Chris Infotainment

Recognition of Leadership and Vision Vidyani Hettigoda, the Director of the Hettigoda Group of Companies, has been honored as one of the Sri Lankan Top 100 Iconic Women 2025 at the SLBC Centenary Awards. The event took place on August 29 at the BMICH, celebrating her remarkable contributions to business and society. With over three decades of experience, Vidyani has played a crucial role in transforming the family-owned enterprise into a global well-being brand. Under her guidance, Siddhalepa has expanded its presence to more than 40 countries, offering a diverse range of Ayurvedic products and services. Her vision has helped position Ayurveda as a respected and sought-after wellness solution worldwide. Beyond her professional achievements, Vidyani is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and entrepreneurship. She has mentored numerous rural women, providing them with the tools and support needed to become successful entrepreneurs. Her efforts have not only empowered ind...

The Intersection of AI and Gender Inequality In an era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global workforce, a troubling pattern emerges: women's bodies often become the ultimate sites for the exertion of force by men. This issue has gained urgency as AI replaces human labor in various sectors, leading to widespread job displacement and societal upheaval. As machines and algorithms take over tasks once performed by humans, the structure of labor is being redefined, and with it, the dynamics of power and vulnerability. Historically, during times of societal disruption, women have often borne the brunt of instability. Whether due to colonization, pandemics, or technological advancements that rendered certain skills obsolete, the consequences have frequently fallen heavily on women. These periods, while distinct in their causes, share a common outcome: the redirection of male frustration and disempowerment toward women. This phenomenon highlights a deep-rooted patter...

The Crisis of Girls' Education in Pakistan The issue of girls' access to education remains one of the most pressing challenges in Pakistan. According to recent research, approximately 12 million girls are not attending school, making them a significant portion of the out-of-school population. While poverty plays a role in some cases—high educational costs often prevent families from enrolling their daughters—it is not the sole factor at play. Deep-seated cultural norms and societal biases continue to deny girls their right to education, especially in rural areas and among more conservative households. This discrimination has historical roots that stretch back to the pre-Islamic era, when female infants were sometimes buried alive due to the belief that they were a burden. This dark period, known as the 'Daur-e-Jahiliyyah,' valued male children while devaluing females. Although this practice is long gone, the mindset it fostered still lingers today. In many parts of Pa...

Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Technology Telecel Ghana recently hosted a special event that brought together 100 girls from various primary and junior high schools across the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions. This gathering was part of the National Girls-in-ICT Open Day initiative, an important step toward encouraging more women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The initiative is aimed at addressing the gender gap in these critical fields by providing young girls with hands-on experience and exposure to technology-driven environments. The open day was organized as part of a nationwide program focused on fostering inclusivity in STEM. It offered participants the opportunity to explore technology workplaces, interact with professionals, and gain practical insights into various STEM disciplines. This kind of engagement is essential for inspiring young minds and helping them envision themselves in these roles. The event kicked o...

Empowering Women Through Digital Skills: A New Era for Rural Communities In a significant move toward digital inclusion and gender equality, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a Training of Trainers (ToT) program focused on digital skills for women in rural communities. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Government of Liberia and various partners, marks a crucial step in equipping women with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the modern digital economy. The program was officially launched on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the Liberia Chamber of Commerce in Monrovia. The event brought together representatives from multiple sectors, including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, ECOWAS Commission, the Liberia Chamber of Commerce, and technical partners. This collective effort underscores a shared commitment to advancing digital inclusion and fostering sustainable development across underserved regions. A Vision for Inclusive...