Category: Daily Financial Times

Methodist Church Sri Lanka Retired President Bishop Rev. Asiri P. Perera has issued an open letter to Manohary Sallay, the wife of former State Intelligence Service (SIS) Director Suresh Sallay who has been detained for over 100 days under the Prevention of Terrorism Act due to his alleged involvement with the devastating 2019 Easter Sunday terror attack. Following are excerpts of the open letter.

‘As the wife of Suresh Sallay, your feelings and thoughts are real, and I do not interfere with your right to express them. A spouse’s loyalty is natural. Yet, I appeal to your conscience to reflect carefully on your public declaration that ‘Suresh is an innocent man suffering for no reason.'(18 June Daily Mirror

Points to consider

1 Due process matters

Innocence or guilt is not determined by declarations but by the legal and judicial process.

By insisting on innocence before proceedings conclude, are you not undermining the very system that protects justice for all citizens?

2. Public perception

Many citizens have already questioned the validity of such a statement.

Does it not risk appearing as though you are dismissing the voices of victims and the seriousness of ongoing investigations?

3. Political echoes

Your language resembles that of certain disgruntled politicians who, burdened by their own wrongful acts, now speak of ‘revenge’ and ‘persecution.’

Could it be that they are using you as a pawn to campaign for their agendas, rather than allowing truth to emerge through fair inquiry?

4. Impact on investigations

By pressing for changes in interrogating officers or procedures, do you realise the injustice this does to the integrity of investigations?

Shouldn’t the priority be to let trained officers pursue truth without interference, so that justice is not compromised?

5. Mask and transparency

In hospitals or on public roads, wearing a mask is understandable for health reasons.

But when you make daily statements to the media while masked, it does not help credibility. If you want the public to hear you and take you seriously, why hide your face?

Does this not suggest that certain truths are being withheld? And is your husband not doing the same by withholding the full truth from the public?

6. Spiritual care during interrogation

While family visits are permitted daily and lawyers meet weekly, why not also seek permission from court to allow a clergy person from your husband’s own faith tradition to visit him?

Such pastoral presence could help him serenely reflect on inner turmoil, confront pricking guilt, and seek spiritual solace.

His refusal of food and water may not be a noble ‘fast unto death,’ but rather a sign of unresolved spiritual and psychological conflict – a despair that makes death seem easier than facing truth.

Yet, none of our religions encourage death as an escape. They call us instead to repentance, reconciliation, and healing.

7. Moral responsibility

If your husband is indeed innocent, the courts will vindicate him.

But if guilt is proven, will your public defense not appear as complicity in shielding wrongdoing?

Closing appeal

Mrs. Sallay, your loyalty as a wife is understandable. Yet, loyalty must not blind us to justice. Sri Lanka has suffered enough from hidden guilt, political manipulation, and denial of responsibility. The nation needs truth, not premature declarations.

Let the courts speak. Let justice take its course. And let spiritual care be part of the journey, so that even in interrogation, conscience may awaken and healing may begin.’

Marriott International, Inc. signed a landmark agreement with CG Hospitality Global to open three new hotels in South Asia, introducing Marriott’s industry-leading luxury and premium hotel brands to key urban, economic and leisure destinations across Nepal and India.

Anticipated to open in 2031 and adding nearly 450 keys to the company’s portfolio, The Ritz-Carlton Kathmandu, The Westin Kathmandu and JW Marriott Hotel Siliguri are poised to become coveted addresses for discerning travellers and residents.

CG Hospitality Global is Nepal’s largest and most diversified multinational conglomerates, with interests spanning hospitality, FMCG, financial services, cement, electric vehicles, telecom, education, infrastructure and real estate, amongst others. Headquartered in Nepal, the company is deeply committed to supporting the country’s long-term tourism and economic growth, while helping position Nepal as a globally recognized travel and hospitality destination. CG Hospitality Global shares a strong and growing association with Marriott through multiple hospitality developments across the region, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding world-class hospitality experiences in South Asia.

This multi-property agreement was officially signed in the presence of Marriott International’s Chairman of the Board David Marriott, CG Corp Global and CG Hospitality Chairman Dr. Binod K. Chaudhary, and Managing Director and CEO Rahul Chaudhary.

Marriott International President, Asia Pacific excluding China Rajeev Menon and Marriott International Senior Vice President South Asia Kiran Andicot said: “We are pleased to deepen our association with CG Hospitality Global through a shared vision to bring world-class hospitality experiences to these high-potential markets” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “These landmark developments reflect the exceptional standards and brand excellence that define Marriott’s luxury and premium portfolio, while contributing meaningfully to tourism growth, local employment and regional economic development. Backed by CG Hospitality Global’s strong market expertise and long-term commitment to Nepal, we are confident these hotels will emerge as defining hospitality destinations in the region”.

CG Hospitality Global CEO and Managing Director Rahul Chaudhary said: “Growing our relationship with Marriott International marks an exciting new chapter in our journey to elevate South Asia’s hospitality landscape. These signings signifies the importance that both parties put in this collaboration, and we sincerely thank Marriott for their trust, collaboration, and shared vision as we embark on these landmark projects together. Together, we will create iconic destinations that celebrate local culture, unlock meaningful employment, and deliver exceptional experiences for travelers and communities.”

The Ritz- Carlton, Kathmandu, Nepal: Marking the brand’s debut in Nepal, The Ritz-Carlton, Kathmandu will bring its legendary service and refined aesthetic to one of the city’s most prestigious addresses. Anticipated to feature 150 elegantly appointed guest rooms, including 30 expansive suites, each space will be thoughtfully designed to offer a sense of understated luxury and sophisticated comfort. The property is also expected to feature the Ritz-Carlton Club signature, exquisite dining experiences across five distinct restaurants and bars, an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, as well as The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Additionally, it is slated to feature over 1,100 square meters of well-equipped conference and event facilities, providing an ideal venue for corporate gatherings and social occasions. The hotel will offer excellent accessibility, located just 5 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport and just a short walk from cultural sites such as the famous Thamel, filled with local eateries and retail shops, The Narayanhiti Palace Museum, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambunath Stupa and the revered Pashupatinath Temple.

The Westin Kathmandu, Nepal: Located at a convenient 7 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport, The Westin Kathmandu is expected to feature 150 premium rooms and suites. Plans for the property include three dining venues, a WestinWORKOUT® Fitness studio, the signature Heavenly Spa by Westin, a rooftop swimming pool and over 700 square meters of flexible meeting and banquet space, enhanced with natural light and smart technology. The hotel is poised to exemplify the brand’s position as hospitality’s global leader in wellness, allowing travellers to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through its pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well and Move Well.

JW Marriott Hotel Siliguri, India: Rooted in mindful luxury, JW Marriott Hotel Siliguri, is envisioned as a serene sanctuary for the mind, body, and spirit, bringing the brand’s signature warmth, intuitive service, and refined design to the tranquil landscape of Siliguri. Set against the foothills of the Himalayas, in a city known as the gateway to Northeast India, the hotel offers a seamless connection to both place and purpose. Design plans for the hotel include 150 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites, alongside wellness spaces that invite guests to pause and reconnect with the present. Immersive culinary experiences will come to life across four distinct dining venues, including a specialty restaurant. Additionally, the property is slated to offer a signature Spa by JW, an outdoor swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness centre and 1,500 square meters of banquet space, ideal for corporate meets and private celebrations. Conveniently located just 10 kilometers from Bagdogra Airport, the hotel will serve as a restorative retreat, balancing effortless access with a profound sense of calm.

The three-property signing is the latest in a series of milestones reflecting the growing association between Marriott and CG Hospitality Global, including recently celebrating 75 total signings and 50 open properties for Series by Marriott in under two years. Outside of India, CG Hospitality Global and Marriott also opened The Farm at San Benito, Autograph Collection in the Philippines, marking the debut of the Autograph Collection brand in the country, while CG Developers announced JW Marriott Residences at Dubai Islands, Central, Dubai’s first JW Marriott branded residences.

These milestones reflect the growing momentum of Marriott and CG Hospitality’s relationship and reinforce a collaboration that continues to deepen across a range of markets and brands especially through the Series by Marriott.

The delegation of the Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA), led by party Leader MP Mano Ganesan, met with Australian High Commissioner Matthew Duckworth at the Australia House in Colombo last week for a comprehensive discussion on issues affecting the Malaiyaha Tamil community and broader matters relating to national democratic governance and inclusive development.

The TPA delegation comprised MP Ganesan, Vice President – International Affairs and Communications Barath Arullsamy, and Ratnapura Pradeshiya Sabha Vice Chairman Chandrakumar.

Representing the Australian High Commission were High Commissioner Duckworth, Deputy High Commissioner Ruth Baird, and Second Secretary – Political Matthew Lord.

During the meeting, Ganesan emphasised that the Malaiyaha Tamil community must no longer be viewed solely through the lens of its historical origins as an indentured labour force.

“The community has undergone a significant transformation and today constitutes Sri Lanka’s fourth largest ethnic community, numbering approximately 1.5 million people. The aspirations of our people have evolved beyond labour-related concerns and now encompass equal citizenship, land ownership, education, economic empowerment, and meaningful participation in national development,” he said.

The delegation briefed the High Commissioner on the longstanding land rights challenges faced by estate communities. It was highlighted that despite contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s economy for over two centuries, thousands of plantation families continue to live without secure land tenure.

Ganesan also pointed out that while Sri Lankan law provides mechanisms for land allocation to landless citizens, many plantation families remain excluded from these benefits. The TPA reiterated that access to land ownership is fundamental to ensuring dignity, social mobility, housing security, and long-term economic development for the community.

The discussion also focused extensively on disaster-affected families in the Central and Uva Provinces, particularly in the districts of Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Badulla. The delegation highlighted that many families displaced by landslides and earth movements continue to live in temporary accommodation, with relatives, or in vulnerable locations despite the passage of several months.

Ganesan expressed appreciation to the Government of Australia for its financial assistance towards strengthening the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), particularly initiatives relating to digital mapping and technological modernisation. The delegation noted that delays in NBRO clearance processes have often become a major obstacle in identifying and releasing suitable lands for housing and resettlement projects.

He conveyed the community’s gratitude for Australia’s support, noting that improved technical capacity within the NBRO would contribute modernisation towards accelerating solutions for affected families.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on democratic governance, reconciliation, minority inclusion, and constitutional reform. The delegation observed that several commitments made by the current National People’s Power (NPP) Government, including reforms relating to democratic institutions and minority concerns, remain unfulfilled and stressed the importance of ensuring that governance reforms proceed alongside economic recovery efforts.

The delegation further briefed the High Commissioner on the proposed National Tamil Community Council (NTCC), a non-territorial representative mechanism intended to provide structured policy input and parliamentary engagement for communities dispersed across multiple regions of the country.

Both parties reaffirmed the importance of continued engagement and dialogue on issues affecting vulnerable communities and inclusive national development.

More than Rs. 226 billion worth of narcotic drugs have been seized by law enforcement authorities since the beginning of 2025, with Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala yesterday disclosing large-scale recoveries, as well as instances of drug trafficking involving narcotics held in Court custody.

Responding to a question raised by MP Ravi Karunanayake in Parliament, Wijepala said narcotics valued at Rs. 154 billion were recovered during 2025, while seizures worth a further Rs. 72.3 billion were recorded between 1 January and 30 April 2026.

The Minister said authorities recovered 1,571.3 kg of heroin, 14,714 kg of cannabis, 37.9 kg of cocaine, 699 kg of hashish, 2,741 kg of crystal methamphetamine (ICE), 615,000 narcotic capsules, and 3 million tablets during 2025.

During the first four months of 2026, recoveries included 1,189.7 kg of heroin, 3,184 kg of cannabis, 261 kg of cocaine, 1,260 kg of hashish, 779,460 narcotic capsules, and 651,101 tablets.

The Minister also revealed what he described as serious irregularities involving narcotics retained as Court productions and samples submitted to the Government Analyst.

“One instance has been reported from the Colombo Magistrate’s Court where the officer in charge of production items had sold 750 g of heroin. A Court case is pending over the matter,” Wijepala told Parliament.

He said a second incident involved an attempt by an officer attached to the Government Analyst’s Department to sell 250 g of crystal methamphetamine.

Wijepala explained that narcotics recovered by law enforcement agencies are typically retained in Court vaults as production items until legal proceedings are concluded, with access controlled by officers responsible for custody of the exhibits.

He said investigations had revealed that approximately 80,000 kg of various narcotic substances are currently being held pending destruction.

The Minister also disclosed that the Government has spent Rs. 780 million on reward payments to Police officers and other informants who contributed to the detection and recovery of narcotics.

Kandy powered by a run-a-ball century from their captain Dimantha Mahavitharana defeated Galle by seven wickets in the final played at the P Sara Oval to emerge champions of the Sri Lanka Youth League Under19 tournament.

Mahavitharana slammed 11 fours and one six in his knock of 107 to enable Kandy reach their target of 228 with two overs to spare in a game reduced to 39 overs a side.

The match was more or less won by the opening pair Mahavitharana and Mahendra Abeysinghe who put on a stand of 174 off 173 balls. Abeysinghe made 71 off 85 balls (6 fours) before getting run out. But getting the remaining runs didn’t prove to be a difficult task of the platform was laid.

Earlier, Galle batting first could muster only 209-7 in 39 overs with skipper Dulsith Darshana contributing a stroke-filled 74 off 83 balls (10 fours, 3 sixes) and wicket-keeper Chamathka Kavishan scoring 43 off 70 in a partnership of 63 off 74 balls.

Mahavitharana carried away the Player of the Final (Rs. 50,000) as well as the Most Valuable Player (Rs. 100,000) awards. As champions Kandy received a cheque for Rs. 500,000 while Galle picked up Rs. 300,000 as runner-up. The Best Batsman and Best Bowler’s awards each worth Rs. 75,000 were won by Senuja Wekunagoda of Colombo North and Kanilka Anthony of Kandy.

The awards were presented by Tournament Committee chairman Prasanna Fernando.

Scores:

Galle (U19) 209-7 (39) (Arosh Sithumina 26, Dulsith Darshana 74, Chamathka Kavishan 43, Chaniru Senarathne 2/26, Kolitha Sugath 3/40, Ryan Gregory 2/20)

Kandy (U19) 228-3 (37) (Dimantha Mahavitharana 107, Mahendra Abeysinghe 71, Kaushika Kumarasinghe 25)

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce will convene its 187th Annual General Meeting today (25), at 5.30 p.m. at The Forum, Cinnamon Life.

This year’s gathering welcomes UK High Commissioner Andrew Patrick as Chief Guest, who will deliver the keynote address. His presence reflects the close and longstanding ties between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom, and is especially fitting at a juncture when strengthening trade ties, investor confidence, and sustained economic reform remain front of mind for the nation’s business community.

Ceylon Chamber Chairperson Krishan Balendra, will also address the audience, reflecting on a year of progress and setting out the priorities ahead. His remarks will provide an overview of the Ceylon Chamber’s continued push to sharpen private sector competitiveness, drive evidence-based policy advocacy, and anchor long-term economic stability.

Following the formal proceedings, members and guests are invited to a networking reception.

The 2026 Dialog Schools Under-19 Rugby League enters its decisive final week with several championship races still wide open, setting the stage for a dramatic finish across all segments. Despite months of intense competition, the destination of the Cup, Plate and Bowl trophies remains undecided as leading contenders prepare for crucial final-round encounters.

Defending champions Trinity College hold a slight advantage in the race for the prestigious Cup title, but the Kandy school must overcome one final hurdle when they travel to Colombo for the 10th occasion this season in a highly anticipated clash against St. Peter’s College at Bambalapitiya. A victory would virtually seal back-to-back league titles for the Lions. Last year, they won under Usmaan Safraz.

However, Trinity cannot afford any complacency. St. Peter’s and Zahira College remain firmly in contention, and both schools possess the ability to upset the championship calculations. The Peterites, in particular, will draw confidence from their impressive record against Trinity over the past decade.

Under the leadership of skipper Shan Althaf, Trinity have enjoyed a remarkable campaign. The Lions remain unbeaten in league rugby while also capturing the Schools Knockout Championship. Their closest challenge came against Zahira, where they managed to edge past a determined Maradana outfit.

Althaf has led from the front throughout the season and has been ably supported by vice-captain Udan Wijekoon, Achintha Jayasena and Minula Yaddehige. Trinity may be without key playmaker Ammar Manzil, who remains a doubtful starter for the crucial encounter due to injury.

The Trinity-Peterite clash is expected to attract one of the biggest crowds of the season, with rugby fans likely to fill the Bambalapitiya venue well before kick-off. Peters are led by Shenuka Perera and well supported by Nethshan Manthusha and Jamal Wahab. Given space, Jamal could prove dangerous, and the Lions will keep a close watch on the outstanding player, who is capable of breaking through defences with his deceptive running. A Peterite victory would significantly boost their title hopes while also opening the door for Zahira.

Meanwhile, Zahira College face a stern examination against Isipathana College at Havelock Park. The Maradana lads have produced some outstanding rugby this season and remain a genuine threat to the leading contenders. They have beaten Royal, St. Peter’s and Wesley after a gap of more than three decades. Skipper Chunchi, Saifullah and Basith Feroz have been standout performers. The Greens, led by Shaakib Zumri, will be determined to finish their campaign on a positive note after showing glimpses of their potential throughout the tournament, with full-back Nimantha Sandeepa also a vital cog in the outfit.

Another attractive Cup fixture will see Wesley College take on Royal College. The Double Blues will be eager to end their season with a victory after producing one of their finest performances of the campaign against Isipathana in their previous outing. Led by Kaizer Lye and well supported by Liam Onassis and Nelith Hapugalla, Wesley look strong. Royal, under Disas Pathirana, will be all out to put on a good show ahead of their Bradby encounter in two weeks’ time. Shimak Shafeek is another player to watch in the Reid Avenue camp.

The battle for the Plate Segment is equally intriguing. St. Joseph’s College and Thurstan College remain locked in a fierce contest, with the trophy likely to be decided on the final day. The Thomians will host the Antonians in their 17th Father Rosati Trophy encounter at Longdon Place. Both teams richly deserved to be in the Cup Segment but fell into the Plate due to inconsistency in their performances.

St. Joseph’s face a tricky away assignment against Sumangala College at Bogambara Stadium. Although the Josephians hold a slight advantage, Sumangala have displayed flashes of quality throughout the season and will be keen to finish strongly in front of their home supporters.

Thurstan, meanwhile, take on Ananda College at Ratmalana, knowing that victory is essential to keep their title hopes alive. The lads from Thurstan have enjoyed a consistent campaign and will be looking to apply maximum pressure on the Josephians.

In the Bowl Segment, Kingswood College appear best placed to claim honours. The Randles Hill school face Lumbini College at Bogambara Stadium, and a victory should secure the title. Science College remain their nearest challengers, but Kingswood’s strong form makes them favourites. Should Trinity and Kingswood prevail, Kandy schools would capture two of the three trophies on offer, underlining the region’s continued dominance in schools rugby.

26 June

• Wesley vs. Royal at Havelock Park

Referee: Raveen Alexander

27 June

• St. Peter’s vs. Trinity at Bambalapitiya

Referee: Ishanka Abeykoon

• Isipathana vs. Zahira at Havelock Park

Referee: Gihan Yatawara

• Sumangala vs. St. Joseph’s at Bogambara Stadium

Referee: Kelum Sandaruwan

• S. Thomas’ vs. St. Anthony’s at Longdon Place

Referee: Hasantha Weranga

• Thurstan vs. Ananda at Ratmalana

Referee: Jeewaka Fonseka

28 June

• D.S. Senanayake vs. Mahanama at Havelock Park

Referee: Raveen Alexander

• Science vs. Prince of Wales at Mount Lavinia

Referee: Priya Suranga

• Kingswood vs. Lumbini at Bogambara Stadium

Referee: Aruna Shantha

CFA Society Sri Lanka will celebrate the achievements of a new generation of finance professionals at the Charter Awards Ceremony and Oration 2026, taking place this evening at the Union Ballroom, Hilton Colombo Residences.

The event will recognise 27 new CFA charterholders, along with candidates who have successfully completed the CFA Program, marking an important milestone in their professional journeys. The ceremony reflects CFA Society Sri Lanka’s continued commitment to professional excellence, integrity, and leadership within the finance industry.

The ceremony will be graced by CFA Society Sri Lanka Past President, Rachini Rajapaksa, CFA who will deliver the oration as Chief Guest. A seasoned finance professional with over 30 years of experience in fund management, investments, and corporate governance, she currently serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director on the boards of several listed and unlisted entities including Hatton National Bank PLC.

The CFA charter, awarded by the CFA Institute, is widely regarded as the gold standard in the investment profession, with more than 200,000 charterholders across 160 markets worldwide.

In celebration of Sustainable Gastronomy Day, Jetwing Hotels hosted ‘Elementally Plated’, at Black Coral, the fine dining restaurant located at Jetwing Beach, Negombo. The event was a curated culinary showcase that brought its long-standing commitment to sustainability to the forefront through food.

With over five decades of leadership in responsible tourism, Jetwing Hotels continues to integrate sustainability across every aspect of its operations. This philosophy extends naturally into its gastronomy, where each dish reflects a deeper connection between culture, nature, and conscious consumption.

The intimate dining experience demonstrated how ingredients, techniques, and traditions come together to shape Jetwing Hotels’ culinary approach. This direction is further explored through ‘Elementally Jetwing’, an ongoing video series available on the brand’s YouTube channel, offering audiences a deeper look into the principles that guide its kitchens.

Speaking at the event, Jetwing Hotels Director – Operations Harin Cooray stated,

“Food is more than sustenance; it is a reflection of culture and identity. At Jetwing Hotels, we believe every dish should tell a story, one that speaks to our values and our way of working. As tourism in Sri Lanka evolves, it is important for us to share this approach. We constantly ask ourselves where our food comes from, how it is prepared, and how we can minimise waste. These are the principles that guide us each day.”

Each dish presented during the experience was plated live, accompanied by detailed commentary that unpacked the elements, techniques, and thought processes behind its creation. Guests were invited to engage more deeply, observing the intricacies of preparation while asking questions and deconstructing the philosophy in real time. The menu placed emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, treated with care and intention, with particular attention paid to maximising their potential. This same philosophy extended beyond the kitchen to the bar, where a selection of specialty beverages showcased how sustainable sourcing and creativity shape mixology across Jetwing Hotels.

While every dish on the menu reflected this philosophy, a few stood out for their distinct expression of it. The entrée featured a carrot top pesto paired with roasted baby carrots, demonstrating how every part of an ingredient can be thoughtfully and creatively utilised. Completing the dish was a striking element of “soil,” crafted from dehydrated vegetable trimmings, adding both texture and depth while reinforcing the zero-waste approach. The starter was another highlight, reimagining a familiar local favourite, ‘gotukola’. Instead of the commonly used leaves, the dish placed the spotlight on the stems, which are often discarded. The resulting crunchy stem salad was complemented by a delicate coconut milk curd and bright notes of pickled citrus peel, bringing balance and cohesion to the dish.

For over a decade, a defining aspect of Jetwing Hotels’ culinary identity has been its focus on Sri Lankan produce, seafood, and ingredients, reducing reliance on imports while creating flavours deeply connected to place. Drawing inspiration from the unique characteristics of each destination, its culinary offerings reflect the surrounding landscapes, traditions, and communities, mirroring the distinct identity of each region while supporting farmers, fisherfolk, and small-scale producers. Guided by sustainable sourcing and circular thinking, the brand continues to minimise waste and maximise resource use, ensuring that every part of an ingredient, from peel to pulp and nose to tail, is valued. Through this approach, Jetwing Hotels continues to evolve its gastronomy in a way that celebrates the island’s biodiversity and culinary heritage while remaining environmentally responsible and meaningfully rooted in its surroundings.

Ogilvy Sri Lanka’s Young Lions contingent has wrapped up its Cannes 2026 run, representing the country across the Media, PR, and Film categories at one of the world’s most competitive showcases of young creative talent.

The six-member Ogilvy team formed the largest-ever single-agency contingent from Sri Lanka at the competition, earning their place on the global stage following wins at the national Young Lions competition held earlier this year.

Competing alongside top under-30 creatives from across the world, the Ogilvy Sri Lanka teams took on high-intensity, real-world briefs, developing fully realised campaign ideas within tightly defined timeframes. Each category demanded a distinct creative approach, reflecting the breadth of capabilities required in today’s communications landscape.

Held alongside the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, the Young Lions Competition remains a globally recognised proving ground for the next generation of creative talent, bringing together emerging voices from around the world in a shared arena of ideas, innovation and impact.