'Business for Unity Awards' ceremony

Regional business leaders representing the district chambers of commerce throughout Sri Lanka gathered at the Earls' Regency Hotel in Kandy recently for the "Business for Unity Awards" ceremony organised by the Central Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

It was held for the second year in succession. Tribute was paid to regional business leaders for their commitment to corporate social responsibility and their personal contribution to foster unity among diverse ethnic and social groups in their communities and the country.

A panel of eminent judges from the Peradeniya University picked 32 outstanding entries out of a large number of entries from all parts of the country. The winners were presented gold, silver and bronze awards.

Although the small and medium scale entrepreneurs in the regions who are influential members of their communities, put in a great deal of resources to community development and CSR, their efforts are rarely given public recognition unlike the efforts of the members of the big business based in Colombo.

Through the "Business for Unity Awards" ceremony, the regional SMEs were brought into the spotlight and were motivated to contribute more proactively to fostering national unity and providing a greater service to their community and their country.

The Central Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry was supported in this initiative by International Alert and The Business for Peace Alliance, Sri Lanka's network of regional business chambers committed to regional empowerment and national unity. The organizers have made the Business for Unity Awards ceremony.