At the 5th Annual Women & Girls Summit women leaders from across Guyana called for decisive action to close the gender gap, promote financial empowerment, and embrace technological innovation. The event brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and young women committed to breaking barriers and accelerating progress.
Backed by oil and gas companies, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, SBM Offshore Guyana, and MODEC among others, this year’s theme was “Accelerate Action: Empowering Women and Girls, Inspiring Generations.”
Josephine Tapp, President of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reminded the audience of the long history of women’s activism in Guyana.
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“In 1946—two decades before independence—the Women’s Political and Economic Organization became one of the first political associations in Guyana. It was co-founded by Her Excellency Janet Jagan and Winifred Gaskin,” she said. “In 1953, we achieved universal suffrage and elected three women to the Legislative Council. That is the legacy on which we stand.”
While acknowledging progress, Tapp stressed that gender equality remains out of reach. “Women in Guyana are 40% more likely to be unemployed than men. Only one publicly listed company in Guyana is led by a woman. One in two women experiences intimate partner violence,” she said.
She urged attendees to take “purposeful action” to empower women and girls. “Nobody is too small to make a difference,” she said. “Each of us has the power to inspire change.”
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Businesswoman and advocate Ayodele Dalgety-Dean focused on the urgent need for financial literacy and economic inclusion.
“Economic equality is not about charity—it is about investment,” she said. “When women rise, entire economies rise. When girls are educated, communities are transformed.”
She called for financial literacy to be integrated into school curriculums and national policies. “Too many of us grow up without learning about wealth-building, investments, or financial independence. This must change,” she said.
Dalgety-Dean also highlighted barriers faced by women entrepreneurs. “Too often, women must fight harder for access to funding, training, and leadership positions. This is not just an oil and gas conversation. We must ensure that women in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and finance have the same opportunities.”
She challenged the audience to shift their mindset. “Think beyond earning an income—start thinking about building generational wealth. Negotiate your worth, demand fair pay, and invest in assets that work for you.”
Karen Abrams, Co-Founder of STEM Guyana, emphasized the importance of technology and innovation in securing Guyana’s future.
“Successful businesses go beyond traditional hiring strategies. Employees seek purpose, growth opportunities, and environments where they can thrive,” she said.
Abrams shared STEM Guyana’s approach to talent development, noting that “intellectual curiosity and a willingness to learn” are just as important as academic qualifications. She also stressed that failure is not a dead end, rather it is a teacher. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is simple: successful people take the leap, she noted
She highlighted the launch of the region’s first AI-integrated virtual school as a key innovation. “AI technology will help personalize learning, ensuring students receive the support they need,” she said. She urged entrepreneurs to adopt AI-driven tools to automate operations and enhance productivity.
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“There is no inherent advantage that the Western world has over us,” Abrams said. “We have the intelligence, creativity, and access to information needed to innovate and compete globally.”
All three speakers stressed that gender equality and economic empowerment require action, not just discussion.
Dalgety-Dean left attendees with a challenge: “What action will you take? Who will you empower? How will you use your knowledge, your network, and your influence to uplift other women?” Tapp reinforced the message: “The goal of equality is only attainable if everyone is empowered.”
The Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to amplifying the voices of women in business, organized the summit. With a diverse membership base of dozens of women entrepreneurs, WCCI provides opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional development. The organization is committed to assisting women in achieving success and economic independence through business ownership and self-employment.
