DIVA, a proud Sri Lankan laundry care brand with over 20 years of heritage, celebrated the victors of the ‘DIVA Karathitku Valimai’ (‘Diva Daathata Diriyak’) Entrepreneurial Skills Development Program in Jaffna on 19 February 2024. This initiative encompassed comprehensive training sessions centred around women’s entrepreneurship and skill enhancement. Post a thorough evaluation process, four highest performing entrepreneurs were awarded at this ceremony.

Amidst the prevailing economic challenges faced by the nation, a remarkable trend has emerged wherein entrepreneurs, both from small and medium-scale businesses, have risen as a pivotal force driving domestic economic growth. They have significantly contributed to revitalizing the nation’s economy. It’s especially noteworthy that homemakers have transitioned into entrepreneurs, strengthening their households’ home economy. This transformation, beyond the conventional domestic roles of sewing, knitting, and culinary arts, signifies a substantial shift, where women are driving the national economy forward as integral members of the workforce. Their diverse talents, such as craftsmanship, have empowered them to step into the entrepreneurial realm, thereby boosting both their family economies and the broader national economic landscape.

Recognizing this unwavering spirit of women entrepreneurs, DIVA launched the ‘DIVA Karathitku Valimai’ (‘Diva Daathata Diriyak’) Entrepreneurial Skills Development program with the primary objective of offering expert guidance to refine their business expertise, skills, and capabilities. The program is designed to empower women entrepreneurs, equipping them with the confidence, knowledge, and skills essential for business initiation, organized operation, effective sales strategies, and more.

Acknowledging the reality that some women are challenged with a lack of time, knowledge, and support to realize their aspirations, DIVA is committed to extending a helping hand to talented women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka through the ‘DIVA Karathitku Valimai’ (‘Diva Daathata Diriyak’) initiative.

The program monitors the progress and potential of the women engaged in the ‘DIVA Karathitku Valimai’ (‘Diva Daathata Diriyak’) Entrepreneurial Skills Development program, which highlights the marketing of women’s household products. Additionally, it incentivizes the women entrepreneurs who secure the first, second, and third positions upon completion of the program by offering financial rewards to further stimulate their growth and business capital.

Upon assessing the advancement achieved by the women who participated in the ‘DIVA Karathitku Valimai’ (‘Diva Daathata Diriyak’) Entrepreneurial Skills Development program, the following women emerged victorious. First place secured by Prabhakaran Kavisala (Om Mayura Products), two second places by Dina Sasikumar (S D Hand Crafts) & Sajila Sivalokanathan (Lucky Muliti-Products) and third place by Sivaneswary Sivanathan (Rehobath Food Productions). These very capable women were duly recognised and acknowledged.

As the saying goes, “The hands that rocks the cradle rule the world,” underscoring the crucial role of women in nurturing future generations and thereby shaping the nation’s development. It’s imperative to consistently acknowledge, cherish, and support these contributions. The ‘DIVA Karathitku Valimai’ (‘Diva Daathata Diriyak’) program remains a steadfast source of inspiration and empowerment, nurturing women to embrace the future with their natural strengths and talents, thereby ushering them into a realm of business prospects.

About Hemas Consumer

Hemas Consumer Brands, the leading Sri Lankan manufacturer of Home and Personal Care products, has won consumer hearts over the years through strong purpose-led brands and progressive sustainability practices. Hemas Consumer Brands strive to bring healthful living and personal care solutions to life through its portfolio of world-class products. They have garnered acclaim for creating superior Market-leading and Award-winning products by uncovering local insights which are nourished by growth-inspired innovative teams. They touch the lives of the communities around the island by creating meaningful offerings, cultivating trusted partnerships, and championing a more environmentally friendly inclusive world.