CHRYSALIS
MADE BY HER – FROM HER HANDS TO YOUR HOME
In a world where women often face barriers to business growth, Made by Her (MbH) is rewriting the story of women entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka. Launched in 2020 by Chrysalis, MbH is an inclusive marketplace and network dedicated to women led micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). What began as an initiative to connect women to markets has today become a symbol of empowerment, sustainability and innovation.
A PLATFORM WITH PURPOSE Explaining the vision behind the initiative, CEO of Chrysalis Ashika Gunasena says: “Made by Her was launched in 2020 as an inclusive marketplace and network dedicated to women led MSMEs. The idea was to create a platform where women entrepreneurs could grow beyond their traditional markets and gain access to both digital and physical marketplaces nationwide.”
MbH’s mission extends well beyond giving women shelf space. It offers technical assistance in quality control, branding, product diversification and innovation, enabling women to move from survival driven businesses to sustainable ventures.
“For us, it’s not only about enabling women to sell their products but also empowering them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to present their work professionally, pitch to new buyers and access wider opportunities,” she adds.
MbH collaborates with 42 partners across Sri Lanka today, creating ripple effects that benefit not only women entrepreneurs but also their families, communities and the wider economy.
And MbH’s support for women entrepreneurs is multifaceted. From coaching and mentoring to securing hygiene and quality certifications, the initiative helps women enhance their products and credibility. Entrepreneurs are also trained in digital marketing tools, opening doors to international markets in the UK, Australia and Canada through strong diaspora connections.
Participation in high profile events such as the Galle Literary Festival (GLF), mega trade fairs and exhibitions in leading Colombo hotels has also given women direct exposure to new markets. These opportunities have allowed them to sell at higher price points and build sustainable customer bases.
Through its parent organisation Chrysalis, MbH has also facilitated financial support ranging from Rs. 150,000 to over a million rupees. Importantly, women are linked to commercial banking systems, enabling them to access affordable credit and move away from exploitative lending practices.
The results have been inspiring. Gunasena highlights one example: “One of the most exciting outcomes of our work has been collaborations among entrepreneurs themselves – such as the partnership between a batik manufacturer and a shoemaker that created Sri Lanka’s first batik slipper.”
WHAT MAKES MBH DIFFERENT? Director Programmes at Chrysalis Ahamed Rislan points out that MbH stands apart because it is both a marketplace and a movement. “We don’t simply promote women’s products; we purchase them directly, pay cash on delivery and eliminate the middleman. This ensures that women receive their rightful earnings without delay,” he explains.
Equally significant is the type of products MbH showcases – eco-conscious, handmade and culturally inspired creations, which reflect the creativity and resilience of Sri Lankan women. From recycled and redesigned products to organic alternatives, every item carries meaning.
Rislan adds: “Each purchase tells a story – not only supporting livelihoods but also promoting sustainable living and celebrating women’s artistry. This authenticity resonates strongly with customers, whether local or international.”
LOOKING AHEAD MbH is now preparing for its next chapter. In September, the platform will move to a larger showroom at Charles Way, Colpetty, offering space for more entrepreneurs and an expanded product range. Plans are also underway to open a store in one of Colombo’s malls, giving women entrepreneurs direct access to upmarket clients and international tourists.
“In the long run, we see Made by Her becoming not only a platform for sales but also a symbol of inclusive, ethical and sustainable commerce. By building stronger connections between women entrepreneurs and diverse markets, we hope to inspire a culture of conscious consumption while elevating women’s place in the economy,” he affirms.
As consumers increasingly seek authenticity and sustainability, MbH offers the perfect opportunity to shop responsibly and with impact. By choosing Made by Her, buyers are not merely obtaining beautiful, high quality products – they are also part of a larger story of empowerment and resilience.
The call is clear: support women, sustainability and Sri Lanka’s future. Visit the MbH outlet at Chrysalis, Park Road, Colombo 5; explore the new showroom at Charles Way, Colombo 3; or simply shop online at www.madebyhersl.com. And for inquiries contact 0771 989900. With every purchase, you’re not simply shopping, you’re shaping a more inclusive and equitable tomorrow.
– Compiled by Tamara Rebeira
COMPANY DETAILS
Telephone 0771 989900 | Website www.madebyhersl.com
