Thema Collection marked yet another milestone of an utterly innovative way that heralded change into South Asian hospitality-with the launch of the region's first entirely women-managed and run resort, Amba Yaalu Kandalama, last week. This beacon of women's power, perched dramatically on the banks of serenity-kissed Kandalama Lake, heralds women empowerment in most ways besides pointing toward environment-sensitive tourism.
The acting French Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Marie-Noelle Duris, also hailed the initiative and said that the endeavor means a lot to bridge the existing gap between male and female workers in the leisure sector. "In the hospitality sector globally, women have more than a 50 percent stake, whereas in Sri Lanka, it remains less than 10 percent. At Amba Yala, women are getting leadership opportunities within hotels; therefore, many women will be attracted to join and work in this industry," she said.
Duris said France's travel interest has been continuously contributing much to the rehabilitation of Sri Lanka's travel industry after the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 Easter Sunday attacks, and the just-ended economic crisis. France maintained its position as Sri Lanka's number two European source market with stays averaging 10 days. A strong Euro underpins demand during the traditional Summer Low Season in this market. Unlike other European sources, the market travels to Sri Lanka throughout the year.
A Concept of Foresight
Chairman Chandra Wickremesinghe, the brainchild behind Amba Yaalu Kandalama, shared the singular vision of the hotel. "The global hospitality industry is largely devoid of women leaders, and this is truer for Sri Lanka. This very fact motivated us to build a resort managed exclusively by women, unleashing their brilliance in service delivery while redefining the rules of the game.
The result is a hotel that stands out in elegance, sustainability, and empowerment, built within a record seven months for an investment of Rs. 850 million. With more than 80 staff members comprised of women, this resort features 33 lavish rooms facing the grand Sleeping Soldier Mountain and Kandalama Lake. Guests can relax with rejuvenating Ayurveda treatments at the Ayurvie Spa, take part in yoga sessions, or enjoy the hotel's dedicated vegan restaurant.
Mr. Wickremesinghe further added, "We wish to give women opportunities for gainful employment locally to eradicate the trend of their seeking work abroad. This investment will revolutionize the hospitality industry by creating a landmark that showcases what a woman can do in a predominantly male-dominated field."
Sustainability at the Core
Amba Yaalu Kandalama is not only about empowerment but also a testimony to sustainability. Nestled in a 6 ½-acre mango grove with 457 mango trees, the resort fosters an eco-friendly environment. It boasts 157 solar panels spanning 12,000 square feet, generating 140.40 kW of power, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. Guests can explore the lush surroundings on E-bikes, aligning with the resort's commitment to green initiatives.
The name of the hotel is taken from the famous 1957 novel "Amba Yaluwo" (Mango Friends) by T.B. Illangaratne, reflecting friendship, harmony, and the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Empowering Women Through Training and Leadership
Theme Collection, known for its boutique hotels including Aliya in Sigiriya, Maalu Maalu in Pasikuda, and Kithala in Tissamaharama, has been bold with this project. Maxime Wickremesinghe, Director at Amba Yaalu Kandalama says, "The resort brings together some of the most experienced hoteliers along with raw local talent, in-house training to equip women for various roles.".
"We aim to recruit more women from nearby communities and provide them with comprehensive training to handle various operations within the hotel. This initiative ensures that our staff is equipped with the skills needed to excel, setting a new benchmark in the industry," he explained.
Transforming Sri Lanka’s Hospitality Landscape
Amba Yaalu Kandalama is not a resort; it's a movement-a change in the face of hospitality in Sri Lanka. Empowering women, embracing sustainability, offering unmatched experiences to guests-the resort leads the way into a brighter, more inclusive future.
To the travelers who love unique experiences, Amba Yaalu Kandalama offers them the opportunity to experience luxury by supporting a cause that changes the face of the industry.
Experience camaraderie, sustainability, and unmatched hospitality in Amba Yaalu Kandalama, where empowerment meets with elegance.
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