Barbers' Assn strengthens profession

A group of barbers have set up the Sri Lanka Barbers' Association to take their profession forward.

The Association was launched at the BMICH under the auspices of Cosmotech (Pvt) Ltd.

A large number of barbers and also several well-wishers from the Sri Lanka's hair dressing industry, Director, Far East Sales, Wahl Clipper Corporation, Don Seale, Manager Tai Wah Distributors (Pvt) Ltd, Singapore, Robert Wong, Creative Director Wahl India, Ms. Renee Melek and Brand Ambassador Wahl India, Ms. Amali Kandasamy were present.

Nirosh Ranawakarachchi was elected President of the Association while M. Balakrishnan was elected Vice President. The Secretary is Chandana Wjesinghe while Semali Weerasuriya is its Treasurer.

The primary objectives of the SLBA are to promote and foster interaction and the sharing of knowledge among practising barbers.

Programs will be implemented to enhance the skills of the local barber community through international exposure.

Plans are also under way to promote and train the barber community to maintain high standards of safety and hygiene.

In addition there will be competitions and events to reward and recognise outstanding performers.

Chairman, Cosmotech (Pvt) Ltd, Shirantha Peries, who initiated the setting up of association said, "Sri Lanka has about 50,000 practising barbers spread across the country with the largest concentration of about 15,000 in the Western province. The barbers have been continuously providing a yeoman service to the public."