An all-women panel discussed the importance of building and supporting a strong network in recognition of International Women’s Day.
The four-person panel, led by author and researcher Christie Hunter-Arscott, touched on investing in community while allowing oneself to receive help.
Ms Hunter-Arscott said: “I don’t want us to think about giving as a one-time act.
“I want to think about it as a culture and a fabric of contribution in Bermuda, part of the tapestry that we all weave together.”
The event, held at Pier Six in Hamilton this morning, was attended by hundreds, including professionals, sponsors and schoolchildren.
Patrina “Power Girl” O’Connor-Paynter opened by recognising dignitaries including the Premier, David Burt, and his wife, Kristin, as well as Andrew Murdoch, the Governor.
Ms Hunter-Arscott, who serves on the Women’s Leadership Board at Harvard Kennedy School, was joined by Denise Carey, the chief executive of Home; Tiffanne Thomas, the chief operations officer at Family Centre; and Nicola Paugh, executive director of the Non-Profit Alliance of Bermuda
Dr Thomas highlighted the importance of allowing oneself to be vulnerable.
As someone tasked with helping people “feel seen and heard”, she said it was meaningful to be given the same opportunity.
Dr Thomas called giving “a strategic act of compassion”.
She added: “Often times we think of giving as financial only — and yes, finances matter — but a lot of times people simply need access and if you give them access and opportunity, they will run with it.”
Ms Carey said assisting others took patience, allowing people to make mistakes during their learning process, and that giving should be selfless.
Ms Carey said: “If we work with you and I trained you, you have the right to make your own decisions regarding what your career path is going to look like.
“How we all benefit is that, if you train someone and they’re really good at what they do, they get to go to an organisation and they get to experience the joy of whatever that person is bringing to their organisation.
“Ultimately, the whole island is benefiting from your organisation.”
Dr Paugh said that it was important that people were served by those who reflected them — something not always easy in the third sector.
She explained that, although 60 per cent of charity recipients were males, this was not reflected by non-profit workers.
Dr Paugh added: “There’s a gap in terms of our men in the charitable sector, so part of the conversation is that we need to make this sector a viable career pathway.
“If we make it more of a viable option, would more men go into the field?
“If we resource it better, the ultimate impact is better community services.”
Juanae Crockwell, who delivered a video message after being grounded in Thailand because of Middle East flight complications, reminded the crowd that supporting women was “a net positive” for all.
Ms Crockwell explained: “This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, is a beautiful reminder that when we invest in women — whether through mentorship, support, opportunity or simply showing up for each other — the returns are felt far beyond the individual.
“When women give their talents, their leadership and their courage to the world, communities gain stronger families, stronger businesses and a stronger future.”
The event ended with a Wellness Walk through Hamilton at noon.
• International Women’s Day Panel Photo Gallery
• International Women’s Day Wellness Walk Photo Gallery
Read the original article at The Royal Gazette