This week on Buzz with Danu, I’m sitting down with someone who doesn’t just switch on lights, she switches on opportunities! 

Meet Nisreen Dissanayake – Director of LightShop Pvt Ltd and the powerhouse behind The Island Market, a platform that has become the heartbeat of Colombo’s creative community. From decorative and industrial lighting to creating spaces where small businesses, artisans, and women-led ventures shine, Nisreen knows how to blend business with purpose.

And right now, her brainchild, The Island Market, is gearing up for its biggest celebration yet – the Townhall Edition! Happening on the 27th of September at the Town Hall Car Park, it’s a full day of shopping, food, music, art, laughter, and giving back. Think local businesses, delicious eats, live music, a mural that tells our story, and even clowns to keep the kids smiling – it’s a true festival of community and creativity.

In our chat, Nisreen takes me through her journey of building LightShop, founding The Island Market, and how she continues to create spaces where people don’t just shop – they connect, celebrate, and belong.

1. What inspired the concept of The Island Market, and how did it all begin?
The Island Market was born out of a desire to create a meaningful platform for local entrepreneurs, especially small home-based businesses, to showcase their talents and products. During the pandemic and the economic challenges that followed, we saw so many creative individuals struggling without opportunities to reach customers. The idea began as a small community initiative, but very quickly it grew into a vibrant marketplace that blends culture, creativity, and community.
 
2. This edition is happening at Town Hall – why was this location chosen, and what does it represent for you?
Town Hall is an iconic space at the heart of Colombo. By choosing this location, we’re making the market more accessible and central to everyone. It also symbolises our commitment to bring life, culture, and positivity to the city itself. We wanted a venue that feels open, welcoming, and connected to the people of Colombo, and Town Hall captures exactly that.
 
3. How do you go about curating the vendors and products we see at the market?
Curation is key to what makes The Island Market unique. We carefully select vendors based not only on the quality of their products but also on their originality, sustainability, and the stories behind their brands. We strive for a mix of artisans, creators, and food vendors so that visitors can discover something new and meaningful each time they attend.
 
4. What kind of businesses and artisans can people expect to discover this time?
This edition will feature a wide variety – from handmade crafts, fashion, jewellery, and home décor to locally produced organic food, baked goods, and artisanal beverages. We also have a strong lineup of unique lifestyle products and gifts that showcase the creativity of Sri Lankans. Many of our vendors are small home-based entrepreneurs, so visitors can expect truly one-of-a-kind finds.
 
5. You’re combining shopping with food, music, and art – why was it important to create a full-day experience?
We believe a market should be more than just a transaction – it should be an experience. By combining shopping with food, live music, and art, we create an atmosphere where people can relax, enjoy, and spend the day with family and friends. It transforms the market into a celebration of culture, community, and creativity, making it memorable for everyone.
 
6. Tell me about the live mural – who is the artist, and what story will it tell?
The mural is a space for anyone to draw out their vision for a safer and happier Sri Lanka for every child. This can be a picture, a statement or a word to describe the world they envision. The mural will reflect themes of resilience, creativity, and unity, telling the story of how Sri Lankans continue to find beauty and strength even in challenging times. It’s not just art to look at, but art that unfolds in front of our audience, adding an interactive and inspiring dimension to the day.
 
7. How does The Island Market support local entrepreneurs and small businesses in a tangible way?
We provide vendors with a professional platform where they can showcase their products to a large and diverse audience, build their customer base, and gain brand visibility they might not otherwise have access to. Beyond the event itself, we also offer guidance and networking opportunities. Many of our vendors have gone on to expand their businesses significantly after participating in the market.
 
8. There’s a charity angle here as well – what causes are you highlighting and why?
Yes, giving back has always been part of The Island Market’s DNA. This time, we’re highlighting Child Action Lanka, Child Action Lanka (CAL) is dedicated to transforming the lives of disadvantaged children across Sri Lanka. Their primary approach involves raising funds through the sale of upcycled products, including tote bags, table runners, kimonos, and other handcrafted items. These products not only promote sustainability by repurposing materials but also provide a meaningful way to generate income that supports CAL’s various charitable initiatives.

The Island Market’s support for CAL’s initiative aligns with its commitment to community development and social responsibility. Island Market provides CAL with a vital platform to showcase and sell their upcycled products. This partnership will help increase visibility for CAL’s work, attract more customers, and generate essential funds to continue its programs aimed at helping disadvantaged children.

Furthermore, we will be highlighting animal rescue and pet adoption opportunities on the day.
Additionally, the Island Market has contributed to several charitable organisations, including but not limited to Swashakthi Foundation of Persons with Disability, Child Action Lanka, VOICE, Free to Flow, Water Relief Projects and Light a Future, etc. 
 
9. How do you ensure this event is inclusive and welcoming for families, kids, and solo visitors?
We’ve designed the market to be a space for everyone. Families will find kids’ activities and safe play areas, food lovers will have diverse culinary options, music and art will engage young people, and solo visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while meeting new people. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone feels they belong.
 
10. What has been your favourite or most heartwarming moment from past editions of The Island Market?
There are so many, but one that stands out is seeing small home-based vendors make their very first sale at our market. The joy and confidence it brings them is priceless. We’ve also had stories of vendors who started with a single table at the market and have now built successful full-time businesses. Those transformations are incredibly rewarding.
 
11. How do you see this platform evolving over the next few years? Could it travel across Sri Lanka?
Absolutely. Our vision is to take The Island Market beyond Colombo and into other cities across Sri Lanka, giving entrepreneurs in different regions the same opportunities. We also want to expand into more thematic markets, collaborations, and even digital platforms to ensure local talent reaches both local and international audiences.
 
12. Finally, why should someone who’s never been to The Island Market come this 27th of September?
Because it’s more than just a market – it’s an experience. You’ll discover unique products, enjoy delicious food, be immersed in art and music, and most importantly, feel part of a community that celebrates creativity and resilience. It’s the perfect way to spend your day while supporting local businesses and making a difference.