Colombo, Sri Lanka, March 30, 2025: The National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka held a special women’s celebration forum "Her Journey, Her Victory", bringing together inspiring female athletes and key stakeholders to promote gender equity in sports.
The event featured five outstanding female athletes: Amasha de Silva (athletics), Hiruki de Silva (swimming), Chamodi Praboda (cricket), Hansani Gomes (weightlifting) and Ranithma Liyanage (badminton). These athletes shared their remarkable journeys of resilience, ambition and triumph in sports.
In his welcome address, Suresh Subramaniam, President of Sri Lanka NOC, emphasised the importance of empowering women in sports.
“When we empower a woman in sport, we empower a nation. Because her victory is not hers alone, it is a victory for every girl watching, every young woman dreaming, and every society that dares to believe in equality,” Subramaniam said.
The celebration was attended by Sunil Gamage, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, who was Chief Guest. Gamage said: “I want to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every female athlete in Sri Lanka has equal opportunities to train, compete and succeed. We are taking steps to enhance funding, infrastructure and support systems to create a more inclusive and equitable sporting environment.”
Ms. Niloo Jayatileka, Chairperson of the Gender Equity Committee of the Sri Lanka NOC, stated: “Our celebrated female athletes have truly showcased the dedication and resilience required to excel in sports, from intensive training to the mental strength needed for success. We are thrilled to collaborate with athletes and the NOC to celebrate the achievements of Sri Lanka’s female athletes through this programme.”
The event ended on a powerful note with all participants signing a consensus statement marking a significant step to gender equity and safe sport in Sri Lanka.