YoungShip Christmas Fellowship 2024

YoungShip Sri Lanka successfully concluded their Christmas Fellowship 2024 to call the year to a close in an evening of fellowship, food, fun & carols at the BRC - Colombo on the 12th of December 2024.

With around 100 participants present, the evening was no doubt an eventful and memorable one. YoungShip Sri Lanka announced that proceeds of the Christmas event will be utilized for a project under their Caring Hands Programme supporting and providing underprivileged children with the necessary resources, training and awareness to build their future.

Another shout out to the band Cosmos who kept everyone swaying to their tunes into the night.

Here is wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We are looking forward to an eventful 2025!🎄✨🎅🏾

#youngshipsrilanka #youngshipinternational #YoungShipChristmas24 #maritimeindustry #empoweringtheemerginggeneration #networking #caringhands


Outreach Project 3 of the YoungShip WISTA Run For Her

Yesterday, YoungShip Sri Lanka conducted their third outreach project from the proceeds of the YoungShip Wista Run For Her event that concluded earlier this year. The awareness session on women’s health & wellbeing was conducted for women residing in the Badovita area followed by the distribution of sanitary product sufficient to support 40-50 women for a 3 month period.

Our sincere thanks to the The Arka Initiative lead by a team of dedicated doctors who have collaborated with us in providing the educational resource and being a pivotal element of the knowledge sharing aspect of menstruation, women’s health & hygiene. Thank you Dr. Thanya for conducting the session.

We would like to acknowledge our Title sponsor WISTA Sri Lanka for making this initiative a success. We would also like to thank the HER Foundation by Fems Lanka for providing us with subsidized products to additionally support the initiative.

Together we are making a difference in uplifting lives and raising much needed awareness that impact women, children and entire communities. We look forward to the continued projects.

#YoungShipSriLanka #YoungShipInternational #YoungShipWistaRunForHer #EmpoweringTheNextGeneration #InspireInclusion #periodpovertyalleviation

      


Outreach Project 2 of the YoungShip Wista Run for Her

YoungShip Sri Lanka had an educational and fulfilling morning today as they conducted their second outreach project from the proceeds of the YoungShip Wista Run For Her event that concluded earlier this year. The awareness session was conducted for 176 estate workers children and students of the Maskeliya area followed by the distribution of sanitary product sufficient for a 4 month period to the women & students who were present.

Our sincere thanks to the arka initiative lead by a team of dedicated doctors who have collaborated with us in providing the educational resource and being a pivotal element of the knowledge sharing aspect of menstruation, women’s health & hygiene.

We would like to acknowledge our Title sponsor WISTA SRILANKA for making this initiative a success. We would also like to thank the HER Foundation by @fems_lk for providing us with subsidized products to additionally support the initiative.

Together we are making a difference in uplifting lives and raising much needed awareness that impact women, children and entire communities. We look forward to the continued projects.

#YoungShipSriLanka #YoungShipInternational #YoungShipWistaRunForHer #EmpoweringTheNextGeneration #InspireInclusion #periodpovertyalleviation

   


YoungShip Caring Hands Project 3

YoungShip Sri Lanka concluded the third project of their Caring Hands Programme in May this year. The executive committee visited the Dr Reijntjes School for the Deaf in Morotuwa and handed over stationary supplies to students from under privileged backgrounds. We wish these children all the best in their studies for the forthcoming year and hope that our support can ease the resource burden borne by them.

Let’s make the world a better place, one donation at a time!

#YoungShip #YoungShipSriLanka #CaringHandsProgramme #nextgeneration


Outreach Project 1 of the YoungShip WISTA Run for Her

YoungShip Sri Lanka had an educational and fulfilling morning yesterday as they conducted their first outreach project from the proceeds of the YoungShip Wista Run For Her event that concluded earlier this year. The awareness session was conducted for teachers of the Dr. Reijntjes School for the Deaf followed by the distribution of sanitary product sufficient for a 1+ year period to the girls boarded in the school.

Our sincere thanks to The Arka Initiative lead by a team of dedicated doctors who have collaborated with us in providing the educational resource and being a pivotal element of the knowledge sharing aspect of menstruation, women’s health & hygiene.

We would like to acknowledge our Title sponsor WISTA SRILANKA & Sustainable Product Sponsor femography for making this initiative a success. We would also like to thank the HER Foundation by Fems for providing us with subsidized products to additionally support the initiative.

Together we are making a difference in uplifting lives and raising much needed awareness that impact women, children and entire communities. We look forward to the continued projects.

#YoungShipSriLanka #YoungShipInternational #YoungShipWistaRunForHer #EmpoweringTheNextGeneration #InspireInclusion #PeriodPovertyAlleviation


CORAL RESTORATION PROJECT 2024 IN COLLABORATION WITH ROTARACT UPTOWN

Youngship Sri Lanka collaborated with the Rotaract Club of Colombo Uptown on the Echo for Eco project, doing our part in supporting the restoration of corals in Seenigama, Sri Lanka on the 7th of April! We will continue our endeavors to uplift and protect the health of our oceans together with those engaged!

Thanks to Rotaract Club of Colombo Uptown & Foundation for Goodness. We would also like to express our thanks to Sea Vista Enterprises & The Social Agency along with others for their contributions towards the protection, restoration and promotion of a sustainable ecosystem.

#YoungShipSriLanka #youngshipinternational #RotoractClubOfColomboUptown #CoralRestoration #UNSDG #Marinelife #netzerocontribution #environmentalsustainability

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A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY AT THE INAUGURAL YOUNGSHIP GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT 2024

A Transformative Journey at The Inaugural YoungShip Global Leadership Summit

The inaugural YoungShip Global Leadership Summit (YGLS) concluded in Sri Lanka on the 18th of November 2024, leaving an indelible mark on the maritime industry and its emerging professionals. A YoungShip International event held for the first time in Asia, the three-day Summit brought together emerging leaders, seasoned professionals, and global experts, highlighting youth's pivotal role in shaping the maritime world's future. With its core theme surrounding emerging leadership in the international maritime trade, the event underscored the importance of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in a rapidly evolving industry.

With its rich maritime history & location along key trade routes, Sri Lanka served as the ideal backdrop for the inaugural YGLS 2024. As such, the Summit showcased the country as a key maritime hub, blending its cultural vibrancy with its growing influence in the global maritime sector. From engaging discussions on industry trends to immersive local experiences, YGLS celebrated both professional and cultural exchange, solidifying Sri Lanka's position on the global maritime map.

Sports, Heritage, and Culture: Welcoming the World to YGLS 2024

The first day of the Summit kicked off with a golf tournament at the Royal Colombo Golf Club, providing participants an opportunity to bond over sports while fostering camaraderie with Sri Lanka’s Maritime Golf Community. This was followed by a Colombo city tour, which introduced international attendees to the city’s iconic landmarks and heritage, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s history, as well as modern development.

 

The day culminated in a spectacular opening ceremony at Nuga Gama, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, an authentic Sri Lankan village-style venue. Attendees were treated to traditional cuisine, music, and cultural performances, setting a warm and vibrant tone for the days ahead. The opening remarks by YGLS Chairperson and YoungShip Sri Lanka Chair - Ms. Maleena Awn, and Ms. Keshia Janssens - Chair of YoungShip International, emphasised the Summit’s mission to empower emerging maritime professionals to lead the industry into the future with resilience and innovation.

Exploring Trends, Building Networks: An Insightful and Inspiring Second Day

The 17th of November began with a breakfast hosted by WISTA Sri Lanka (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association), spotlighting gender equality and the critical role of women in maritime leadership. This session underscored the importance of diversity and inclusivity in fostering a robust and innovative maritime industry.

Afterwards, attendees visited Port City Colombo - a landmark development redefining Sri Lanka's position as a global maritime and logistics hub. The site visit provided insights into how infrastructure and technology are shaping the future of maritime trade in the region.

The heart of the Summit was the conference, featuring distinguished speakers and thought-provoking panel discussions at the Kingsbury, Colombo. Topics included:

  • Global Economic Trends in Shipping: Exploring the economic forces driving the industry.
  • Innovation Driven by the Need for a Progressive Maritime Industry: Highlighting technological advancements and their impact on maritime operations.
  • Human Resources in a Changing Maritime Landscape – Skills Needed by Future Generations: Addressing the evolving skillsets required to thrive in the industry.

These panels and keynotes encompassed discussions on sustainability, digital transformation, and strategic leadership; equipping participants with practical tools and insights, empowering them to tackle industry challenges and drive meaningful change. The conference was also complemented by a series of cultural dance performances between panel discussions, adding a unique touch of Sri Lankan entertainment to the event.

Celebrating 20 Years of YoungShip International

The conference was followed by the anniversary gala dinner of YoungShip International commemorating 20 years of empowering emerging professionals in the maritime industry. The evening was nothing short of spectacular; with a perfect blend of celebration, networking, and entertainment. Participants from across the globe came together to honour two decades of achievements, forge new connections, and create memories to last a lifetime.

Signing off with Collaborative Leadership and a Celebration of Success

The final day began at the Radisson Blue, Galle, with the YoungShip International board meeting, where leaders discussed strategies to further strengthen the global network and expand its impact.

This was followed by an inspiring leadership programme conducted by Vidusha Nathavitharana, a renowned leadership coach. Participants engaged in interactive discussions aimed at developing the skills and mindset required to lead with confidence, vision, and empathy.

The Summit concluded with a grand closing dinner hosted in collaboration with CASA (Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents). The dinner celebrated the success of the Summit and the vibrant maritime community it brought together. Attendees reflected on the insights gained, the connections made, and the inspiration to drive the global industry forward.

 

At its core, YGLS 2024 was a transformative platform for empowering young maritime professionals. It addressed the need for a forward-thinking, diverse, and inclusive leadership that can navigate the challenges of an ever-changing global maritime landscape. By equipping participants with knowledge, skills, and networks, the Summit set the stage for the emerging leaders to make a lasting impact on the industry. By addressing pressing issues like digital transformation, climate change, and workforce development, YGLS provided actionable insights that attendees could bring back to their organisations and communities.

As the first event of its kind in Asia, YGLS 2024 has set a high benchmark for future Summits. It leaves behind a legacy of empowered youth, strengthened global networks, and a shared vision for a sustainable, innovative maritime industry. Moreover, it not only highlighted Sri Lanka’s potential as a maritime hub driving progress, but also introduced the country as an emerging tourist destination to the visiting delegates.

The success of YGLS 2024 is a testament to the dedication of YoungShip International, YoungShip Sri Lanka, and the numerous partners and sponsors who made the event possible - Platinum Sponsor – Meridian Maritime Services Limited; Gold Sponsor – Hayleys Advantis; Silver Sponsors – McLarens Group of Companies, Pacific International Lines Pte Ltd, Prime Lands Residences PLC; Bronze Sponsors – Colombo International Container Terminal Limited (CICT), Evergreen Line, Inchcape Mackinnon Mackenzie Shipping (Private) Limited and MAC Holdings (Private) Limited; Support Associations – Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA), Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA Sri Lanka) and Sri Lanka Association of NVOCC Agents (SLANA); Training and Development Partner – Ceyline Group; and Education Partner -  Colombo International Nautical and Engineering College (CINEC) Sri Lanka; Tour Partner - Helanka Vacations, and all other valuable sponsors, along with the endorsement by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, whose contributions have made this stellar event an enormous success.

As attendees return to their respective countries, they carry with them not only memories of Sri Lanka’s warmth and hospitality but also the tools and inspiration to lead the maritime industry into a brighter future.


YoungShip Quiz Night 2024

YoungShip Sri Lanka successfully concluded their Quiz night featuring Quiz Master Dominic Kellar at the Old Thomians Swimming Club on the 2nd of October 2024.

With over 60 participants present the evening was no doubt an eventful and memorable one. We congratulate the 3 winning teams and all the other teams that took part who challenged each other through all the rounds. A big thank you to Dominic Kellar for keeping spirits high and for being an amazing host. Another shout out to the De Silva Brothers SL who kept everyone swaying to their tunes into the night.

We hope everyone enjoyed the quiz and the entertainment and are looking forward to having you at our next event.

#youngshipsrilanka #youngshipinternational #quiznight #maritimeindustry #emerginggeneration #networking

 


FIELD VISIT TO COLOMBO DOCKYARD 2024

YoungShip Sri Lanka was happy to have successfully concluded a field visit with the 1st batch of YoungShip Sri Lanka members to the Colombo Dockyard facility on the 3rd of July! It was a dynamic and active environment to kick start Wednesday morning with an insightful overview presented by the Staff of CDL.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Colombo Dockyard PLC for their hospitality and efforts towards youth development and empowerment! It was an engaging and insightful experience.

#YoungShipSriLanka #YoungShipInternational #ColomboDockyard


YoungShip Patrons Forum 2024

YoungShip Sri Lanka hosted their Patrons Forum Sail 2024 on the 28th of June. The event brought together patrons and past committee members in the industry over the last 11 years to join the current committee in an evening of fellowship, knowledge sharing and camaraderie.

#youngshipfamily #youngshipsrilanka #youngshipinternational #patronsforum