–as curtain comes down on annual ‘Women in Business Expo’

THE Sonia Noel Foundation for Creative Arts (SNFCA) in collaboration with the Women’s Association for Sustainable Development (WASD) on Friday morning launched its third annual ‘Women in Business Expo.’

The two-day event, which began yesterday and ends today, is being held at the Pegasus Hotel.

Sonia Noel told reporters at the launch, that although International Women’s Day was observed worldwide on Thursday, that now, more than ever, there’s a strong call to action to press forward and progress gender parity.

She said that this year’s event is intended to again feature motivational speakers, workshops, exhibitions and networking opportunities vital for the development of women in business and on a personal level; benefitting their homes and communities in which they operate.

According to Hymawattie Lagan, Senior Gender Affairs Officer, the event has been endorsed by the Ministry of Social Protection, since it is a form of self-development for women who have realised their full potential.

She said that when women grow, it is a plus and as such, they should be encouraged to keep on going for self-development and not just sit back on their laurels and depend on others; that instead, they can be bold and step out and become entrepreneurs by starting their own businesses to become self-sustainable.

Lagan told the press briefing that women should know how to carry themselves and respect self and do not allow anyone to take advantage of you, because some women do not know their own strength.

Also present at the launch was American businesswoman and best-selling author, Hilda Bourne, who is here to be a part of the two-day event.

Bourne, the founder of Dream360 Life Coaching Services, said she participated in the expo last year and was so inspired, she is here again to talk about her role and the purpose of women.

Carolyn Caesar-Murray whose business, Harmony Inn and Secret Villa, is a major sponsor of the exposition, said she will endeavour to do her best by having candid discussions with other women in business, since there are many success stories out there that need to be shared.

Dr Jacqueline Evans-Phillips, who is the co-owner of Life Changers Consulting Company who is versed in life-empowerment coaching, a motivational speaker and an educational consultant from the U.S., is also here to encourage women to press forward and utilise their potential.

Both Bourne and Evans-Phillips are slated to speak this evening at a motivational event titled “Inspire You”, as the curtain comes down on the exhibition.
Among other speakers on the programme are Caron Hawco, Sonia Noel, Sherry Ann Dixon, Christine Neblett, and Ayana McCalmon.