Winners of SPARK Skilled Youth Entrepreneurship Competition 2024, featured at the awarding ceremony with officials from the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, International Labour Organisation and US Embassy

The highly anticipated grand finale of the 2024 edition of the SPARK Skilled Youth Entrepreneurship Competition was celebrated on September 5. This national platform for Sri Lanka’s next generation of entrepreneurs empowered five finalists from both the ‘school’ and ‘open’ categories to showcase their innovative business ideas. The event culminated in the crowning of this year’s winners.

The annual SPARK Skilled Youth Entrepreneurship Competition is organised by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce with support from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), South Asia Leadership in Entrepreneurship (SALE) project and funded by the US Department of State.

In the school category, W. Lasindu Buddhika from Siripura Central College claimed the top spot with his promising venture ‘Dum Malu Bite’. In the open category, Dr. Merengnage Romela Merise Salgado emerged victorious with the start-up ‘Pet Labs’. 

During the competition’s first round, 100 contestants were selected from a diverse pool of applicants across the two categories. The selected participants navigated a rigorous skill development process, including virtual training, residential bootcamp, one-on-one mentoring and business pitching sessions. 

The business pitches by the top six finalists were a highlight of the event, with each contestant introducing his or her ideas to a panel of judges. The judges then announced the winners, awarding trophies and certificates to the winners and runners-up.

Education Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara said, “This year’s diverse range of entries—from tech solutions to eco-friendly products—showcases the boundless creativity and potential of our youth.”

Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Chairman Duminda Hulangamuwa stated, “The passion and innovation displayed by all the finalists were promising and I am confident that they will go on to reach greater heights in their entrepreneurship journey. We are committed to continuing to support and empower young entrepreneurs, who are the future of the country’s economy.”

International Labour Organisation Country Office Sri Lanka and the Maldives Director Joni Simpson said, “We encourage all Sri Lankan youth, especially young women, to join SPARK Competition 2025 and boost women’s entrepreneurship.”