The logistics industry has long been regarded as a male-dominated sector, particularly in operational positions involving heavy machinery and on-site activities. However, Maersk and Aitken Spence Logistics (ASL) are working to challenge these traditional perceptions by opening up new career opportunities for women in roles that have historically been less accessible to them.
As part of their shared commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, ASL, in partnership with Maersk, has introduced female forklift operators within its Container Freight Station (CFS) operations in Sri Lanka. Launched in 2024 with an initial group of eight young women, the initiative has since become an established component of the company's operations, marking a significant step towards greater female representation in the local logistics industry.
For both organisations, workplace inclusion goes beyond providing access to employment. It involves creating meaningful opportunities for individuals to develop professional skills, gain confidence, and build sustainable careers across different segments of the logistics value chain. The introduction of female forklift operators demonstrates how a shared vision between an international shipping company and a local logistics partner can translate into practical and lasting workplace change.
Commenting on the initiative, Biju Ravi, Maersk Country Manager – Sri Lanka & Maldives, said: “At Maersk, we believe that inclusion is about creating genuine opportunities for people to build skills, grow in confidence and pursue careers without being limited by traditional perceptions. When I first discussed this concept with Janaka Gunawardena, his immediate openness and understanding of the opportunity, and his willingness to turn the idea into reality, were instrumental in making this initiative possible. Our collaboration with Aitken Spence Logistics demonstrates how a shared vision and the right leadership commitment can translate into meaningful change on the ground. Seeing women successfully take on operational roles such as forklift operations is a powerful reminder that capability has no gender. We are proud to support this journey and hope it inspires more women to see logistics as an industry where they can build rewarding careers and create new possibilities for them and their families.”
Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairperson and Interim Managing Director of Aitken Spence PLC, added: “This initiative sends a clear message to women considering careers in logistics that opportunities exist for them across the industry, including in operational roles that may traditionally have been perceived as unsuitable or inaccessible. Seeing women operating forklifts in a professional CFS environment helps challenge these perceptions and can inspire the next generation to explore careers in warehousing, transportation, supply chain management and other operational functions.”
Through this collaboration, Maersk and Aitken Spence Logistics are demonstrating how purposeful partnerships and forward-thinking leadership can help reshape traditional workplace norms. By creating opportunities for women to enter and thrive in operational positions, the initiative contributes towards building a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable future for Sri Lanka's logistics industry.
Future Life Investments Honours Employees for Exceptional Performance and Dedication
Future Life Investments, which celebrates a decade of operations in Sri Lanka’s microfinance industry, recently hosted its employee convention to recognise and reward outstanding performers for their achievements during the first two quarters of the 2026/27 financial year.
The event brought together more than 900 employees and celebrated exceptional contributions through a range of rewards, including performance awards, certificates, overseas travel opportunities, and brand-new motor vehicles. Organised under the guidance of the company's senior management, the convention recognised excellence at both individual and branch levels.
Outstanding members of the company's ‘FLI Eagles’ team were also recognised for their exceptional performance, highlighting Future Life Investments' continued commitment to appreciating employee dedication, productivity, and contributions towards achieving organisational objectives.
Beyond recognising professional achievements, the convention featured a series of development-focused programmes aimed at enhancing employees' personal and professional capabilities. These sessions encouraged participants to identify and address challenges in their workplace and personal lives, adopt innovative problem-solving approaches, and strengthen a corporate culture centred on teamwork, cooperation, and shared success.
Guided by the theme ‘Beyond Limits, with Confidence’, Future Life Investments remains focused on achieving its strategic targets for the 2026/27 financial year. The company currently operates an extensive network of 63 branches across Sri Lanka, providing financial services and guidance to more than 150,000 female members. Through these offerings, it seeks to improve their living standards while supporting the financial wellbeing and economic advancement of their families.
Acknowledging employees as a driving force behind its expanding operations and service delivery, Future Life Investments continues to prioritise talent recognition and employee engagement. Through initiatives such as the annual convention, the company aims to celebrate individual and collective accomplishments while fostering professional pride, strengthening motivation, and building a workforce united by a shared vision of sustainable organisational growth.
Breaking Gender Barriers in Logistics Through a Shared Vision for Greater Impact
