The UK and New Zealand joined forces today, International Women’s Day 2016, to celebrate women across Barbados.
Together with their fellow female heads of mission representing China and the US, Victoria Dean and Jan Henderson threw a tea party for a group of young women entrepreneurs to inspire, network and share experiences.
Among the invited guests were women who are making their mark in journalism, plumbing, child care, conference services, social media, marketing and advertising.
Women’s entrepreneurship is promoted in the Caribbean by the British and NZ Governments and other donors supporting women’s economic empowerment by focussing on the growth and development of women-owned businesses and women’s employment in business.
Hosting the event at her Residence, British High Commissioner Victoria Dean said: “Today we celebrate the roles women play all over the world: in families, in businesses, in government, in homes. Women in business are a key part of the economic success of any nation. The entrepreneurial streak we see in the women here today must be cherished and nourished. Happy IWD2016!”
Jan Henderson, the New Zealand High Commissioner, highlighted the importance of International Women’s Day: “We use this opportunity to stop and reflect on the fantastic contribution that women make to our lives, our economies and our nations. There is still so much more to do, but we should also celebrate our successes.”
Around the whole world, International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.