In a powerful address that moved attendees to tears, acclaimed actress Phylicia Rashad delivered an inspirational message to Jamaican women at the ‘Women of Vision: A Visionary Salon’ event hosted by Plie for the Arts. The February 27, 2026 gathering at Jamaica Pegasus hotel formed part of the organization’s decade-long celebration of artistic excellence.
The cultural icon, renowned for her groundbreaking role as Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show, braved severe winter conditions in New York to reach Jamaica, demonstrating her commitment to the cause. During her emotional speech, Rashad emphasized spiritual connectivity and life purpose, stating: ‘I’m so privileged to be with you all today. I love seeing the sunshine in every face I see.’
When young women expressed their anxieties about future aspirations, Rashad offered transformative advice: ‘There’s no challenge that’s greater than you. You are equal to it.’ She urged the audience to cultivate internal courage, practice patience, and persist without surrender. To one student grappling with self-doubt about her ambitions, the actress counseled simply: ‘Doubt the doubt.’
The event showcased Jamaica’s most accomplished women across diverse sectors, with twelve exceptional leaders receiving 2026 Women of Vision honors. Among them were Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Scotia Group CEO Audrey Tugwell Henry, master blender Joy Spence, and Supreme Court Justice Simone Wolfe-Reece.
A distinguished panel featuring Tugwell Henry, architect Isiaa Madden, shipping executive Corah Ann Robertson-Sylvester, and business leader Lisa Lake Epstein shared insights on achieving professional excellence. They identified focus, curiosity, integrity, and discipline as crucial attributes for success.
School groups from across Jamaica attended, including students from hurricane-affected Westmoreland. Educators highlighted the rare opportunity for youth to engage with role models of this caliber. Manning School teacher Audrey Williams Woolery noted her students’ enthusiasm about hearing Rashad speak, while Ardenne High’s Gracia Thompson emphasized the importance of exposing students to successful women.
The celebration continues throughout the Caribbean, culminating in Kingston with an appearance by pioneering ballerina Misty Copeland.