As Otara's personal CSR initiative, Embark was launched in March 2007 with the sole mission of reducing animal cruelty and focusing on the wellbeing of animals throughout the country.

The overriding objective of Embark is to change attitudes and mindsets of people. Embark has identified strategic goals that will assist in the movement to eradicate cruelty and raise awareness of animal welfare issues. To date Embark has undertaken and implemented a number of targeted activities that have made huge inroads into the achievement of these goals.

Its key activities include sterilization surgeries, puppy re-homing campaigns, and caring for injured stray animals. Each of these activities is supported by a comprehensive and consistent campaign of education. An overriding objective for Embark has been to change attitudes and mindsets amongst the public. To date, this has been achieved by raising awareness of the importance of animal welfare, and advocating practical approaches to connecting and enjoying community animals.

Embark appeals to animal lovers of all ages, and we are delighted to say that we have converted many indifferent members of the public into dedicated supporters of Embark.

Vision Statement

Embark's Long Term Goals

International Distribution and Recognition:

We aim to sell Embark merchandise internationally and increase our exposure to animal lovers world-wide also bringing in more funds for our activities here in Sri Lanka. Plans are already underway in Singapore.

Transit Shelter Project:

Animal Hospital:

An Embark long-term goal is to create an Animal Treatment Centre that meets international standards in terms of facilities, qualified staff and the medical treatment on offer to animals.

Otara Gunawardene

Otara Gunawardene, CEO of ODEL has had a colourful and experience-packed career. Despite aspirations of being a veterinary surgeon, she ultimately studied Biology before being discovered as a potential model and was propelled to success on the catwalks of leading international designers. She then stumbled into the fashion retailing industry accidentally when she started to sell clothes from her car boot to family and friends. Her excellent eye for a trend and good quality clothing saw her launching a range of stylish clothing in Sri Lanka in 1990.

Her brainchild, ODEL has grown from a tiny outlet on Dickmans Road to an absolute lifestyle store that is recognized internationally. Otara has been honoured with a number of awards as a leading businesswoman in Sri Lanka. These include; the SAARC Woman of Achievement Award (2000), Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) of Sri Lanka (2000) Award, Entrepreneur of the Year (2000) and the Zonta Award for "Woman of Achievement" (2002) to name just a few.

Despite her success, she has remained true to her first love and has contributed to many efforts of animal welfare efforts, before launching her very own initiative, Embark who's sole mission is to reach out to stray dogs and enhance the lives of animals throughout Sri Lanka through exhaustive programmes of education and support. She remains involved in the day-to-day running of Embark, and is integral to the direction and activities of the program.

From its launch in 1990, ODEL has evolved from a one-woman business to a well established corporate that currently employs more than 430 individuals, dealing with more than 1000 global and local suppliers and working with at least 200 factories locally. This combined powerhouse provides a dynamic range of incredible products.

Every item is carefully selected by a team of discerning merchandisers who take into account the requirements and tastes of ODEL customers alongside the trends and fashions of the day! Incorporated into all choices and decisions is the simple philosophy that drives ODEL - to present the highest quality products and services at affordable prices, supported by a team of superior customer service advocates.

As the only department store in Sri Lanka and a key shopping destination for tourists, ODEL takes the lead in creating a shopping experience rather than just a venue for shopping. This is delivered by ensuring that staff is consistently helpful, friendly and well-informed, product ranges are constantly evolving and that there is a wide range of partner concessions and delicious food outlets to add to the whole experience that is ODEL.

Another key area of the vision of ODEL has been the dedicated approach to Corporate Social Responsibility. Its key objectives include raising awareness of environmental issues and implementing programmes and projects to address these. The advant of Embark has seen a huge movement towards this target while there are many more plans in the pipeline.