By Briana Anthony

As a young woman in Antigua and Barbuda deeply dedicated to contributing to our nation and serving my people, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride and excitement as we step into this Renaissance, a new era of progress and development following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party historic victory. Under Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s visionary leadership, our twin-island nation is not just moving forward, we are being transformed. His administration has proven that with bold ideas, careful planning, and a heart for the people real progress is possible.

This Renaissance is more than politics it is a call to every citizen to participate in shaping the future of our nation. It is a moment for young people to step confidently into leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. It is a moment for women to claim spaces once limited, to break barriers and to inspire generations to come.

The history of women in Antigua and Barbuda’s political landscape is both inspiring and empowering. Trailblazers like Senator Bertha Higgins appointed by the first Chief Minister to serve in the Parliament of the West Indies Federation in 1958, paved the way long before women’s representation became widely recognized.

Senator Mildred Bailey the first female appointed after Independence in 1981, Senator Millicent Percival who became President of the Senate and Senator Alincia Williams-Grant the current President of the Senate have all exemplified leadership, vision and dedication to public service.

Women such as Senator Gwen Tonge knighted for her contributions to nation-building Mary-Clare Hurst, former Leader of Government Business and General Secretary of the ABLP, Shenella Govia current Leader of Government Business and General Secretary of the ABLP and Hon. Kiz Johnson who moved from Senator to Minister remind us that women are not just participants in politic they are shapers of our nation’s destiny.

Seeing these women lead with courage, integrity and vision motivates me personally as a young woman in society. They show that leadership is not defined by gender but by dedication, resilience and a desire to serve. Their example inspires me to step forward to raise my voice and to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of Antigua and Barbuda.

Hon. Maria Browne continues this legacy actively creating space for women in politics and emphasizing leadership grounded in service, integrity and community. Yet, despite these advances women remain underrepresented in decision-making roles. Her example motivates me and countless other young women to step forward with courage and ambition to believe that our voices, our ideas and our actions matter in shaping Antigua and Barbuda’s future.

For me personally pursuing and completing my bachelor’s degree here at The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC) has been transformative. Having the opportunity to earn my degree locally allowed me to gain knowledge and skills while staying deeply connected to my community. Studying here has shown me that higher education in Antigua and Barbuda is not just possible it is powerful.

It equips young people like me to contribute directly to national development, to innovate and to lead without having to leave our shores. My time at UWI FIC has strengthened my confidence, sharpened my vision and prepared me to step into leadership and make a tangible impact in our society. It underscores the importance of having world-class education accessible here at home so more young Antiguans and Barbudans can rise to shape the future of our nation.

Antigua and Barbuda is moving toward a future where youth and women are not on the sidelines but are active influential participants in governance and development. I see a nation where creativity and talent are nurtured, where ambition is celebrated and where every citizen regardless of gender has a stake in our shared success.

This Renaissance is our opportunity to honor the trailblazers who came before us and to inspire the next generation of women leaders.
I am proud to stand at the dawn of this new era, ready to contribute my energy, ideas and passion.

This is our Renaissance. This is our time. Together with the courage and vision exemplified by the women who paved the way and the educational opportunities afforded by UWI FIC we can build an Antigua and Barbuda that reflects the best of who we are.