This is the story of one woman’s success in breaking new ground within Sri Lanka’s fishing industry, where her efforts are not just reshaping the sector but also driving sustainability and economic empowerment for countless others. Deepa Subashini the coordinator of Sri Vimukthi Fisher Women organization works closely with the National Fisheries Solidarity (NAFSO) whilst leading 1,200 women in a quest for equality and environmental stewardship.
With over 18 years of experience in fisheries and people’s rights, she is a member of the management committee of the National Fisheries Solidarity (NAFSO) since 2023; serves as General Secretary of the South Asian Peasant Coalition, encompassing India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka and as Convenor of the Alliance for Protection of Negombo Lagoon.
She is a tireless champion for inclusive and sustainable development, advocating for the needs of ordinary people and the critical importance of environmental protection against harmful, exclusive practices that threaten social cohesion in the country.Deepa Subhashini’s journey as a woman leader not only empowers other women in the fishing sector, but also demonstrates how they can bolster the industry’s resilience and socio-economic impact through education, financial support, and active inclusion in policy-making.
Despite their contributions, women continue to face challenges such as limited access to financial resources, training, and decision-making roles within the industry. Gender disparities and cultural norms often hinder their participation in leadership and technical advancements. But, years of relentless work, Deepa Subhashini’ has carved out a path as a woman leader in the male-dominated fisheries industry, where women’s rights and voices are often overlooked. Undeterred by the challenges, she has become a powerful advocate for her community.
In an industry where women face immense challenges—from limited representation in leadership to the constant struggle for fair treatment and resources, Deepa is working to change and rewrite this narrative. Her leadership has sparked a movement, encouraging other women to speak up and demand equal treatment, not just in fisheries but across all roles within the community.
She stands as a beacon of hope for women aspiring to carve out their own space in this field, exemplifying what can be achieved with sheer determination and courage.This year, on a pivotal day for the fishing sector, Deepa and her team spotlighted three critical issues: water resources, climate justice, and land justice. These topics are at the heart of the challenges plaguing fishing communities, from access to clean water to the detrimental impacts of climate change on their livelihoods.
“We wanted this day to serve as a rallying cry for our rights and for sustainable practices that will secure the future of our community” Deepa passionately explains.
Through community gatherings and awareness campaigns, she is amplifying these issues, drawing vital attention to the daily struggles faced by fishing communities.Women like Deepa Subashini are supported by the National Fisheries Solidarity Movement (NAFSO), a partner of the Strengthening Social Cohesion and Peace in Sri Lanka (SCOPE) programme, co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office.