The Mall at Port City Colombo, in partnership with CAN Market, successfully hosted a vibrant three-day celebration in honor of International Women’s Day 2025. Held from March 7th to 9th at The Mall at Port City Colombo, the event highlighted the creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of Sri Lankan women.
CAN Market, a post-pandemic initiative supporting over 300 small businesses, has empowered women entrepreneurs across Sri Lanka by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and sustain their livelihoods. This Women’s Day edition featured a dynamic blend of pop-up markets, interactive workshops, and celebrity engagement to drive visibility and recognition for women-led businesses.
The event hosted 25 pop-up stalls featuring fashion, food, homeware, and handmade crafts, allowing visitors to directly support women-owned enterprises. Attendees had the unique opportunity to meet the faces behind these brands, hear their stories, and purchase exclusive, locally crafted products.
Adding to the excitement, renowned Sri Lankan personalities, including former Colombo Mayoress and Former Mrs. World, Rosy Senanayake, Mrs. World 2020, Caroline Jurie, and Mrs. World 2024 first runner-up, Ishadi Amanda, engaged with artisans in hands-on craftsmanship activities. A special ‘Coffee, Cake & Craft session, conducted at ‘MONO Tea & Beverage on March 8th from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM, allowed guests to interact with Key Opinion Leaders such as Sangeetha Weeraratne, Thisakya Senanayake, and Ramani Fernando while celebrating the artistry of female entrepreneurs. Jewelry-making workshops also took place throughout the event, where visitors created custom-made jewelry pieces, including bracelets, charms, and anklets, at affordable prices. The event was further supported by One World Duty Free, Mono Tea, Department of Coffee, and Royal Cashews.
The Mall at Port City Colombo’s International Women’s Day celebration successfully brought together Sri Lankans from all walks of life to recognize and support women entrepreneurs. Through shopping at the market, engaging in workshops, and participating in interactive sessions, attendees played an essential role in fostering a thriving ecosystem for women in business.
