CDB Supported Women Entrepreneurs: Stories of Resilience and Growth
Rhonda DeSilvia and Thea Joseph SheTrades Caribbean Hub members and Kayanne Anderson SheTrades Caribbean Hub Coordinator at the SIDS4 Gender Equality Village
In the lead-up to the 4th International Conference on Small Island Development States (SIDS4) in Antigua and Barbuda, a remarkable group of 30 women entrepreneurs from the Caribbean and Pacific showcased their innovative work at The Equality Village – Entrepreneurial Marketplace on May 25-26, 2024. This event, made possible through a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB/the Bank) and UN Women Multi-Country Office – Caribbean partnership, went beyond showcasing products; it was a pivotal moment for these women to grow and share their entrepreneurial journeys.
Through this collaboration, these institutions tackled and raised awareness of ongoing gender inequalities in the developing world. Despite significant progress, many women still face serious challenges, such as high rates of gender-based violence, higher unemployment rates and inadequate social protection. Moreover, women entrepreneurs in the Global South face significant hurdles in growing and sustaining viable, competitive businesses.
“The Equality Village offered a platform for our women entrepreneurs. Highlighting their stories was essential not just for advocating for broader support and systemic changes but also for emphasising that women’s economic empowerment is intrinsically linked to advancing gender equality.”
Their stories reflect both individual triumphs and the collective strength of women striving to reshape the entrepreneurial landscape. As Eleanor Thomas of Miss Ellie, a convenience food brand based in Antigua and Barbuda shared,
“Running a business as a woman… is both a challenge and a privilege. We confront gender biases and limited access to essential resources, which can feel like an uphill battle. It’s our ingenuity that propels us. Each challenge we overcome is a step towards breaking down these barriers and proving that women can lead and succeed in business.”
The SheTrades Caribbean Hub, a collaboration between the Bank and the International Trade Centre (ITC), is one of only two regional hubs within the global SheTrades network and is also empowering women in trade. Among the village participants were several members of SheTrades Caribbean, whose involvement was made possible thanks to funding provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
“Supporting our women entrepreneurs is essential. SheTrades creates the right conditions for Caribbean women to realise their full economic potential through technical training, capacity building and market access support.”
Thea Joseph, founder of The Loc’d Lounge, a haircare line and beauty salon, and Janese Henderson, author and founder of Fulfilling Purpose Inc., a book publishing company, both based in Antigua and Barbuda, spoke of the Village’s benefits.
“The marketplace was a fantastic opportunity to showcase how women’s businesses drive economic progress. Connecting with other entrepreneurs and stakeholders helped strengthen our networks and gave us a stronger voice,”
“This gave me a platform to present my work and tell my story... it also allowed me to open doors to new opportunities.”
As the women continue to build on the momentum generated, their stories serve as a reminder of the need to amplify voices and join forces, and highlighted the urgent need for gender-responsive policies and support systems. In driving forward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), we must ensure that the voices and contributions of all are recognised and valued.
SIDS4 Equality Village Entreprenurial Marketplace
