Directorate Gender – By Jeressa Jeremy
Directorate Gender Affairs Honors
When we give selflessly, without seeking recognition or reward, we help build stronger communities and inspire others to do the same. True service is rooted in compassion, purpose, and a genuine desire to uplift others.
On March 6th, a special ceremony was held at the Directorate of Gender Affairs in observance of International Women’s Day, to highlight women who continue to make meaningful contributions to national development through the “Give to Gain” Spotlight Series. The initiative recognizes women whose service, leadership, and commitment are positively impacting communities across Antigua and Barbuda.
Tanya Ambrose, founder and CEO of Scrub Life Cares, was recognized for her work as a public health professional advancing menstrual equity, reproductive health education, and wellness initiatives that support women, girls, and families locally and internationally.
Reflecting on the recognition, Ambrose stated that the honour validates the mission of her organization, noting: “getting this recognition continues to prove why scrub life exists in Antigua and Barbuda because, again, we’re bridging the gap between period poverty and menstrual equity, and of course, health and wellness”
Azara Lavia, a media professional and proprietor of Inspire Antigua and Barbuda, a platform which was created to promote positive, nation-building stories and highlight the good taking place across the country. With nearly two decades of experience in broadcasting and communications, she currently serves as a news producer at NewsCo Observer and has spent over a decade mentoring and training women in public speaking and interview skills.
“I am very humbled by it,” she said. “Inspire Antigua and Barbuda is just about six months old, so you can imagine how I felt when I received the call that I was awarded for this initiative. The ‘Give to Gain’ initiative is so beautiful because it says to us as women that what we do is being recognized and honoured, and it is a reflection of who we are and who God has called us to be.”
Mrs. Judith Peets was also honoured. A longtime educator and principal of Sunny Dale Primary School, she has dedicated decades to nurturing and shaping young minds while extending care and support to many children beyond the classroom.
Sharing her reaction to the award, Peets noted: “To be honest, was a little bit surprised because what I do is just actually me. I wasn’t looking for recognition; I love kids and I just do what I do.”
Mrs. Rita Phillip-Harris was recognized for her more than 34 years of public service and her continued leadership in community development, faith-based service, and environmental stewardship within her community.
Phillip-Harris reflected on her years of quiet service, stating: “It’s truly a really humbling experience. It’s not something I was looking forward to in this fashion, but I thank God that He has allowed persons to see the hard work that I’ve been doing silently in my way, and the directorate of gender affairs sees it fit to be honouring us today. I am really humbled.”
Meanwhile, the Director of the Directorate of Gender Affairs, Jamie Saunders, underscored the significance of the initiative, noting that recognizing women who give of their time, talents, and resources encourages others to step forward and do their part in giving back to society.
He emphasized that the program celebrates women whose leadership and dedication continue to inspire the nation through the work they do within their respective platforms.
“I think it’s important to also reframe how we look at women and to show them in that light of power and motivation for others. The directorate of gender affairs remains committed to ensuring that we have programs, policies, and initiatives that will continue to advance the interests of women and girls in Antigua and Barbuda, and to ensure that the platform remains to recognize the achievements that you make” Saunders said.
Echoing these sentiments, Programme Officer Rafiq Martin Sr. further explained the triple impact of the awards, noting: “When we celebrate women who serve, we do three important things. First, we say thank you; second, we affirm that service and compassion are valuable forms of leadership; and third, we inspire others to step forward and give in their own way. ‘Give to Gain’ is not just a theme for today; it is a call to action. It reminds us that generosity multiplies.”
Former, Independent Senator Kiz Johnson also delivered remarks reflecting on the spirit of the theme and noting that when women give, beautiful things happen. She congratulated the awardees and spoke about the importance of recognizing intelligent, accomplished women who continue to give selflessly of their time and efforts. Senator Johnson also reflected on the significance of International Women’s Day as a time to honour the invaluable role women play in shaping families, communities, and the wider society.
“These four special women before us today represent the very best of Antigua and Barbuda. They remind us that nation-building is not only the work of governments but of citizens who choose every day to invest in others,” Senator Johnson said.
Together, these women embody the message behind the Give to Gain Spotlight Series, demonstrating that when we serve others with sincerity and purpose, the impact reaches far beyond ourselves. Congratulations to the awardees for their continued service and dedication to uplifting communities and inspiring the nation.