The Directorate of Gender Affairs (DoGA) is a leading agency in Antigua & Barbuda dedicated to promoting gender equality and development.

Recently, the organization partnered with Caribbean Union Bank and the British High Commission to organize a unique event called “Pitch Your Business” in honor of International Women’s Day 2024.

The goal of this initiative was to empower aspiring female entrepreneurs by providing them with a platform to present their business ideas and receive support to launch their ventures.

Caribbean Union Bank has long been committed to advancing women’s empowerment and gender equity, making them an ideal partner for DoGA in this initiative.

The bank has worked closely with the Directorate of Gender Affairs over the years to promote equality and empowerment for women.

Karen Richardson, the female General Manager of Caribbean Union Bank, has been instrumental in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women in entrepreneurship.

The “Pitch Your Business” event was a unique opportunity for female entrepreneurs to present their business ideas to a panel of judges.

The top three candidates selected by the judges received a cash injection from Caribbean Union Bank and the British High Commission to kick-start their businesses.

This initiative underscores the shared commitment of these organizations to foster entrepreneurship and economic empowerment among women.

The winner of the competition was Ms. Jewelle Gittens, who pitched a non-profit cake business designed to give back to her community.

Her inspiring journey and dedication to using scripture as a foundation for her business resonated with the judges and attendees alike.

In her own words, “My story is not one of glitz or glamour or great fantastical feats. Great men and women would quote Proverbs or sayings of ancient men and philosophers and use those words of wisdom to structure their entire lives. I use scripture as my foundation. That foundational scripture is Proverbs 3:5, Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”

Mr. Jamie Saunders, Executive Director of Gender Affairs, highlighted the significance of this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Count her in: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment.”

He emphasized the global recognition of a need to promote structural and systemic changes that foster an economic environment where women can thrive and benefit.

The “Pitch Your Business” competition, put together by DoGA and CUB, was designed to contribute towards this evolving national economic environment and catalyze increased entrepreneurship among women.

The “Pitch Your Business” event took place on March 8th at The John E St. Luce Finance and Conference Centre, with plans for future events to be announced.

This unique initiative is a testament to the commitment of DoGA, Caribbean Union Bank, and the British High Commission to promote women’s empowerment and economic equality in Antigua & Barbuda and beyond.