PHILIPSBURG:--- Women in St. Maarten were challenged to take bold action to challenge social rules and break down sexist barriers. The advice came from attorney Dagmar Daal as she spoke as part of a panel discussion to mark International Women’s Day held at the Phillipsburg branch of CIBC FirstCaribbean on Wednesday, March 8. Daal encouraged women to create their own bold moments by taking action challenging social rules and perceptions and break sexist barriers.
Annually, the day provides a unique occasion to take actions that motivate and encourage significant change for women. As such CIBC FirstCaribbean hosted the event for its staff and specially invited guests, among them female participants of the K1 Britannia Foundation’s Work, Training, and Social Development Program.
The panelists also included President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams and Dr. Sonia Swanston-Meade. They engaged in a candid discussion, sharing what bold actions they took to help improve or develop aspects of their lives and careers.
Mrs. Wescot-Williams told the special gathering of staff that building self-confidence and strengthening the social fabric was a means to narrowing the gender gap. Dr. Swanston emphasized the importance of self-love and self-care as the building blocks to bold actions, reminding women that at times they needed to be selfish and that without self-love/care they could not thrive personally or professionally.
The discussion which was aimed at motivating the audience also allowed the presenters, leaders within their community to reflect on their own lives and achievements. In doing so, they admitted having taken bold actions on numerous occasions, often subconsciously. Those “courageous” and “confident” actions, as Mrs. Wescot-Williams dubbed them, dramatically shaped their lives.
The event was planned by an organizing committee comprising of, P. Abdul-Hamid, G. Marlin, N. Smith, A. Dijkhoffz, J. Spencer and L. Clarke. PR Consultant, Claudine Williams and CIBC moderator Jimmy Challenger also contributed to the success of the event.