DFCC Bank, through its women-focused initiative DFCC Aloka, has continued its longstanding support for women-led entrepreneurship by partnering with the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC). The bank has taken on the role of Diamond Sponsor and Official Banking Partner for the Prathibhabhisheka – Women Entrepreneur Awards 2025 held at the Hilton Colombo.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of DFCC Aloka’s support for the Prathibhabhisheka Awards, a flagship platform that celebrates women entrepreneurs whose businesses are driving innovation, employment, and inclusive economic growth across Sri Lanka and the broader SAARC region.
Organized by WCIC, the awards honor women-led enterprises that demonstrate resilience, leadership, and measurable business impact. By highlighting these achievements, the initiative plays a crucial role in encouraging more women to enter entrepreneurship and in strengthening the country’s overall enterprise ecosystem.
As the Official Banking Partner, DFCC Bank has reinforced its commitment to women’s economic participation through DFCC Aloka, a dedicated banking proposition tailored to the realities of women entrepreneurs. DFCC Aloka offers customized financial solutions coupled with accessibility, advisory support, and long-term partnerships, empowering women-led businesses to start, sustain, and scale confidently.
Commenting on the partnership, Thimal Perera, Director and Chief Executive Officer of DFCC Bank PLC, stated, “DFCC Aloka was created with a clear purpose – to remove barriers and create practical pathways for women entrepreneurs to grow sustainable businesses. Our continued partnership with WCIC and the Prathibhabhisheka Awards reflects our commitment to supporting women whose enterprises contribute meaningfully to economic progress through leadership, innovation, and resilience.”
Gayani De Alwis, Chairperson of the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce, added, “The Prathibhabhisheka Awards recognize women who build impactful businesses while navigating structural and social challenges. Our partnership with DFCC Aloka strengthens this platform by ensuring that recognition is matched with access to financial solutions that reflect the ambitions and realities of women entrepreneurs.”
Through DFCC Aloka, DFCC Bank continues to offer targeted financial support and value-added services to women-led enterprises, reinforcing its role in creating an enabling environment for inclusive growth. The partnership with WCIC reflects a shared focus on strengthening women’s participation in enterprise by combining recognition with sustained financial access and support.
The Prathibhabhisheka – Women Entrepreneur Awards 2025 once again highlighted the vital role women entrepreneurs play in shaping Sri Lanka’s economic future, while reaffirming DFCC Aloka’s position as a committed banking partner dedicated to advancing women’s entrepreneurship through practical, inclusive financial solutions.
The Honourable Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, presented the SAARC Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 award to Ms. Vera Wickramasinghe, Founder and Managing Director of Worldlink Shipping Colombo (Pvt) Ltd. She was also recognized as Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2025, in the presence of Mr. Thimal Perera, Director and Chief Executive Officer of DFCC Bank PLC, Mr. Shamindra Marcelline, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of DFCC Bank PLC, and officials of the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
