On November 19, 2024, the Innovation, Invention, and Venture Creation Council (IIVCC) of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura hosted the Coffee Chat Event as part of the Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2024. Held at the Entre Club, Sumangala Mansion, the event brought together aspiring entrepreneurs from USJ and distinguished industry leaders in an inspiring interactive session.
The primary goal of the Coffee Chat was to foster open talk between students and experienced professionals in a relaxed and engaging environment. Unlike formal lectures, this session encouraged candid conversations, empowering students with actionable insights to help shape their entrepreneurial journeys. The event featured notable guest speakers, including: Ms. Shenuka Fernando, Director of Skin Care and Beauty at Spa Ceylon, who shared her expertise in managing a global luxury Ayurveda brand and Ms. Lonali Rodrigo, Founder and Designer of House of Lonali, who captivated the audience with her journey as a pioneer in sustainable fashion through upcycling. Other esteemed guests were Ashan Diluk Fernando, Head of Marketing – Plantations at Browns Plantations, Mr. Sachindra Samararatne, ICTA Digital Economy Officer, and Ms. Oneli Liyanage, Project Coordinator of GEW Sri Lanka. The event was facilitated by the Co-chairs of IIVCC, Prof. Lasith Gunawardene and Prof. Nilushi Nugara, along with Secretary Dr. Chameera Udawatte, and supported by Research Assistants Ms. H.T. Hansika (IIVCC) and Ms. Laksarani Kulasekara (UBL). Students presented their business ideas, engaged in open discussions, and gained valuable insights from the speakers’ inspiring journeys. With 31 attendees, including 21 USJ students, the event successfully fostered entrepreneurial learning, supported by the European Union funded by the Strengthening University-Enterprise Collaboration for Resilient Communities in Asia (SECRA) project.
Stay tuned for more exciting initiatives by the IIVCC and join us in shaping the future of entrepreneurship at USJ!
