Basseterre, Saint Kitts, March 10, 2025 (SKNIS): Seven women were celebrated for their contributions to national development in Saint Kitts and Nevis on Saturday, March 08, 2025, during the International Women’s Day Award Ceremony and Brunch organised by the Department of Gender Affairs.
This year’s observance was celebrated under the campaign theme “Accelerate Action.”
At the ceremony held at Sugar Apple, awards were presented to Xavienne Richardson in the category of Sustainable Development, Marva Weekes – Fashion Industry, Sergeant Charmaine Audain – Human Services, Kamilah Lawrence – Creative Media, Kerissa Roberts – STEM, and Crannie Cranston – Empowerment Award. The Prime Minister’s Award was presented to Avonelle Martin.
Additionally, three female trailblazers were inducted into the Pioneering Women’s Gallery. Dr. Joylette Woodley-Fassale the first female Chief of Surgery, Dr. Daveen Wilkin the first female Medical Chief of Staff, and Natasha Grey-Brookes, the first female appointed as a Political Party Leader.
Minister of State responsible for Gender Affairs, the Honourable Isalean Phillip, thanked members of the public for nominating the deserving women. She pledged that the department, and the government by extension, will continue to support women and girls in the Federation as “we do our work and develop the Sustainable Island State.”
Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, underscored the valuable contributions of the awardees to their communities, noting that women have played an integral role in shaping today’s society.
“I want to recognise all of these women who have done so excellently well in their various areas of endeavour,” the prime minister stated. “You are a shining light, not just for women, but for men as well, and for your nation. You have contributed significantly [and] sacrificed much but there is still work to be done.”
Dr. Drew encouraged the women to continue advocating for themselves and by doing so, they advocate for their peers, for families and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
The ceremony was attended by Her Excellency, Dame Marcella Liburd, Governor-General of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Samal Duggins.
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