IIHS launches ‘Young Entrepreneurs Hub’ to empower change-makers

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at shaping the future landscape of entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka, the International Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS) has officially launched the Young Entrepreneurs Hub. 

This dynamic platform is designed to empower young change-makers by fostering an environment where innovative ideas can thrive, and meaningful partnerships can be nurtured. 

With social entrepreneurship, community development, and environmental sustainability at its core, the hub seeks to create a new generation of visionary leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

The launch event featured a diverse lineup of influential speakers who shared their insights on entrepreneurship and the importance of collaboration. Among them were Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe (CEO, Co-founder and Director Academic Strategy and International Affairs at IIHS), Maxime Wickramasinghe (Director of Marketing & Business Development at Thema Collection), Pramodh John (Founder and CEO of Demetrix Infotech Private Limited), Ashan Perera (CEO and Founder of Ceylon Kernell’s Pvt Ltd), and Carl Jones (International Development Director at IIHS). 

Each speaker brought their unique experiences to the table, providing valuable perspectives that underscored the significance of a supportive ecosystem for burgeoning entrepreneurs. 

Dr. Kithsiri highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving the hub’s mission, stating, “We are immensely proud to partner with Australia-based Young Change Agents, whose exceptional commitment to youth empowerment aligns seamlessly with our mission.” This collaboration is a testament to the potential of combining local and international expertise to create a foundation that not only supports skill development but also nurtures a positive mindset among young people.

The IIHS Young Entrepreneurs Hub is envisioned as a vibrant platform where collaboration is key. It aims to bring together students, researchers, investors, and industry leaders, fostering an environment where creativity can flourish. By creating spaces for knowledge exchange and networking, the hub aspires to bridge gaps between communities and industries, enabling young entrepreneurs to realise their potential and contribute to their communities effectively.

The Young Entrepreneurs Hub is not just about creating entrepreneurs in the traditional sense; it is about cultivating change-makers who will address pressing social issues through innovative solutions. By positioning youth as key players in community development, the hub aims to inspire a movement toward sustainable growth and responsible business practices.

Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe, CEO of IIHS, remarked, “The launch of the Young Entrepreneurs Hub marks a significant milestone in our journey towards fostering the next generation of leaders in Sri Lanka. By bringing together diverse voices and forging strategic partnerships, we are creating a dynamic platform where young minds can collaborate, innovate, and drive positive change.

This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to empower youth, promote social entrepreneurship, and contribute to sustainable development. I am looking forwardto the future and the opportunities this initiative will provide to young entrepreneurs in shaping a brighter tomorrow for our communities.”