The Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs (CCWE) officially announced the CCWE Fashion Week and 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. The initiative positions Sri Lanka at the forefront of inclusive and sustainable fashion while creating a powerful platform for economic and social transformation.
Beyond Fashion: A Catalyst for Economic Growth
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
- Promote sustainable livelihoods
- Support women-led businesses
- Enhance export potential
- Encourage youth participation in creative industries
- Foster 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.
Leadership Voices
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."
Regional and International Support
Extending regional support, Premila Acharya, President of the South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF), shared her endorsement 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 the initiative's international credibility, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific Sub-regional Office for South and South-West Asia (ESCAP-SSWA) has joined as Knowledge Partner. Ms. Mikiko Tanaka, Head and Director of ESCAP-SSWA, 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."*
Recognising Excellence Across South Asia
Complementing the summit, Asha Jayamana, Chairperson of the South Asian Women Leadership Awards 2026, plays a pivotal role in elevating the regional recognition component of the event. Through her leadership, the awards platform will honour outstanding women leaders and change-makers across South Asia, further strengthening the initiative's vision of celebrating excellence, empowerment, and cross-border collaboration.
