The International Network of Elite Women (INEW) has officially launched its Sri Lanka Chapter, introducing a global platform aimed at connecting accomplished women leaders and creating opportunities for collaboration, mentorship and cross-border partnerships.
The inaugural gathering, held in Colombo 3, brought together prominent women from the business, diplomatic and professional communities for meaningful discussions on strengthening Sri Lanka’s investment landscape, expanding international trade opportunities and enhancing the country’s global presence.
INEW is an international network that brings together accomplished women across industries and countries. Unlike a traditional professional association, the network focuses on building trusted relationships among members, encouraging collaboration, knowledge sharing and creating pathways for global opportunities.
Discussions at the launch centred on practical strategies to support economic growth, including helping Sri Lankan businesses access international markets, adopt successful global business models and explore opportunities in innovative, high-value manufacturing sectors.
Participants also highlighted the importance of leveraging international networks to exchange expertise, build valuable connections and create opportunities for Sri Lankan enterprises to expand beyond domestic markets. The conversation emphasised that investment, trade and entrepreneurship can play a vital role in improving livelihoods and driving sustainable economic development.
The event was attended by distinguished guests including Miyon Lee, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Sri Lanka, and Khin Sanda Win, who joined discussions on advancing investment and trade opportunities for Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lanka Chapter is led by Sarrah Sammoon, who also serves as Chapter President for the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. With more than three decades of experience spanning international business, global mobility and investment migration, Sammoon works across Sri Lanka and the United States to build stronger connections between the two regions.
Through the launch of its Sri Lanka Chapter, INEW aims to create a dynamic community where women leaders can collaborate, share expertise and contribute towards global economic and social progress.
FACETS 2027 to Showcase Sri Lanka’s Gem Heritage and Expand Global Trade Opportunities
The 34th edition of FACETS Sri Lanka, the country’s premier international gem and jewellery exhibition, is set to take place from January 4 to 6, 2027 at Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams, with organisers targeting stronger global recognition for Sri Lanka as a leading destination for coloured gemstones.
The official launch of FACETS 2027 highlighted the exhibition’s continued evolution as a world-renowned platform connecting Sri Lanka’s rich gem heritage with international markets, innovation and long-term business partnerships.
Chairman of the FACETS Organising Committee, Shezmin Mansoor, said the exhibition has grown beyond a traditional trade event over the past three decades, becoming a global platform where the unique beauty of Sri Lankan gemstones is introduced to buyers, collectors and industry leaders worldwide.
“FACETS has become much more than an exhibition. It is the global meeting place where the world discovers the extraordinary beauty of Sri Lankan gemstones,” Mansoor said.
Sri Lanka’s reputation in the global gemstone industry is built not only on its world-famous Ceylon Sapphire but also on more than 50 varieties of coloured gemstones that continue to attract international collectors, jewellery designers and buyers.
Mansoor emphasised that the country’s key competitive advantage lies in the skills and expertise of its miners, cutters, lapidarists, jewellers, exporters and entrepreneurs, whose craftsmanship and commitment to quality have strengthened Sri Lanka’s position in the international gem trade.
The theme of FACETS 2027, “The Internal Work of Sapphire – Where Nature’s Secret Becomes Its Signature,” celebrates the unique natural formations and inclusions found within Sri Lankan sapphires, showcasing the individuality and character created by nature over millions of years.
The upcoming exhibition will deliver an immersive “mine-to-market” experience, presenting the complete journey of gemstones while highlighting ethical sourcing, sustainability, innovation and exceptional craftsmanship.
FACETS 2027 is expected to attract international buyers, trade delegations, exhibitors, designers and industry professionals, further strengthening Sri Lanka’s role as a trusted global hub for gemstones and jewellery.
International Network of Elite Women Launches in Sri Lanka
