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British Council-HSBC Sri Lanka unveil Youth Connect initiative

The British Council, in partnership with HSBC Sri Lanka, has launched Youth Connect: Inclusive Economic Empowerment (IEE) – Green Pathways, a new initiative designed to support young people in Sri Lanka in accessing employment, entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities in Sri Lanka’s emerging blue-green economy.

Implemented by SEVANTHA Urban Resource Centre and Muslim Aid Sri Lanka, the project will support young people to explore pathways into employment and entrepreneurship while promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

The event also featured a symbolic launch celebrating the partnership between the British Council and HSBC Sri Lanka. Representatives from both organisations came together for a commemorative photograph to mark the launch of the initiative and reaffirm their shared commitment to helping young people access opportunities within Sri Lanka’s emerging blue-green economy.

British Council Sri Lanka Country Director Clare Sears said, “Sri Lanka’s young people have the talent, ambition and potential to drive Sri Lanka’s blue-green future. Through this partnership with HSBC, we are helping them translate that potential into opportunity by building the skills, confidence and connections needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.”

HSBC Sri Lanka CEO Mark Surgenor said, “Through Green Pathways, HSBC is pleased to provide practical support, including mentoring, enterprise guidance and financial capability development, to young people exploring Sri Lanka’s blue-green economy.”

Over the coming months, the participants will access learning opportunities, mentoring, industry engagement and practical support to strengthen their readiness for employment and entrepreneurship. Particular emphasis will be placed on supporting young women, young people with disabilities and young people facing barriers to economic participation.

The applications for Youth Connect: IEE – Green Pathways are now open until November 30, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and early applications are encouraged.

Young people interested in employment and entrepreneurship opportunities within Sri Lanka’s blue-green economy are encouraged to visit British Council Sri Lanka’s Facebook and Instagram channels for application details and programme updates.