SHEvolve ’26: Empowering Conversations, Inspiring Change
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| Ms. Gangulee Walpola |
SHEvolve ’26, a pioneering women- empower ment initiative organized by AIESEC in University of Colombo, is set to take place on May 9th from 9.00 a.m. onwards at the New Ar ts T heatre, University of Colombo. Building on the success of its previous edition, which wel- comed over 500 dele gates alongside renowned guest Ms. Anudi Gunasekara, the Miss World Sri Lanka 2024, this year’s event promises to be even more impactful, bringing together voices that matter to spark dialogue and drive meaningful change. Centered around the theme “Beyond the Surface: Rethinking the Realities of Being a Woman,” SHEvolve ’26 aims to chal- lenge societal norms, address stigmas, and foster a deeper understanding of issues sur- rounding women’s lives.
The event will feature a compelling panel discus- sion with distinguished panelists, including Ms. Gangulee Walpola, the Chief Guest of the event and an Attor ney-at-Law based in Sri Lanka. She holds a Master’s degree in Law from the University of West London and currently works as a corporate attorney at a large manufacturing com- pany. Alongside her legal work, she is also a professional singer and a content creator, Ms. Sade Greenwood, the Miss World Sri Lanka 2021 and the Co-founder of Mullwood, Sri Lanka’s first hair care brand for curly hair.
She is also an advo- cate for self-expression and confidence, using her platform to promote inclusivity, beauty diversity, and women’s empower ment, Dr. Ayisha Ziauddin, a Family Medicine Physician, the current sec- retary of Zonta One Club of Colombo and the co- founder of the Muslim Women’s Collective, and Ms. Vithara Mannage, a lecturer at APIIT Sri L a n k a specialising in Entrepreneurship and Business Management, with an MBA (Distinction) from the University of Staffordshire and current PhD candidate at the University of Colombo.
Each panelist will bring unique perspec- tives to critical topics: “Unlearning to Empower – Education, Mindsets & Breaking Internal Barriers” “Voice, Visibility & Rights – Navigating Expression in the Digital Age” “Prioritising Herself – Women’s Health, Stigma & Awareness” “The Pressure to Fit In – Beauty Norms & Social Expectations” The event will also feature an inspiring key note speech by Ms. Yasodhara Pathanjali, a British Sri Lankan life coach, educator, and co - founder of the Independent Collective School, Sri Lanka’s first modern alternative school.
Alongside engaging and interactive sessions designed to create a dynamic and meaningful experience for all attendees, the programme will also feature an entertainment session con- ducted by Mr. Anderson Kirubaharan, a stand-up comedian and public speaking coach. Delegates will receive an e-certificate of participation, recognising their involve- ment in this movement for change.
Adding a creative dimension, the event will also feature competitions in art and short video formats, providing participants with an opportunity to express their perspectives and contribute to the conversation in impactful ways. Registrations for both the event and competitions are now open.
SHEvolve ’26 invites all individuals who are passionate about driving social impact and fostering inclusive conversa- tions to be part of this transformative experience. Join us in reshaping narra- tives, amplifying voices, and creating last- ing change.
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