Business
LEADS launches child sponsorship programme for survivors of child abuse
The newly-launched sponsorship initiative gives the public an opportunity to join with LEADS in restoring lives of survivors of child abuse.
In response to the escalating need for psychosocial care for survivors of child abuse across Sri Lanka, LEADS recently launched its Child Sponsorship programme through which its patrons and well-wishers can now sponsor holistic therapeutic care for young survivors of child abuse receiving support through LEADS’ centres in the Northern, Western and Uva Provinces of Sri Lanka.
Media reports in the past year highlighted rising incidents of child abuse and cruelty, bringing to light the plight of children who were affected during the initial period of lockdown imposed by state authorities to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a statement by child rights group ECPAT Sri Lanka, they expressed concerns over a 33% increase child abuse reported during the curfew period in March 2020, as documented by the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA). A joint statement issued by UNICEF and the NCPA noted that the proportion of child cruelty cases, rose from 10% to 40% during the 3-week period of 16 March – 7 April 2020.
It is in this context of increased concern for the well-being of children that LEADS launches its Child Sponsorship initiative with the aim of providing restorative care for survivors of child abuse throughout the country. During its service of over 38 years to the nation, LEADS has been among the few non-governmental organisations that provide support for survivors of child abuse. Through its team of mental health experts and legal practitioners, LEADS ensures that the child receives counselling and therapy, legal aid, reintegration support and follow-up services, including a long-term family strengthening plan that ensures that the child grows up in an environment conducive to their well-being.
Patrons and well-wishers can now provide financial support towards legal aid, reintegration support, basic and logistical expenses with LKR 3,750 covering the per child cost for a period of one month. LEADS’ online platform facilitates donations in US Dollars, Euros, Sterling Pounds or Sri Lankan Rupees as either a one-time donation or a recurring-payment.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”