Bermudian Women Shine at International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai
In a significant display of empowerment and solidarity, Minister Tinee Furbert recently led a delegation of 15 accomplished Bermudian women to the International Women’s Leadership Conference held in Dubai. This prestigious event, hosted by renowned African business leader Madame Ibukun Awosika, gathered over 600 influential women from various spheres, including heads of state, entrepreneurs, academics, and activists. Under the theme “Women in Leadership: Living the Dream,” the conference served as a platform for transformative conversations surrounding leadership, legacy, and global collaboration among women.
Minister Furbert’s address at the conference was particularly poignant and inspiring. In her speech, she reflected on Bermuda’s rich history and the strides made by women in various sectors, urging attendees to transcend their fears and expand their aspirations. She emphasized that personal progress often requires breaking through self-imposed limitations. “My dream did not envision being here, but here I am. We must release fear and embrace possibility, for we are meant to expand beyond the limits of what we once believed possible,” she stated.
A particularly moving part of her speech was her homage to Mary Prince, a pivotal figure in Bermuda’s history and an enduring symbol of freedom and resilience. Minister Furbert recalled Prince’s words, “To be free is very sweet,” and underscored the lasting impact her legacy has had on the fight for equality and empowerment of women today. She articulated that it is because of Mary Prince and countless other women who dared to dream that she could stand on the global stage representing Bermuda.
The delegation itself was emblematic of Bermuda’s aspirations on the international scene. Two prominent attendees of the open forum, Dr. Crystal Clay and Sherry Lilly, made notable contributions reflecting Bermuda’s commitment to holistic leadership. Dr. Clay, an executive coach and leadership strategist, and Lilly, an entrepreneur dedicated to wellness and community advocacy, engaged deeply with the global audience, reinforcing Bermuda’s status as a leader in various vital sectors.
The remarkable presence of these Bermudian women was made possible through a partnership among the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), and the organizational efforts of Dr. Dana Selassie. Dr. Selassie, who had represented Bermuda last year under the UN Women delegation, has been instrumental in advocating for the island’s increased involvement in the global movement for women’s leadership. Her successful advocacy led to the establishment of Bermuda’s first Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, which held its inaugural session last summer.
In a significant development, it was announced that Madame Ibukun Awosika will return to Bermuda as the featured speaker for the second annual Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference scheduled for August 6-8, 2025. Dr. Selassie articulated a vision that extends beyond fleeting moments of empowerment: “The energy, purpose, and power coming out of Bermuda is undeniable. This is no longer just a moment; it’s a movement.” She expressed pride in shaping a global platform that connects women from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora, emphasizing the tools and sisterhood that these conferences forge for women entrepreneurs and leaders.
Minister Furbert expressed her pride in the delegation, which included women from diverse sectors such as education, finance, health, technology, cultural preservation, social innovation, and entrepreneurship. Several of the attending women were self-funded, reflecting their boundless passion for advancing their careers and influencing change on a global stage.
The growing influence of Bermudian women in global leadership discussions is increasingly becoming evident. The Mary Prince Conference stands out as a key forum for continuing such vital dialogues in Bermuda, positioning the island as a progressive force within the wider conversation on women’s leadership and empowerment.
For those interested in furthering their engagement with the Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, more information can be obtained through the provided contact, ensuring that the movement continues to progress with vigor and purpose.
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