.jpeg)
In January 2024, the Canadian Trade and Investment Facility for Development (CTIF) commissioned MDF to implement the project: Building the Capacity of Women Business Development Coaches in Sri Lanka. To implement this project MDF has partnered with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) to organise a 5 Day Training of Trainers (ToT) programme for Sri Lankan Women-Led Business trainers/Coaches. The objective of this programme is to build a network of women coaches/trainers who can empower women entrepreneurs with practical skills and knowledge to succeed.
.jpg)
5-Day Training on Women’s Entrepreneurship, Ecommerce and Digital Marketing, Environmental Sustainability, and Business Coaching Skills
This program welcomes diverse Sri Lankan women eager to boost their careers as business coaches or trainers. Potential participants include: women with prior training experience, leaders in business groups like cooperatives or microcredit organisations, and women actively involved in business enterprises. Our aim is to create a network of women coaches/trainers empowering women entrepreneurs with practical skills for success. Aligned with Sri Lanka's goals amid post-pandemic challenges, this initiative addresses gender disparities in business support, offering specialised training in ecommerce, digital marketing, and environmental sustainability.
Why Join Us?
- Gain valuable knowledge about e-commerce and digital marketing.
- Strategize on how to ensure environmental sustainability in small businesses.
- Dismantle barriers faced by women MSME owners.
- Connect with like-minded peers and share your own expertise.
- Learn how to become a coach or trainer with practical skills and future opportunities to develop your career by affiliating with the Chamber of Commerce and other partners.
- Use your strengths and business knowledge to make a positive impact in your local community.
Our Modalities
The in-person workshop offers a unique opportunity for participants to connect with inspiring women nationwide, fostering networks and sharing experiences of entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka. Combining interactive learning with hands-on activities, the training equips participants with practical skills and confidence to apply tools effectively. Throughout, participants gain insight into the coaching process and learn to develop a professional profile supporting women-led MSMEs across sectors.
Key Topics
- Day 1: Opportunities and challenges for women-led MSME development in Sri Lanka, understanding our customer and their needs
- Day 2: e-commerce essentials and product portfolio development for local or international markets
- Day 3: digital marketing to attract and retain customers
- Day 4: product development or service delivery using environmentally sustainable methods
- Day 5: business coaching skills and plan
Schedule
Participants will join for 5 full days each:
- Batch one: 3-7 June (15 participants)
- Batch two: 10-14 June 2024 (15 participants)
Where: The training will be held at a central location in Colombo.
Organiser and Facilitator
The training is being organised by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and MDF. This technical assistance is funded by Global Affairs Canada through the Canadian Trade and Investment Facility for Development through the project: Building the Capacity of Women Business Development Coaches in Sri Lanka.
The facilitators will include a mixture of international trainers bringing new global insight, and trainers working on the forefront of the issues bringing deep Sri Lankan understanding.
- Richard Yeboah entrepreneurship, ecommerce and digital marketing | MDF
- Ruvanara Tillakaratne| women’s entrepreneurship | Hatch
- Randhula de Silva and Priyadarshinie Karunaratne | environmentally sustainable business | Good Life X
- Zoë Lawson Project Manager | MDF | please reach out for partnership inquiries in Sri Lanka zla@mdf.nl
- Bart van Halteren MDF Asia Director
- Manori Dissanayake | Programme Manager | Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
- Yasura Samarakoon| SME Centre | Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
- Shehara | Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
- Nirosha | Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
For more details and to apply: https://forms.office.com/e/n45TbdeiHC
For inquiries: Yasura Samarakoon | 0777486558 | yasura@chamber.lk
Frequently asked questions (FAQs):
What is the deadline to apply for the training program?
The deadline to apply is March 29th, 2024.
How can I apply and get selected for the program?
To apply, please fill out the application form provided on our website and submit it before the deadline. You will need to write about your motivation, and also supply your CV. Selection will be based on various criteria, including but not limited to, motivation, commitment, experience, and suitability for the program. If you are full-time employed, we encourage you to speak with your supervisor to get their support and/or ensure you can apply for leave.
What are the requirements to participate?
Participants should be Sri Lankan women interested in developing their career as a business coach/trainer. They should also have digital literacy, access to a smartphone/laptop. Participants need sufficient English language skills to follow the main presentations, but participants are welcome to discuss in any language, and we will also arrange interpretation support in both Tamil and Sinhala languages as well as some translation of key concepts. Additionally, participants should be committed to attending all five days of the training, with the support of their employer if necessary.
What is the cost to participate?
The program is FREE for selected participants. The training will be held at a location in Central Colombo, and lunches and breaks are provided.
However, participants will be responsible for their own transportation, accommodation, and living costs during the training period. For participants residing in the wider Colombo area, a small daily transportation allowance is available. For participants coming from around the country, a reasonable allowance will be provided to help cover the costs of accommodation, transportation, and additional meals, depending on distance.
What happens after the training?
After completing the training, participants will become part of a network of women coaches/trainers empowered with practical skills and knowledge to support women entrepreneurs. They will have opportunities to affiliate with the Chamber of Commerce and other partners for further career development and coaching opportunities.
Can I apply if I have prior coaching/training experience?
Yes, prior coaching/training experience is beneficial but not mandatory. The program welcomes applicants with varying levels of experience in coaching and training.
Can I apply if I do not have prior coaching/training experience?
Absolutely! Formal coaching or training experience is not a requirement for applying to the program. We encourage Sri Lankan women with leadership experience in business or entrepreneurship to apply.
What business sectors is the training relevant for?
The program welcomes applicants from various sectors and industries. Whether you're involved in traditional businesses, emerging industries, or niche sectors, your expertise and insights are valuable. We encourage women from diverse sectors such as agriculture, handicrafts and traditional, manufacturing, technology, hospitality, retail, and services to apply.
Do I need experience in ecommerce and digital marketing?
No prior experience in ecommerce and digital marketing is required to apply for the program. While having some knowledge or experience in these areas may be beneficial, it's not a strict requirement. The training sessions are designed to cater to participants with varying levels of expertise, including those who are new to ecommerce and digital marketing. However, the training will be relevant for participants who are digitally connected, and who have access to their own smartphone and/or laptop.
How will I be notified if I am selected?
Selected participants will be notified via email or phone after the application review process is completed.
Is there any age restriction to apply for the program?
No, there is no age restriction to apply. Women of all age groups within the eligible range are encouraged to apply.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of the training?
Yes, participants who successfully complete the training will receive a certificate of participation, and skills endorsement by the trainers on your LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
Remember, the deadline to apply is March 29th, 2024. Apply now for this exciting opportunity to enhance your coaching and training skills and empower women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka!
