 Coinciding with International Women’s Day, this prestigious event became a celebration of women’s empowerment and achievement |
The IMRA Awards for Excellence, launched in 2024, marked a historic moment in Sri Lanka by recognizing the extraordinary accomplishments of Muslim women in various professional fields for the first time. The initiative was founded by Mrs. Fathima Aziz, who saw the urgent need to honour these women for their remarkable contributions. Her vision was supported by esteemed collaborators, making it possible for these women to finally receive the recognition they so rightfully deserve. Coinciding with International Women’s Day, this prestigious event became a celebration of women’s empowerment and achievement. This year, the IMRA Awards will take place on April 7, 2025, following the postponement due to the holy month of Ramadan. The ceremony will once again highlight the exceptional achievements of Muslim women across Sri Lanka.
In 2024, the winners were chosen from a variety of categories, and the awardees included:
- Law & Advocacy: Mrs. Farzana Jameel PC
- Healthcare: Dr. Mrs. Shemoon Marleen
- Banking & Finance: Mrs. Feroza Ameen
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM): Dr. Rozana Himaz
- Media & Communications: Mrs. Rezani Aziz
- Hospitality: Mrs. Yasmin Cader
- Social Impact: Mrs. Juwairiya Mohideen
- Arts & Culture: Mrs. Hadiaa Galely
Additionally, the IMRA Business Entrepreneur Excellence Award 2024 was presented to Mrs. Shahnasz Hakeem, and the IMRA Young Business Entrepreneur Achievement Award 2024 was awarded to both Mrs. Nuha Ghouse and Mrs. Saarah Deen Ismail. In the spirit of promoting ethical harmony, Lifetime Achievement Awards were given to:
- Deshabandu Jezima Ismail
- Mrs. Dhammachari Neetha Ariyaratne
- Mrs. Ferial Ismail Ashraff
- Ms. Anushya Coomaraswamy
This year’s awards will follow the same categories as last year, with the addition of two new categories. As of the close of entries a few weeks ago, Edu Consult had received 73 applications, which were then forwarded to KPMG, the Knowledge Partner for the event. Shortlisted candidates will soon be invited to meet with an independent group of distinguished judges. The ceremony promises to be an inspiring celebration, with last year’s winners taking centre stage. Mrs. Rezani Aziz, a former television broadcaster, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. Entertainment will be provided by Mrs. Haadiya Galely and her Chorale Ensemble, and a fashion show will be presented by Fusion 14. The event’s curator will be Imran Saibo of FunTime Limited.
The IMRA Awards Gala Dinner will take place at The Kingsbury Hotel, the official hospitality partner. Tickets are priced at Rs. 8,500 per person. For further information, please contact Ms. Bushra, Secretary of the IMRA Foundation, on 0778539890.
