Sri Lanka to Host First Ever Fashion Week Dedicated to Women Entrepreneurs in South Asia
The Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs (CCWE) officially announced the CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026 at a press conference held in Colombo, unveiling a historic national initiative that will mark the first-ever fashion week in Sri Lanka and the South Asian region dedicated exclusively to women entrepreneurs. Held under the theme “Threads of Inclusion Woven from Every Walk of Life,” the event is scheduled to take place from 16th to 20th July 2026 at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, positioning Sri Lanka at the forefront of inclusive and sustainable fashion while creating a powerful platform for economic and social transformation.
This landmark initiative goes beyond fashion to deliver meaningful value to society by empowering women entrepreneurs across diverse communities, industries, and regions. By bringing together designers, artisans, SMEs, policymakers, investors, and international stakeholders, the event aims to create new market opportunities, strengthen financial inclusion, and promote sustainable livelihoods. It will serve as a catalyst for economic growth by supporting women-led businesses, enhancing export potential, encouraging youth participation in creative industries, and fostering regional collaboration across South Asia.
Supported by a strong network of corporate partners, the initiative is led by HNB as the Title Sponsor, reflecting a collective commitment to empowering women economically and driving more inclusive national progress.
Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Ayanthi Gurusinghe, President of CCWE and Chairman of the Fashion Week, stated, “Today we are announcing more than an event—we are introducing a national movement that will transform the way we view women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka. This platform is designed to open doors for women from every walk of life, enabling them to convert talent into enterprise, gain access to markets, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Through this initiative, Sri Lanka has the opportunity to lead the region in building a future where inclusion meets opportunity and equality.”
HNB, MD/ CEO, Mr. Damith Pallewatte, added, “For over 135 years, HNB has stood as a partner in progress to all Sri Lankans, and supporting women entrepreneurs is central to how we continue that legacy. This initiative creates a platform where women can access markets, build sustainable businesses, and contribute meaningfully to national economic development. When women are empowered with the right access and support, the impact extends to families, communities, and the broader economy. Our decision to serve as Title Sponsor is driven by our commitment to enabling that access and supporting pathways for long-term growth through financial inclusion and enterprise development.”
Extending regional support, Mrs. Premila Acharya, President of the South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF), shared her support online, “The CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026 is a landmark initiative that reflects the strength and potential of women entrepreneurs across our region. It is inspiring to see Sri Lanka take the lead in creating a platform where inclusion, opportunity, and equality come together. SAWDF is proud to stand in partnership with CCWE in empowering women through collaboration and shared progress.”
Highlighting achievements The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific Subregional Office for South and South-West (ESCAP-SSWA) as Knowledge Partner Ms. Mikiko Tanaka, Head and Director noted “ESCAP is pleased to serve as a knowledge partner for the CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to enhance women entrepreneurs’ access to markets, finance and digital networks. Connecting women-led businesses to regional networks can further unlock opportunities outside Sri Lanka. We commend CCWE’s leadership in creating an enabling environment for women from diverse backgrounds to innovate, participate and contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic development.”
Complementing this, Mrs. Asha Jayamana, Chairperson of the South Asian Women Leadership Awards 2026, plays a pivotal role in elevating the regional recognition component of the summit. Through her leadership, the awards platform will honour outstanding women leaders and changemakers across South Asia, further strengthening the event’s vision of celebrating excellence, empowerment, and cross-border collaboration.
Adding further strength to the creative and leadership dimensions of the event, choreographer Mr. Gihan Dassanayake will lead the choreography of the fashion segments, bringing his artistic expertise and industry experience to curate a world-class runway experience that reflects the essence of inclusion and diversity.
The CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026 is expected to generate long-term national value by promoting Sri Lanka’s creative industries, increasing visibility for small and medium enterprises, encouraging public-private partnerships, and strengthening the role of women in economic leadership. Most importantly, it reinforces a powerful message; that when women are empowered with opportunity, the benefits extend beyond individuals to families, communities, and the nation, creating sustainable and inclusive growth for the future.
Ayanthi Gurusinghe, President, Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs (CCWE), joined by Damith Pallewatte, MD/CEO, HNB, and Sanjay Wijemanne, Senior Executive Vice President/COO, HNB, at the press conference announcing CCWE Fashion Week, powered by HNB, held at HNB Towers.
(Below) Organisers and representatives of CCWE and HNB at the press conference announcing CCWE Fashion Week.