Bahamas News
More Protection, More Opportunities, More Access for Women & Girls says CARICOM Secretary General in IWD Message
By Deandrea Hamilton and Rashaed Esson
Editorial Staff
March 9, 2023 – When the Secretary General of CARICOM gave her address on International Women’s Day, it was as a ceiling shattering woman herself; she carried those tuned into her five-minute presentation on a journey which shone a bright light on the lingering adversities which prevent women reaching their full potentials.
It is our annual celebration of International Women’s Day and Dr. Carla N. Barnett, the Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in her tribute to women, congratulated women who have come a long way through the opportunities being created through Innovation and Technology.
“In celebrating International Women’s Day with a focus on technology and innovation, we must not lose sight of the many issues that stand in the way of achieving women’s equality, such as women’s political participation, unpaid care and domestic work, impact of climate change, and gender-based violence which is a public health crisis in the Region. According to the global average, one in three women has experienced physical and/or sexual violence at some point in her lifetime, usually from an intimate partner,” said Dr. Barnett.
For as far back as we can remember, women have always been marginalized by the socially constructed idea of patriarchy which gave way to issues of gender-bias, leading to gender inequality, and gender-based abuses.
In 1910, Clara Zetkin suggested that on the 8th of March, working women should be celebrated for their achievements at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen. Since then, March 8 has been dedicated to celebrating women. In 1911, the first ever Women’s International Day took place; over a million
participated.
Now, modern women have access to greater opportunities but still face insurmountable odds, depending on where they are in the world and what goals they are seeking to achieve. The idea of male domination is old, but alive and kicking.
“Technology and innovation are opening new avenues for women and girls, thus contributing to gender equality in several ways. Through digital platforms and online resources, women and girls are gaining access to educational opportunities and career paths that were previously unavailable to them. This is particularly true in underserved communities where traditional barriers, such as geography, culture and a lack of resources can prevent them from pursuing their dream,” she said.
This year’s IWD theme is: “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality.”
Dr. Barnett, who in April 2021 became the first female Secretary General of CARICOM, spoke on the ongoing eradication of gender inequality, one of the recurring issues recognized on International Women’s Day.
She highlighted the effectiveness of this year’s theme in being instrumental in fighting gender inequality by opening doors to females of all ages positioning them to be that driving force in the advancements of their communities, their world.
“Technological advancements are making education and training more accessible to women, particularly in the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) fields.
This provides women with more opportunities to participate in the workforce, which can lead to greater economic independence, empowerment, and higher pay.”
And not just better pay for a better life, but improved standards of living and access to quality services.
“Innovations in medical technology also promise to improve women’s health outcome, and access to healthcare services, such as new treatments for reproductive health, remote monitoring of pregnancies and telemedicine services,” said Barnett, who acknowledged the regressive and dangerous conditions for women and girl children in regional Haiti.
“As we observe IWD this year, our thoughts and prayers are with the women and girls in Haiti who are experiencing the most gross violations as they are targeted by gangs who are ravaging and killing them with impunity. Protecting the women and girls must be a priority,” she stated.
Barnett wants to see more women hired at the world’s leading companies for innovation; she wants to see a drastic drop in physical and sexual violence against Caribbean women in particular where studies show one in two are abused and the Sec-Gen is calling for and end to these age-old anguishes, which are barriers to women blossoming fully.
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Wines & Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wines and spirits distributor is proud to announce the launch of Monument Beverage Co., its newest 100% locally produced ready-to-drink alcoholic cocktail.
Monument, “Made to Celebrate”, perfectly encapsulates everything the brand represents. Created and distributed by CWS, Monument is
inspired by culture, crafted with excellence and bursting with innovation.
This unique beverage celebrates island living with three bold flavors, Ginger Lime, Peach Passion and Melon Fizz. All of which can be enjoyed at an ABV of five-point-two percent.
The brand’s creativity really shines through each can’s packaging. Bold colored stripes, cherished native flora and fauna and of course, national monuments can all be found on each can.
The beverage’s two year plus development is a testament to CWS’ dedication to quality and innovation. Countless hours of tastings, reformulations, focus groups and package design reviews all paid off with the creation of Monument.
Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Chief Commercial Officer of Caribbean Wines & Spirits and Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, shared what this authentically Bahamian made product launch means for the company.
“When we were conceptualizing Monument, we wanted to create a product that not only tasted like The Bahamas but would be an ode to the
nation as well. With those two thoughts in mind, I, along with a team of experts, created three incredible flavors we believe really connect with and celebrate the essence of island living,” she said.
“Additionally, being that Monument is the first product to be 100% manufactured by Caribbean Wines & Spirits, we really wanted to ensure that both the flavors and packaging honored our rich heritage. On each of the cans, you can find various monuments such as the Nassau Public Library in New Providence, the Garden of the Grove in Grand Bahama and the Hatchet Bay Silos in Eleuthera; all of which pay homage to our diverse Bahamian heritage.” Wells-Lisgaris concluded.”
The historic monuments found throughout our islands are more than places we pass every day; they are reminders of who we are, where we’ve come from and the stories that connect us as Bahamians.
Monument is perfectly formulated with quality ingredients, and each can celebrates a collection of these cultural icons from across The Bahamas.
Whether chilling solo beachside, gathered around a family table or backyard a grill with friends, make Monument your sip of choice. Monument is made to celebrate, visit www.cwsbahamas.com today for more details.
NASSAU, Bahamas —– Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to crown Lady
Kayla of Exuma as this year’s annual Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup winner.
CBC created the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup to further the advancement of sailing and Bahamian culture through monetary and social support. The competition judges the skipper’s performance across three regattas, The Best of the Best, the National Family Island and Long Island Regattas.
The winning sloop led by Kianno Hutchinson and Joss Knowles showcased their skillmanship in the E-Class category across each round of competition. In addition to winning the trophy, the skippers were awarded a $5,000 donation, an $8,000 stipend to the junior sailing club of their island and a limited-edition Lady Kayla Bahamas Goombay Punch commemorative can, which will be released soon.
Jonathan Thronebury, Marketing Director of CBC shared the significance behind The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup.
“The Bahamas Goombay Punch is more than a beloved local brand; it’s a vibrant part of our cultural fabric. Just like sailing, our national sport, it carries a rich legacy that spans generations. Recognizing this shared history, we’re proud to support initiatives that celebrate and advance Bahamian culture,” he said.
Hutchinson and Knowles shared what this win meant for them.
“I felt super proud when I realized we won. I am grateful and thankful to God, for good coaches and Joss. It was really an honor winning the
Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup,” Hutchinson expressed.
“I am very honored to have been able to compete in the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup, I think it is a great concept and idea for a competition and really adds a new motive throughout the regattas. The whole championship was super competitive, and every single race was a fight. Alvington McKenzie was extremely competitive and had us until the Long Island regatta, which made it a very fun and tough competition. Very excited to have been the winner of a super close championship,” Knowles revealed.
Lady Kayla’s owner, Dallas Knowles, shared the team’s winning strategy.
“In sailing consistency is key and our guys in Lady Kayla are some of the best in the business at staying near the top. In the end, that was enough to secure their first Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup win. We are so proud of Joss and Kianno for what they have done in Lady Kayla. Thank you to Caribbean Bottling Company for such an amazing and forward-thinking initiative,” Knowles shared.
The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup is proud to continue its impact on sailing and community building through clean and fair competition.
For more updates on the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup and Caribbean Bottling Company visit the website www.cbcbahamas.com today.
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to once again support Basketball Smiles for their 27th year.
Upholding its corporate pillar of community outreach, CBC proudly donated $2,000, over 75 cases of Dasani, Powerade and Sprite, reusable
Powerade water bottles and numerous marketing materials.
The annual sporting summer camp offers free basketball and life skills training to Junior and High School students.
Basketball Smiles’ mission of developing leadership qualities while fostering children’s academic achievement and self-esteem aligns perfectly with CBC’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth.
Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager for Caribbean Bottling Company shared why the company continues to support this program each year.
“At CBC, we believe investing in our youth is one of the greatest ways to strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support Basketball Smiles each year because it goes beyond the game. This program champions healthy lifestyles, positive values and brighter futures. It’s a privilege to play a role in helping these young athletes reach their full potential each year,” she shared.
Sam Nicholls, Basketball Smiles Camp President and Founder expressed.
“Caribbean Bottling Company is an incredible partner. We are truly grateful for their generous support, which will go a long way in making a positive impact on the lives of our campers,” Nicholls expressed.
CBC is always ready to lend its support toward initiatives and programs that uplift young Bahamians. The impact Basketball Smiles makes on the community is undeniable and is why CBC remains a historic sponsor.
For more information on sponsorship, events and new products, visit www.cbcbahamas.com today.
-
Bahamas News1 week agoMonument Beverage Co. Caribbean Wines & Spirits Uniquely Bahamian Newest Product
-
Bahamas News1 week agoLady Kayla Crowned Goombay Punch Cup Sailing Champion of 2025/2026
-
News6 days agoFacts According to the Turks & Caicos Premier About His Constitutional Amendments
-
News6 days ago80 DAYS. $80 MILLION. – PDM Demands Answers from Government
-
News6 days ago“The Contract is The Problem, Not The Hospitals”
-
News6 days ago
Premier Lays Out Cost of Hospital Dispute
-
News4 days agoPAY FIRST. QUESTION LATER.
-
Education5 days agoDr. Candice Williams Appointed First Vice-President of Regional Higher Education Association