First Citizens Hosts Inaugural Girls First Festival in Barbados

First Citizens Girls First Festival Barbados was a resounding success. This inaugural, ground-breaking event was designed to empower and inspire the next generation of female leaders. Held on Saturday 24th August, the festival brought together teenage girls from across the island to engage in a day filled with motivational talks, interactive workshops, and opportunities for personal growth.

As part of its ongoing commitment to community development and youth empowerment, First Citizens spearheaded this initiative to provide a platform where girls can explore their potential, develop essential life skills, and connect with role models from various fields. The festival featured a diverse line up of speakers, including the admirable advocate Ashley Lashley and Dr. Makeba Brooks, who led discussions under the theme “Dream, Dare, Do.”

One of the most significant moments of the day was the unexpected visit by Her Excellency Dame Graça Machel, former First Lady of Mozambique and South Africa. Known for her activism, humanitarian work, and dedication to education, Dame Machel took time out of her busy schedule to meet with the young women. She encouraged them to acknowledge and utilise their individual strengths to bring about positive change in the world. As she remarked “Girls First is an opportunity for you to receive guidance and it is a space for you to interact with your peers, to hold each other’s hands and work together, through this very powerful experience, you can communicate and even dream together.” Her insightful words carried great weight, leaving a lasting impression.

The Girls First Festival also included a series of hands-on workshops facilitated by experts, covering topics such as personal safety, mental health and entrepreneurship. Participants had the chance to engage with successful women in various industries, gaining insights and inspiration to pursue their own dreams.

In addition to the in-person event, Girls First Barbados has also launched an Instagram community to keep the momentum going, offering a space for continued learning, networking, and support.

Speaking about the event, Claire Jordan, First Citizens Bank (Barbados) CEO said, “We are thrilled to have hosted this empowering festival. It is crucial that we invest in the future of our young women, and the Girls First Festival is just the beginning of our commitment to fostering a culture of confidence, ambition, and resilience among the girls of Barbados.”

First Citizens is dedicated to continuing its support for initiatives that uplift and empower the youth, and the success of the Girls First Festival marks a significant milestone in this journey.