ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Virgin Islands — The BVI Young Women’s Association has launched its first initiative, HER Compass: Navigating Life with Purpose, bringing together young women and a diverse panel of accomplished women for an open conversation on navigating life with purpose, resilience and faith.
The inaugural event was held last Sunday at the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports’ Be YOUth Center and focused on the importance of developing a strong mind, body and spirit while equipping young women with practical tools for navigating life’s challenges.
Five women from different professional and personal backgrounds served as panelists, sharing experiences and advice on emotional wellbeing, relationships, mental and physical health, personal development and faith.
Representing Social and Economic Empowerment were Kirsten Lettsome, Assistant Principal at Elmore Stoutt High School, and Kinisha Forbes, Director of Programme Strategy at the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency.
Kimberley Herbert, Mrs. British Virgin Islands, addressed issues surrounding gender-based abuse, while Simone Foster, founder of Lemonade BVI, spoke on mental and physical health.
Providing personal support and guidance was Nilsa Wheatley, Supervisor of the Old Government House Museum.
The discussion encouraged participants to look inward and consider how their experiences, emotions and choices can shape their lives. Panelists offered candid and practical perspectives on managing emotions, recognizing personal patterns, navigating mental health challenges and developing healthy approaches to life’s difficulties.
Faith was also an important part of the conversation, with emphasis placed on trusting in God and keeping Him at the centre of one’s life.
The Association expressed appreciation to the panelists and to everyone who attended and contributed to what it described as an insightful and engaging conversation.
HER Compass marks the beginning of the BVI Young Women’s Association’s commitment to creating spaces that educate, empower and support young women across the Territory.
Through initiatives such as HER Compass, the Association aims to foster meaningful conversations and connections while providing young women with access to information, encouragement and positive role models as they navigate the different stages of their lives.
The Association said further highlights from HER Compass: Navigating Life with Purpose will be shared in the coming days.