CCWE Launches South Asia Women's Fashion Week

The Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs (CCWE) officially made public the CCWE Fashion Week & International Summit 2026 at a press conference held in Colombo, revealing a historic national project that will inaugurate the first-ever fashion week in Sri Lanka and the South Asian region solely dedicated to women entrepreneurs.

Based on the theme “Threads of Inclusion Woven from Every Walk of Life”, the event will be held from 16th to 20th July 2026 at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, showcasing Sri Lanka as a leading country in inclusive and sustainable fashion, at the same time providing a potent stage for economic and social changes.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• CCWE revealed South Asia's first fashion week exclusively for women entrepreneurs.
• The fashion week, scheduled for July 2026, will be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
• It was revealed that the move will help enhance economic prospects for women entrepreneurs.

Not just a fashion initiative, this giant move to empower women entrepreneurs in a wide range of communities and industries is a soulful touch to the society. The event that brings out designers, artisans, SMEs, policymakers, investors, and international stakeholders together is aimed at creating new market opportunities, enhancing financial inclusion, and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Likewise, it will boost economic growth by enabling women-led businesses, increasing export potential, motivating youth participation in creative industries, and facilitating regional collaboration in South Asia. HNB as the Title Sponsor is the lead member of an initiative supported by a robust network of corporate partners.

Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs President and Fashion Week Chairman Dr. Ayanthi Gurusinghe, who’s also the Founder Director of Cord360 as well as a strong advocate for women’s entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth said, “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.”

Additionally, an experienced Banker with 27+ years of service and composed professional open for international Financial experience Damith Pallewatte, the HNB, MD/ CEO added, “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.”

Adding to the statement, South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF) President Premila Acharya stated, “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.”

Choreographer Gihan Dassanayake will be responsible for the choreography of the fashion segments, using his artistic skills and industry knowledge to create a world-class runway show that truly represents the spirit of inclusion and diversity.