March 22, 2024
Sunshine Holdings elevates commitment to workplace gender equality with the launch of Project ‘WE’
A transformative Women Empowerment initiative aimed at fostering gender diversity and inclusion across the Group.
In commemoration of International Women’s Day, Sunshine Holdings PLC announced the launch of Project ‘WE’, a Women Empowerment initiative dedicated to fostering organization gender balance and empowering the female workforce. This move emphasizes the company’s commitment to promoting better representation of women in the workplace, driving an inclusive environment that encourages and supports the professional growth of female talent.
Featuring inspiring speeches and an insightful panel discussion, the launch event also marked the establishment of a dedicated committee, tasked with devising targeted solutions to enhance inclusivity and support the professional development of women across the organization.
“In the present competitive business world, Sunshine Holdings has proactively championed women empowerment, by creating a level playing field that has significantly contributed to the company’s value and growth. Placing a keen focus on talent attraction, retention and empowering more females in leadership positions has been an organizational success factor and we remain committed to fostering an environment where women not only thrive but lead.”
Shyam Sathasivam
Group Chief Executive Officer
“Twenty years ago, I was Nayana Pieris, before destiny intervened and transformed me into Ashcharya Jayakody. Losing my sight and sense of smell in a tragic incident reshaped my existence, challenging me in ways I never imagined. Despite the adversities, I refused to be defined by victimhood. Instead, I embraced my circumstances as opportunities for growth and resilience.”
Shyam Sathasivam
Keynote speaker
“In our corporate culture, ‘WE’ is synonymous with ‘ME’. While opportunities are available, real change comes from within. With the establishment of a WE committee, Sunshine is taking a step to give a stronger voice to women in the organization. The specially appointed committee will spearhead initiatives that will make Sunshine an even a better place for women to thrive in their careers.”
Michelle Senanayake
Chief People and Corporate Communications Officer
About Sunshine Holdings PLC
Sunshine Holdings PLC is a publicly listed conglomerate contributing to ‘nation-building’ by creating value in vital sectors of the Sri Lankan economy – mainly in the healthcare and consumer sectors, with strategic investments in agribusiness.
Established over 57 years ago in 1967, the Group is now home to leading Sri Lankan brands such as Zesta Tea, Watawala Tea, Ran Kahata, Daintee, Milady, Healthguard Pharmacy and Lina Manufacturing, with nearly 2,000 employees and revenue over LKR 51 billion in FY23. The business units comprise of Sunshine Healthcare Lanka, Sunshine Consumer Lanka, and Watawala Plantations PLC, which are leaders in their respective sectors and most of them certified as a “Great Place to Work” in 2023.