Fashion show to support Light of Change

by Sapumali GALAGODA

A charity fashion show featuring Sri Lankan cricketers and top female models to support 'Light of Change' will be held on October 11, at the Water's Edge. It is organised by MAS Holdings together with Yes FM supported by Michael Wijesooriya, MAS Intimates, MAS Active, Linea Intimo and Linea Aqua.

Mahela Jayawardena addresses the gathering

The Light of change project was launched in 2009 with the Government's declaration of 2009 as 'The year of Information and Communication Technology and English Language' for the rural youth, to create a supportive self-development infrastructure.

It focuses on strengthening character, developing good citizenship and enhancing both knowledge and life skills needed for employment. Project partners Microsoft and City & Guilds International developed the Information Technology (IT) and English Language syllabuses. MAS Institute of Management and Technology (MIMT) developed career skills for the students while taking full responsibility of logistics and administration. The Information & Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) is also a partner while SLASSCOM, the Sri Lankan IT-BPO Industry Chamber and Cargills Ceylon Limited has also joined the project by guaranteeing interviews to successful candidates.

The fashion show will see current and former cricket stars of the country walking the ramp for an initiative designed to offer complete skill development that addresses the prevailing skill gap of the youth in the country.

The fashion show has been organised to offer 1100 scholarships for deserving rural youth within an year, MAS Holdings alone has given donations to 350 students. The first three batches of 90 students are presently in the process of being placed in gainful employment. All involved in the fashion show will offer their services on a complementary basis to aid this generous cause.

"MIMT highlights the importance of a strong educational foundation for rural youth. As leaders of today we are committed to provide these deserving students the future they strive for and we are proud to be part of an initiative that revolves around sustainability through sportsmanship" said MAS Holdings Group Director, Dian Gomes.