Women in Business 2019

Message From The Publisher

Honorees, Welcome to the second annual issue of “ 25 most influential Bahamian women in business”. This edition features a phenomenal group of women who exhibit character, class, and courage. These distinguished women shatter the glass ceiling in business and truly are role models for future generations.

In this edition, we honor the women that are corporate trendsetters and organizational “movers and shakers” that positively impact the economy of the Bahamas. Our goal is to highlight their achievements and contributions which exhibits how they live beyond making excuses and are unwilling to accept the norm. The influence they make as leaders gives young people hope to aspire to their levels of success. This stellar group of women is a prime example of Bahamians in action!

On behalf of Professional Services Bahamas staff and magazine partners, I would like to thank everyone involved for making this venture a success and supporting this effort. We congratulate the honorees and encourage them to support each other, uplift each other and most importantly believe in each other. As the coat of arms states “Forward, Upward, Onward, Together! Gods richest blessings to all of you.

Dr. Cyril Lowe. CABIB, AIA, FCEA, DIP.PA, Ph.D

WOMEN ARE WINNING IN BUSINESS, HERE'S WHY. Just a few decades ago, it was difficult imagining that women would sit in the decision-making rooms among men and have equivalent say. It was grim envisioning a world where women were able to utter their opposing opinions in the presence of their “bosses”. And it was almost bizarre to believe that a woman, a wife, a mother could ever also have the pleasure of also being referred to as the Chief Executive Officer. For many, it has been a struggle to accept that women could be dominating in the business field and doing so effortlessly with a beautifully indescribable combination of elegance and ferocity. But today, women are winning in business. Women are winning in life. Women are winning in business and after speaking to two women who are exceeding in their fields, we learned that is because of four things:

Shonalee King Johnson, CEO of Windward PR, with some 19 years of experience in public relations and four years as an entrepreneur tells us that. She believes that the women who are winning in business are those who would have taken the time to develop specific skills in order to service a particular market.

“This is women who would have looked at the market, determine where needs work, compare them to the skills they actually have and seek to execute the successfully,” Shonalee said.

“I also believe that women are winning in business because they have taken the time to learn how to actually run and operate a successful business. We’ve used the instincts that are sometimes considered negative like our emotions and things that are natural to us to actually work to our advantage when running a business. We use the instinct to

1. Consistently study the workings of businesses in their field 2. Utilize the power of networking 3. Use instincts to their advantage 4. Taking advantage of new opportunities afforded

MAGAZINE |

determine what project makes sense for us, which clients we should pursue versus the ones that would not be suited for what it is or the products or services that we currently provide."

Shonalee believes that a huge portion of women winning in business is as a direct result of collaboration and building networks – something that we see happening more often in our time. “…We are relying on the networks that we have built up over the years and so we’ve taken the time to support other women in business and have had other women support us in business so those are the people we continue to refer, those are the people we continue to recommend for specific projects and they in turn, do the same for us. So instead of the whole idea of competition among women, I think the environment is very collaborative and of course, that comes now with understanding and

again trusting your own instincts to determine who is best to work with in this environment or business climate.”

There are many who agree and some who have also gave other reasons why women are winning.

“We are able to utilize what’s afforded to all to our advantage. Women have long been behind the scenes or second runner up in many industries, but like myself, we’re able to combine our skills and creativity with the many different platforms to get ahead.”

Shamon Campbell, who is among the top real estate agents in the country said women are now in a better position to succeed and have taken advantage of new opportunities.

Women are winning in business and it’s not by chance and it’s not by luck but it is because of the several keys mentioned by these two winners. So, are you ready to win?

“In a very information/digital driven era, women now have the same resources as men to succeed,” she said.

Article by: Bianca Bethel

WILL A WOMAN EVER LEAD THE BAHAMAS?

HER EXCELLENCY DAME MARGUERITE PINDLING, GCMG

GOVERNOR-GENERAL 2014 - PRESENT

4

Will a woman ever lead in The Bahamas?

There have been many much-needed

country’s future leaders- some well before they even

conversations questioning if The Commonwealth

know. With that being said, because these systems

of The Bahamas will ever see the day when it is

are often orchestrated by the powerful men who

led by a woman. At some point, it has crossed the

work behind the scenes, it could be difficult for a

minds of most citizens. In a time when we

woman to come in and change all that was planned

recognize the ever so desperate need for change

years in advance. Though many are awaiting to see

and a great change at that in the country, the

the day and hope they live to see it, the only answer

question is being asked more and more. As with a

there is, is that the day will come soon.

lot of things, I believe The Bahamas will catch on and catch up with the progressions of the rest of

Programmed Thinking

the world as it relates to women in leadership, but

So many people have been programmed to believe

we must acknowledge that this will take time.

that women are most successful and most useful

Will a woman ever lead in The Bahamas? The

when they are managing or overseeing projects

question is an interesting one, but the answer is

surrounding the home. We believe that women are

yes. But what the question should be is, “When

to be caretakers of the house and not caretakers of

will a woman lead The Bahamas?�

the state and the law. This belief has cause many,

Systems

including women, to doubt the ability of a woman to lead the country. We have heard that women are too

The way our party system is, those in power are going

emotion and irrational. We have even heard that

to continue to shuffle their cards to the top of the deck

women may not be smart or wise enough. Though

until it is no longer allowed by the members of that

these beliefs have been proven wrong time and time

party. Essentially, in most cases, the people who are

again.

selected to lead these parties are picked strategically and often times, in advance as the generations go by.

With so many families with political ties, many leaders have planned and groomed their sons and grandsons to be the

WILL A WOMAN EVER LEAD THE BAHAMAS?

"GENDER SHOULD NOT PLAY A ROLL"

Gender should not play a role in whether a person can be an efficient and effective leader. That should be determined based on the individual’s abilities, strengths and personality traits. Here are some reasons women should be allowed to lead not only in the corporate world but in any forum:

They value work-life balance.

They are empathetic.

They make great listeners They are motivated by challenges They are strong communicators They have high emotional intelligence They lead by example They are great at multitasking We can go on and on about why women are just as qualified as men to lead but until we as a people come together to believe in the capabilities of the woman, it will be a while before we see a woman leading The Bahamas.

TRAITS OF INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

11Women, leadership & influence are hot topics right now. The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) Arinthia Komolafe made history at the party’s 2019 convention in February being the first woman to be elected leader of a political party in Bahamian history.

While it’s thrilling to see the current energy and excitement around women, the reality is, women have been practicing leadership, doing amazing things, and making global contributions and impact for centuries.

These women of impact include world leaders, businesswomen, artists, activists, entrepreneurs, actresses, athletes, authors and others. All different walks of life, but turns out, women who achieve amazing things tend to have a few traits in common: Here are a few that you can attempt to cultivate or recognize in yourself!

1. An OPTIMISTIC attitude - The tendency to look on the positive side of events or conditions helps you keep a hopeful outlook.

With an optimistic perspective, one expects the most favorable outcome, and as such, is more likely to get that favorable outcome.

There is a connection between optimism and confidence, with optimism often leading to a confident attitude both about the successful outcome and about one’s sense of self.

Seeing the bright side helps us take bad experiences and use them as leadership opportunities.

2. PERSISTENCE - Every woman had a work ethic that kept her on task and on course, even in the face of difficulty or opposition. Persistence will often look like a willingness to fail, all the while keeping at it, learning from the mistakes along the way. Sometimes it is a quiet resilience that simply keeps us moving forward, an inner drive to not give up. Persistence is critical, because everyone is going to get tested and life will knock you down, no matter what you’re doing or who you are. The strength is in knowing that when you fall, the important thing is getting back up.

3. A strong and powerful VOICE- Voice is at the epitome of women’s influence. It’s a willingness to speak your truth and be heard, even if the message may not neatly align with the status quo or be part of popular opinion. Your voice doesn’t have to be loud, but your voice belongs to you and only you. By telling our stories, sharing our thoughts and feelings, and ideas, we can connect with others, inspire change, and empower ourselves and those around us.

4. Living with PASSION and PURPOSE- Know what drives you, what moves you, and let the fire burn brightly inside. Passion and purpose are dedication to a cause, your cause. It’s feeling a desire and a love for the work you do. Whether that work is raising young children, running a company, teaching, or working for social change, it’s your work, and having enthusiasm and excitement will keep you persistent and optimistic.

5. A strong sense of self and CONFIDENCEConfidence is a belief in your ability to succeed; a belief that you do something well.

At the core of this is a faith and trust that you can achieve what you want to achieve and be who you want to be. This is a tough one because we get so many external messages and that little voice in our head often becomes one of doubt. Yet, believing in oneself allow us to take on challenges, continue in times of stress, and reach out to connect with others.

Each of us can contribute to our community and to the world in amazing ways. Sometimes we just must get out of our own way and allow ourselves to shine.

6. AUTHENTICITY- Even though this is such a buzz word right now, it still is critically important. We found that living authentically is more than just keeping it real. It means a willingness to author your own story, to be the person you want to be, not who others expect you to be. It is not living for others and in today’s world social media. I was scrolling on IG the other day and read a quote: “The universe responds to the real, not the you, you pretend to be” This might be the hardest one on the list, but arguably the most valuable.

7. Seeking and receiving SUPPORT - No one can do it alone. Influential women know they need the support of family and friends. They recognize that partnerships with other groups, and collaboration on projects will not only help them be better, but get the job done. Women often have an unwillingness to ask for help to avoid seeming incapable, incompetent. But navigating through life takes a village. And the good thing is, people like helping others. It feels good. It creates connection. It shows us that we all have vulnerabilities and need support from time to time.

My guess is that you already are a woman of impact. But in the never-ending quest to improve ourselves and become our best selves, keeping these eight qualities in mind can help.

EXUMA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

TO CONQUER

WHY EXUMA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY ?

Location: Hooper’s Bay West of George Town, Exuma

Exuma Christian Academy (ECA) is a K-12

The ECA was legally established June 2018 as

International Christian Private School located

a sole proprietorship solely owned and

in Hooper’s Bay, a mixed-use neighborhood

operated by Mrs. Keniqua Burrows, and it

four miles west of George Town, Exuma. With

officially opened its doors to students in the

approximately 70 students currently enrolled

community September 2018. The ECA is also

in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 11 on opening,

registered with the National Accreditation

the school is expected to grow rapidly over

and Equivalency Council of the Bahamas.

the coming years.

The ECA is a safe, supportive and highly

The ECA presently earns its revenues through

engaging environment where values are

tuition, the sale of books, after-school

explicitly taught with learning and behavioral

program fees and proceeds from cafeteria

expectations high. At the ECA, individual

sales only. The revenue streams are projected

student needs are met by highly skilled,

to continue with additional funding sources,

dedicated and knowledgeable staff.

such as fundraisers and corporate donations,

Innovation, creativity and inquiry is highly

to be added by end of Year 1.

encouraged and developed in our students and learning programs are relevant and engaging whilst focusing on the development of literacy and numeracy skills.

The ECA has four divisions - Pre-

Safe, Caring SupportiveÂ

Kindergarten/Kindergarten, Primary (K-6), Middle school (7-9) and High school (10-12 grade).

Each division offers students a diverse curriculum in a safe, caring, supportive and academically rigorous environment. Students are immersed in educational curriculum that establishes the foundations in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), social sciences, religious knowledge, foreign languages, physical education and technical - vocational studies and that places a high emphasis in numeracy and literacy, discipline, positive attitudes, and the development of life skills.

Exuma Christian Academy is directed by Mrs. Keniqua Burrows a 4th generation educator with over 10 years’ experience in education. She is a published author, wife and mother of three children, who are all currently enrolled at the ECA.Mrs. Burrows is also guided by a 4-member Board of Advisors comprising of Ms. Jenny Kittel, Mr. Robert Stitch, Dr. Charles Wildgoose and John & Debbie Parotti and Mr. Jeremy Mutton.

AND

ARINTHIA S. KOMOLAFE

edam yrotsiH

ASK

ARINTHIA S. KOMOLAFE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL ALLIANCE (DNA)

Democratic National Alliance (DNA) made history with the election of the first female leader of a major political leader on the convention floor.

Public Service Bahamas

Something new and different is happening in The Bahamas.

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COVER STORY

INTERVIEW

On the 22nd of February 2019, the political

bill in Parliament to grant the franchise to women.

landscape shifted in a major way as members of the

Cooper’s advocacy was under the umbrella of the

Democratic National Alliance (DNA) made history

Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks

with the election of the first female leader of a major

around the World (I.B.P.O.E.W) of which she was a

political leader on the convention floor. It was an

member. Her experience is recounted in the published

event described by many in different ways; while

work of Marion Bethel's Womanish Ways, which

some called it the beginning of a new chapter, others

documents the suffrage movement in The Bahamas.

labeled the event as the dawning of a new day. The

Komolafe remarks that she has always been a student

famous quote that “the journey of a thousand miles

of political history in The Bahamas and was further

begins with a single step” came alive with the

inspired by her grandmother's contribution to

election of Arinthia S. Komolafe as the first female

changing the course of history in The Bahamas. Today

leader of the DNA. Mrs. Komolafe’s landslide victory

Komolafe has set out to make her own mark. Her eyes

continues to spur much discourse as to whether The

are set on the future and achieving something that no

Bahamas is closer to electing its first female Prime

other female politician before her has done; that is, lead

Minister.

a major political party into the next general election.

The newly elected leader is full of optimism that victory

For a select few, the idea of a woman occupying the

is attainable. Although Komolafe's Party, the DNA, has

seat of Prime Minister in The Bahamas is novel and

never won a seat in parliament since its formation in

unthinkable. However, political historians and the

2011 despite having presented a slate of candidates in

new generation of Bahamians understand the

both the 2012 and 2017 general elections, the political

magnitude of Komolafe’ s victory and what it means

landscape and climate is changing.

for the future of the nation.

Many speak of the growing apathy towards the It was just over a half century ago when women

Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and Free National

gained the franchise and the right to vote. This

Movement (FNM). The Bahamas has not had a two-

significant feat was the culmination of years of work

term administration since its general elections in 1997

and agitation by women of that generation. They

and both parties continue to experience significant

saw the importance of a woman's right to have

erosion among their base. Analysts and political

representation in the land of her birth and where she

observers believe that this is as a result of the

resided.Komolafe, the granddaughter of a

dissatisfaction of the voting population toward the

suffragette recalls the stories told by her

policies and level of governance displayed by both

grandmother, the late Hilda Francina Cooper.

parties.

Grammy Hilda as she was fondly called, knocked on doors in her pregnant state to encourage women to sign the petition that would accompany a resolution for a

"The economy of The Bahamas has not experienced significant growth in the last decade,"

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COVER STORY

severely impacting both the quality and standard of life that Bahamians have grown accustomed to.

Youth unemployment is extremely high, and the electorate has become frustrated with the political tribalism, nepotism and cronyism promoted by the two parties. Perhaps even more promising for Komolafe and her Party is the fact that the DNA will be targeting key demographics including the youth and women who represent the largest voting bloc in The Bahamas. Komolafe’ s optimism is enhanced by the fact that Bahamians no longer exercise blind loyalty to the established parties and more importantly, the policies that the DNA espouse are more geared toward empowering this most significant sector of Bahamian society.

So, the question arises, is Komolafe up to the task? Is she qualified for the coveted top spot of Prime Minister? Certainly, as you survey the landscape, there's no doubt that those who have heard the name Komolafe find her to be a suitable candidate for the top political spot and to disrupt the engrained old boys club. Many speak to her intelligence, her diverse professional background and the refreshing fact that she is a woman of substance involved in frontline politics. Her journey in politics has been a long but rewarding one having at a very early age served as the head of the women's arm of a major political party. She ran in the 2017 general elections against a political juggernaut who would eventually become the Prime Minister of The Bahamas and she put up a fierce fight in doing so after only four months on the campaign trail. Added to this, she has other firsts to her credit, having served as the first female Managing Director of the Bahamas Development Bank.

INTERVIEW

A financial service, policy and legal professional, Komolafe previously served as a Board member, Human Resource Committee Chair, member of the Audit committee and member of the Review Panel of the Securities Commission of The Bahamas. She is an active advocate for the rights of Bahamians with an annual commitment to attend the United Nations’ Commission on the Status of Women meetings held in New York as a part of the Government delegation. She is a founder and director of the Komolafe Foundation, a family non-profit organization geared toward the education and scholarship of Bahamian youth.

In 2014, Komolafe was nominated for the US State Department’s Global Leadership Mentoring Program for being a strong example of leadership that has made a difference in building The Bahamas. Komolafe was the only Bahamian politician selected to observe the US mid-term elections as part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) in 2018.

Komolafe will be relying on her diverse professional, political and social background to move her toward the goal of electoral victory. More importantly, she will rely upon a clearly articulated vision for the Bahamian people to buy into; complimented with the presentation of a strong slate of candidates as she continues to display her authentic charm in communicating with the Bahamian people.

Arinthia S. Komolafe is a phenomenon to watch and her emergence just made the next general elections much more interesting. She is expected to face off against the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Official Opposition in a race that promises to be one for the history books.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS AND MANAGING THE HOME

We either aspire to be them, seek to befriend them or dream of transcending them; powerful, talented, dynamic black women – the driving force behind much of the world’s success today. We are often led to believe that those superwomen who strut among us during the hours of their demanding 9 - 5s and are exceling in their careers, obviously must have missed out on the honorable yet exhausting task of motherhood and wifehood to have been able to achieve their “farfetched” goals and maintain their superior rankings. We have been conditioned to think that perhaps the esteemed “mom” title with perks of apple sauce stained tops twice a week and hours of experience in the dreaded field of changing diapers have been traded out for the executive title with perks like having your name on prime parking slots in the company lot and experience in business econ and high level negotiations. We have been made to believe a lot, some of which is indeed untrue. We have been programmed to believe that you can either be incredible in one of the two areas but certainly, not both.

But as time would have shown us, the balanced woman, who is worth $400,000 to her company and has a vinyl of herself, her husband, two kids and German Shepherd plastered on the back of her tinted BMW X5 walks among us and though, most times she is exhausted, she reigns supreme in the business world as well as in the Parent Teacher Association.

Organization A key factor in managing daily operations at the office and at your humble abode is being organized. Going into a busy day with dozens of tasks to complete for both spaces can be difficult if there is not only a vision, but a plan. And I know, many of you will think, “Well, that’s simple! I know exactly what I have to do today. I have it all written down in my mind.” But that’s not how it works. You may be organized in your mind, but you are likely working below your full potential, making certain tasks more difficult as well as risking forgetting one or two major or minor things. We must always keep in mind that remembering things without keeping a record can be a challenge even for those of us with the brightest minds. You can stay organized by using a planning tool, whether it be a written daily planner or an application on your smartphone, to keep track of your daily goals, tasks, appointments and contacts.

Self- Care It is fairly easy to become so overwhelmed with the tasks of being responsible for two much needed dairies - bread winner and milk lady. After you have organized your schedule up until incorporating the exact amount of time you anticipate to spend in 5 o’clock traffic, ask yourself, what time have I allotted for me? To be balanced, one must have a good mixture of rigorous

work and rest. While we are constantly on the go, we must keep in mind that our body must be taken exceptional care of if we intend to juggle life continuously. Self-care does not necessarily come in the form of thousanddollar trips but include any of the following:

Take vitamins and necessary supplements daily Exercise daily Maintain a nutritious and healthy diet Get adequate rest Unplug from work related matters when needed Take breaks from social media and social life Treat yourself to a spa day

Share the load All successful women are also smart, and this means they are smart enough to know and to admit that it is OK to seek help. The load of being the boss of your home and the girl boss of your company can be a lot to deal with and it always helps when you have help.

Instead of taking on all the projects you had your mind on spearheading, try entrusting an assistant or someone aspiring to be in your position with getting work started to alleviate some of the tough work.

At home, reach out to a family member to help babysit or help with the kids at home. Split and plan chores with your husband/partner. Try carpooling with some of the students in your neighborhood to save you an hour or so in the morning. Also, hire some help! Having a sitter or part-time maid is not as expensive as it may seem. Having someone clean your house/do laundry a few days a week can relieve more stress than you think.

Whatever it is, whether work at the office or work at home, find a way to share the load of your responsibilities for a lighter week.

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POTENTIAL START UP BUSINESSES FOR WOMEN

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INTERVIEW

POTENTIAL START UP BUSINESSES FOR WOMEN More and more, we see women all over the world taking the unpredictable leap into entrepreneurship.

It’s not that easy being a girl boss in the big leagues and though it may be more liberating, more empowering and “freer”, being your own boss is not that easy either. But that shouldn’t stop any woman looking to make her big break in entrepreneurship. We recognize that starting a business can be tough, so here are five potential start up business ideas for women in 2019.

What good is the knowledge we have acquired if we continuously keep it to ourselves? If you are a woman aspiring to start up a business, consider hosting online courses or selling eBooks based on your skills and expertise for profit. Creating a business can be tough but starting a business based on your years of studying and experience, now that sounds like a walk on a secluded beach. There are tons of online courses that, (get this), teach you how to create and host an online course and there are tons of v-clips and eBooks that

1. Start a Blog Though many of us used it as a semi-personal journal to keep history (proof) of our little blurbs of creativity & to release our mixed emotions during sophomore year, women, people are making hundreds of thousands of dollars every year by blogging. Whether your piece is on your top five islands to visit in The Bahamas, your grandmother’s delectable recipe on some good ole’ Johnny Cake or your views on a movie or play, there are thousands of people around the world who are likely interested in what you have to share. Blog sponsors, affiliate marketing, e-mail subscribers are just a few revenue streams you can look forward to once you get to typing but most importantly, posting! Remember that one time you thought about changing your major to English after you read a Nicholas Sparks piece and you cried for days? Now is your chance. May the writer within you never die.

teach you how to make eBooks. You spent seven years investing into your tertiary education excluding the courses and programs you would have had on the side.

You’ve been in top positions at about four companies and have worked in three countries. It’s time you make some money from that. Websites like Teachable make it easy to create, host and sell your online courses and there are lots more than can take you down the wonderful path of writing and selling eBooks. It’s time to let the world pick your brain, for a fee of course.

3. Virtual Assistant For as long as you’ve known yourself, you have been a neat freak. You have been documenting everything. You never miss an appointment, you always meet a deadline and you absolutely never forget to take your meat out of the freezer. A lot of us cannot relate, however, the world is in dire need of people like you. Of course, picking up and becoming a personal assistant has never really

INTERVIEW

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Continuation

5. Online Selling

crossed your mind. You don’t like the idea of being

It’s safe, it’s quick and it’s affordable. Your next

up and down behind one person like an adult

business idea can be setting up a shop on the world

babysitter but being a virtual assistant is a bit

wide web. Whether it is selling old goods or creating

different. No coffee runs, no picking up dry cleaning,

new ones, someone in this world would be open to

but maybe clearing our e-mails and slotting

purchasing it. A way to make money off of what you

appointments in calendars are not that bad. If you

already have is getting rid of all the gems you hold on

are a woman with a knack for organization websites

tight to in your spare room at home. Whether it is

like Elance, Indeed or Upwork can be you gateway to

clothes, shoes, accessories, electronics, you name it, if

being virtual assistant of the year without having to

its in a reasonable condition, it’s worth some cash.

pick up your boss’ kids from soccer practice.

Places lie Amazon and eBay are perfect for reselling items and require minimum to time to do so. If you are

4. Travel Consultant Even though you are out of vacation time for the year and it’s only April, you find yourself constantly searching the internet for great finds on places to travel, things to do, airline tickets and housing. You know exactly where to go, what time to go and what to look for to meet your needs without breaking your budget. Travel consultancy may be your next business idea! Mesh your love for flights and your need for funds by assisting with travel plans for those who love you and those who need you. Start small by asking your family members or girlfriends to help them plan family vacations, honeymoons, weekend island getaways, etc. and watch your business take off through word of mouth. Over time and great reviews, you will be the new traveling guru in New Prov.

hands on and take pride in DIYs, sites like Etsy provide the perfect platform to turn your internet into a marketplace.

Whether you are selling your work, selling memories or selling knowledge, there are tons of start up businesses for women in The Bahamas that can either serve as an additional source of income or the main source. As the world has evolved, many of these opportunities await us on the internet. Don’t miss out on thousands out of fear or apprehension, get on your PC, get to searching and get into entrepreneurship.

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THE WOMEN BEHIND THE BUSINESS

ARTICLE

THE WOMAN BEHIND THE BUSINESS

The most read book in the world,” according to

have a business or have inquired about what’s needed

Business Insiders, encompasses stories, directives and

to get started - you’ve been told that you need to write

serves as a guide to help us fulfill our life’s purpose.

a business plan. It’s funny because in Habakkuk 2:2 the Lord said “Write the vision and make it plain on

While millions have read the Bible, it’s rarely the first

tablets”.

place people seek counsel before launching their business ventures. Think about it. Most of us consult

Now, your vision can be anything - but, since we’re

people we know in business or read books about

discussing establishing a business we’re applying the

launching a business to aid us on our quest for

scripture towards what the business will look like, how

success. A common golden rule, that you might have

it will function, who you’ll serve, etc. These are all

heard, to start a sustainable business stems from

imperative questions that we must ask ourselves no

crafting a business plan. More often than not, if you

matter what phase of business we’re in.

ARTICLE

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According to a 2018 report compiled by American Express entitled The State of Women- Owned Businesses “women are the fastest growing demographic of business owners!” Yet, 90% of women entrepreneurs are solopreneurs, or handling all aspects of their business alone.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says that “two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: if either of them falls down, one can help the other

That glimpse is what the organization plans to bring

up”. So, who helps the solopreneur? This is the

into focus at its upcoming retreat titled Vision 2020:

question that a budding entrepreneur,

Using Scripture To Propel You To New Dimensions. The

by the name of Angel Livas asked back in 2016, after

retreat will bring women business owners (and

successfully launching a boutique media firm in

aspiring entrepreneurs) from all over the world to Baha

Washington, DC. When she couldn’t find an answer

Mar, in Nassau, Bahamas, February 20-24, 2020.

that aligned with the principles of faith, Attendees will experience rich networking, hands on collaboration, and unity for women in business - she

training, and an opportunity to foster collaborative

created the nonprofit The Woman Behind The

partnerships that can ultimately increase their net

Business® (WBB). create a safe space for women to

worth. You can learn more about the retreat at

work together and build sustainable businesses in

wbbtalk.com or you can contact the local WBB

their immediate communities, and across the world.

chapter at bahamas@wbbtalk.com.

It’s the belief of The Woman Behind The Business®

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in

that by equipping women entrepreneurs with tools,

humility count others more significant than yourselves.

and key learnings from other women who have

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but

successfully overcome the very valleys most start-up

also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)

businesses face – they too will beat the odds.“ That support system is what makes WBB unique” says The Woman Behind The Business, founder, Angel Livas. “We don’t just throw successful women up to a microphone to gloat about their successes...we get raw. Our conversations are unapologetically honest, because it’s in those moments of truth that I believe serious entrepreneurs will see a glimpse of themselves.

Maybe not in every situation...but, definitely in some.”

Dr. Catherine Adderley grew up in Nassau, Bahamas. She received her early education at Queen’s College, Nassau and Phillips Academy Andover, MA (1983). She furthered her education at Tufts University, receiving her undergraduate degree in Biology (1987). She then attended the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, receiving a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Degree in 1991 followed by a residency at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center to complete her training in General & Hospital-Based Dentistry in 1992.

She became a Dental Officer with the Grand Bahama Health Services in 1993 and since 2006 holds the position of Director of Dentistry in the Grand Bahama Health Services. She is the longest standing Public Health Dentist in Grand Bahama having worked in the community for more than twenty-six years.

She also holds a strong commitment to community service. Her professional and civic involvement have included: The Grand Bahama Medical & Dental Association; The Bahamas Dental Association; Bahamas Dental Council; Bahamas Red Cross Grand Bahama Center Executive Committee; Blood Donors Society of Grand Bahama as a Founding Member & Vice-President and the Grand Bahama AIDS Awareness Committee. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. currently serving as Bahamas Social Action Coordinator.

A lifelong Anglican, she is a member of The Parish of St. Mary the Virgin & The Parish Church of the Ascension. She enjoys photography, reading, movies and spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Adderley believes that a true citizen is someone who uses their education and talents in an ongoing manner, not only for personal benefit but also to uplift and support others in building the community. She strives daily to fulfill that goal and is honored to be selected as a member of The PSB 25 Most Influential Women in Business Class of 2019.

Born in Nassau, Dr. Sheena Antonio-Collie was raised in Freeport, Grand Bahama during her formative years. She is the daughter of the late Retired Dep. Superintendent of Police Granville Antonio and Ethral nee Laing Antonio. The family was transferred back to the capital in the late seventies where she attended Queens College then St. John’s College. She describes herself as an avid Giant.

Dr. Antonio entered practice under the mentorship of Dr . Judson Eneas then established the Bahamas Health & Healing Medical Center in 2003 and was joined by Dr. Beverton Moxey in 2005. She worked as an Emergency Room physician at Doctors Hospital from 1998 until 2015 and won Physician of the Year in 2001 and 2005. She was appointed a Clinical Director in 2005 then won Clinical Director of the Year in 2007. She was elected President of the Caribbean Association of Clinical Microbiologists in 2015 and in 2016, she was appointed VicePresident of Medical Affairs for the Doctors Hospital Health System. She has completed the Certified Physician Executive program of the American Association of Physician Leaders.

Dr. Antonio-Collie is married to Pastor Dr. Kirklyn Collie and Shiloh is the fruit of that union. Her husband is the pastor of the Abundant Grace Church, a progressive ministry that started in 2016 and serves as a member of the Executive team.

SUZANNE BLAC BEM, D.H.L., B.S., BRI Real estate broker, specializing in high net worth and commercial properties. Over 25 years experience in marketing, business development and health care services consulting and the international business and financial sectors which included: manager for Allied Bank International, a New York headquartered consortiumowned international bank; President and CFO The Lyford Cay Members’ Club.

She was the first woman and Bahamian to head an international bank branch, an international private members’ club, and to chair international financial conferences for The Central Bank of The Bahamas and the Association of International Banks and Trust Companies in The Bahamas. She attended the University of Tampa, the American Graduate School for International Management and the Canadian National Voice Intensive at the University of British Columbia.

She currently co-hosts and hosts for Guardian Talk Radio and was featured as the sole interviewee for Portraits, a one hour television show produced by Cable Bahamas, and Dr. David Allen for his Love 97 radio and television shows People Helping People Offices held include The Bahamas Institute of Bankers Chair, Bahamas Financial Services Board Director, Bahamas International Financial Conferences Chair, International Women’s Forum (IWF) Board and IWF Leadership Foundation Director.

Awards include the British Empire Medal; The Bahamas Silver Jubilee Anniversary of Independence Award; Sojourner-Douglass College Doctor of Humane Letters; Association of International Banks & Trust Companies Appreciation Award; IWF Women Who Make a Difference Award; Zonta Club of New Providence Living Legends Award; Bahamas Humane Society Be Humane Award.

A former Co-Chair and current Honorary Board member of the Bahamas Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme, she was Master of Ceremony and a host for Royal visits.

Ms. Black is the Founder and a past President of IWF Bahamas, a member forum of the International Women’s Forum headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Lillian Blades was born in Nassau, Bahamas in 1973 and currently resides in Atlanta, GA. She holds a BFA in Painting from the Savannah College of Art and Design, and an MFA in Painting from Georgia State University. In addition, Lillian has studied at the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in Maine and Caversham in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Lillian’s works are predominately mixed media assemblages and are made with an assortment of materials, both found and constructed by her in her home based studio. Her childhood home of Bahamas, ancestral background of West Africa, and her late mother, who was a seamstress, influences her art. These influences appear through use of her color palette and objects that evoke memory and history. a public artist she enjoys collaborating with other artists and groups on large-scale assemblages such as The East Atlanta Library. Her work has appeared in solo and group exhibitions throughout various galleries in the United States, as well as The Bahamas, Trinidad, Germany and South Africa. Her public commissions include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Jean Childs Young Middle School. Her artwork is also in the collection of the Birmingham Museum of Art and the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.

Lillian was recently a recipient of the “Excellence in Arts” award from The Bahamas Consulate in Atlanta, GA, as well as the “Visual Artist of the Year” award by the National Black Arts Festival (NBAF), both in the year 2016.

Lillian's work will be featured in The Mint Museum’s first large-scale exhibition to explore the dynamic medium of collage entitled "Under Construction: Collage from The Mint Museum" which opens in December of 2018.

Disa N. Campbell is the Chief Financial Officer at Bahamas Waste Limited. She is responsible for the financial health of this BISX-listed entity and assists the Managing Director in shaping the strategic goals of the Company, managing change and overseeing the growth and development of the Company and its team of employees. She began her professional career in the retail banking industry. After completing the Uniform CPA Examination (Georgia State Board Accountancy), she worked in the global accounting firm of Ernst & Young. She began her professional career in the retail banking industry. After completing the Uniform CPA Examination (Georgia State Board of Accountancy), she worked in the global accounting firm of Ernst & Young. There, she held various positions in auditing and corporate and entrepreneurial services, including a secondment at the firm’s New York City office. Before joining Bahamas Waste Limited, she was the Financial Controller at Fidelity Bank Limited.

Ms. Campbell is a Chartered Accountant and a member of the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism from the University of Houston, a Master of Business Administration from Texas Southern University and an Advanced Professional Certificate in Public Accounting from Pace University, NYC Campus. She has also completed various professional certifications, including the Executive Leadership Programme offered by the Cave Hill School of Business and Management, University of the West Indies.

Ms. Campbell has served on several professional boards. She was Treasurer of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce, and, as a Director of Bahamasair, she chaired that Board’s Audit and Finance Committee. She also served as a Council Member of the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants.

A proponent of community, Disa has given of herself in service as a mentor to girls and young women, and as a Director of Special Olympics Bahamas. Though currently inactive, she is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Ms. Campbell attends St. Anne’s Anglican Church. She enjoys running, reading, and travelling. She is ever grateful for her family which is her bedrock, and is most proud of her daughters, Rhyan and Riley.

Karen Carey, a consummate and seasoned professional, currently holds the position of Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Atlantis Paradise Island, the largest private employer in the country.

In her role, she sits on the Executive Leadership Team and has responsibility for executing human resources strategies, tactics and leadership for a workforce of approximately 7200 employees. During her tenure, Karen has helped the company achieve its overall goals, strategies, and brand image by leveraging its human resources to build capabilities of leadership, customer service and talentdevelopment. She has been instrumental in building a new and innovative framework for leadership development which included the launch of the Atlantis University. Thousands have benefitted from the opportunities by utilizing the learning obtained as a spring board for career growth and development. Resourceful and insightful, Karen is most fulfilled by mentoring and helping individuals grow professionally and personally. Karen was a key facilitator in the re-definition of the vision, mission and core values as Atlantis repositioned its strategic objectives. This was featured in Harvard Business Review and was also a case study for students at Cornell University’s hospitality program.

For many years she has been actively involved in education programs for teen mothers, through the P.A.C.E. Foundation (Providing Access to Continued Education), fundraising for the AIDS Foundation and active support of Ride for Hope (cancer awareness). She is a member and former Director of Zonta Club of Nassau, a member of the International Women’s Forum, and active on several boards inclusive of the Salvation Army for the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Island and Doctors’ Hospital.

Karen is the recipient of the Ministry of Tourism’s National Cacique Award for Human Resources, and has received the prestigious award from The Human Resource Management Association of Barbados and the Caribbean, among others. She is the founding President of the Bahamas Hotel Association of Human Resources Practitioners, and held the position of President for the Regional Chapter of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM). Karen holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami and a Master’s degree from the University of Mercy in Detroit, Michigan, and is a proud wife and mother.

Patrice Lydia Chisholm- Johnson ; Senior Airport Manager and acting Director Customer Service Bahamasair, Born in May 15th 1964. Daughter of Shirley and Brenneth Chisholm. Married on 25th November 2010 to Fabian Johnson a God fearing man. Children Theodore Jr, Derece, Parez and Darrius. Six grandchildren. 1 daughter in law Ruthermae and son in law Neil. Education; Primary School Uriah Mcphee, EP Roberts and Martin Town. High School RMBailey and Eight Mile Rock High. Attended College of the Bahamas.

Certification Professional Manager, Exceeding Customer Service and Managerial Leadership. Awarded pioneers award salute to greatness 2013.

Military Rank former Reserve Sergeant RBPF. Attends Mt Tabor Church.

Career: Bahamasair since July 17th 1983. Reservations, Ticketing, Baggage, Supervisor, Assistant Airport Manager.

Presently promoted 5th September 2018. Responsible for international stations Cuba Marsh Habour customer relation cargo baggage catering and ramp services.

Recreations: reading exercising listening to gospel and inspirational speeches.

Sports: excerise at least three times a week.

I ndira Collie is a communications professional with almost two decades of experience. Dedicated, loyal and committed are just a few words that describe her.

She began her tutelage at the College of The Bahamas (now the University of The Bahamas), where she studied Journalism and Mass Communications.

She continued her journey at the University of The West Indies, where she completed her training in Media and Communications, with a specialization in Public Relations.

Indira launched her career at Carter Marketing Advertising She currently serves as Senior Manager for Public Relations and Internal Communications at The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited. In her role, she holds responsibility for public relations, internal communications, corporate social responsibility, television production, social media management and digital assets. She joined the organization in 2006, and has worked in a variety of leadership roles including Internal Communications, External Communications and Manager for Public Relations and Internal Communications.

During her stint at BTC, she has been quite instrumental in the strategic development and introduction of a number of innovative fixed and mobile products and services. She is strongly committed to community and championed the introduction of the company’s noted CSR initiative, ‘iVolunteer’.

Indira has also served as a private communications consultant and brand advisor for several local companies.

Indira is the proud parent of Tito II, an adept swimmer and little Chloe, a ballerina. She is a member of the Remnant Tabernacle of Praise Church. At her leisure, Indira enjoys the fine arts and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Mrs. Deborah D. Delancy was born in Nassau, Bahamas.

She attended the Government High School. She earned a Diploma from Charron’s Williams College in Legal Assistant/Secretary. She furthered her studies at The College of The Bahamas now The University of The Bahamas where she earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Management and continued her studies at Nova Southeastern University in Professional Management. She completed numerous management courses, Syracuse University Training in Leadership and Les Brown Distinguished Leadership Seminars. In 1979, Mrs. Delancy was employed by Princess Properties as an Assistant Comptroller with responsibilities for three subsidiary companies. In 1990, she began her new career as a Financial Service Representative. She earned the company’s top achiever’s awards for numerous consecutive years and was promoted as Branch Manager. Mrs. Delancy’s successful career afforded her to travel all around the world. Her Twenty- Eight year career exemplifies high ethical standards always putting her client’s needs first. In her perfection to serve with distinction, she was certified as a Personal Financial Planner, a certified Unit Manager, a Field and Branch Manager, an Agency Management Training Consultant, a Financial Advisor Skill Training Consultant and Pacesetter from LIMRA. Mrs. Delancy is a Life Member of the Million Dollar Round Table.

October 1st 2016, she opened her Insurance Brokers Company, Progressive Insurance Company Ltd. She is a Rotarian since 2005. She served as a Past President, a Past Assistant Governor, A Past PTA President, A Past Junior Achievement Advisor and a Past Treasurer for her church.

On November 27th 2017, she received her instruments as “Justice of the Peace”.

Her desire is to fulfill her God given gifts and reach back to help others.

She is married and have three children. She is a Catholic. Her hobbies include; cooking, home decorating and reading.

Mrs. Kayleaser Deveaux-Isaacs (nee Moss), is the General Manager of The Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas (aka ZNS) with nearly 20 years of broadcasting experience.

She graduated from Aquinas College, Nassau, Bahamas, 1986.

She completed her Associates, Bachelor’s and Master’s Degreeswhile in New York City and obtained a Diploma from Oxford University, England.

Before joining The Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas in 2007, she worked at Fox News Channel (FNC) in New York City and Washington, DC where she produced many live and taped television and radio programmes for Fox News Channel and Fox Broadcast Network, including the Fox Broadcast hit television show, American Idol (Season I).In 2004, Fox News Channel CEO, Roger Ailes chose Kayleaser to receive the inaugural Ailes Apprentice Award, created for rising stars at Fox News Channel, New York.

In December 2012, she led The Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas’ launch team of the revolutionary High Definition (HD) Television System and has created several ground breaking News& Current Affairs programmes.In November, 2018 she was confirmed to the office of General Manager.

She is a Television, Radio &Theatreprofessional and straddles the fence as a Broadcast and Performing Artist. She is member of the Board of Directors of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) represented the Broadcasting Corporation at several international committee meetings and is a member of the Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television & Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). She is a youth mentor, motivational speaker and lends support to several local outreach organizations.

She is married to Mr. Peter Deveaux-Isaacs, Sr. and the step-mom of one son, Peter Jr

Bridgette Francis is the President of the largest independent scholarship matching and international college planning firm in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. She is the first Bahamian to be bestowed with American and Canadian International Education Partnerships recognition by several universities / colleges at the same time. Bridgette has matched hundreds of persons from The Bahamas with international scholarship opportunities. Students of her organization can be found in the United States of America, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

Bridgette obtained a diploma from St. Augustine's High School in Nassau, Bahamas and was bestowed with a prestigious Business Award. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in finance and banking from Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. She was listed in Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. Bridgette successfully completed the Oxford, Yale, and Stanford Universities AllLearn Consortium Program on Globalization and the New Global Economy.

Being a person committed to service, Bridgette was the first International and Black person to receive the Distinguished Palm Beach Atlantic University Alumni Service Award. She also serves the Americas Geographic Focus Group of the Financial Planning Association. Bridgette was recognized as One of the Leaders of The World for the field of the Internationalization of Higher Education in New Jersey at Montclair State University in October 2018.

She has served as President of Catholic Action Group(Bahamas). Bridgette founded the Oscar Francis International Education and Sports Christian Garden, Nassau, Bahamas, in honor of her late father Oscar Francis, who was inducted into The Bahamas National Hall of Fame as the Most Versatile Track Athlete Ever Produced by The Bahamas.

Bridgette is the daughter of the late Oscar Francis and Marilyn Francis.

Gloria Gilbert is a Product Development Strategist and Consultant, Qualified Hotelier, Certified Trainer, Certified Entrepreneurial Teacher, Certified ILO Trainer t, Licensed Boat Captain and ‘STEMM’ Consultant with many years’ experience in the tourism industry having worked at two major hotels for 12 years and for 27 years at the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism until she retired in 2014.

As General Manager of Product Development, at the Ministry of Tourism, she was responsible for several departments and worked very closely with the Bay Street Merchants and frontline entrepreneurs including Hairbraiders, Straw and beach vendors, Ferry Boats, Water Craft and Jet Ski Operators, Public Service and surrey Drivers. She is the CEO of ABC Yacht Services and its subsidiary ABC Maritime Training and the SMART Service Institute. She assists her husband to provide the local and international yachting community with products and services including towing and maritime training from Basic Boating to the ‘A” Captain’s License for “At Risk” and unemployed youths. Through the institute, she provides training, coaching and consultancy services for numerous clients, as far as St. Lucia, including the University of the West Indies Centre for Hospitality Management.

She developed the ‘S.M.A.R.T.’ Customer Service Training Programme© that was used by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Road Traffic and Port Departments as mandatory training for approximately 2,000 frontline entrepreneurs. . A principle lecturers for the Bahamas National Training Agency from its launch she impacted the lives of more than 2,000 young persons. Gloria Gilbert is a member of the National Crime Watch Council, a founding member of the Elizabeth Estates Community Association and the ”Woman Behind the Business@” – Bahamas Chapter and Founding Member/Director of the Bahamas Tourist Entrepreneurs Association. In 2017, she received the ‘STAR’ Award from the Former Hospitality Professional Association.

She is married to Ian Gilbert, has three children and seven grand-children and atttends Landmark Baptist Church where she serves as a member of the Praise Team and Inspirational Speaker.

Conscientious, Compassionate, Hardworking and Humble are virtues held near and dear to Yvette's heart.

Yvette Bartlett-Godet is one of six children born in Nassau Bahamas to Robert and Carolyn Bartlett. Many fond memories date back to growing up in Nassau, attending St John's College, dancing with Herbert Farrington, Madame Lavinia Williams and Shirley Hall Bass and life on the beach. She acknowledges the powerful impact that her formative years have had upon her and how she has been shaped and molded by the exemplary strength of character her parents modeled before her.

After completing her undergraduate education, she and her husband moved to the United States to pursue higher education. In 1993, Dr. Godet relocated to Gainesville to pursue a lifelong dream. She received her Dental Degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and undergraduate degree from the American University in Washington, DC. Upon graduating from Dental school, Dr. Godet initially worked for a group practice before establishing her private practice. Dr. Godet is the sole proprietor of Yvette Godet D.M.D., PAs She has practiced Comprehensive and Restorative Dentistry in Gainesville, Florida since 1997.

Dr. Godet is a Fellow of the American College of Dentists- the oldest Major Honorary Society of Dentists. In 2009, Dr. Godet was named recipient of the University of Florida College of Dentistry's Outstanding Alumnus of the Year Award. In 2015 Dr. Godet was the recipient of the Florida Dental Association's Leadership award.

In July 2018, Dr. Godet was the recipient of the "Fierce" award bestowed upon her by the "Business in the Greater Gainesville Community Magazine" for being a "transformative and inspirational business women in her community". Dr. Godet serves on the University of Florida College of Dentistry's Ethics Panel, the University of Florida College of Dentistry Recruitment and Admissions Committee, and the The Florida Dental Associations (FDA) Dental Meeting Planning Committee as the 2015 Scientific Chairperson. She has partnered with the The University of Florida College of Dentistry as a Mentor Dentist for UF's Pre-Dental Society and the summer of learning Pre-Dental workshop for minority students since 2004. She also serves as Treasurer of the Alachua County Dental Association and Sante Fe College Dental Program Board of Directors.

Dr. Godet voluntarily contributes her time and resources to support numerous charitable and mission organizations, including a yearly mission trip to Andros Bahamas organized by the University of Florida, and mentoring Bahamian students interested in the dental field. She enjoys family gatherings, traveling, dancing and dining. She and her husband Eric have two sons and reside in Gainesville, Florida

Kathleen, a Senior Public Health Nurse, is the Director of Health and Wellness Services at the University of Bahamas. Her career path started with assisting her mother servicing children and the elderly within the neighborhood, families and friends extending to the Family Island. A Saint John’s College “Giant” graduate, she pursued her passion at the Bahamas school of Nursing obtaining qualifications as a Registered Nurse, Midwife and Community Health nurse. Kathleen skillfully practices her craft and procured a Master’s Degree in Public Health, Major in Public Health and Minor in Adolescent Health. She tracked changes through post graduate studies, academic training, research, surveys, surveillance, policies and procedures development and implementation. Improvements of the healthcare services during Kathleen’s tenure with Ministry of Health include signing of the Caribbean Charter for the Elderly headed by Dr. Williams Professor from UWI, Jamaica. The Caribbean Charter on Health and Ageing 1998 guiding principle, has a coordinated, systematic approach ensuring the health and full integration of older persons in Caribbean societies and economies. Maternal and child health care, changes with the delivery and documentation of services reducing maternal and infant mortality rates.

Adolescents males and females’ healthcare separation from the adult clinic services and additional care including psychosocial, nutritional and reproductive health. Services for Men’ health also implemented. Presently, Kathleen is putting strategic measures in place to achieve universal health and full accreditation for the University community. She has initiated Healthy Campus Initiatives; HINI influenza campaign, management of Chronic non communicable and communicable diseases also engaged rapid surveillance for all disease outbreaks.

She envisions her retirement operating a Silver Saints Retirement Community with all amenities in memory of her late parents.

An active member of New Destiny Baptist Church, enjoys life with her children, grandchildren and extended families.

A successful entrepreneur, philanthropist and volunteer Nancy Kelly moved to The Bahamas as a newlywed in 1963, armed with an honors degree in economics from Smith College in Northampton MA. In Nassau, Mrs. Kelly applied her merchandising and marketing skills to Kelly’s Hardware Ltd and, along with her husband David, set about transforming the Bay Street store into Kelly’s Home Centre at the Mall at Marathon – soon to become the country’s leading House and Home destination with more than 300 Bahamian employees. Nancy is currently President of Kelly’s Home Centre Ltd, Kelly’s Lumber Yard (2005) Ltd and Nassau Motors Ltd In addition to her business activities Mrs Kelly has been a notable philanthropist and volunteer in the Bahamian community. Among her many achievements and awards are co-founding the Princess Margaret Hospital Volunteer Association (the “Yellow Birds”), becoming one of the first Bahamians appointed to the Board of Directors of the Lyford Cay Foundation and, as the Co-Chairperson, she was instrumental in raising over $5 million for scholarships to the College of the Bahamas, now the University of the Bahamas. Mrs Kelly was named 2002 Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year and currently serves as an active Director on several civic and cultural Boards, including – for over 20 years - the Governor General’s Youth Award Programme.

In the 2018 New Year’s Honours List, she was awarded the MBE by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to Education and Volunteering.

Donna Laing Jones was born on the island of Grand Bahama and grew up in the quaint settlement of Pelican Point. She graduated from Freeport Anglican High School as Head Girl in 1981. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida in December, 1986. Donna worked in sales, marketing, accounting, and administration before joining H. G. Christie in May 2002.

She successfully completed the Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA) Salesman's course in September 2002 and became a Broker in April 2006. She specializes in luxury homes, development properties, canal front and beachfront properties, and was the top producer for the Grand Bahama for 11 years.

In March of 2016, Donna and her daughter Kiara formed Keys Bahamas Realty with International affiliation with Luxury Portfolio and Luxury RE. Committed and dedicated to offering her clients the best service, Donna generates the majority of her business from referrals. A driving force, Donna is unrelenting in her pursuit of a vision totally inspired by a desire to make it good for all.

Donna is also involved in many organizations and has served as Past District Secretary for the Bahamas District of Pilot International, Past President of the Pilot Club of Freeport, Past Secretary of Grand Bahama Chapter of Bahamas Real Estate Association, Past Secretary of the Bahamas Real Estate Association, Past Secretary of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce and presently serves as President of Grand Bahama Chapter of Bahamas Real Estate Association.

She is the proud mother of two children, Raymond III and Kiara. Donna's hobbies include traveling, boating, fishing, and reading.

CHARITABLE WORK ·Active member of the New Horizon Worship Centre ·Awarded for Outstanding Service by the Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise 2016-2017 Member of Grand Bahama Children’s Home Committee

Felicia-Antoinette Knowles was born April 10th, 1970, to Neca Cecilia Knowles of New Bight, Cat Island. A proud 1987 graduate of The Government High School, Felicia excelled in basketball, volleyball, track and field, and dance. She is a past winner of National Arts Dance and Inter-Schools Annual Track Meets competitions, and represented The Bahamas on Junior National Basketball teams.

In May 2000, after a celebrated undergraduate course of study, Felicia received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Barber-Scotia College in Concord, North Carolina. She received an MBA in Business Management from Nova Southeastern University, and began a career at Burns House where she wracked up record breaking sales at promotional events and was top brand manager internationally for brands such as Bacardi and Diageo.Felicia served with distinction as President of Bahamas Insurance Brokers Association 2014-2017, a time during which the very existence of insurance brokers as an industry in The Bahamas was challenged, first by the introduction of value-added tax (VAT) and later by the implementation of National Health Insurance (NHI).

She is President of The Bahamas Coalition Service Industry and was recently appointed Executive Secretary of the Bahamas Insurance Association. She is a member of The Worldwide Association of Female Professionals.

Felicia is co-owner and Chief Operating Officer of Lampkin, Knowles and Company Insurance Brokers & Benefit Consultants.

Felicia Antoinette Knowles is a proud mother and guardian.

Felicia is firmly committed to community service and advocacy for the less fortunate. “Mediocre” and “no” are not words in her vocabulary. She lives by Socrates quote, “An unexamined life is not worth living,” and her daily mantra is ‘Go Hard or Go Home.”

The last of five children to Leslie & Beverly Minus, Megan Minus began her formal education at the University of The Bahamas formally known as COB in 1997, and continued on at the prestigious Parsons University, which led to an exciting career in interior design and business operations. Her design portfolio features countless projects in exclusive and ultral ux communities such as Ocean Club on Paradise Island and Lyford Cay. But Megan, a native of Freeport, Grand Bahama, would go on to pursue other talents as she later immersed herself in the field of entertainment & broadcast production as a producer project manager and director previously working with both Zamar Group and building the production department of The Movi Group. In 2018 Megan started her own company Create Serendipity, providing technical planning and event production & management for corporate clients both local and global. As decorated a career in interior design, her work it the field of technical production - which has spanned the last ten years - has been pretty diverse to say the least.

She’s worked on major local and international productions including the The Bud Light World Tour, The Hero World Challenge with the Tiger Woods Foundation, the Bahamas Independence Celebrations, the Inter-American Development Bank World Conference, Cisco, IBM, Fidelity Bank, RBC, URCA, GSFR, The Central Bank, BFSB, Carifta and many more. She’s also produced events for the NFL Hall of Fame and The Indianapolis Colts among others. Famous names such as Alicia Keys, Whiz Khalifa, Will Packer Productions, Pitbull, Bruno Mars, Seal, Gospel Artists, Shirley Caesar, The Winans and Youlanda Adams, Beres Hammond, Jah Cure, also make up her vastly diverse resume in the field of entertainment production.

And while Megan boasts such a decorated and exciting career, she also has two children Caitlyn and Tyler and is a 15 year breast cancer survivor, which she believes are both her greatest achievement to date.

A native of Nassau, Mrs. Willie Moss (nee Musgrove) received her early education at Southern Preparatory, Junior, and Senior Schools, and at The Government High School.

In 1972 she began her vocational journey as an Articled Clerk in the Attorney General’s Chambers. Mrs. Moss was admitted to The Bahamas Bar in July 1977 and served as Assistant Counsel in the Department of Legal Affairs until June 1980 when she relocated to Freeport, Grand Bahama to serve as Legal Counsel of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited & Group Companies (“the GBPA”).

In 1982, Mrs. Moss was appointed General Counsel of the GBPA and in 1998, she became the first female to be appointed Deputy Chairman of the GBPA. In 2003, she became the first female President of the GBPA and is the only person to have ever held the positions of General Counsel, Deputy Chairman and President, concurrently. In 2007, Mrs. Moss joined the partnership of the leading law Firm of GrahamThompson, and enjoys a thriving practice in the Firm’s Banking & Finance, Property & Development and Corporate & Commercial practice areas.

A senior member of the Bar, Mrs. Moss has served in numerous capacities, including, Member of the Bar Council, The Disciplinary Tribunal of The Bahamas Bar Association, President of The Freeport Law Society, Deputy Chairman of Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC), Deputy Chairman of The Bahamas Mortgage Corporation, Chairman of The Grand Bahama Island Tourism Promotion Board, Member of the Board of the Deposit Insurance Corporation of The Bahamas, Member of The Bahamas Constitutional Commission, and President of the Pilot Club of Freeport. Mrs. Moss presently holds directorships on the Boards of First Caribbean International Bank , Colina Holdings Bahamas Limited and Lucayan Renewal Holdings Limited. She is the Honourary Chairperson for the Susan G. Komen Bahamas Race for the Cure, a Charter member of the Pilot Club of Lucaya and Member of the Vestry of St. Jude Anglican Church.

Mrs. Moss is married to Michael R. Moss, and they are the proud parents and grandparents of two children and six grandchildren.

Michele Rassin-Moodie has extensive insight and experience in business management and healthcare. Michele was previously Vice President of Operations at Doctors Hospital for over 10 years where she contributed greatly to the success of the Hospital and demonstrated expertise in Healthcare, Marketing, Strategic Planning, Operations, as well as Hospital and Business Administration.

Currently, Michele is appointed as Executive Vice President at a leading medical supply company, Ports International, a Bahamas Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Nominee. With a lifetime passion for healthcare, Michele was instrumental in opening the first Home Health Retail Store in the Bahamas, which provides Durable Medical Equipment for home health patients and caregiversMichele studied at the University of Miami where she acquired her Master’s Degree in International Business, graduating with honors. Besides having a very strong business background, her contributions to the healthcare initiatives include most notably public fundraising initiatives with the Tribune Media Group for the Caring for Breast Campaign, Breathe Easy Campaign, and Donate Dialysis Campaign, which in total raised over $800,000 for the PMH Foundation.

She has performed a great deal of community service over the years as a member of the Rotary Club of East Nassau and was a trailblazer as the Club’s first female President. Michele is also a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, Paul Harris Society Member, Major Donor, Benefactor and Bequest Society Member. She also succeeded in receiving a Matching Grant from Rotary International for the donation of a Blood Mobile for the Bahamas.

Michele is also a member of the Society for Healthcare Strategy & Market Development, Director of the Rotary Club of East Nassau, Director of the Dr. Meyer Rassin Scholarship Foundation, Director of the Sandyport Homeowners Association, Past President of the Rotary Club of East Nassau, Past District Chair for Rotary International District 7020, Past Director of Bahamas Family Planning, Past Director of the Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative Foundation, as well as Past Director of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce.

With the opportunity to improve healthcare in the Bahamas and live her passion, she proudly supports various charities and non-for-profits. She continues to provide ongoing support for the Cancer Society of the Bahamas, Sir Victor Sassoon Heart Foundation, Bahamas AIDS Foundation, Gift of Hearing Program as well as the Bahamas Association for the Physically Disabled.

Michele is married to Brian Moodie of RMS Insurance Agents and Brokers with children Nathaniel, Isabella and Calum.

Dr. Gemma Rolle is an American Board Certified Gastroenterologist, Consultant in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology at Princess Margaret Hospital and Doctors Hospital and is an Associate Lecturer at University of West Indies.

Her journey began when she graduated from St. Andrews High School (1996) and went on to attend Clark University in Worcester, MA (Cum Laude, 2000). She was accepted into Howard University College of Medicine where she excelled and graduated in 2005. She subsequently went on to successfully complete a Residency in Internal Medicine and Fellowship in Apart from offering expertise in a wide range of digestive diseases, endoscopic procedures and colorectal cancer screening, Dr. Rolle has special interest in liver diseases, complications of cirrhosis, and chronic viral hepatitis. She is a member of several professional societies including the Medical Association of The Bahamas, the American College of Gastroenterology, the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the American College of Physicians. Also, she has been honored to serve as a member of the Nursing Council of The Bahamas 2013-2017 and the Bahamas Medical Council (2018).

Gemma is the proud mother of three children, Ethan, Danae and Dahlia. She is the daughter of proud parents Anthony ‘Boozie’ and Elva Rolle. She is a member of Bethel Baptist Church and when she isn’t busy caring for patients or her family, she enjoys playing sports.

Rexy Rolle serves as Vice President of Operations and General Counsel at Western Air, the largest privately-owned airline in the Bahamas. At 30 years old, Rolle has made waves in the aviation industry by helping to expand her family’s airline business. Rolle spearheaded the opening of a private passenger terminal, inclusive of its own airport security screening department & full service maintenance facility in Freeport, Grand Bahama. As an Aviation & Business lawyer by trade, Rolle orchestrated the acquisition of two additional Saab 340A aircrafts and four Embraer 145LR Jets thus far.

Rolle oversees the day-to-day operations and all legal affairs; her stern leadership is credited for reinvigorating Western Air’s trademark performance which resulted in market share growth. Rolle has been featured in Essence, BET News, Miami Times, Travel Noire, Rolling Out, TV One, Brand Eins and other popular media outlets. She received her BS at the University of Ottawa with Joint Honors in Political Science & Communications and her MA at Lynn University in Mass Media & Communications, summa cum laude. Rolle obtained her Juris Doctorate at Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, California.

She further harnessed her aviation and business expertise by working on various multi-million-dollar transactions at one of the largest business firms in southern California, though she credits her parents and early airline experience as the best tools for business conditioning. Rolle recognizes God as the foundation of her success. Outside of work, she can be found creating music, dancing and continuing her philanthropic efforts.

Deann E. Seymour, a Financial Executive at The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) is a consummate professional.

With more than 30 years of experience in the Accounting and Financial Management field, she sits as Chief Financial Officer for the GBPA Group of Companies and Vice President of GBPA. Mrs. Seymour began her professional career as an Auditor with KPMG in the early 90's. By 2004, she had served as Financial Controller for the Port Lucaya Resort & Yacht Club, and the Grand Bahama Shipyard; with responsibility for financial reporting and internal controls. In mid-2004, Mrs. Seymour joined the Hutchison Group of Companies as Senior Financial Analyst and was later promoted to the position of Financial Accounting Manager for the Group.

In August 2007, Mrs. Seymour joined the GBPA as Group Financial Analyst. Within less than a year she was promoted to Group Financial Controller, and served in this capacity until her appointment to Chief Financial Officer by the Board of Directors in December 2012.

Mrs. Seymour holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting and has attained the designation of Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Global Management Accountant. A member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and a licensed member of the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA), Mrs. Seymour sits as the first female financial executive for GBPA. She is the Chairman of the GBPA Licensing Committee, a member of GBPA's Scholarship Committee, as well as a Director of the Grand Bahama Memorial Park.

Mrs. Seymour is a Grand Bahamian businesswoman and has rendered financial advisory and business consulting services to many small businesses.

Although born in the country's capital, Mrs. Seymour was raised on Grand Bahama Island where she currently resides. She is married to Deputy Commissioner of Police, Emrick K. Seymour and they have two children, Emrinique and Emrick Seymour Jr.

As the General Manager for Sales, Patrice Thompson is both passionate about “blazing new trails” (as she often states), and is both committed to the development of her direct reports and the telecom innovation at Aliv where he has been employed Since July 2016.

An experienced, innovative, and principle-centered leader, Patrice has held positions in Banking, Hospitality, Banking and Telecoms. A reformer and catalyst for operational excellence, Patrice’s style is often described as “contemporary” and “candid”. She has held numerous positions across industries as well as across disciplines: A reformer and catalyst for operational excellence, Relationship Management, Talent Acquisition/Management and Human Resources.

Patrice holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University as well as certifications is Human Resource Management and Talent Management; she strongly believes in youth development and is the proud mother of two young men and proud wife.

Her favorite pastimes are writing, her two dogs, travel and all genres of music.

Gillian was born to a registered nurse and an accountant, who also as a pastime sewed and tailored clothing. It therefore is not surprising that, from an early age, Gillian had cultivated a healthy passion for fashion and design. In 1985, Gillian graduated with a BA in Fashion Design from the American Academy of Design and in 1987 established her first fashion business, Simple Elegance Couture, Following the success of Simple Elegance came Hei-Dons School of Fashion her own fashion school in 1990. Fifteen successful years later she expanded the brand to include Gionella’s Design.

Gillian later enrolled in Academy of Design in Toronto, graduated from The Academy, with distinction, as its 2012 valedictorian, and made her Canadian debut with “Manifestation", a graduating Fall/Winter 2012 collection.

Her Rebirth In 2014 Gillian re-established herself and launched an entirely new brand, Remilda Rose Designs (“RRD”) and has since debuted 4 Summer/Spring Collections: Rebirth (2016), Island In The Sun (2017), Your Light Shines (2018) , and Celebrating Life Through The Fabric of Hope (2019).

Her Signature Show In 2014 it was discovered that Gillian’s father had rectal cancer. While accompanying him at doctor’s visits Gillian was moved by her observations and resolved to use her talent to make a difference.

Gillian then produced, what is now styled, “The Fabric of Hope”; a unique floral fabric which bears colours associated with types of cancer. This fabric is featured in Gillian/RRD’s signature annual Show which highlights RRD Honourees (persons who are fighting or have successfully fought cancer) and which poignantly meets the RRD objective, Embracing, Embellishing and Empowering women to look and feel their absolute best, one creation at a time. Honourees are treated to bespoke gowns/suits, make-over, social events etc.

Gillian says, there is still so much more she has to offer – stay tuned!

KathleenJohnson On being selected as an Influential Bahamian Woman in Business 2019 May God continue to bless you From: Apostle Delton, Dr. Calpurnia Fernander & The New Destiny family