by Eulana Weekes
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): The Department of Gender Affairs- Nevis recognised seven women who have been making significant contributions to the island of Nevis in varying sectors.
The International Women’s Month Awardees 2023 are Ms. Dianna Browne for the category of Digital Economy, Ms. Kenisha Lewis in the category of Green Economy, Ms Melissa Allen in the category of Blue Economy and Mrs. Tamicia Lestrade in the category of Orange Economy. Mrs. Deslyn Johnson was the recipient of the Minister’s Award for the Empowerment and the Protection of Families, Mrs. Kimberley Evelyn- Lazarus received the award in the category of Women in Non Traditional roles, while Dr. Kamara Louisy received the award in the category of Women in Science.
Two other individuals, Ms. Krystan Springette and Dr. Tivon Browne, were certified as the 2023-2024 Gender Champions. Springette and Browne will be attached with the Department of Gender Affairs- Nevis for one year, beginning March 1 2023.
According to the Department of Gender Affairs, the duo “are a part of our gender family and will be seen with us as we advocate for gender reform in gender responsiveness initiatives, in Health and working with neurodivergent individuals.”
This is the 2nd year of the Gender Champions initiative. The Gender Champions were Joy Napier and Kezron Archibald, who were instrumental in volunteerism and outreach with the Department of Gender Affairs.
At the Awards Ceremony held on Saturday, March 25, 2023, Guest speaker Ms. Yakira Elliott, a teenager involved in technology, more specifically, a St.Kitts-Nevis Robotics Association member, expressed that women are capable of making significant contributions across all sectors.
“Technology simplified is using our scientific knowledge to achieve some specific purpose. In today’s society, women are stereotypically considered less handy than men, but I am of the firm belief that women are just as capable of doing everything that men are capable of doing. Women can bring a fresh approach and offer unique perspectives to meet challenges, solve problems and design new products. Women have more imagination than men.”
Meanwhile, Elliott concluded her presentation by addressing the importance of girls walking in the example of women who have or are making significant contributions in the area of technology.
“I will conclude by stressing on the importance for girls to see and know other women involved in and excelling in technology. This lets them picture themselves there in the future, and it helps them to see that they can truly aspire towards that dream. A person is only limited by their own imagination.”
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 08. The theme for the year 2023 is ‘DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality.
