Action Invest Caribbean Inc. marked a significant milestone on Wednesday with the graduation of 150 women from its acclaimed Road to Growth program. Held in the ballroom of the Pegasus Suites, the event was attended by esteemed guests including the First Lady of Guyana, Mrs. Arya Ali, and English barrister and writer Cherie Blair alongside key stakeholders and government officials.
The Road to Growth program, known for empowering women entrepreneurs through mentorship and skill-building, celebrated its largest cohort to date. Participants from diverse backgrounds and industries were honored for their achievements and contributions to their respective fields. The ceremony provided a platform for these women to showcase their growth and success stories, highlighting their resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.
In her address, the First Lady commended the graduates on their dedication and perseverance throughout the program. She emphasized the crucial role of women in society and pledged her support for gender parity and women’s empowerment initiatives. “As First Lady, I am committed to advocating for womens’ rights and amplifying their voices,” she affirmed, inspiring the audience with words of encouragement.
Cherie Blair, founder of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, echoed similar sentiments, praising the participants for their entrepreneurial endeavors and their impact on local communities. “These women are not just creating businesses; they are fostering economic growth and providing essential services,” Blair remarked, underscoring the program’s broader societal benefits.
Throughout the event, personal stories from two program participants highlighted the transformative journey they experienced during the intensive seven-week program. Their testimonials underscored the program’s effectiveness in fostering skills development, business acumen, and leadership qualities among women entrepreneurs.
Among the distinguished guests were Jane Miller, British High Commissioner to Guyana, and Ms. Leanne Baker, Senior Program Officer for Guyana at the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, among others. Their presence underscored international support and collaboration in advancing women’s economic empowerment in Guyana.
The ceremony concluded with reflections from Ms. Davitri Doerga, CEO of Action Invest Caribbean Inc., and Mr. Keon Smith, Director of Action Invest Caribbean Inc., reaffirming their commitment to continuing and expanding the Road To Growth Program’s impact in the region. The event served as a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and community support in fostering women’s leadership and entrepreneurship in Guyana and beyond.