Last Saturday, March 8^th, which is recognized yearly as International Women’s Day (IWD), five (5) women received the “Empower-Her” Award. They were recognized by the Ministry of Gender Affairs, Health and Social Empowerment of the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), at an Awards Ceremony and Luncheon under the theme: “EmpowHer: Your Voice, Her Story.”

The five women were nominated and selected by members of the community in various categories. Shobaina Clarke was highlighted for Entrepreneurship, while Ms. Terysia Herbert was acknowledged for Environment and Historical Conservation. In the area of Health, Nurse Lorraine Archibald received her award for Community Health Services and Dr. Kerdis Clarke in Mental Health and Wellbeing. Finally, Ms. Dawn Kelly was bestowed the Minister’s Award.

The awards were presented by Deputy Governor General, Her Honour, Mrs. Hyleeta Liburd, Deputy Premier, the Hon. Eric Evelyn as well as the Ministers – Hon. Jahnel Nisbett and Hon. Spencer Brand.

Other activities in recognition of the day are free Mammogram Screenings at the hospital until Friday March 14^th, which is also “Wear Purple Day. On Saturday March 15^th, there will be a TDC Car Care Clinic Practical Workshop for women and also on Sunday, March 16^th, an M-Factor Film Screening and Panel Discussion will be held at NEPAC. For more information, please call 665-6302.

IWD was first celebrated in the year 1911 to celebrate the achievements of women and promote gender equality.