Friday Aug 22, 2025
Friday Aug 22, 2025
Tuesday, 19 August 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung
US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung, South and Central Asian Affairs Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary Shelly Seaver, and Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Sunil Gamage yesterday opened the inaugural workshop of the Young South Asian Leaders Initiative (YSALI), the US Embassy in Colombo said.
The YSALI is a US Government-funded program aimed at empowering youth leaders, promoting peace, and bolstering economic growth across South Asia.
More than 80 YSALI participants, competitively selected from alumni of previous US Government initiatives, represent the next generation of South Asian leaders and innovators in business, government, academia, health, and other fields. By connecting them with counterparts from across the region, the US is building lasting networks and cultivating future partners and advocates for American businesses and shared interests, the Embassy said.
Addressing the participants, Ambassador Chung said: “Each of you has already demonstrated leadership through your participation in US Government exchange programs, taking the initiative to create change, often in challenging circumstances. Now, by coming together, you are combining your ideas, talents, and dreams to shape the future of this region. Whether you’re focused on entrepreneurship, civic engagement, or social innovation, we want to support your efforts and share the ideas and approaches that have fuelled American innovation and excellence, because when you succeed, the Indo-Pacific region becomes stronger, more connected, and more prosperous for all.”
Participants at the inaugural Young South Asian Leaders Initiative workshop in Colombo
The three-day workshop brings together more than 80 youth leaders from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka to address shared challenges and opportunities, including economic development, civic participation, and regional collaboration.
During the workshop, participants will engage with experts, business representatives, and Government officials in interactive sessions designed to share US expertise in entrepreneurship and leadership. The program will also foster cross-border collaboration and strengthened ties between the US and South Asia, while expanding business opportunities and addressing critical challenges across both regions, the Embassy said.
In addition to the core workshop sessions, participants will take part in the YSALI Expo, which will bring together local organisations, US partners, and program alumni to showcase US businesses, civic initiatives, and entrepreneurial projects. The Expo will serve as a networking hub and opportunity for collaboration between youth leaders and regional stakeholders.
