Women’s panel discusses the many meanings of giving back
An all-women panel discussed the importance of building and supporting a strong network in recognition of International Women’s Day.
The four-person panel, led by author and researcher Christie Hunter-Arscott, touched on investing in community while allowing oneself to receive help.
Ms Hunter-Arscott said: “I don’t want us to think about giving as a one-time act.
“I want to think about it as a culture and a fabric of contribution in Bermuda, part of the tapestry that we all weave together.”
The event, held at Pier Six in Hamilton this morning, was attended by hundreds, including professionals, sponsors and schoolchildren.
Patrina “Power Girl” O’Connor-Paynter opened by recognising dignitaries including the Premier, David Burt, with Kristin, his wife, as well as Andrew Murdoch, the Governor.
Ms Hunter-Arscott, who serves on the Women’s Leadership Board at Harvard Kennedy School, was joined by Denise Carey, chief executive of Home; Tiffanne Thomas, chief operations officer at Family Centre; and Nicola Paugh, executive director of the Non-Profit Alliance of Bermuda
Dr Thomas highlighted the importance of allowing oneself to be vulnerable.
As someone tasked with helping people “feel seen and heard”, she said it was meaningful to be given the same opportunity.
Dr Thomas called giving “a strategic act of compassion”.
She added: “Often times we think of giving as financial only — and yes, finances matter — but a lot of times people simply need access and if you give them access and opportunity, they will run with it.”
Women in the public sector focused on their physical, mental and financial wellbeing during a wellness fair at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.
The fair included lessons on burnout, understanding menopause, planning for financial security, navigating social benefits and maintaining nutrition.
Cherie Whitter, the Head of the Public Service, said the women’s day theme of “Give to Gain” recognised the cycle of growth and stability that came when people looked out for each other.
She added: “As we reflect on the many ways we support each other, it’s important to recognise another essential truth — in order to give wholeheartedly to those around us, we must first nurture and care for ourselves.
“Giving to ourselves is not selfish, it is necessary. Self‑care is not a luxury; it is a right and a responsibility.
“Let us honour the importance of self‑care, not just for ourselves, but for everyone who looks to us for inspiration.”
Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said: “Today reminds us that when we choose respect, kindness and understanding, we create spaces where women feel seen, valued and empowered to lead.
“Our progress as a community is shaped not only by policies and programmes, but by the everyday moments when we lift each other up, speak life into one another and stand together with purpose.”
Ms Carey said assisting others took patience, allowing people to make mistakes during their learning process, and that giving should be selfless.
Ms Carey said: “If we work with you and I trained you, you have the right to make your own decisions regarding what your career path is going to look like.
“How we all benefit is that, if you train someone and they’re really good at what they do, they get to go to an organisation and they get to experience the joy of whatever that person is bringing to their organisation.
“Ultimately, the whole island is benefiting from your organisation.”
Dr Paugh said that it was important that people were served by those who reflected them — something not always easy in the third sector.
She explained that, although 60 per cent of charity recipients were males, this was not reflected by non-profit workers.
Dr Paugh added: “There’s a gap in terms of our men in the charitable sector, so part of the conversation is that we need to make this sector a viable career pathway.
“If we make it more of a viable option, would more men go into the field?
“If we resource it better, the ultimate impact is better community services.”
Juanae Crockwell, who delivered a video message after being grounded in Thailand over Middle East flight complications, reminded the crowd that supporting women was “a net positive” for all.
Ms Crockwell explained: “This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, is a beautiful reminder that when we invest in women — whether through mentorship, support, opportunity or simply showing up for each other — the returns are felt far beyond the individual.
“When women give their talents, their leadership and their courage to the world, communities gain stronger families, stronger businesses and a stronger future.”
The event ended with a Wellness Walk through Hamilton at noon.
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