In recognition of its ongoing contributions to the local community and society at large, Hameedia, Sri Lanka’s leading menswear specialist, recently won a coveted bronze Ian Dias Abeysignhe Memorial Award for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at the Japan Sri Lanka Technical & Cultural Association (JASTECA) Awards 2014.

The award was presented by H. E. Nobuhito Hobo, the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, to A.T.M. Farzan, Manager Human Resources, Hameedia and Nelushan Gunewardena, Brand Manager, Hameedia who received the award on behalf of the Hameedia Group of companies. Many key areas of CSR such as generating community goodwill, social integration and positive social and environmental impact were judged by an eminent panel, and Hameedia received significant recognition for the work it has carried out through the ‘We Are Family’ Foundation and the ‘My Friend’ Project. 

Commenting on the award, Fouzul Hameed, Managing Director of Hameedia stated, “It is a great honour for us to be recognized in this manner at the JASTECA Awards 2014. The Hameedia Group is an organization that constantly uplifts and works towards the well-being of all communities, irrespective of their religious, ethnic, political, cultural and other affiliations. Additionally we also conduct many sustainability and environmental initiatives that have made a lasting impact. Our CSR initiatives, the ‘We Are Family’ Foundation and the ‘My Friend’ Project have enabled us to support, empower and make a positive impact in the lives of thousands of people across Sri Lanka. We also have to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our partners, who have played a critical role in making these CSR initiatives a resounding success.”  

“The ‘We Are Family’ Foundation focuses on uplifting the standards of living, especially of persons with disabilities (PWD) and other individuals who are marginalized, victimized or adversely affected due to various reasons such as illness, poverty, natural disasters and socio-economic conditions.” said A.T.M Farzan, Human Resources Manager, Hameedia. He further added that the Hameedia Group is actively involved in many levels of CSR such as volunteer work carried out by its employees, numerous staff activities as well as providing centres that focus on differently-abled individuals with various business opportunities. 

Commenting on the award, Nelushan Gunewardena, Brand Manager, Hameedia said, “The ‘My Friend’ Project is an ongoing initiative that supports the educational needs of underprivileged children in Sri Lanka. Since its inception, the ‘My Friend’ Project has funded thousands of less-fortunate school children, helping them overcome poverty and various difficult circumstances.” He further added that the Hameedia Group is genuinely committed towards the welfare of all communities and the recognition we received today will inspire us as a corporate, to engage in numerous other social endeavours that will bring about positive change across all levels of society.

Hameedia, established in 1949, has grown to become a household brand in Sri Lanka. Renowned for high quality, custom tailoring and ready-made clothes for gents, the Hameedia multi-brand retail stores house a collection of quality menswear brands including Le Bond, Envoy, Signature, Raymond, Lee and adidas to name a few. Hameedia also prides itself on offering exceptional standards of service to ensure that clients enjoy a positive and personalized experience at each store.  With a network of over 30 outlets across Sri Lanka, Hameedia has also been growing its presence globally with outlets in the Maldives and Australia.