Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the Our government remains committed to creating an environment where all women in Sri Lanka can thrive and contribute their talents fully.
She made these remarks while addressing the "IMRA Awards for Excellence 2025" organized by the IMRA Foundation, held on April 07th at the Kingsbury Hotel, Colombo.
Prime Minister stated that,
"To night we gather not just to celebrate achievements but to acknowledge indomitable spirit an extraordinary contributions of muslim women across Sri Lanka. I am happy to see the dedication of the IMRA Foundation to provide a platform for these remarkable women to showcase their talents ,their dedication and their unwavering commitment to excellence.
These women in their diverse fields from Law and healthcare to education , media and entrepreneurship are not merely participants in our society. They are architects of its future.
We have seen remarkable innovation in entrepreneurship and inspiring dedication within our education and healthcare sectors among many other fields. It is clear that despite societal of perception and challenges these women have achieved remarkable success that shows in their chosen proffessions and vocations becoming a significant force in our nation.
Let us dispel the outdated notion that Muslim women take a back seat. On the contrary, they are at the forefront, leading with strength, wisdom, and grace. They are role models, inspiring not only their
communities but all of Sri Lanka. The aim of the IMRA Foundation, as I understand it, is to showcase just how misleading negative stereotypes can be by celebrating and recognizing the outstanding talents
and contributions of this extraordinary group, thereby creating role models for the wider community.
As important as it is to dispel notions about Muslim stereotypes, we need to acknowledge the fact that misogynistic beliefs shape many notions about women in general in Sri Lanka. This is evident when
we consider rising levels of domestic violence, online abuse, low rates of participation of women in politics and high levels of decision making, and often vitriolic attacks on women in the limelight be it politics, show business or any other field.
It is important we recognise this as a societal issue and not just a problem of a particular community- thinking in that way is also stereotypical.
Tonight, we celebrate not just individual achievements but the collective strength and resilience of Muslim women in Sri Lanka. It is no secret that not only does it take a village to raise a child, but it
takes a village and more to uplift women. The stories we celebrate tonight are a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for future generations.
As we move forward, let us continue to foster an environment where every woman feels empowered to pursue her dreams, to break barriers, and to contribute to the rich tapestry of our nation.
Let us ensure that the achievements we celebrate tonight inspire a legacy of empowerment and progress for all. "
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya presented awards to the following:
-IMRA Excellence Awards Legal & advocacy Ms.Shaeeda Barrie,Art & Culture - Ameena Hussein,Scholarship & Education - Ramola Rassool ,Health & Medicine - Prof.Faseeha Noordeen,Architecture - Shehela Latiff, Media & Communication - Shyama Akoob And IMRA Raising Star award - Hamna Kizar, For Sport - Saajida Razick ,For Education - Rizka Naushad ,Lifetime Achievement awards to Sandra Wanduragala, Shivanandini Duraiswamy, Sunela Jayawardena and Anberiya Hanifa.
The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Governor of western province Mr. Hanif Yusoof, Former politician Ferial Ashroff and numerous entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, all united in their commitment to drive Sri Lanka’s ahead.
