The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB), in collaboration with UN Women, recently held a Women in Business Empowerment Retreat, bringing together nearly 70 influential women for a transformative experience. The event, part of BDB’s ongoing efforts to promote economic empowerment and gender equality, aimed to provide participants with essential tools, insights, and networking opportunities to advance their careers and personal growth.
The retreat featured a keynote address by global entrepreneur and visionary Ibukun Awosika. Awosika delivered impactful guidance on achieving success in both professional and personal realms, offering practical advice that resonated with the attendees. Her session, along with various networking opportunities, was designed to inspire and motivate participants to pursue their goals with renewed vigor.
In addition to the keynote, BDB introduced its new SDG Concessional Loan Fund. This innovative financial product is tailored to support sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the region, offering an exceptionally low interest rate of 0-2 percent. The fund aims to provide accessible financing for businesses in the agriculture, tourism, and creative sectors, specifically those owned by, led by, or serving women, youth, and individuals with disabilities.
Nicholas Higgs, Managing Director of the Bahamas Development Bank, expressed his enthusiasm for the retreat’s success. “We are thrilled with the success of the Women in Business Empowerment Retreat and the positive impact it has had on our participants. Events like this are crucial in building a strong community of women leaders who are equipped to make meaningful contributions to the economic and social fabric of The Bahamas,” Higgs remarked.
The retreat not only highlighted the importance of empowering women in business but also demonstrated BDB’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women entrepreneurs. By offering valuable resources and facilitating connections among women leaders, BDB and UN Women continue to champion gender equality and economic empowerment in the region.
