Fresh leaders to steer Global Compact Ceylon Network

Future advances in global integration, poverty reduction, protection of our planet and, ultimately, peace critically depend on our ability to collectively address the most pressing global challenges.

Accelerating the practice of corporate sustainability and responsibility is an urgent task in these complex times, when crises - from financial market breakdowns to environmental degradation - are increasingly global and connected.

The stakes could not be higher, given that climate change threatens the security of food, water and energy - the interlocking resource pillars which underpin prosperity and the productivity of the economy.

Putting long-term sustainability, comprehensive risk management and ethics at the top of the corporate agenda must be a priority for business everywhere.

The Global Compact Local Network Ceylon was officially formed in 2003 at an event that included senior government officials and representatives from the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and top-notch local enterprises. The committee consists of Corporate Governance, Operations and Communication verticals, further strengthening the local body in the efforts to promote Corporate Sustainability in Sri Lanka.

UN Global Compact Focal Point and CEO Global Compact Ceylon Network Ravi Fernando said, “With the influence of global business expanding, companies worldwide are increasingly called on to foster sustainable growth.

The UN Global Compact is the world’s largest and most recognised corporate citizenship initiative. It is the most powerful instrument for businesses to globally position their commitment to corporate sustainability.

We are delighted to have a highly capable and dedicated team from Sri Lanka’s corporate sector to drive economic growth sustainably”.

The steering committee comprises UN Global Compact Focal Point and CEO Global Compact Ceylon Network Ravi Fernando, Vice President - Sustainable Development Holcim Lanka, Rathika De Silva, Assistant General Manager Group Business Development - Aitken Spence PLC Azam Bakeer Markar, General Manager Corporate Communications and Sustainability - Hayleys PLC Charmila De Silva, General Manager - Aspirations Education Deepamala Abeysekara, Corporate Communications and Sustainability - Virtusa Lakwi Perera, Head of Public Relations - Virtusa Ashan Kumar, Attorney at Law Revan B. Weerasinghe, Customer Relations - Ceylon Asset Management Thrishana Pothupitiya.