Early Life and Career Beginnings
Mano Sheriff, a Chartered Accountant by profession, began her career in the finance sector. In 1991, after spending two years in Australia working as a finance manager at a toy company, she returned to Sri Lanka with her family. This move marked the beginning of her journey into the toy manufacturing industry. She collaborated with Douglas and Sons (DSL) and started her own buying company, focusing on exporting toys to the United States. Sunday Times
Leadership at DSL Lanka
In 2007, Mano joined DSL Lanka as CEO and a minority shareholder. Under her leadership, the company expanded from a small manufacturer with 200 employees to an enterprise with three manufacturing plants employing over 1,400 people. She diversified the product line to include rubber toys and baby clothing, emphasizing ethical production and environmental sustainability. Instagram+1LinkedIn+1LinkedIn
Creation of Homegrown Brands
Mano’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of several globally recognized brands:LinkedIn
- Bonikka Dolls: Inspired by a porcelain doll gifted to her grandmother in 1895, Mano launched Bonikka in 2012. These handcrafted rag dolls symbolize family bonds and are made using eco-friendly materials. Tikiri Toys Sri Lanka
- Meiya & Alvin: Launched in 2014, this collection features toys made from natural rubber and soft textiles, designed for babies and toddlers. The brand gained international acclaim and is sold in over 55 countries. Sunday TimesLinkedIn
- Tikiri Toys: Focusing on natural rubber and ethically sourced cotton materials, Tikiri Toys emphasizes sustainability and has received awards like the Best Ethical Gift of 2020 and Mom’s Choice Award Gold 2020.
Commitment to Sustainability and Ethics
Mano’s brands are known for their commitment to ethical manufacturing practices. DSL Lanka’s factories are environmentally friendly, and the company holds certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard). These standards ensure that products are made from organic materials and meet high environmental and social criteria. LinkedIn
Recognition and Impact
In recognition of her contributions to sustainable innovation in the toy industry, Mano was named among the Global 200 Women Power Leaders in 2024. Her leadership has not only elevated Sri Lanka’s presence in the global toy market but also set a benchmark for ethical manufacturing practices.
Philanthropy and Social Responsibility
Beyond business, Mano is dedicated to social causes. Through the Bonikka brand, a portion of each sale is donated to the Viharamahadevi Centre for Child Development, an orphanage near DSL Lanka’s main factory. This initiative supports underprivileged girls by providing food, housing, and clothing. Tikiri Toys Sri Lanka
Conclusion
Mano Sheriff’s journey from a finance professional to a leading entrepreneur in ethical toy manufacturing exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. Her work has not only brought international recognition to Sri Lankan-made toys but also positively impacted communities through ethical practices and philanthropy.
For more insights into Mano Sheriff’s journey, you can watch her feature in the Women’s Day 2025 series: