Business
Spell-binding presentation on climate by 14-year-old Lankan
By Ifham Nizam
In a remarkable display of knowledge of and enthusiasm for the environment, 14-year-old student Akira Alagiyawanna from Wycherley International School, Colombo, delivered a captivating video address on climate phenomena at the University of California in Los Angeles – UCLA, during an Earth Day event on April 20.
The event, hosted by the America-Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society in Los Angeles, provided a platform for Akira to share his insights with viewers, even from a distance.
During his video address, Akira focused on explaining two important weather patterns: El Niño and La Niña. Using straightforward language and relatable examples, he made these complex topics easy to understand for viewers of all ages. He emphasized the significance of these natural occurrences in shaping global weather patterns, helping viewers grasp their importance in the broader context of climate change.
Akira outlined the origins and impacts of El Niño and La Niña, highlighting their effects on weather, while adding that “these two weather events can also cause panic, since a lot of people think it is related to climate change while it is simply a natural process. In fact we experienced El Niño recently but it is hard to distinguish if there are also other natural phenomena at play such as the Solar Maxima and the Solar Minima which is caused by the 11 year sunspot cycle, therefore you have got to be careful in identifying anthropogenic global warming, because for example this April we experienced some of the hottest days in Sri Lanka due to equator and the Sun being closer than ever on top of El Nino. Our Earth’s patterns are a very broad topic, a complex combination of the matrix of Astrophysics, Solar physics, climatology and many more. This leaves a lot for the new generation to figure out to truly unveil this planetary mystery”.
Despite not being physically present at the event, Akira’s presence was felt strongly through his impactful video address.
His passion for environmental advocacy shone through, motivating viewers to reflect on the ways they can contribute to positive change in their communities and beyond and Akira has proven himself to be a young leader in the fight against climate change, leaving audiences inspired and hopeful for the future.
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.”