In a vibrant display of solidarity and empowerment, the Jamaica Stock Exchange recently hosted its annual Bell Ringing Ceremony to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 10, 2025. The event, themed “Ring the Bell for Gender Equality – For All Women and Girls’ Rights Equality and Empowerment”, featured the esteemed Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange as the main speaker.
To kick off the event, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, the Managing Director of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, highlighted a sobering statistic – it could take over 130 years to achieve global gender parity. Expressing the urgent need for action, she emphasized the underrepresentation of women in senior roles despite their majority in university graduates in the Caribbean. Dr. Street Forrest pointed out that companies with gender-diverse boards excel by 25%, urging women to embrace informed risks, especially in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).
Minister Grange echoed the call for reflection and strategic planning to overcome the remaining challenges in achieving gender equality. She emphasized Jamaica’s commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of women to national development. The Minister highlighted the implementation of the Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act, 2021, as a monumental step to combat sexual harassment effectively.
Monique Long, a Planning and Coordination Specialist at UN Women Multi County Office – Caribbean, emphasized the importance of bridging the digital gender gap. She stressed the necessity of ensuring equal access to technology for women and girls to lead in the AI and digital evolution. Additionally, Long advocated for promoting women’s employment principles to advance gender equality in the workplace effectively.
The event featured a thought-provoking panel discussion themed “Accelerate Action,” which included prominent figures such as Dr. Una Clarke, Mrs. Audrey Tugwell-Henry, Mrs. Yaniece Gentles, Mrs. Sharon Coburn Robinson, Ms. Denise Daley, Ms. Stacey Knight, and Ms. Monique Long. Each panelist shared insights and commitments towards women’s advancement in various sectors.
Mrs. Audrey Tugwell Henry emphasized the crucial role of financial literacy in empowering women economically. She underlined that women’s enhanced financial decision-making skills contribute significantly to economic growth. Ms. Denise Daley advocated for tailored training and legislation to address women’s inequalities effectively, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and accommodating women’s diverse roles.
Ms. Stacey Knight commended the Jamaica Stock Exchange for creating a platform for women from different backgrounds and generations to empower each other. She emphasized the distinction between equality and equity, stressing the need for equitable measures to address disparities effectively. Mrs. Yaniece Gentles shared her journey to success, acknowledging the support of both women and men in her professional development.
Dr. Una Clarke shared her inspiring journey of breaking through societal norms to claim her place at the table. She urged women to be unapologetic about taking their seats at the decision-making table and to create opportunities where none exist. Mrs. Sharon Coburn Robinson outlined a four-step plan focused on Access, Alignment, Partnership, and Participation to accelerate action towards gender equality.
In closing, Ms. Monique Long emphasized the importance of women’s inclusion in climate justice and digital inclusion discussions. Recognizing the differential impact of crises on men and women, she advocated for tailored responses that consider gender-specific needs and experiences. Long stressed the necessity of ensuring women’s active participation in emerging areas to protect and empower them effectively.
The event served as a powerful platform for dialogue, reflection, and commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women. As we celebrate the achievements of women and address the existing challenges, let us strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
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