The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) continues to solidify its commitment to gender equity with its rapidly growing Women’s Conference, now one of the Union’s most anticipated and well-attended events.
On Wednesday, nearly 100 women from across the Union’s membership gathered at Freedom Hall for an impactful day of reflection, capacity building, and sisterhood.
Guided by the theme “Accelerate Action for Women and Girls’ Rights, Empowerment, and Equality,” the conference created a vibrant space for women to share common struggles, uplift one another, and challenge systems of discrimination and oppression.
Featured speaker and former parliamentarian, Shawn Nicholas, addressed the lingering impact of patriarchal structures on women’s economic advancement. She emphasized that education, training, and greater access to financing are critical tools for accelerating socio-economic empowerment.
“The challenge is for each woman to see herself as a change agent and be committed to bringing about change whether in small individual steps or collaboratively with other women,” Nicholas stated.
Also addressing the gathering was Senator Kiz Nathaniel Johnson, who spotlighted the persistent gender gap in leadership, as revealed in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024.
“This year’s conference theme...calls us not just to reflect, but to act with urgency, especially when it comes to leadership,” Johnson said. “When girls and women lead, communities thrive. We see decisions that reflect empathy and equity. We see stronger families, stronger institutions, and more balanced priorities,” Johnson added.
The conference also gave voice to emerging leaders. Briann Russell, a young worker, delivered an enlightening presentation on Psychological Tactics and Workplace Manipulation. Her research encouraged participants to recognize and resist harmful and toxic behaviors that undermine professional and personal wellbeing.
A highlight of the event was the official reconstitution of the Union’s Women’s Council – ABWU WIN (Women’s Improvement Network). The newly elected executive comprises:
- Chair: Hazel Luke (ABWU)
- Co-Chair: Briann Russell (Antigua Barbuda Airport Authority)
- Secretary: Imani Meade (Cricket West Indies)
- Asst. Secretary: Ajatrisha Williams (Royalton Chic)
- Treasurer: Roumelia Daniel (Antigua Barbuda Airport Authority)
- Events Coordinator - Kimoy Samuel (Unicomer)
- PRO - Tavia Joseph, Menardia Mason (Royalton Chic/Blue Waters Resort)
A candid panel discussion also delved into critical issues affecting women, including the harmful impact of discriminatory beauty standards. Both Nicholas and Senator Johnson shared personal stories of navigating these gender-based expectations throughout their careers.
While the day was rich in dialogue and action planning, it also included moments of cultural celebration. Attendees were treated to dynamic performances by Queen Singing Althea and dancers from Shiva’s School of Dance.
Hazel Luke, ABWU’s Training and Education Coordinator, hailed the event a resounding success.
“Our reestablished Women’s Council will play a critical role in advancing initiatives that will help to shatter barriers of discrimination and elevate women in the world of work and throughout our society,” she declared. “We have the full support of the Union’s leadership and we are excited to thrust forward on this journey of empowerment for our women.”
The newly elected committee is scheduled to meet in the coming weeks to begin planning the 2026 Women’s Conference, building on the momentum and vision established this year.
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