Parliament celebrates prominent Sri Lankan women

Colombo (News 1st): A special event was held at the Parliament today (March 27) to celebrate 12 prominent Sri Lankan women in recognition of their extraordinary achievements. The event was titled "Celebrating Sri Lankan Women Changemakers". Former Prime Minister Late Sirimavo Bandaranaike, and Dr Wimala de Silva, the founder of Devi Balika Vidyalaya were celebrated during the event in the fields of Politics and Education respectively. Dr.Premala Sivaprakasapillai Sivasegaram, Sumithra Peries, and Prof. Savitri Goonesekere, an international expert on women and children’s rights, were recognized representing the fields of Science, Arts, and Law respectively. Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala, the first Sri Lankan to summit Mount Everest and one of four women to accomplish this feat, Dr Asha de Vos, internationally acclaimed Sri Lankan marine biologist, and ocean educator and the first Sri Lankan with a PhD in marine mammal research, were celebrated in the fields of Sports and Environment. Dr. Hasini Jayatilaka, breakthrough cancer researcher, Nushelle de Silva, Arts Educator, and Social Entrepreneur, Prince Mangalika, an activist and social worker were celebrated for their achievements in the fields of Science, Social Enterprise and Social Activism respectively. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson and Irfadha Muzammil were also recognized and celebrated for their achievements in the fields of Business and Design. The event sponsored by the USAID was held with the participation of Speaker Karu Jayasuriya as the Chief Guest. Profiles of these 12 prominent women will be showcased near the Exhibition stand at the public entrance area of parliament.