Award recipients Gloria Johnson (left), Lourdes Simmons (second from left), Verna Robinson Simmons (third from right) and Angie Ignacio (right) with Commissioner Rolando Wilson (second from right), Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Coordinator Mildred Rijhiner (third from left) and Charvella Wilson of the Community Development Department.
SABA--Women in Saba celebrated International Women’s Day on Tuesday, March 8, with a well-attended event at Queen’s Garden that put strong women and female entrepreneurs in the spotlight.
Befitting the objective to celebrate the power of independent women, six women with their own businesses in Saba received an award.
Having fun at the 2022 International Women’s Day event.
Verna Robinson Simmons of Verna Security Company, Gloria Johnson of Tropical Bakery, Angie Ignacio of Unspoiled Queen Massage and Wellness, Maria Christina Sarmiento Firme of Angelina’s Saba by Owaichie Bar and Restaurant, Lourdes Simmons of Aggies Bakery and Catering Creation and Veronica Janzon of Saban Rock Living each received a gift bag with products made by women in Saba.
All six recipients shared a short story about their business, their success, their challenges and how they wanted to inspire others to become their own boss.
Equal rights
Master of Ceremonies (MC) Elsa Peterson opened the evening with a short historic description of the fight for freedom and equal rights for women.
“150 years ago, women could not vote, stand in parliament, receive proper medical attention, women could not own property or access fair legal support, women could not get paid the same as men, women could not visit the same public areas as men, get a proper education, or even get a divorce. It changed over time with brave women and men fighting for what is right, both genders realising women are also human beings and not objects,” said Peterson.
From 1903 women stood up and fought through mass protests, rallies and strikes during which women were arrested, jailed and some lost their lives. “Even though we now have many rights and privileges, there is still work to be done on equality and stereotypes amongst women. Let us all remember to be positive and kind to each other for empowered women to make a difference, empowered women have a voice and empowered women get things done,” said Peterson.
Talents, unique
Commissioner of Social and Gender Affairs Rolando Wilson wished everyone a happy International Women’s Day.
“Each one of you were created in a marvellous, unique way with all your talents, strengths, weaknesses, wisdom, understanding and much more. We can rightly say that you can handle any job you set your mind to in any work environment. You are amazing, beautiful, brilliant, caring, nourishing, graceful, intelligent, strong, courageous, limitless, and blessed.
“Continue on the path that you are traveling to make it a brighter, better world for the generations to come. And remember to continue to pray for those that are in the struggle of their life to survive in other parts of the world.”
Janelie Barnes, a successful self-made entrepreneur and a domestic violence survivor, gave the keynote speech. Referring to this year’s theme “Solidarity, the power of change”, she asked the women present to imagine how things could be better if there was no greed, if women stopped comparing themselves to one another, if they would cheer each other on.
Changing the world
“We can contribute to changing the world if we accept that we all have bad traits that need to be worked on. Let’s choose to lift each other up rather than tear each other down. Let’s choose to set the example of kindness, love, compassion, understanding. Let’s choose to extend a helping hand where it’s needed. My fellow women, we need to restore our morals, values, principles and self-esteem, not only within ourselves, but also in our children for future generations to follow,” said Barnes.
She gave recognition to local female entrepreneurs and urged women to start a business. “All you have to do is believe in yourself and put in the work. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.”
She also mentioned domestic abuse, of which she has been a victim herself. She called on abused women to break the cycle, to speak up and get help. “Dig deep inside for your inner strength to break free from this abuse. You deserve better.”
Abusive relationship
Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Coordinator at the public entity Saba Mildred Rijhiner also addressed this important topic.
“I am convinced and aware that there is violence in Saba in the sexual, economic and social field. One of the common challenges for women is economic disadvantage, which is why they often stay in a relationship where they will remain in a dependent position. Ever found yourself staying in an abusive relationship because you thought you had no other choice? We know this and we want to do better by you. You are not alone.”
Rijhiner spoke of a broader effort to empower women. “We are here to recognise that we must do it together with the community to raise the position of women. Strong women too have moments where they can use a strong supporting hand, whether by their faith, partner and or society. We must work together to bring across desired changes,” she said.
Tuesday’s event was organised by Domestic Violence Action Group Saba with the involvement of the public entity Saba; Body, Mind and Spirit (BMS); “Stichting Reclassering Caribisch Nederland” (SRCN); the Court of Guardianship; Care and Youth Caribbean Netherlands ZJCN; the Caribbean Netherlands Police Force KPCN; Mental Health Caribbean (MHC); and Saba Cares.
