Celebrating the Top10 Champions of Diversity 2024

Women in Management (WIM), in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), proudly hosted the prestigious ‘Top10 Champions of Diversity 2024’ awards. This milestone event celebrated exceptional male leaders in Sri Lanka who champion diversity and inclusion within their organizations. The awards ceremony took place on the 9^th of December 2024 at the Shangri-La Colombo, spotlighting the vital role of male allies in driving gender inclusion.

This initiative, a natural extension of WIM’s renowned Top50 Women’s Awards, underscores the significance of collaborative efforts in addressing gender inequality. Sri Lanka’s ranking of 115th out of 146 countries on the 2023 Global Gender Gap Index underscores the urgency of this mission. The nation’s persistent 30–36% gender pay gap, particularly in informal sectors, along with entrenched social and cultural norms, highlights the systemic barriers women face. Many are confined to part-time or low-wage roles due to unpaid caregiving responsibilities, perpetuating inequities. Men’s active participation in challenging stereotypes, advocating for equal opportunities, and fostering systemic change is critical to advancing gender equality.

Dr. Sulochana Segera, Founder and Chairperson of Women in Management Global, encapsulated the essence of the event, stating: “True leadership transcends boundaries and embraces inclusivity. ‘Top10 Champions of Diversity’ celebrates those who not only break glass ceilings but also dismantle the walls that confine others. This initiative is about driving change, one leader at a time, to build a more equitable and inclusive world.”

Gevorg Sargsyan, Country Manager for the World Bank and IFC, further highlighted the strategic importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI): “Focusing on DEI isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a smart business strategy. Companies that integrate DEI into their core operations unlock innovation, boost employee satisfaction, and drive sustained success. It’s a win-win for businesses and society.”

An esteemed panel of judges assessed the nominees for their commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces. The judging panel included:

• Gevorg Sargsyan, Country Manager, World Bank and IFC
• Jayanthi Dharmasena, Managing Director, Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited
• Mano Sekaram, Founder and Chairman, 99x Technology Sri Lanka and Asia
• Dilrukshi Kurukulasuriya, Board Director & CHRO, Diesel & Motor Engineering
• Shiham Marrikar, CEO & Director Generation, National Chamber of Exporters Association
• Lihini Ratwatte, Gender Specialist, UNDP, Sri Lanka

The Top10 Champions of Diversity 2024 

1. Charitha Subasinghe, President: Retail Sector, John Keells Group and CEO, Jaykay Marketing Services Pvt Ltd
2. Denver De Zylva, Global Head of Sustainability and Facilities, Virtusa Corporation; Joint Country Head, Virtusa Sri Lanka
3. Gahanath Pandithage, Group Managing Director & CEO, Diesel & Motor Engineering
4. Hussein Esufally & Murtaza Esufally, Chairman & Director, Hemas PLC
5. Johann A. Rodrigo, Director / Chief Executive Officer, Horana Plantations PLC
6. K. R. Ravindran, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Printcare Ceylon Ltd
7. Manesh Fernando, Area General Manager, Hilton Colombo; Hilton Sri Lanka
8. Mohan Pandithage, Executive Chairman, Hayleys Group
9. Nisthar Cassim, Founding Editor and Chief Executive Officer, Daily FT, Wijeya Newspapers Limited
10. Sanath Manatunge, Managing Director / CEO, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC
11. Ted Muttiah, Chief Commercial Officer, Sri Lanka South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT)
12. Danu Innasithamby: Actor / Head of Channel, HI!! TV, Wijeya Digital Networks

These leaders have set a benchmark in fostering inclusive cultures, advancing equity, and inspiring future generations. For more information about the Top10 Champions of Diversity 2024, contact: [email protected]