The New Generation Awards, a prestigious initiative led by the WIM New Generation Chapter in collaboration with the National Youth Service Council (NYSC), has officially opened its nominations for the fourth consecutive year. This remarkable event celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of young individuals aged fifteen to thirty, spanning diverse categories such as School Students, Undergraduates, Entrepreneurs, Innovators, Influencers, Employees, Sports Personalities, Media, Corporates with a Youth Focus, Arts, Agriculture, and Social Workers, among others.

• “Our evaluation process aims not only to select a winner but to identify and acknowledge the character traits that can drive a successful future for Sri Lanka.”

Originally established by Women in Management (WIM) in 2020, the New Generation Awards aim to honor and commend the extraordinary efforts of young people who are making significant contributions across various fields, ultimately shaping the future. These awards serve as a platform to acknowledge their commitment, innovation, and dedication to driving positive change in both their communities and beyond. The theme for this year’s New Generation Awards is ‘Daring to Differ,’ challenging the youth to embrace their uniqueness and stand out.

The event will be fueled by the platinum sponsorship of ‘Sooriya,’ a valued partner for the third consecutive year. During the special media launch event dedicated to the 2023 edition of the New Generation Awards, Kasun Sigera, Chairman of the WIM New Generation Chapter, emphasized, “our goal is to foster, recognize, and motivate a new generation of forward-thinking individuals who possess a visionary perspective and a strong drive to contribute to the revitalization of Sri Lanka. We firmly believe in the potential of this emerging generation to achieve global recognition, driven by their love for their country, fellow citizens, and the environment.” Chairman and Director General of the NYSC, Pasindu Guneratne, highlighted his role as the first Gen Z representative leading the National Youth Service Council, an influential platform for Sri Lankan youth. He praised the courageous youth of Sri Lanka who have actively participated in the nation’s recovery and development, describing them as an inspiration. He extended an invitation to these fearless young individuals, encouraging them to nominate themselves as role models and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

Representing the Panel of Judges, Prof. (Dr) Ravi Dissanayake from the Department of Marketing Management at the University of Kelaniya underscored, “Our evaluation process aims not only to select a winner but to identify and acknowledge the character traits that can drive a successful future for Sri Lanka.” Dr. Sulochana Segera, Chairperson, Women in Management and the Founder of the New Generation Chapter, concluded the media launch event by highlighting the critical juncture Sri Lanka stands at, with its youth’s active involvement in economic leadership being imperative for sustainable growth and prosperity amidst global economic shifts and technological advancements.

Nominations for the New Generation Awards are open to the public until August 31, 2023. Submissions can be made through the official New Generation Awards website: www. womeninmanagementawards. org Self-nominations are strongly encouraged. Nominators are required to provide comprehensive information about the nominee’s achievements, supported by relevant documentation and references.

The distinguished Panel of Judges for this year comprises notable professionals from various domains, including Mr. Pasindu Guneratne (Chairman NYSC), Prof. Ravi Dissanayake (Department of Marketing Management, University of Kelaniya), Mr. Sudarshana Gunawardana (Chairman of ITN), Dr. Yashoda Velananda (Founder/CEO of Inexis Consulting and Director at YWayz), Mr. Rohan Maskorala (CEO of Shippers Academy), Ms. Zahara Anzary (Country Manager, AICPA & CIMA), and Ms. Thamari Senanyake (Director Public Affairs, Communication & Sustainability, Coca Cola Beverages Sri Lanka Ltd). Their collective expertise will be pivotal in evaluating and honoring outstanding nominees.