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Get ready, Sri Lanka! The Youth Top40 Awards are back for their 6th consecutive year, shining a spotlight on the country’s most exceptional young trailblazers. Hosted by New Generation Sri Lanka, the youth arm of global powerhouse Women in Management (WIM), this prestigious platform honours outstanding individuals aged 15 to 30 across 22 diverse categories; from leadership and innovation to arts, sports, and social impact.
Mark your calendars, the grand awards ceremony is set for June 12, 2025, at Shangri-La Colombo. But first, it’s time to nominate the game changers!Nominations are officially open until April 5, 2025, giving the distinguished Panel of Judges ample time to evaluate and celebrate Sri Lanka’s brightest young minds.
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
In an era where youth face hurdles like unemployment, skill gaps, and limited opportunities, New Generation Sri Lanka is committed to mentorship, skill-building, and breaking barriers to help young leaders take charge of the nation’s economic future.
Dr. Dilmika Srimal, Chairperson of New Generation Sri Lanka, knows first-hand what it means to rise through the ranks. “I started as an intern at Women in Management, trained for three years, and became a founding member of New Generation. Now, as Chair, my vision is to empower youth beyond traditional club and social service models, encouraging independent, innovative thinking that drives real change.”
Leading the charge for the 2025 Youth Top40 Awards is Zaid Shafraz, with Onaya Kulatunga as Deputy Chair. “From school leadership to global impact, our expanded categories reflect the diverse ways young people are shaping the world. This year, we’re also introducing the ‘Corporate Commitment for Youth’ category to ensure Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is more than just a buzzword; it’s a reality,” said Shafraz.
Meet the Judges: The Experts Behind the Spotlight
For the 5th year in a row, the Youth Top40 Awards Judging Panel will be led by Prof. (Dr.) Ravi Dissanayake from the University of Kelaniya. “It’s an honour to chair the judging process again,” he shared. “Each year, we uncover incredible young talent, many of whom would otherwise remain unnoticed. The Youth Top40 Awards don’t just celebrate them; we give them a platform to inspire others and create lasting change.”
Powering the Future: One Award at a Time
For five years straight, Soorya by Sun Match has proudly stood by the Youth Top40 Awards as a dedicated partner. Gowri Rajan, Director of Sun Match, emphasizes the brand’s passion for youth empowerment: “The decision-makers of tomorrow are here today. As a homegrown brand, we believe in investing in Sri Lanka’s youth and providing more than just opportunities; real, tangible support.”
Founder of New Generation Sri Lanka and Chairperson of Women in Management, Dr. Sulochana Segera, highlights the urgency of equipping young people for success. “Sri Lanka’s youth are educated but often lack practical skills, leading to unemployment and limited entrepreneurial opportunities. While global youth drive economic development, many in Sri Lanka remain confined to political and social work. Our mission at New Generation is to guide them toward financial independence, ensuring they lead the future; not just follow it.”
