WCIC RampUP 2026 ends in a glamorous setting

• Empowering women fashionpreneurs to build export ready businesses

The Women›s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) presented the fourth edition of its flagship event, RampUP 2026, a unique initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs by helping them build export-ready brands while showcasing their products on a prestigious platform, on 5 August 2026 at the Cinnamon Grand.

Welcoming the audience, WCIC Chairperson Gayani de Alwis said: “This is more than a fashion show—it is a movement that nurtures talent, builds confidence, and opens doors to new opportunities. Through the initiative, we support participants in strengthening their capabilities, enhancing their industry knowledge, and preparing them to meet international standards. Our goal is to equip these talented designers to become globally competitive and export-ready, enabling them to take Sri Lankan fashion to the world.”

Thirteen unique and exclusive collections, each reflecting the individuality, craftsmanship, and vision of its designer were featured on the ramp. These are talented designers, from across Sri Lanka, who have never got an opportunity to feature their creativity on a platform of this nature, and possibly would not have been able to do so on their own. WCIC said it takes pride in presenting the talent of these amazing SMEs so that they can flourish in front of a discerning audience such as this. – stated a spokesperson on behalf of the team

One of the most distinctive features of RampUp is that these remarkable creations were showcased by accomplished women from the corporate sector, who generously volunteered their time to champion this initiative and demonstrate their appreciation for the creativity and dedication of the designers. 

RampUp is considered a flagship event of the WCIC dedicated to raise funds to enhance the capacity of women in business. We have conducted skill building programs for the designers as well as other women entrepreneurs from across the country with the funds raised with RampUP through the special Entrepreneur Fund of the WCIC Academy.

As a key feature of the program, expert guidance was  provided to participating entrepreneurs/designers. Industry specialists worked closely with women entrepreneurs to enhance colour palettes, product design, quality, presentation, and overall market appeal. These efforts were complemented by the expertise of renowned choreographer Geraldine Bandaranaike, who mentored and guided participants in presenting their products with confidence and professionalism.

RampUP is one of the most anticipated events on the WCIC calendar, backed by a dedicated team of Board Members and Chamber members who work tirelessly to ensure every aspect of the event is executed with professionalism and excellence. It has been a roaring success year on year.

RampUP 2026 was co-chaired by Tehani Mathew and Nayana Karunarathna, with choreography by Geraldine Bandaranayake. 

The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce thanked the generous support of its partners. Lady J joins RampUP 2026 as the Platinum Partner, while Port City BPO is the Gold Partner. 7 Silver Partners supported - Sampath Private Banking as the Silver/Official Banking Partner,  British Cosmetics as the Silver/Official Beautycare Partner. HNB Life, Global Marine Group, Arvenoir, Perry Allen, and Asset Line Finance (Chithak E-Scooter and Liya Diriya).

Print and Digital media partner was the Wijeya Group with all their publications, with Cinnamon Grand as our Hospitality Partner. WCIC said the partnerships played a vital role in enabling it to continue its mission of empowering women entrepreneurs.