NIA Honors Five Women on International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day Celebrations in Nevis: Empowering Women, Recognizing Contributions

The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) commemorated International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 with a series of events designed to celebrate the achievements of women, promote gender equality, and empower women within the community. The central event was an awards ceremony and luncheon held on Saturday, March 8th, under the theme "EmpowHer: Your Voice, Her Story." This theme underscores the importance of amplifying women’s voices and acknowledging their unique narratives in shaping a more equitable society. The celebration extended beyond the awards ceremony, encompassing health initiatives, educational workshops, and film screenings aimed at fostering female empowerment and community engagement.

Five exceptional women were honored with the "Empower-Her" Award in recognition of their outstanding contributions in diverse fields. These women, nominated and selected by community members, exemplify leadership and dedication in their respective areas of expertise. Shobaina Clarke received the award for Entrepreneurship, highlighting her business acumen and contribution to the local economy. Terysia Herbert was recognized for her work in Environment and Historical Conservation, demonstrating her commitment to preserving Nevis’ natural and cultural heritage. In the Health category, Nurse Lorraine Archibald was awarded for her distinguished service in Community Health Services, and Dr. Kerdis Clarke was honored for her contributions to Mental Health and Wellbeing. Finally, Dawn Kelly was bestowed with the Minister’s Award, a special recognition granted at the discretion of the Ministry of Gender Affairs, Health, and Social Empowerment.

The awards were presented by prominent figures within the NIA, including Deputy Governor General Her Honour Mrs. Hyleeta Liburd, Deputy Premier Hon. Eric Evelyn, and Ministers Hon. Jahnel Nisbett and Hon. Spencer Brand. The presence of these leaders underscored the government’s commitment to gender equality and its recognition of the important contributions women make to Nevisian society. The awards ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also served as a powerful symbol of the collective strength and potential of women within the community.

Complementing the awards ceremony, a range of activities were organized to further promote women’s health and empowerment throughout the week following IWD. Free mammogram screenings were offered at the local hospital until Friday, March 14th, which was also designated as "Wear Purple Day." This initiative aimed to raise awareness about breast health and encourage early detection, a crucial factor in improving outcomes. On Saturday, March 15th, a TDC Car Care Clinic Practical Workshop was held specifically for women, providing them with valuable skills and knowledge related to vehicle maintenance. This empowering workshop aimed to equip women with the confidence and practical skills to handle basic car maintenance themselves.

The week of activities culminated on Sunday, March 16th with an M-Factor Film Screening and Panel Discussion held at the Nevis Performing Arts Centre (NEPAC). This event provided a platform for exploring complex issues related to gender equality and female empowerment through the medium of film and facilitated thoughtful discussion and dialogue within the community. The diverse range of events organized in conjunction with IWD demonstrates the NIA’s multifaceted approach to promoting gender equality and addressing the specific needs and interests of women within the Nevisian community.

The celebration of IWD in Nevis serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging women’s contributions and empowering them to reach their full potential. The "EmpowHer" awards recognized the individual achievements of five exceptional women, while the accompanying activities focused on practical skills development, health awareness, and community dialogue. By providing opportunities for learning, networking, and community engagement, the NIA is actively fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

The theme "EmpowHer: Your Voice, Her Story" resonated throughout the celebrations, emphasizing the importance of amplifying women’s voices and sharing their unique experiences. The array of events, from health initiatives to educational workshops, demonstrated the NIA’s commitment to supporting women in all aspects of their lives. The celebration of IWD in Nevis not only honored the past achievements of women but also laid the groundwork for a future where women are empowered to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society. The success of the IWD events can be attributed to the collective effort of community members, the NIA, and the dedication of the women who were recognized for their exceptional contributions. Through these combined efforts, Nevis continues to advance towards a more gender-equal future.