Digicel Guyana honoured three outstanding Guyanese women for their contributions to the society on Tuesday on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day.
Bernice Mansell, Shirley Jordan and Denise Dias were honoured at a luncheon which the company said was meant to show appreciation for them. The three women, over the last few decades, have contributed in the social and education sectors.
Digicel Guyana Public Relations Officer Shonette Moore spoke of the selfless efforts of Bernice Mansell during her work with underprivileged children.
She noted that the Bernice Mansell Foundation has supported the education and development of young children for years and today continues to shape the lives of many youths. Denise Dias was honoured for her tireless work on road safety and her commitment to helping women in domestic conflicts. Moore spoke of Dias’ crusade against drinking and driving and her work in the Alicea Foundation and Mother’s in Black. An educator, Shirley Jordan was singled out for her years of service to the sector, particularly in the area of science. Jordan is still involved in various projects and continues to educate and guide young people.
Dias, who spoke briefly at the occasion, pointed out that inequality still exists while noting that violence against women, particularly in this country, remains a serious problem. She observed that International Women’s Day is a national holiday in several countries and noted that perhaps the time has come for the day to be recognised as a national holiday here.
Moore said that Digicel valued the contributions of the women honoured and was happy to celebrate the day with them. The company also invited women in the media to the luncheon.
Meanwhile, Roberta Clarke, Regional Programme Director, UN Women, in an official message to mark the anniversary said there are unrecognised heroines in every country in the region; forceful and visionary women who gave of themselves in ways that benefitted families and communities and challenged gender equality. Clarke pointed out that violence against women remains a significant challenge despite important law reform efforts.
She also said that women’s level of participation in senior political positions remains extremely limited in nearly every Caribbean nation.
Clarke also quoted Executive Director of UN Women Michelle Bachelet, who said, “The strength, industry and wisdom of women remain humanity’s greatest untapped resource. We simply cannot afford to wait another 100 years to unlock this potential.”
