Hemas launches ‘Abhimana’, makes sustainability a lifestyle

Monday, 9 June 2014 00:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Hemas Holdings PLC last Friday launched its ‘Abhimana’ initiative to make sustainability a lifestyle throughout the company. Incorporating responsibility and sustainability into every action, Hemas spearheaded this corporate responsibility project to encourage in every employee a deep and intrinsic sense of dignity and pride that can only arise from a life responsibly lived. The ‘sannasa’ or scroll containing the formal declaration was ceremonially handed over to CEO Steven Enderby by Shiromi Masakorala, Head of Group Sustainability and Corporate Communications, in the presence of a large and distinguished gathering at the BMICH. Present were Board Members, the top management, key stakeholders and a vast cross section of staff from the sectors Hemas operates in.

This new initiative is spearheaded by CEO Steven Enderby who said: “As one of the most respected companies in Sri Lanka we attribute our achievements to the values we have been upholding since our inception 65 years ago. Our founders had a vision for the company and values played a key role in this journey. “‘Abhimana’ is the DNA of Hemas core values which enhances the experience of living and working together in a responsible sustainable society. We take pride in playing our part in that, not only through operating our businesses as a responsible corporate, but more broadly how we live our lives. It also empowers and encourages our employees and stakeholders to take ownership and contribute through creative ideas and initiatives, to proudly inspire change,” Enderby added. Head of Group Sustainability and Corporate Communication Shiromi Masakorala said: “In Sanskrit the word ‘Abhimana’ means ‘pride’. The logo is self-explanatory and portrays the values Hemas is dedicated to. If one steadfastly lives by these values, the sustainability of any organisation is guaranteed.” She went to say that corporate sustainability is not only achieving financial returns or going green, but, rather how businesses operate in social, cultural and economic environments while being accountable for their actions. “We constantly encourage our staff, from top-end executives to office assistants to live by the company’s values. It is not an enforced rule but rather a persuasive life style,” Masakorala added. The Hemas Group is one of the leading conglomerates in Sri Lanka with a focus on five key sectors – FMCG, healthcare, transportation, leisure and power generation.