The eighth staging of the Caribbean Posh Weekend, which highlights the achievements of women across the region concluded in June in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

Organised by Caribbean POSH Magazine, the annual event has become a beacon of celebration, networking, and recognition for women excelling in various fields, including business, arts, culture, and social activism.

This year’s event introduced a significant change, including the Caribbean Posh Icon Woman Awards with seven categories and the naming of four honorees.

This year’s four honorees included Dr Yvette Noel Schure from Grenada, Sidnee Douyon from Haiti, Janeisha John from the US Virgin Islands, and Naomi Cowan from Jamaica.

The awards have added a new level of prestige this year, broadening the audience to include influential figures and industry leaders.

For the 2024 staging, 22 Jamaican women were nominated across seven categories, with four of them winning in their respective categories.

Founding editor and event organiser Janette Brin says, “By honouring these remarkable women, we aim to inspire and empower the next generation of Caribbean women to dream big and pursue their goals with passion and determination. The awards foster unity and collaboration among Caribbean women, encouraging networking, mentorship, and the sharing of experiences, thereby creating a supportive environment for collective growth.”

Cultural Preservation and Promotion award winner Amashika Lorne dedicated her award to her 91-year-old grandmother. I’m delighted to know that there is an award category like this because the documentation, preservation, and promotion of our cultures go hand-in-hand.”

“My work over the years with young children as we explore Jamaican folklore, proverbs, and their meanings, in formats that keep pace with their changing world, is no easy feat. I remain resolute and I’m thankful for all the partnerships and engagements that have enabled me to positively impact children over the years,” added Lorne, a marketing consultant and summer camp director.

Brin, speaking on the selection process for honorees and nominees said it involved careful consideration and factored in individual achievements as well as how well candidates embody having a ‘heart of gold.’

“We sought out individuals who consistently demonstrated a willingness to give back and help bring other women forward. It was important to us that the nominees not only excelled in their respective fields but also exhibited a genuine commitment to supporting and uplifting others.”

Reflecting on the weekend, Brin added, “One aspect that stood out for me this year was the level of sisterhood and love for diversity displayed during the event. Imagine women who had never met me or attended the event before coming in with hearts and arms wide open, wanting to get involved and help build this thing.”