For the 2024 Afro-Descendant Women’s Day, we highlight two exceptional United Way leaders from the Caribbean: Hazel Douglas from Trinidad and Tobago and Snjezana Andrews from Turks and Caicos. Their stories symbolize resilience, leadership, and commitment to uplifting their communities.
In 1992, over 400 Afro-Latin and Afro-Caribbean women from 32 countries gathered in Santo Domingo -Costa Rica- to celebrate their rich heritage. This historic event marked the start of International Afro-Latin American, Afro-Caribbean, and Diaspora Women’s Day, observed annually on July 25. This day acknowledges the existence, struggles, contributions, and aspirations of Afro-Latin, Afro-Caribbean, and Diaspora women across all aspects of life.
Hazel Douglas, Board Director at United Way Trinidad and Tobago.
Hazel Douglas embodies the spirit of Afro-Descendant Women’s Day. Born in Tobago in the early 1970s, Douglas was raised by professional parents who instilled strong work ethics and self-esteem in her. In the late 1980s, her family migrated to Canada, where she furthered her education and began her career.
Hazel’s journey into leadership was influenced by mentors who recognized her potential and guided her toward roles where she could impact others. Her love for the Caribbean brought her back in 2005 with a mission to continue developing others. Under her leadership, significant strides have been made in supporting Afro-Caribbean women through initiatives like the Confident Parenting Programme, part of the Building Bridges for Success Programme in Trinidad and Tobago.
Reflecting on the progress since the inception of Afro-Descendant Women’s Day, she highlights the increasing presence of Afro-women in leadership roles across various industries, including politics, healthcare, and public service in Trinidad and Tobago. She attributes her resilience to the unconditional love and support from family and friends, a traditional value fundamental in challenging times.
Looking to the future, Hazel envisions a generation of women leaders inspired by figures like Mia Mottley, the Prime Minister of Barbados. She says, "Once women understand their worth, their abilities, and their natural leadership skills (among others), they will undoubtedly continue to create strong families, countries, and ultimately a stronger region.”
Snjezana Andrews, Board Treasurer at United Way Turks and Caicos.
Snjezana Andrews embodies the power of determination and vision. Growing up in the Caribbean, Andrews was taught the value of leadership from a young age. Her academic achievements and entrepreneurial spirit led her to become one of the first women of her ethnicity to own an entirely local car rental business in Providenciales, the tourism capital of Turks and Caicos.
Andrews’s leadership extends beyond business. She is a job creator and a role model for young women aspiring to entrepreneurship. Through United Way’s reading initiatives, she aims to equip young ladies with the skills to become future community leaders.
Over the past 32 years, significant advances have been made in the equal participation of Afro-women in Turks and Caicos. The appointment of the first female Governor, Premier, and Attorney General was a milestone that inspired and paved the way for future generations.
Snjezana’s vision for the future of women is bright. She shares, " I envision a future of more equality and more women leaders coming boldly to the forefront, birthing ideas of innovations in the technological space, break-throughs in the engineering space new products in health and beauty. I envision more respect and decreasing encounters of sexual harassment. I envision equal pay for equal work and less discrimination." She encourages women to harness the power within them to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
As we celebrate Afro-Descendant Women’s Day, the stories of Hazel Douglas and Snjezana Andrews remind us of the extraordinary contributions of Afro-Latin and Afro-Caribbean women. Their leadership, resilience, and dedication to community empowerment speak to the enduring spirit of Afro-descendant women everywhere. By recognizing and honoring their achievements, we take a step towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.