Celebrating the achievements of organisations and individuals in Asia who are champions of DE&I and Wellbeing
The Community Business Awards celebrates leaders (organisations and individuals) across Asia who have worked passionately and achieved great strides in diversity, equity, inclusion, and wellbeing. This year marks the second year of the awards with an impressive list of finalists with significant achievements in their categories. The awards will be held on the 5th of September 2024 at the Soho House in Hong Kong. The CEO Janet Ledger mentioned an uphill task for the judges since the bar was set very high the year before. With over 250 nominations across 16 award categories, what followed was a rigorous selection process.
Each category boasts of finalists who have dedicated their lives in their respective categories and the list can be found below in alphabetical order.
CREATING SOCIAL IMPACT
Creating Social Impact in Asia: Community Leader Award
To recognise a community leader in the public and social services sector (including not-for-profits and social enterprise) based in Asia who has demonstrated personal passion and used their influence to advance social change.
Ahmed Imtiaz Jami – OBHIZA TRIK Foundation
Brian Henderson of Whole – Business Wellness Limited
Faride Shroff – SENsational Foundation
Lindsay Davis – Femtech Association Asia
Creating Social Impact in Asia: Specific Initiative Award
To recognise a specific initiative driven by a not-for-profit or social enterprise that has had a positive and measurable social impact on under-represented or disadvantaged groups in the broader community in Asia.
Asia Pacific Youth Development Foundation Limited
Inspiring Girls Hong Kong
Resolve Foundation
Science and Technology for Autism Remediation (STAR) Limited
Creating Social Impact in Asia: Partnership Award
To recognise a specific initiative driven by both a not-for-profit/social enterprise and a corporate in partnership that has, through its overall strategy and wider approach, has a positive and measurable impact on under-represented or disadvantaged groups in the broader community in Asia.
Caritas Hong Kong and Hong Kong Land Limited
Dentsu, Kreaby Studio Indonesia, Spotify and Sun Eater
FWD Group Holdings Limited and JA Asia Pacific
HELP Limited and Linklaters
GENERAL DE&I
DE&I Business Leader in Asia Award
To recognise a leader/senior executive in the business sector based in Asia who has demonstrated personal passion and used their influence to advance DE&I business practices in their organisation and beyond.
Ashwani Bhargava – Boeing
Sarada Vempati – Wells Fargo
Susheela Rivers – DLA Piper
DE&I Innovation in Asia Award
To recognise a specific business initiative that demonstrates a bold, new, different or creative approach to advancing DE&I practices in Asia.
EY
MTR Corporation
Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC
Employee Network in Asia Award
To recognise an employee network that has played a strategic and proactive role in advancing DE&I business practices in Asia.
Boeing
EY
Intel
J.P. Morgan
Achieving Gender Equality in Asia Award
To recognise an organisation that has made a positive and measurable impact in achieving gender (including nonbinary, trans and intersex) equality in the workplace in Asia.
Deacons
Luuna
Michael Page International
LGBTQ+ INCLUSION
LGBTQ+ Ally in Asia Award
To recognise a leader/senior executive in the business sector based in Asia who has demonstrated personal passion and used their influence to advance DE&I business practices in their organisation and beyond.
Amy Hanly – Morgan Stanley
Edward Mears – DLA Piper
Holly McGhee – EY
LGBTQ+ Inclusion Champion in Asia Award
To recognise an LGBTQ+ employee who has taken proactive and effective steps to promote an LGBTQ+ inclusive culture in the workplace and beyond in Asia.
Amita Karadkhedkar – Citi
Kevin Li – Citi
Tanvi Nair – Northern Trust India
Zhijun Hu – PFLAG China
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Organisation in Asia Award
To recognise a non-LGBTQ+ focused organisation that has built an LGBTQ+ friendly workplace culture with inclusive policies in Asia.
AMS
Eaton HK
Godrej Properties Limited
Transgender Inclusion in Asia Award
To recognise an organisation that has adopted a strategic and proactive approach to advancing transgender inclusion in the workplace in Asia.
PeriFerry
Publicis Sapient (TLG India Pvt. Ltd.)
Transtalents Consulting Group
Varun Beverages Limited
WELLBEING
Wellbeing in Asia Award
To recognise an organisation that has implemented a strategic and proactive approach to promoting good health and wellbeing, in different aspects of wellbeing, including financial inclusion, mental wellbeing, physical wellbeing and social wellbeing.
EY
Fair Employment Agency
FWD Group Holdings Limited
Sheraton & Four Points by Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung
INDIA
DE&I Champion of Change in India Award
To recognise an employee who has been a visible and committed champion of change by promoting DE&I in the workplace and beyond in India.
Dhanashri Jogal – State Street
Dr. Kishora Shetty – Boeing
Shashwati P. – Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages
Vieshaka Dutta – Publicis Sapient (TLG India Pvt. Ltd.)
Advancement of Women in India Award
To recognise a specific initiative that has had a positive and measurable impact on supporting and promoting the advancement of women in the workplace in India.
Aditya Birla Capital
Citi
EY
Hindustan Unilever Ltd.
Championing for Neurodiversity and Disability Confidence in India Award
To recognise an organisation that has demonstrated a strategic and proactive approach to champion neurodiversity or build disability confidence in the workplace in India.
EY
Godrej Properties Limited
Hindustan Unilever Ltd.
Wells Fargo
LGBTQ+ Inclusion in India Award
To recognise a non-LGBTQ+ organisation that has demonstrated a strategic and proactive approach to creating an inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ employees in India.
Citi India
Morgan Stanley
Northern Trust India
With over 150+ guests in attendance the Business Community Awards will announce the winners from the various awards categories at Soho House. If you wish to attend the award ceremony, please click here.
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Sri Lanka's Cascading Wonders: Discovering the Top Waterfalls
Sri Lanka, known for its lush landscapes and natural beauty, is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. From cascading torrents hidden deep within dense forests to majestic falls plunging into crystal-clear pools, Sri Lanka's waterfalls are a sight to behold. Here's a guide to the top waterfalls in Sri Lanka that you must add to your travel itinerary, along with the best places to visit in Sri Lanka!
1. Bambarakanda Falls
Towering at a height of 263 meters, Bambarakanda Falls is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Located in the Badulla District, this stunning cascade plunges down a sheer rock face surrounded by lush greenery. The trek to Bambarakanda Falls offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
2. Diyaluma Falls
Diyaluma Falls is another must-visit waterfall in Sri Lanka, known for its multi-tiered cascades and natural swimming pools. With a total height of approximately 220 meters, Diyaluma Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. Visitors can hike to various levels of the waterfall, each offering its own unique perspective and photo opportunities.
3. Ravana Falls
Located near Ella, Ravana Falls is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs. According to local legend, this waterfall is associated with the ancient Indian epic Ramayana, adding to its mystique and allure. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Ravana Falls from various viewpoints along the road leading to Ella.
4. St. Clair's Falls
Also known as the "Little Niagara of Sri Lanka," St. Clair's Falls is a breathtaking cascade located near the town of Talawakele. With a total height of approximately 80 meters, this waterfall consists of multiple tiers, creating a mesmerizing sight amidst the verdant tea estates of the central highlands.
5. Baker's Falls
Situated within the Horton Plains National Park, Baker's Falls is a scenic waterfall that attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The waterfall is named after Sir Samuel Baker, a British explorer who discovered it in the 19th century. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely trek through the picturesque landscapes of Horton Plains to reach Baker's Falls.
6. Aberdeen Falls
Hidden away in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Aberdeen Falls is a stunning cascade surrounded by dense forests and mist-covered mountains. The waterfall plunges from a height of approximately 98 meters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that is best enjoyed during the rainy season when it is at its fullest.
7. Devon Falls
Named after a British coffee planter, Devon Falls is a scenic waterfall located near the town of Nuwara Eliya. With a height of approximately 97 meters, this cascade is a popular stop for tourists exploring the hill country of Sri Lanka. Visitors can admire Devon Falls from a viewpoint along the A7 highway, offering panoramic views of the surrounding tea estates.
8. Laxapana Falls
Laxapana Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Sri Lanka, located near the village of Laxapana in the central highlands. With a total height of approximately 126 meters, this cascade is surrounded by lush green forests and rocky cliffs, creating a dramatic backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
9. Dunhinda Falls
Dunhinda Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located near Badulla, renowned for its sheer beauty and accessibility. The waterfall plunges from a height of approximately 64 meters, creating a misty veil that adds to its allure. Visitors can enjoy a scenic trek through the forest to reach the base of Dunhinda Falls and feel its refreshing spray.
10. Rawana Ella Falls
Rawana Ella Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near Ella, surrounded by dense vegetation and rocky cliffs. According to local legend, this waterfall is named after the demon king Rawana from the ancient Indian epic Ramayana. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Rawana Ella Falls from various viewpoints along the hiking trail leading to the waterfall.
11. Kirindi Ella Falls
Located near the town of Pelmadulla, Kirindi Ella Falls is a stunning cascade that plunges from a height of approximately 116 meters. Surrounded by dense forests and rocky cliffs, this waterfall offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike to reach the base of Kirindi Ella Falls and admire its natural beauty.
12. Bomburu Ella Falls
Situated within the Horton Plains National Park, Bomburu Ella Falls is a hidden gem nestled amidst pristine forests and rolling hills. The waterfall consists of multiple tiers, creating a mesmerizing cascade that is best enjoyed during the rainy season when it is at its fullest. Visitors can embark on a scenic trek through the park to reach Bomburu Ella Falls and immerse themselves in its serene surroundings.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka's waterfalls are truly a testament to the country's natural beauty and diversity. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat amidst stunning landscapes, these top 12 waterfalls in Sri Lanka are guaranteed to leave you spellbound. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking shoes, and embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the spectacular cascades of Sri Lanka.
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