Lifestyle Archives - Page 2 of 354

April 22, 2024

Deputy-High-Commissioner-for-Australia-in-Sri-Lanla-Ms.-Lalita-Kapur-at-the-opening-ceremony.jpg

Cloé Café, an Australian-inspired haven for coffee enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs, recently opened its flagship location at No. 196, Nawala Road, Nawala. The grand opening ceremony was held under the patronage of Deputy High Commissioner for Australia in Sri Lanka Lalita Kapoor and several other guests. Nestled on the ground floor of the WishQue Head Office, Cloé Café promises to deliver a unique experience that celebrates the art of coffee and culinary excellence. With a tagline of “An Australian roast where every cup tells a story,” Cloé Café brings the rich heritage of Australian coffee culture to the vibrant streets of Sri Lanka. As a subsidiary of WishQue, a leading e-commerce platform, Cloé Café aims to redefine the café experience by offering a curated selection of award-winning coffee roasts sourced directly from Australia.

The café will feature an extensive menu that caters to diverse tastes, including a variety of coffee-based beverages, bubble tea range, and new Asian flavours tailored to local palates. Guests can also indulge in a delectable selection of confectionery, including celebration cakes crafted by WishQue Bakery, renowned for serving the best cakes in town. In addition to its culinary offerings, Cloé Café boasts a modern contemporary design with a touch of luxury and coziness. The spacious seating area is adorned with live plants, creating a vibrant atmosphere for guests to enjoy their coffee. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the café offers a Business Suite where guests can pre-book for business meetings or gatherings, complete with free Wi-Fi and a five-star dining experience. From 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., coffee lovers can indulge in their favourite brews by calling 0112 47 44 55 to place their orders for pick-up. Cloé Café is also available on popular ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and PickMe for added convenience. Apart from being a coffee destination, it is also a space for community, creativity and celebration.

“At Cloé Café, we are passionate about crafting a space where guests can savor the joy of perfection in every aspect. From the finest ingredients to the cozy ambience, we are committed to creating a memorable experience for every visitor. We invite everyone to join us on this journey and discover the magic of Cloé Café for themselves.” said Cloé Café’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Chinthaka Jayasekara As part of its commitment to excellence, Cloé Café upholds four core values: Ingredients, Creation, Moment of Celebration, and Believe In. These values underscore the café’s dedication to quality, creativity, and creating a sense of self-appreciation for every guest. The grand opening of Cloé Café was a memorable event, with special promotions and surprises for guests throughout the day. More information on their products can be accessed by following their social media handles FB:@Cloecafe & IG:@CloecafeSL.

April 22, 2024

Monday 22nd April 2024, Colombo: After a meticulous selection process involving top industry professionals, Chokolaate has selected the Top Ten finalists who will compete for the coveted “Fashion Designer of the Year” title at MDFD 2024. The grand finale is due to take place on the 18th of May and will feature real Mother-Daughter duos modelling creations by the finalists in the categories of Casual Wear, Sports Wear and Evening Wear.

Sorting through hundreds of entries, the judges looked for creativity, precision and also a novel look at fashion in the contestants. The finalists have already gone through a series of training programs from several industry professionals to enhance their knowledge on design, fashion marketing and many other topics.

“This year we have an interesting mix of contestants from design schools and universities. It’s also interesting to note that some of our contestants are older and more mature which will also be reflected in their designs that you see on ramp. Chokolaate has constantly strived to be a platform for young talent, and for the past 13 years it has been a stepping stone for many who have gone on to become renowned fashion designers, stylists and industry leaders”, said Michelle Gunesekara, Founder and Editor of the Chokolaate Magazine.

A majority of this year’s contestants represent the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel with 50% of the finalists being students there. Contestants from AACS, AIBT, the Open University of Sri Lanka and the Moratuwa University make up the balance five spots.

Inspired by natural elements like the night sky, pearls and oysters, spider webs after the rain, serpents, red mushrooms, flowers, rainbows and starfish, and more personal items like a mother’s saree collection, the grand finale is sure to be a treat for the senses.

The ten female finalists will also create a single design in a new segment titled “Cinderella” which will be modelled by teenage models, some of who will walk the ramp for the very first time. This segment will be sponsored by Cinderella by Secrets to promote their latest perfume brand.

The collaboration of esteemed partners for MDFD 2024 includes ICL Brands (Pvt) Ltd, HEMAS with their brand Vivya, Fondre, Singer, Double XL, Fonterra.

Among the partners for this year’s event are Dinesh Chandrasena as the Creative Director, Rozanne Diasz as the Official Choreographer, Naturals Salon as the Hair & Make-Up partner, Ushan Gunasekera as photography partner, Kiss FM as Radio partner and Nehemiah Consultants as the PR partner. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise and support to make Chokolaate MDFD 2024 a remarkable success.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, and details of the grand finale, please contact Safraz on 076 669 5104.

April 19, 2024

Advancing a firm commitment to women’s health and sustainable practices, Femography by MAS embarked on a mission to combat period poverty by donating over 10,000 reusable period wear items to vulnerable communities across Sri Lanka.

Launched in commemoration of International Women’s Day, the initiative seeks to address the critical need for accessible menstrual care and aims to support over 2,000 women from economically disadvantaged communities, nationwide.

Femography also joined hands with the charitable call to action ‘Run For Her’, to distribute reusable period panties, and raise funds and awareness for menstrual health needs.

Inspired by the power of the feminine mind and body, Femography was established with a vision to bring greater health, dignity, and confidence to feminine lives through what they wear. As pioneers in the FemTech apparel industry, Femography has been a testament to the defiance against traditional taboos surrounding women’s health. The brand’s pioneering work has also seen its transition from disposables to reusables, championing innovations that significantly contribute to the advancement of women’s health and well-being.

This initiative not only reflects Femography’s commitment to addressing menstrual health challenges but also underscores its broader mission of social responsibility and innovation.

“We are more than just a pioneering force in innovation and apparel manufacturing – we put the consumer at the core of our ethos to design solutions that truly matter. Given our expertise in developing advanced, functional fem-health solutions that are helping to drive a global transition from single-use products that end up in landfills, to reusables that promote a culture of sustainability, we realized that we could make a direct and lasting positive impact. Alleviating period poverty is a fundamentally empowering change for women, and we are proud to help drive progress on this vital cause,” said Pilar Diaz, CEO of Femography by MAS.

Period poverty, a significant yet often overlooked issue, disproportionately affects women and girls worldwide. In Sri Lanka, access to menstrual hygiene products remains a challenge for many due to economic constraints and societal taboos.

Even prior to Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, 50% of households with menstruating women were unable to afford menstrual pads. This leaves many women and girls at a significant disadvantage, leading to reduced school and work attendance.

According to a study conducted by the United Nations Population Fund, approximately 20 percent of schoolgirls miss school during their menstruation due to inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products. The repercussions of period poverty extend beyond mere inconvenience, often hindering women’s ability to work, study, and participate fully in society.

Moreover, the environmental impact of disposable sanitary napkins exacerbates this issue. Traditional disposable pads contribute significantly to pollution and landfill waste, posing a severe threat to the environment. Research conducted by the Women’s Environmental Network showed that a single disposable pad can take up to 500 years to decompose, further highlighting the urgency of adopting sustainable menstrual practices.

As a subsidiary of MAS Holdings, Femography has been at the forefront of the FemTech industry for over 10 years, leveraging its expertise and resources to revolutionize menstrual care and empower women globally. With a proven track record of delivering functional and sustainable products, Femography continues to lead by example, inspiring change and driving progress in the FemTech landscape.

April 19, 2024

𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 is a FREE week-long virtual event for both aspiring and established coaches, hosted by The International Authority for Professional Coaching & Mentoring (IAPC&M). It will be from 13th- 17th May 2024. And anyone can join using the link https://coach-accreditation.services/icw-event/
It’s no secret, the coaching industry is well and truly on the rise… But did you know, it’s the second fastest industry in the US behind IT? This means more people than ever need coaches! However, the coaching world is an unregulated market…

Luckily, The International Authority for Professional Coaching & Mentoring (IAPC&M) is stepping up as a true leading expert. One of the reasons IAPC&M was founded in the first place is that as more and more people become coaches and mentors, standards are slipping in the industry. They are here to raise the standards in the industry!
They are doing this by ensuring everyone has access to the high-quality training and accreditation required to be a skilled and effective coach and make a positive impact on their client’s lives.
IAPC&M is passionate about raising the standards in the industry, and in doing so, making sure you have the training and support you need to thrive as a coach or mentor.
The International Coaching Week is for you if:
• You’re an aspiring coach who wants to learn more about the foundations of launching and growing a successful, sustainable business.
• You’re already in the coaching world and actively growing your business and want to know more about laying down the foundations of your dream business.
• You want to hear from the best of the best in the industry to help you fast-track the process of growing and scaling a wildly profitable business.
You’ll learn all of this and so much more from 20 expert speakers:
✅The key strategies to generate consistent sales and grow a wildly profitable business

✅ How to leverage your Human Design to amplify your results in your business and your client results

✅ How to activate more clients, money, and more wealth for your business

✅ Secrets to attract high-paying clients

✅ The key to crafting a compelling message to stand out and actually get sales

✅ How to approach your business endeavours with clarity, focus, and resilience

✅ How to be the best possible leader and really step into your role as CEO

✅ How to simplify your business model so you can generate more revenue in your business whilst working less
And so much more!
You’ll hear from TED talkers, international bestsellers, training providers, and pioneers in the industry!
This virtual event is open to all and completely FREE!
Save the date for your diary: 13th- 17th May 2024.
You will not want to miss it!
Get your ticket to International Coaching Week here: coach-accreditation.services/icw-event

April 19, 2024

Architects-from-Tanya-Suren-Architects-at-the-MMCA-Sri-Lanka_Courtesy-MMCA-SL-2024-LBN.jpg

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art Sri Lanka (MMCA Sri Lanka) particularly focuses on educational initiatives for various target groups across the country. These include the general public, and schools and higher educational institutions in Sri Lanka.

Through its Schools and Higher Education Institutions Outreach Programme, the MMCA Sri Lanka engages with preschools, schools, and higher education institutions within its immediate radius of 10km, as well as those institutions that have an educational interest in arts and culture. Guided tours, activities, specially designed workshops, and additional support (such as guest lectures) related to assignments and curriculum design are offered to educational institutions that would like to incorporate the museum’s exhibitions, artworks, thematics and publications in their classrooms.

Sharmini Pereira, Chief Curator at the MMCA Sri Lanka noted that, “Our outreach activities are conceived to dispel the perception of a museum as a mausoleum of dead objects or an elite, inaccessible place of abstract ideas.” She added, “The many student populations of the country will in time, come to shape and form the future of Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art as policymakers, funders, academics, decision-makers and creative leaders. They sit at the centre of our future, which begins with the work we are doing today around outreach and learning.”

The MMCA Sri Lanka engages with educational institutions via two main ways. The first is an Outreach visit to an exhibition on view at the Museum. The Education and Curatorial teams at the Museum work together to ensure a visit that combines a learning experience including a guided tour, and upon request, an activity, assignment, or reflection/discussion session based on the institution’s preferences. The Museum’s exhibition spaces are designed in a versatile manner and they can be converted into classrooms and/or spaces to hold crit sessions.

As of April 2024, the MMCA Sri Lanka has curated and organised visits for approximately 3,200 students from preschools, local, international, and semi-government schools, and public and private higher education institutions.

Pramodha Weerasekera, Curator of Education and Public Programmes at the MMCA Sri Lanka said “The museum is designed for learning and educational experiences. We are excited to have students join us and contribute to the dialogue and discourse around our exhibitions and modern and contemporary art in Sri Lanka.” She also added, “One of our larger goals is to expand the Outreach programme further and think about how we can contribute to much-needed changes in the formal education sector as well.”

As the second method of engagement, staff members from the MMCA Sri Lanka visit educational institutions. During these visits, they speak about the museum, its efforts, Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art, and the thematics of a current exhibition on display. The Museum curates such visits based on the priorities of each educational institution and how they align with the Museum’s mission of display, research, collection, and conservation of Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art. As of April 2024, the museum’s staff has visited the Overseas School of Colombo, S. Thomas’ College Mount Lavinia, and the Department of English, University of Colombo.

Educational institutions (formal and informal) are encouraged to reach out to the MMCA Sri Lanka at education@mmca-srilanka.org to request an Outreach visit.

The MMCA Sri Lanka is an education-led initiative that aims to establish a public museum dedicated to the display, research, collection, and conservation of modern and contemporary art for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public, schools, and tourists. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm (except on Poya days and public holidays) on the ground floor of Crescat Boulevard, Colombo 3, and entrance to the museum and all its public programmes are free. Information about the museum and its exhibitions and public programmes can be found via its website www.mmca-srilanka.org, or on Facebook at facebook.com/mmcasrilanka and Instagram at instagram.com/mmcasrilanka/.

April 19, 2024

Sri Lanka’s leading pneumatic tyre manufacturer CEAT-Kelani has introduced three new variants of high-performance radial tyres into the market, widening choice for a significant segment of vehicle owners.

Joining CEAT’s ‘Orion Brawo’ range, the new radials are in the sizes 155/65 R14, 165/70 R14 and 165 R13, with the first two sizes designated for popular models of compact and small cars, and the third for mid-sized vans, the company said.

The CEAT Orion Brawo 155/65 R14 and 165/70 R14 tyres both feature a tread pattern of a centre rib with three circumferential grooves and a high land area, which translate to improved tread life and higher resistance to impacts, cuts and other damage.

The 155/65 R14 is designed for Suzuki Wagon R, Daihatsu Mira ES, Daihatsu Hijet, Nissan Dayz and Honda N-WGN, while the 165/70 R14 fits Toyota Vitz, Toyota Aqua, Renault Kwid and Toyota Passo, seen in large numbers on Sri Lankan roads.

Meanwhile the CEAT Orion Brawo 165 R13 van radial sports a 4-rib high land design, angular notched rib pattern, a wide solid kerb rib and a highly reinforced belt that combine to deliver improved tread life, better durability, resistance to cutting and chipping and better load bearing. It is designed for Toyota Town Ace, Toyota Lite Ace and several other models of vans.

The addition of these three tyres takes CEAT’s radial tyre portfolio in Sri Lanka to 58 variants, the company said.

“The launch of these tyres reflects our continuing commitment to cater to the tyre requirements of the full spectrum of vehicles in Sri Lanka, from the high-end European sedans and SUVs to the smaller family cars and vans,” CEAT Kelani Chief Operating Officer Mr Shamal Gunawardene said. “The Orion range is priced to be affordable and competitive in the market, and is available at our dealer outlets island-wide.”

The largest domestic manufacturer of cross-ply and radial tyres in Sri Lanka, CEAT Kelani’s manufacturing operations encompass pneumatic tyres in the radial (passenger cars, vans and SUVs), commercial (Bias-ply and radial), motorcycle, three-wheeler and agricultural vehicle segments.

CEAT Kelani Holdings currently manufactures half of Sri Lanka’s pneumatic tyre requirements, exports about 20 per cent of its production to 16 countries and plays a significant role in helping the national economy conserve foreign exchange by reducing dependence on imported tyres.

April 18, 2024

Sri Lanka’s leading footwear brand, DSI, has once again captivated the local market with the unveiling of its latest premium flip-flop range, ‘Islander’. The launch event, held recently, marked a significant milestone for D Samson and Sons (Pvt) Ltd. as it introduced yet another innovative addition to its esteemed flip-flop portfolio.

The ‘Islander’ range represents a fusion of a celebration of Sri Lankan identity and quality craftsmanship. Designed with a deep appreciation for the country’s rich cultural heritage, each flip-flop in the collection is meticulously crafted to embody the essence of Sri Lankan-ness. From design to product and its communications, ‘Islander’ encapsulates the spirit of the island nation, ensuring that every pair tells a unique story connected to a quintessential Sri Lankan element.

Speaking at the launch event, Mr. Pradeep Samarathunga, General Manager, D Samson and Sons (Pvt) Ltd., emphasized the brand’s commitment to showcasing Sri Lanka’s cultural vibrancy on a global scale. “With the ‘Islander’ range, we aim to offer consumers not just footwear but a piece of Sri Lankan heritage. Our flip-flops are a symbol of island living, infused with comfort, quality, and vibrant designs that evoke the true essence of our island.”

Crafted from premium rubber sourced from the very own Sri Lankan rubber plantations, the ‘Islander’ flip-flops promise the ultimate level of comfort and durability, making them ideal for everyday wear. The range boasts a diverse array of designs, each inspired by the cultural diversity and scenic beauty of Sri Lanka. Whether adorned with motifs of tropical flora, iconic landmarks, or traditional art forms, every pair exudes an unmistakable island vibe.

DSI’s decision to launch the ‘Islander’ range underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the footwear industry while offering its consumers a wide selection of flip-flops under one roof, catering to every possible consumer segment. As a homegrown brand with a legacy spanning decades, DSI continues to set the standard for style and quality, both here and internationally.

April 18, 2024

The Central Province Badminton Association, in collaboration with Sri Lanka Badminton, will host the 2024 Summer Season All-Island Open Badminton Championships at the Nuwara Eliya Municipal Council Indoor Courts from April 20-28.

The annual Level 1 ranking tournament, a key event in SLB’s calendar, will see shuttlers across the country showcase their skills in a variety of categories, including open, junior, senior, and combined age groups. Competitions will be held under men’s and women’s singles and doubles, mixed doubles, and team events. Events in the junior division will be held for age groups from U-11 to U-19, while the senior division will welcome shuttlers over 30 years, extending up to above 70 years.

The championships will also feature competitions for over 110 years in women’s and men’s doubles and mixed doubles within the combined age group category. Moreover, Plate Championships are allocated for those who narrowly miss the finals in the semis.

The opening ceremony and the preliminary round matches of the Summer Season Championships will be held on April 20, followed by a series of competitive rounds leading up to the semi-finals on April 27 and the grand finals and closing ceremony on April 28. The champions, runners-up, and semi-finalists while a prize pool of Rs.750,000, in addition to trophies, medals, and certificates are up for grabs.

The generous sponsors of this year’s Summer Season Championships include Mcfoil, Mobil, Li Ning, 3M, and GAC.

April 18, 2024

01.Hayleys-Solar-Experience-Centre-in-Negombo.jpg

Hayleys Solar, the renewable energy arm of Hayleys Fentons, has opened doors to two new Experience Centres in Negombo (669, Puttalam – Colombo Rd) and Kandy (No 465/A, William Gopallawa Mawatha) respectively, bringing their total to four across Sri Lanka. These new centres offer residents a one-stop shop to explore solar energy solutions.

Hayleys Solar Experience Centres provide a comprehensive range of world-class solar products, including rooftop PV systems, batteries, and inverters. Visitors can also witness live demonstrations of solar-powered water pumps, solar-powered hot water systems, lighting systems, and PV systems in action.

Hayleys Solar is committed to providing accessible renewable energy solutions across the country. Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, said, “We are proud to expand our network and reach even more Sri Lankan families nationwide.” Roshane Perera, the Executive Director and CEO of Hayleys Solar, adds, “Our centres, located in Matara, Jaffna, Negombo, and Kandy are staffed by qualified experts who can help you understand your energy needs. We welcome you to visit our experience centres and explore solar products best suited for you.”

For more information visit hayleyssolar.com

April 18, 2024

Yiva Ceylon, an innovative self-care brand, proudly announces its official launch, offering meticulously crafted skincare solutions deeply rooted in the rich heritage of Ceylonese traditions. Under the guiding principle of ‘Consciously Curated Ceylonese Self-care guiding principle,’ Yiva Ceylon emerges as a beacon of sustainable beauty, championing local produce and traditional ingredients to redefine the skincare landscape.

Founded by Suwani Hitihamu, originally hailing from Kandy, she pursued her higher studies in Melbourne, majoring with a background in Economics and Accounting. Yiva Ceylon represents a culmination of her passion for natural healing and dedication to promoting the treasures of Sri Lanka’s indigenous wisdom. Drawing inspiration from the ancient Ayurvedic tradition known as Hela Wedakama, Yiva Ceylon infuses time-tested remedies into its holistic approach to health and beauty, resonating deeply with discerning consumers seeking pure and authentic skincare solutions.

Yiva Ceylon’s commitment to harnessing the power of nature is evident in its meticulously curated range of products, each formulated with a blend of locally sourced herbal ingredients renowned for their historical significance and proven benefits. As consumer demand for pure, chemical-free formulations surges, Yiva Ceylon emerges as a beacon of authenticity, offering safe and effective skincare solutions that prioritise both human health and environmental sustainability.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the brand’s official launch, Suwani Hitihamu remarked, “Yiva Ceylon embodies my belief in the transformative power of nature to nurture and rejuvenate. Our mission is to make natural beauty accessible to all while upholding the principles of sustainability and ethical sourcing.”

Central to Yiva Ceylon’s product philosophy is a commitment to purity and simplicity. Vegan and free from animal products, the brand’s offerings are not only cruelty-free but also designed to be gentle on the skin, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. Signature products such as the Whipped King Coconut & Lavender Body Butter, Cocoa Butter in Aloe Vera Gel, and Ranawara Infused Nourishing Body Oil showcase the brand’s dedication to harnessing the potency of nature for optimal skin health.

New additions to the product lineup include the Curry Leaf Infused Hair Elixir, Whipped Lotus Body Scrub, and Brightening Vitamin C Serum, further expanding Yiva Ceylon’s portfolio of clean and sustainable beauty solutions.

In addition to its commitment to product efficacy, Yiva Ceylon prioritizes ethical sourcing and sustainability. With a focus on high-quality, certified natural ingredients and eco-conscious packaging, the brand ensures that every purchase is not just a skincare investment but also a contribution to the preservation of our planet.

Yiva Ceylon products are now available for purchase online through the brand’s social media channels, as well as select retail outlets including WH Sri Lanka, The Design Collective Store, Le Ketiya Boutique Hiriketiya, TPV in Dewata, and Galle Fort.

Newer Posts

Older Posts

Cloé Café, where every cup tells a story, now in Nawala

Chokolaate Selects Top Ten Finalists for MDFD 2024

Femography by MAS combats period poverty with donation of over 10,000 reusable period wear products

International coaching week to feature 20 global experts!

MMCA Sri Lanka Adds the Arts to the Classroom

CEAT Kelani launches 3 new radial tyre variants in ‘Orion Brawo’ range

DSI Launches New Premium Flip-Flop Range ‘Islander’ to the Sri Lankan Market

Summer Season Open Badminton Championships to be held in Nuwara Eliya from April 20-28

Hayleys Solar Opens New Experience Centres in Negombo and Kandy

Yiva Ceylon Introduces Consciously Curated Ceylonese Self-Care Line