Women in Tech Sri Lanka Chapter Reignite: Building the Future of Inclusive Innovation

In a world where technology is rapidly reshaping industries, economies, and everyday life, diversity and inclusion are no longer optional—they are essential. Women in Tech, a global non-profit dedicated to empowering women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), has been at the forefront of this mission with an ambitious goal: to empower five million women worldwide by 2030.

Now, the Sri Lanka Chapter is stepping into an exciting new era with a refreshed leadership team and a renewed commitment to amplify its impact, bringing women closer to opportunities in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

This reignite phase marks a bold step forward for Women in Tech Sri Lanka, reaffirming its mission to build a more inclusive tech ecosystem and positioning Sri Lanka as a hub where women’s voices, skills, and leadership can flourish.

A New Team with a Renewed Vision

The heart of any movement lies in its people. Women in Tech Sri Lanka has announced its newly appointed core team—five leaders who bring diverse expertise, passion, and commitment to advancing women in STEAM fields.

• Sanali Kaushalya – Country Director / Chapter Ambassador
• Dinusha Geethanjali – Marketing Manager
• Shanika Madushani – Partnerships Manager
• Priyanka Chandrakanthan – Executive – Partnerships
• Tharangani Dissanayake – Events Manager
• Sheron Kitchilan – Community Manager

Together, this team embodies the essence of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. Each leader brings not only professional expertise but also a strong personal commitment to empowering women and girls to pursue careers in technology, science, and entrepreneurship.

Country Director Sanali Kaushalya emphasized the importance of this new chapter:

Women in Tech Sri Lanka is not just a community – it is a movement. Our mission is to create pathways for women, amplify their voices, and ensure that the next generation of female leaders in tech are equipped, empowered, and inspired.

With a well-rounded team overseeing events, marketing, and partnerships, the chapter is set to strengthen its presence, expand its network, and create more meaningful opportunities for women across Sri Lanka.

Digital Platforms to Empower and Connect

In its revitalized journey, the Sri Lanka Chapter is placing strong emphasis on digital engagement—meeting women where they are and creating platforms that inspire, educate, and connect.

Two key online initiatives have already been launched:

1. InnovatHer Stories

This storytelling series is designed to spotlight change-makers, innovators, and bold leaders shaping the future of technology and entrepreneurship. It goes beyond individual success stories to highlight collective progress and the importance of community.

Through InnovatHer Stories, audiences will hear firsthand accounts of resilience, innovation, and leadership. The platform celebrates not only achievements but also the lessons learned, barriers broken, and collaborations formed along the way.

By showcasing these narratives, Women in Tech Sri Lanka aims to provide role models for young women entering STEAM fields, encouraging them to dream big and pursue paths less traveled.

2. InnovatHer Live

Complementing the storytelling platform is InnovatHer Live, an online knowledge-sharing series featuring industry experts, thought leaders, and innovators.

Through virtual meet-ups, panel discussions, and interactive Q&A sessions, InnovatHer Live will explore emerging trends in technology, leadership in digital industries, and the future of work. The goal is to make knowledge accessible, actionable, and inspiring – sparking innovation while building a stronger sense of community.

Why This Matters for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s technology sector is growing rapidly, with a thriving IT services industry and a growing startup ecosystem. However, like much of the world, the representation of women in STEM-related fields remains uneven.

• Women make up nearly 50% of Sri Lanka’s population, yet their participation in technology careers lags behind men.
• Many women face barriers such as gender stereotypes, lack of mentorship, limited access to funding, and cultural biases that discourage them from pursuing tech careers.
• Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka has produced remarkable women leaders in IT, engineering, and entrepreneurship—proof of the immense potential waiting to be unlocked.
  
  
  

By reigniting the Women in Tech Sri Lanka Chapter, the organization seeks to address these gaps head – on. The chapter’s programs are not just about encouraging women to join tech – they are about creating an ecosystem where women can thrive, lead, and innovate.

The Global Movement, Local Impact

Women in Tech is not just a Sri Lankan initiative – it is part of a powerful global movement spanning 6 continents, with chapters in over 63 countries. Its mission to empower 5 million women by 2030 is both ambitious and urgent, given the accelerating digital transformation worldwide.

In Sri Lanka, this global vision translates into local action:

• Providing mentorship opportunities for women in technology.
• Building networks that connect professionals, students, and entrepreneurs.
• Hosting events that highlight women role models in STEM.
• Advocating for gender equality in workplaces and policy-making.
• Creating safe, supportive communities where women can collaborate and grow.
  
  
  

This combination of global reach and local relevance is what makes Women in Tech Sri Lanka uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change.

What’s Next?

The reignite phase is only the beginning. Over the coming months, the Sri Lanka Chapter will roll out a series of initiatives designed to expand its reach and deepen its impact. These include:

• Workshops and Training Programs – equipping women with future-ready skills in AI, data science, cloud technologies, and entrepreneurship.
• Mentorship Networks – connecting aspiring women professionals with industry leaders who can guide their careers.
• School and University Outreach – inspiring the next generation of girls to explore careers in STEM.
• Industry Collaborations – partnering with tech companies, universities, and government agencies to create inclusive opportunities.

With each initiative, the chapter aims to contribute not only to women’s empowerment but also to Sri Lanka’s broader innovation agenda. By supporting women in STEM, the chapter is also supporting the nation’s journey toward becoming a knowledge – based economy.

Reigniting the Women in Tech Sri Lanka Chapter is more than an organizational milestone – it is a call to action. A call for women and men, leaders and learners, corporations and communities to come together and shape a future where technology is inclusive, ethical, and empowering.

As Country Director Sanali Kaushalya reflected:

We cannot achieve a truly innovative and sustainable future if half the population is left behind. Women in Tech Sri Lanka is here to make sure that doesn’t happen. Together, we will build a future where women not only participate in technology but lead the way.

The message is clear: the future of tech belongs to everyone, and it is stronger when women are at the forefront.