Colombo, 30 March 2026 – The National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka (NOC Sri Lanka) hosts a special International Women’s Month celebration tomorrow, 31 March 2026, at the Sri Lanka Olympic House, bringing together women coaches, mentors, and champions who continue to shape and strengthen the nation’s sporting landscape.

 

Held under the global International Women’s Day 2026 theme “GiveToGain”, this initiative highlights the invaluable contributions of women in coaching and mentorship, recognizing their role in developing athletes, building communities, and inspiring the next generation. Through its platform, NOC Sri Lanka has extended an open invitation to women coaches and leaders in sport to come together, connect, and be celebrated for their impact.

 

The programme features a series of powerful knowledge-sharing sessions led by a distinguished panel of experts. Attorney-at-Law Dr. Duminda Silva, a senior banking executive and national-level sports administrator, will speak on the transformative influence of coaches beyond competition. Entrepreneur and wellness advocate Ms. Mifra Sadikeen will explore identity and performance, while Professor Chathuranga Ranasinghe, a leading authority in sport and exercise medicine, will emphasize the importance of health, wellbeing, and sustainable performance in sport and everyday life.

 

A key highlight of the event is its interactive engagement segment, where participants will rotate through dedicated activity stations focused on lifestyle medicine, fitness, nutrition, and SafeSport. This hands-on approach encourages practical learning, collaboration, and meaningful exchange, reinforcing the importance of holistic development within sport. Adding energy and excitement to the programme is a Zumba session led by Sharmila Rumee Thajudeen, Sri Lanka’s Zumba® Education Specialist and Founder of Burn Galaxy.

 

The celebration will conclude with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions by women in sport, including coaching excellence, athlete development, and advocacy for gender equality.

 

President of NOC Sri Lanka, Mr. Suresh Subramaniam, reflecting on the significance of the initiative, stated, “Behind every success, there is a woman who often does not take credit. Today, we recognize and celebrate those women whose quiet strength and dedication continue to shape the future of sport in Sri Lanka.”

 

Through this initiative, NOC Sri Lanka reaffirms its commitment to empowering women in sport, fostering leadership, and creating an inclusive environment where their contributions are recognized, valued, and celebrated.

 

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