THE National Aquatic Centre was abuzz over the weekend with vibrant colours, creativity, and the spirit of female empowerment as the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security hosted its annual We Lift exhibition.
The event, now in its fifth year, was dedicated to showcasing the talent and tenacity of women entrepreneurs from across Guyana.
Among the scores of exhibitors, two stand-out businesswomen drew attention not only for their unique products, but also for the inspirational stories behind their ventures.
Rebekah Waddell, a 23-year-old originally from New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), and founder of Crochet Elements, warmly interacted with visitors browsing through her display of hand-made items.
Waddell’s business, launched in 2021, stands as a testament to perseverance and creativity. Reflecting on what inspired her entrepreneurial journey, she explained: “I started during the COVID-19 pandemic when I had a lot of free time. I was a student at the University of Guyana back then, and with no in-person classes, I found something to do.”

At the We Lift exhibition, Waddell featured a line of items including hats, baby items, hair accessories, tops, bags, toys, clothing and much, much more.
She described the exposure and feedback she gained from the event as invaluable, emphasising that the platform unites a diverse range of women-led businesses.
Now equipped with a university degree and successfully running a small business, Waddell is encouraging other young women with entrepreneurial dreams to take the leap and start now.
“Start because, like, the more you procrastinate and try to find the perfect time, the perfect time may never come. You just need to take the time, start, and put your best foot forward—and it’ll work out…,” the enterprising young woman shared confidently.
Lindener, Dr Brandy Esbrand, who runs Esbees Facial Soaps, has turned her love for natural skincare into a thriving small business.
The 24-year-old medical doctor turned entrepreneur shared that her journey began with crafting facial soaps, body scrubs, hair-growth oils, body butters and scented candles—an interest sparked by her mother, who had taken soap-making classes.
“Actually, my mom—she’s the one who started the business. She took part in a soap-making course and she wanted to create a soap that would make a difference—like get rid of things like acne, pimples, and blackheads—and really help people’s skin to be smoother, softer, and healthier,” Dr Esbrand shared.
“Our facial soaps—the special thing about them is that they help to get rid of pimples, blackheads, and dark spots. That’s because they contain wonderful ingredients like coconut oil, crab oil, olive oil, castor oil, and natural elements such as neem, turmeric, ocean honey, charcoal, and moringa,” she explained.

She stated that the sugar scrub gently exfoliates and refreshes the skin, while the body butter, enriched with chia seeds and mango butter, effectively targets hyperpigmentation, soothes rashes and is ideal for sensitive skin.
Esbees’s products stood out at the We Lift exhibition for their vibrant packaging and soothing scents.
As a successful entrepreneur, Dr Esbrand knows firsthand the challenges that come with running a business. When asked for advice to those just starting their entrepreneurial journeys, she emphasised the importance of giving customers consistent quality.
“There are challenges. But once you’ve developed your clientele, and they know that you’re a trusted brand, they keep coming back.”
Now, with a growing customer base, she hopes to one day expand the business which has been operational for the past six years.
Dr Esbrand shared that the We Lift exhibition has opened new doors for her and created valuable networking opportunities.
For entrepreneurs like Waddell and Dr Esbrand, the We Lift exhibition was more than a marketplace — it was a celebration of womanhood, creativity and the will to rise.
The We Lift initiative, short for “Women Empowering – Leading, Innovating, and Flourishing Together”, aims to provide visibility, resources, and support for female-led businesses in Guyana.
This year’s edition saw over 300 female entrepreneurs from various sectors, including food, fashion, agro-processing, wellness, and the arts. The event was free to the public and included motivational talks, and mentorship opportunities.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, in her opening remarks emphasised the government’s commitment to creating safe, sustainable spaces for women to grow economically and personally.