In a groundbreaking move towards gender equality, Sri Lanka has unveiled its first resort entirely staffed and operated by women.
This initiative not only challenges traditional gender roles but also seeks to empower women in an industry where their representation has been disproportionately low.
The Birth of Amba Yaalu: A Visionary Endeavor
Nestled amidst Sri Lanka’s picturesque landscapes, Amba Yaalu stands as a testament to progressive thinking in the hospitality sector. Conceived by Chandra Wickramasinghe, a stalwart in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, the resort aims to unlock the untapped potential of women, thereby boosting the nation’s tourism economy. Despite women constituting 52% of Sri Lanka’s population, they account for only 10% of the hospitality workforce. This disparity is attributed to social stigmas, language barriers, challenges in work-life balance, and inadequate remuneration. Amba Yaalu endeavors to bridge this gap by providing a platform where women can thrive professionally.
Empowering Women: Beyond Traditional Roles
Under the leadership of manager Jeewanthi Adikari, Amba Yaalu employs 75 women who undertake a diverse array of roles, from gardening and cooking to guest services and security. This comprehensive involvement ensures that women are integral to every facet of the resort’s operations. To equip them with the necessary skills, the resort offers extensive training programs, enabling women to excel in hospitality and management positions. Such initiatives are crucial in challenging societal norms and demonstrating that women can perform roles traditionally reserved for men.
Addressing Industry Challenges: A Holistic Approach
The underrepresentation of women in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector stems from various factors, including societal perceptions that discourage women from pursuing careers in hospitality. Additionally, concerns about safety, especially during night shifts, have deterred many from entering the field. Amba Yaalu addresses these issues by creating a safe and supportive work environment, offering flexible working hours, and providing transportation facilities to ensure the well-being of its staff. By tackling these challenges head-on, the resort sets a precedent for other establishments to follow.
Economic Implications: A Boost to Tourism
The inauguration of Amba Yaalu is timely, as Sri Lanka seeks to rejuvenate its tourism industry post-pandemic. By empowering women and promoting gender equality, the resort enhances the country’s appeal to global travelers who value and support inclusive practices. Moreover, employing women in significant numbers can lead to improved customer service, as diverse perspectives often result in more innovative and empathetic approaches to hospitality. This, in turn, can boost tourist satisfaction and contribute to the industry’s overall growth.
Societal Impact: Redefining Gender Norms
Beyond the economic benefits, Amba Yaalu plays a pivotal role in redefining gender norms within Sri Lankan society. By visibly placing women in roles across all levels of operation, the resort challenges traditional perceptions and inspires young girls to pursue careers in fields previously deemed unconventional for them. This shift not only empowers individual women but also fosters a more inclusive and progressive society.
The Road Ahead: Inspiring Change
While Amba Yaalu is a significant milestone, it is essential to recognize that achieving gender parity in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector requires collective effort. Other industry stakeholders must draw inspiration from this initiative and implement similar practices within their establishments. Additionally, policymakers should consider introducing incentives for businesses that actively promote gender equality and invest in training programs for women. Educational institutions can also play a role by encouraging female students to explore careers in hospitality and tourism management.
Conclusion: A Beacon of Progress
Amba Yaalu stands as a beacon of progress in Sri Lanka’s journey towards gender equality. By creating opportunities for women in the tourism sector, the resort not only empowers individuals but also enriches the industry with diverse talents and perspectives. As more establishments embrace such inclusive practices, Sri Lanka moves closer to a future where gender no longer dictates one’s professional opportunities, and equality becomes the norm rather than the exception.
