Dr. Hina Shah’s vision for inclusive growth

Empowering women, transforming economies The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (CanCham SL) recently hosted an insightful dialogue on Women’s Development, Economic Empowerment, and the Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises, bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneur, to explore practical pathways towards inclusive economic growth. The event highlighted the critical role women play in driving economic progress and innovation. Discussion focussed on creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs, improving access to finance, strengthening leadership capabilities and addressing barriers that continue to limit women’s full participation in the economy. A key feature of the dialogue was the emphasis on SME sustainability participants and examined how small and medium sized enterprises can remain resistent in a rapidly evolving business environment though innovation, digital transformation, sustainable business practises and stronger public, private partnerships. SMEs which form the backbone of Sri Lanka’s economy, were recognised as a vital contribution to employment generation and community development. Where ideas inspiration and opportunities came together Among the distinguished speakers was Dr. Hina Shah, Founder International Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Career Development (Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India) who shared valuable insights on leadership innovation and the importance of creating eco systems that enable women to thrive in business. Hosted by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (CanCham) her address underscored the need for mentorship, access to networks and supportive policies that help women led business scale to succeed. The keynote speaker, Dr. Hina Shah, shared insights from decades of work empowering women entrepreneurs. She highlighted how women-led enterprises drive economic progress and social transformation, drawing on India’s experience in building resilient ecosystems. Dr Shah’s experience bring a rare combination of visionary leadership, proven institutional models, global development experience, scalable implementation systems and many high impact initiatives. She said ‘ “Established with support from Global Affairs Canada and under the patronage of the Canadian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, CanCham SL is committed to strengthening trade, investment, innovation, and people-to-people ties between Sri Lanka and Canada. Advancing women’s economic participation is a central priority, aligned with Canada’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive growth. Powerful conversation on leadership, innovation and economic empowerment The dialogue focussed on practical strategies to improve market access, strengthen business eco systems, enhance financial inclusion, and support the long-term sustainability of women-led SMEs. Looking Ahead CanCham SL announced plans to form a core stakeholder group with representatives from Sri Lanka, Canada, and the wider Indo-Pacific region to develop a long-term strategic framework for women’s entrepreneurship and SME development. The Chamber will also host an Economic Summit for Women to scale these discussions, showcase successful women-led enterprises, and forge partnerships for investment and innovation across the region. CanCham SL remains committed to working with governments, development partners, and business leaders to create an enabling environment where women can thrive as leaders and drivers of economic transformation. The Secretary General and Executive Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka M/s Nilupul De Silva said: “At the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka, we believe that empowering women is not only a matter of quality but also a key driver of economic growth and sustainable development. Today’s discussion reflects our commitment to building a bridge between Sri Lanka and Canada while encouraging collaboration across the public and private sectors. Together, we can create opportunities that enable women-led businesses to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.’’ She extended her sincere gratitude to partners, sponsors and all participates for being part of this important conversation and to continue working together to inspire change, strengthen SMEs, and build a future where every woman has the opportunity to lead, innovate and succeed. This event aligns with CanCham Sri Lanka’s broader vision of promoting inclusive growth, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable development while strengthening economic ties between Sri Lanka and Canada. Through initiatives, such as this, the chamber aims to create meaningful opportunities that enable women entrepreneurs to thrive, contribute to job creation and play a greater role in shaping Sri Lanka’s economic future. The event was held CanCham SL office Horton Place. By Zanita Careem