Rotary Georgetown Central Hosts Second Annual Girls’ Empowerment Retreat
October 29 2024 – The Rotary Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC) hosted its second annual Girls’ Empowerment Retreat, welcoming 37 adolescent girls aged 13 to 16 to the School of the Nations Auditorium for a day of inspiration and personal development.
According to a statement issued by the Rotary Club of Georgetown, participants came from diverse backgrounds, including ChildLink, HIAS Guyana, Plum Park Sophia Children and Family Centre, and Food for the Poor Youth Development Programme.
United Nations Resident Coordinator a.i Mr. Gerardo Noto, in his remarks, highlighted that young girls globally are realizing their potential when provided with opportunities.
He emphasized the vision of a world where girls have access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Mr. Noto encouraged the girls to voice their aspirations, break barriers, and build futures that reflect their dreams.
Aligned with this year’s United Nations theme for the International Day of the Girl Child, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” the retreat featured interactive activities and presentations designed to inspire and educate attendees. Key topics included healthy lifestyles, wellness, the future of girls in STEM fields, and personal vision development. Ms. Babsie Giddings, UNFPA Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Officer, delivered an insightful presentation on adolescent girls’ rights.
A highlight of the retreat was the session titled “It’s Time to Listen to Girls,” aimed at amplifying participants’ voices on topics like “Girls are the Solution” and “Girls are the Architects of Change.” Participants were encouraged to see themselves as future leaders and changemakers, fostering a strong sense of empowerment and mutual support among the attendees.
The retreat left participants with boosted confidence, heightened self-esteem, and a renewed commitment to personal growth and self-care. With Rotary International’s broader Empowering Girls Initiative, the organization is dedicated to supporting girls to make positive life choices, create change, and, ultimately, become empowered women who uplift communities.
Rotary Georgetown Central expressed its gratitude to sponsors, including Rudisa Motor Company Guyana Inc. and Diamond Fire & General Insurance Inc., and additional support from Distribution Services Limited for participant tokens. Leading the initiative, RCGC President Jagdesh Haripershad, Vice President Ricardo Stuart, and several Rotarians and guests participated, along with Rotaract and Rotarian professionals who hosted and facilitated sessions for the participants.
