In line with the organization’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality, a Women Entrepreneurship Workshop was organized at the Godagama Branch in celebration of International Women’s Day.

This initiative was conducted under the guidance of the Sustainable Governance Committee chaired by the COO Mr. Laksanda Gunawardena, with the support of Branch Manager Mr. Dilanka Sanjeewa and the leadership of Regional Managers Mr. Krishantha Hennadige and Mr. Amila Edirisinghe.

The program aimed to empower women through entrepreneurship by providing knowledge and practical guidance to start, manage, and sustain their own businesses. Strengthening women’s economic participation is a key component of inclusive and sustainable community development.

Approximately 75 women participated in the workshop, representing more than 50 women’s associations from Godagama and surrounding areas. The session featured expert insights from Dr. Kaushalya Hewawasam, Senior Lecturer, Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, and Mr. Kaumal De Silva, Psychologist and Senior Psychiatrist from Badulla. The speakers provided guidance on entrepreneurial mindset development, social empowerment, and personal resilience, supporting women to build confidence and sustainable livelihoods. At the end of the event, certificates were distributed to all participants in recognition of their participation.

The event was further strengthened by the participation of senior leadership, including Mr. Laksanda Gunawardena (Chief Operating Officer), Roshini Induruwage (General Manager – Deposits Marketing, Sustainability, CRM), Thakshila Konakalagala (Head of Marketing and Communication), and Mr. Manoj Siriwardena (Head of Sustainable Finance), along with other women and men leaders from the Head Office and branches. Their involvement highlighted the organization’s strong commitment to gender equality, inclusive leadership, and community empowerment.

Through this initiative, Mi Finance reaffirms its commitment to empowering women economically, strengthening community resilience, and fostering responsible, inclusive growth in line with ESG principles.