Successful Launch of Technovation Girls St. Kitts & Nevis Chapter
On October 15th, 2024, the Technovation Girls St. Kitts & Nevis Chapter celebrated its official launch, marking a significant milestone in empowering young women in the region through technological innovation and entrepreneurship.
The event kicked off with a series of inspiring performances, including a captivating pan rendition of the National Anthem by Junior Parris, followed by an uplifting prayer led by Rev. Stacia Christmas. Mrs. Hazel Brandy-Williams, CEO of Reach Me Corporation, delivered an insightful overview of the Technovation Girls program and Reach Me’s mission, emphasizing the alignment between Technovation and Reach Me’s goal of empowering young women and youth through education, mentorship, and leadership development.
Generous support from Platinum Sponsors, Mr. Leo Gallagher of Apsaras Nevis Ltd and Mr. Lee Jian of UandWorld LLC, played a vital role in making the launch possible. Mr. Gallagher was recognized for Apsaras Nevis Ltd’s significant contribution to the program, providing the library space for classes and office space for the girls’ learning experience. Mr. Lee Jian delivered an engaging AI presentation, demonstrating the powerful AI tools available to the students, and UandWorld’s commitment to providing job opportunities for graduates of the program.
Musical performances throughout the evening, including a saxophonist and a local song, added a celebratory tone to the proceedings. Students from the Technovation Girls program recited their pledge, committing to learning, growing, and innovating through the program, symbolizing the beginning of their journey to become future leaders in technology.
Representatives from the U.S. Embassy took the stage, starting with Mr. Gabriel Knight, St. Kitts & Nevis Political/Economic Officer, who shared the inspiring story of his first meeting with Chapter Ambassador Zanya Wilkinson, the developer of the SKN Transit app. He praised Zanya’s intelligence, drive, and passion for technology, highlighting how this led the Embassy to support the Technovation Girls initiative.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Barbara Feinstein delivered a passionate address, highlighting the role of young women in addressing global challenges such as climate change and food security. She praised Technovation Girls for equipping participants with the skills and confidence to solve real-world problems and reaffirmed the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to fostering leadership and innovation among young women.
Ambassador Roger F. Nyhus took the stage to deliver his closing remarks, expressing admiration for the girls’ courage and ambition, encouraging them to dream big and make a lasting impact on their communities and the world. In a powerful moment, Ambassador Nyhus invited the audience to join him in a Chinook Indian tradition, raising their hands in a gesture meaning "I lift you up higher than myself," and proudly declared the Technovation Girls St. Kitts & Nevis Chapter officially open, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for the young women in attendance.
Looking Ahead
The launch of the Technovation Girls St. Kitts & Nevis Chapter represents the first step towards creating a generation of young women equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to address the challenges of the future. With the continued support of Reach Me Corporation, sponsors, and partners, the Technovation Girls program is poised to inspire a new wave of female innovators and leaders in the Caribbean.
FAQs
Q: What is the Technovation Girls program?
A: The Technovation Girls program is a initiative aimed at empowering young women in the Caribbean through technological innovation and entrepreneurship.
Q: What is Reach Me Corporation?
A: Reach Me Corporation is a organization that provides support and resources for the Technovation Girls program.
Q: What is the goal of the Technovation Girls program?
A: The goal of the Technovation Girls program is to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to address real-world problems and become leaders in technology.