From left to right: Dr. Safiya George, President of the UVI, and Hon. Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, Dominica’s First Lady and Minister of Housing, Land & Urban Development.
The V.I. Department of Tourism is set to host a pair of empowering luncheons this March aimed at encouraging the next generation of female leaders from across the territory.
Titled the “Future Female Leaders Luncheon: Shaping the Future for Young Women in Our Virgin Islands Communities,” the initiative will bring together 12th-grade girls to explore leadership paths and career opportunities in tourism and beyond.
In a two-island event, students will gather on Thursday, March 27 at Government House in Christiansted, St. Croix, and again on Saturday, March 29 at Government House in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. Both sessions are designed to be interactive, informative, and inspiring, engaging young women with dynamic mentors and experienced professionals from a range of fields.
Deputy Commissioner RoseAnne Farrington of the Department of Tourism is spearheading the effort. The event is intended to provide mentorship and practical career guidance to students preparing for life beyond high school.
Distinguished keynote speakers are set to headline each gathering. University of the Virgin Islands, Dr. Safiya George will address attendees in St. Croix, while the Honorable Melissa Skerrit, wife of Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, and Minister of Housing, Land & Urban Development, will serve as the keynote in St. Thomas. Each speaker brings a wealth of experience in public service and leadership, offering students insight into navigating professional landscapes.
Panel discussions during the luncheons will spotlight accomplished women from various sectors, including tourism, business, and government. These sessions aim to expose students to a broad spectrum of possibilities and pathways for professional growth within the U.S. Virgin Islands and beyond.
DOT sees the Future Female Leaders Luncheon as more than a one-time event—it is a meaningful platform to empower youth while underscoring the agency’s broader commitment to uplifting local communities.
