YoungShip Sri Lanka’s “Run for HER” champions women’s empowerment and economic advancement

Monday, 23 June 2025 03:23 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Despite a torrential downpour, participants and supporters converged at Independence Square on 18 May for YoungShip Sri Lanka’s “Run for HER” – an event that transcended a mere race to become a powerful declaration of purpose, commitment, and tangible action towards women’s empowerment and economic advancement in Sri Lanka’s rural communities.

Organised by YoungShip Sri Lanka, the local chapter of YoungShip International, this initiative powerfully showcased the organisation’s core dedication to youth engagement within the maritime and logistics industries. It underscored a strong emphasis on sustainability, and vital community outreach.

Run for HER was conceived with a bold vision: to uplift women, especially emerging female entrepreneurs, by actively supporting their journeys and dismantling long-standing stigmas and inequalities hindering their progress. The event aimed to amplify voices, accelerate careers, and create genuine impact. All proceeds from the day are dedicated to championing women’s economic growth in underserved rural areas across Sri Lanka.

The timing of Run for HER held profound significance, symbolically aligning with the International Day for Women in Maritime, observed globally on 18 May. This alignment served as a powerful tribute to the indispensable contributions of women across the maritime sector, from the helm of ships as captains and engineers to the intricate operations of port facilities and the crucial sphere of policy-making. With this year’s IMO theme, “Oceans of Opportunity,” the event served as a timely and meaningful celebration of these vital roles.

Designed by G360, the event was brought to life through the unwavering dedication of volunteers, enthusiastic supporters, and passionate participants. The day’s activities commenced with a dynamic Duathlon, featuring both solo and three-person team categories. This was followed by an inclusive 5 km run/walk/stroll, and the day concluded with a spirited 1 km kids’ race, much to the delight of the younger attendees. The persistent rain, far from dampening spirits, unexpectedly enhanced the event’s memorable quality, serving as a testament to the fact that when communities unite for a common cause, not even adverse weather can stand in their way.

A spokesperson from YoungShip Sri Lanka encapsulated the prevailing sentiment: “Hats off to everyone who showed up despite the rain. It was a true testament to the power of sport in uniting communities and driving social change. We are proud to stand with women, to champion their success, and to inspire a new generation to break barriers.”

The event would not have been possible without the generous support of Event Partner: Ceyline Holdings; Silver Sponsor: MendisOne; Bronze Sponsors: McLarens Group of Companies, Hayleys Advantis Ltd., MAS Femography, and Meridian Maritime Services Ltd.; Support Association: Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA); and all other sponsors who contributed towards a successful and meaningful event.

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