024. As the clock struck midnight on the 31st of December 2023, the air was filled with excitement and anticipation. The hotel had transformed into a carnival atmosphere, transporting  guests to the vibrant streets of Brazil’s Copacabana. From the moment guests stepped onto the Terrace, they were immersed in a world of colour and celebration, while the vibrance of the location created much excitement and delight amongst the guests.

The main entertainment for the evening was the popular band ‘Freeze’ of ‘Diasge Nagi’ fame along with the uptempo beats of DJ Delo.The jazz music and electric dance moves transported the guests to a whole new level, as they danced the night away.Addingmuch vibrance and excitement to the evening were the exotic, NATANDA, Copacabana girls, a samba band, fire eaters, and stilt men who entertained guests on the Terrace with their lively performances. The bright and sensational costumes along with the highly infectious samba rhythms had everyone dancing the night away in anticipation of the New Year.

The memorable celebration at the Mount Lavinia Hotel’s Terrace with the theme of Brazil’s “Copacabana” brought an explosion of energy and colour to the festivities, while the talented performers and delicious food kept everyone entertained and satisfied. It was a magical night, where guests embraced the joy of the moment. A Night in Copacabana was filled with  non-stop entertainment, thrilling guests until the clock struck midnight. The exuberant 31^st Night Dance, welcoming the brand new year of 2024 at the Mount Lavinia Hotel, created unforgettable memories that will continue to bring smiles to the faces of all who were fortunate enough to be part of this joyful celebration.

By Nelum Buddhadasa