The Diva Daathata Diriyak Entrepreneurial Skills Development programme organized by Diva the flagship laundry brand of Hemas Consumer Brands, in partnership with Women In Management (WIM) has consistently aimed to empower women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship in today’s economic landscape. This impactful initiative is aimed at transforming mindsets from being producers to entrepreneurs, challenging the women entrepreneurs to look at the basics of business and empowering them with the tools for better financial management, pricing, marketing, customer care, digital marketplaces, branding and packaging. The programme has seen success in Dankotuwa, Jaffna, and Galle, and recently was extended to Welimada. With each session, the programme has expanded its reach and impact, empowering entrepreneurs across the island.
The Welimada session of the Diva Daathata Diriyak Entrepreneurial Skills Development Programme concluded on February 1, 2024, marking another milestone in the journey of empowering women entrepreneurs across Sri Lanka. This programme witnessed active participation from aspiring entrepreneurs eager to improve their skills and realize their entrepreneurial dreams. A total of 38 enthusiastic women entrepreneurs engaged in workshops, interactive sessions, and practical exercises designed to enhance their abilities. The Welimada session empowered the programme’s growing community of Diva empowered entrepreneurs, bringing the total count to an impressive 175 entrepreneurs across the island.
Reflecting on the success of the Welimada session, Derrick Antony, General Manager Marketing, Hemas Consumer Brands, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The Diva Daathata Diriyak Entrepreneurial Skills Development Programme continues to be a beacon of hope for aspiring women entrepreneurs across Sri Lanka. We are proud to see the programme making a tangible difference in the lives of participants, empowering them to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations with confidence and resilience.”
The initiative stems from the profound insight that “the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world,” recognizing the pivotal role of women in shaping societies and economies, Diva understands the struggles many women face as they navigate economic hardships and aspire for financial freedom. Through empowering women with the tools and resources needed to become successful entrepreneurs, Diva stands as a steadfast pillar of support, championing their journey towards independence and prosperity which in turn will help home economy grow as well.
The involvement of local government authorities, particularly the Divisional Secretariat Office in Welimada, emphasizes the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in fostering entrepreneurship and economic development at the grassroots level. Such partnerships are instrumental in creating an enabling environment for aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Moreover, Diva’s partnership with Women In Management further amplifies the programme’s impact, providing participants with access to a vast network of mentors, resources, and opportunities for growth and development. As Diva looks ahead, it remains committed to expanding its reach and impact, empowering more women entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in Sri Lanka.
