Basseterre, Saint Kitts – March 09, 2026 – The Department of Gender Affairs in Saint Kitts and Nevis hosted a distinguished ceremony on Sunday, March 8th, 2026, at Railway Bar in Old Road to commemorate International Women’s Day and celebrate exceptional female contributors to national development. The event recognized women across diverse sectors who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and service.
Among the honorees were Naaemah Hazelle (Women in Public Service and Governance), Seana Cuffy (Women in Healthcare and Social Services), Venetta Zakers (Women in Education, Youth Development and Mentorship), Marcashar Warner (Women in Economic Empowerment, Trades and Entrepreneurship), and Marcia Jeffers (Women in Culture, Advocacy and Community Leadership).
Special awards included the Prime Minister’s Award presented to Cynthia Bart, the Legacy Award to Rita Cable, the Trecia Greaux Ocean Governance Beacon Award to Denise Baptiste, and the Department of Disabilities Empowerment Award to Cheniqua Pemberton.
The ceremony also established a Pioneering Women Gallery, inducting five groundbreaking figures: Bernadette Dolphin (First Female Chief Scout Commissioner in Latin America and Caribbean), Aravinda Hughes (First Female Technician at The Cable), Shandor Wilkinson (First Female FIFA Referee), Dr. Dasima Martin-Burkett (First and Sole Sports Medicine Doctor in the Federation), and Leonie James (Pioneer in Early Childhood Education).
Dignitaries in attendance included Governor-General Her Excellency Dame Marcella Liburd, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Gender Affairs Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Minister of State for Gender Affairs Honourable Isalean Phillip, and Republic of China (Taiwan) Resident Ambassador H.E. Edward Tao.
Minister Phillip emphasized the importance of recognizing living contributors, stating: ‘These women have dedicated their time, talents and resources to build our communities and nation. We believe in giving people their roses while they are alive to encourage continued excellence.’
The 2026 International Women’s Day was observed under the global theme ‘Give to Gain,’ highlighting the mutual benefits of gender equality and women’s empowerment.