Frigate Bay, St Kitts:--- Seven years after the last physical face-to-face Congress due to the Covid Pandemic, the International Federation of Business and Professional Women Organization members from 72 countries around the world reunite at St Kitts Marriott Resort & Royal Beach Casino Hotel in Frigate Bay.
This XXXI triennial Congress
was hosted by Dr. Catherine Bosshart, BPW International President 2021-2024, Dawne Williams, BPW International Regional Coordinator North America and The Caribbean 2021-2024, and Dr Christine Walwyn Local Planning Committee Chair.
The President, Catherine Magdeleine and Secretary, Sharanne Gibbs of the BPW Concordia St-Martin organization, had the honor of participating in the XXXI triennial Congress to represent St-Martin. This event enables the different Federations, delegates and members to vote in the new International Executive Board for 2024-2027 triennium.
The opening ceremony marked the official start of the BPW International Congress 2024. The participants were formally welcomed by the Governor-General of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Her Excellency Marcella Liburd, the Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, The Honourable Dr. Terrance Michael Drew and The Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip, with responsibility for Social Development & Gender Affairs; Youth Empowerment Ageing & Disabilities, Saint Kitts and Nevis, in the exquisite Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel.
The atmosphere was charged with the melodious sounds of laughter, musical entertainment and enthusiasm. The Assembly of participants was delightfully adorned, some in their culture attire as they anticipated the colorful flag parade.
The Participants travelled from countries near and far, from Africa to Asia, from Europe to North America, from diverse Caribbean Islands to the colorful and luscious St Kitts and Nevis to be a part of this trimendous event.
This event was fully packed with activities, workshops and business sessions dedicated to prepare first time voters, to inform seasoned members, to inspire and empower participants, during the course of the day. And in the evenings, Friends & Fellows, Young BPW, and members had the opportunity to dress up elegantly and enjoy some cool music, dance to Caribbean beats, celebrate with awardees, and network.
One of the highlights of the evening events was the Governor General's Reception generously hosted on the lawn at Government House by the Governor General of St Kitts and Nevis, Her Excellency Dame Marcella Liburd, and the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, The Honourable Dr Terance Michael Drew.
The XXXI Congress culminated with the installment of the newly elected International Executive Board Members, a festive gala dinner and awards ceremony where recipients from the previous triennium were finally able to physically receive their awards. It was topped off by a farewell outdoor event on the gorgeous grounds of the Marriott Hotel. As the sun set the smooth and flowing electric Caribbean music guided us to the stunning decorated venue where an exotic welcome drink awaited the audience. The aroma of delicious local delicacies infused the air as the young talented local musicians aroused and engaged the already excited audience . The last of the BPW International Awards were given along with certificates of participation. The evening closed with cultural performances of our many country members, singalongs and dances. A wonderful way to finish an intense but fruitful and productive program.
