Nevis’ International Women’s Day Honourees

Introduction to International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 8 under the theme “Accelerate Action.” According to the International Women’s Day website, the theme highlights the urgency of “swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality” by tackling systemic barriers and biases that women face in both personal and professional spheres.

Awards and Recognition

As part of the celebrations, St. Kitts honoured 10 outstanding individuals at the Women’s Day Awards. The recipients were Xavienne Richardson for Sustainable Development, Marva Weekes for the Fashion Industry, Sergeant Charmaine Audain for Human Services, Kamilah Lawrence for Creative Media, Kerissa Roberts for STEM, and Crannie Cranston, who received the Empowerment Award. Avonelle Martin was presented with the Prime Minister’s Award.

In addition to these awards, three women were inducted into the Pioneering Women’s Gallery for their historic contributions in their respective fields. Dr. Joylette Woodley-Fassale was recognised as the first female Chief of Surgery, Dr. Daveen Wilkin as the first female Medical Chief of Staff, and Natasha Grey-Brookes as the first woman appointed as a Political Party Leader.

Call to Action for Gender Equality

Following the awards ceremony, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew delivered a speech emphasising the need to move beyond recognition and take concrete steps toward gender equality.

“An empowered woman is an empowered nation, an empowered world,” Dr. Drew stated. “Our country can never fully achieve its goal of becoming the first Sustainable Island State without the full contribution and dedication of all women. This is why we must go beyond symbolic recognition and push for structural change that guarantees equal opportunities.”

Celebrations in Nevis

In Nevis, the public played an active role in the celebration by nominating women for recognition in various categories. Five women were honoured for their contributions: Shobaina Clarke for Entrepreneurship, Nurse Lorraine Archibald for Community Health Services, Dr. Kerdis Clarke for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Terysia Herbert for Environmental and Historical Conservation, and Dawn Kelly, who received the Minister’s Award.

Ongoing Commitment to Empowering Women

The celebration of International Women’s Day continued beyond March 8, with additional events aimed at empowering women. A church service was held at the Brick Kiln Church of God on March 9, and a Women’s Reproductive Health Webinar took place on March 10. These events underscored the ongoing commitment to recognising and supporting the contributions of women in St. Kitts and Nevis, while also reinforcing the call for meaningful action towards gender equality.

Conclusion

The celebration of International Women’s Day in St. Kitts and Nevis was a significant event that highlighted the importance of recognising and empowering women. The awards and recognition ceremonies, as well as the ongoing events and activities, demonstrate the commitment to achieving gender equality and promoting the contributions of women in all spheres of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is International Women’s Day?

A: International Women’s Day is a global event celebrated on March 8 to recognize and empower women, promoting gender equality and highlighting their contributions to society.

Q: What was the theme of International Women’s Day this year?

A: The theme of International Women’s Day this year was “Accelerate Action,” emphasizing the need for swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality.

Q: How did St. Kitts and Nevis celebrate International Women’s Day?

A: St. Kitts and Nevis celebrated International Women’s Day with awards ceremonies, recognition of outstanding women, and ongoing events and activities aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality.