A meaningful exchange between generations of women found its footing at Government House this past week, as the V.I. Tourism Department hosted its inaugural Future Female Leaders Luncheons, giving high school seniors from across the territory a chance to share space with professionals in business, public service, and tourism for afternoons of genuine connection, candid conversation, and the beginning of lasting mentorships.
Organized by Deputy Tourism Commissioner RoseAnne Farrington in celebration of Women’s History Month, the events provided students with opportunities to hear personal stories, ask questions, and build relationships with seasoned leaders committed to guiding the next generation.
“There’s no shortage of talent among these girls,” Farrington said. “But what they need – and what many of us once needed — is a reminder of their value, a nudge to step into their power, and a community that sees their worth.”
To ensure the luncheons have a lasting impact, each speaker and panelist committed to mentoring two to three students, establishing a support network that extends beyond the events.
Meanwhile, the stories shared Thursday and Saturday were not solely about career milestones but also about perseverance, purpose, and the importance of authenticity.
On St. Thomas, for example, Tropical Shipping’s Island Manager Nisha Aubain, recounted her ascent in the maritime logistics industry, emphasizing the importance of hard work and staying true to one’s goals in a traditionally male-dominated field, while Dilsa Capdeville, founder of Kidscope — the Virgin Islands’ first child advocacy center — highlighted the significance of self-worth and the transformative role mentorship can play during life’s challenges. Terri Helenese, director of State-Federal Relations and policy adviser for the Virgin Islands, meanwhile, reflected on her experiences in national policy, encouraging students to consider public service careers, noting that representation can influence community outcomes.
On St. Croix, luncheon keynote speaker Safiya George, the newly appointed president of the University of the Virgin Islands, brought not only her professional insight but also a sense of possibility for what leadership can look like at the highest levels of academia. She spoke about the importance of aligning education with the workforce needs of the territory – particularly in tourism, which she acknowledged as a vital pillar of the Virgin Islands’ economy.
Farrington, reflecting on their conversations, said she was especially inspired by George’s vision for expanding curriculum offerings that prepare students for leadership in both the public and private sectors. “She understands how important it is for students to see themselves reflected in their institutions,” Farrington noted. “Having someone like her at the helm of UVI shows our young women that they, too, can rise to the top — and lead with clarity, compassion, and strength.”
Speaking on St. Thomas Saturday was Dominica’s Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Melissa Skerrit, who offered a personal reflection on her unexpected path to public service. Though politics wasn’t a career she initially sought out, she spoke about how stepping outside of her comfort zone allowed her to grow, serve, and eventually lead. Skerrit’s message underscored that purpose can emerge in unexpected places – and that real leadership often begins with the courage to say yes to the unfamiliar. Her continued advocacy for women’s empowerment across Dominica served as a powerful example of how service can become a platform for uplifting others, organizers said.
The speaker lineup across both districts also included a mix of local, regional, and international voices — from public officials to private sector professionals — all united by a commitment to uplifting the next generation. Among them were Farrington, along with Dr. Lindsy Wagner, Sydney Paul, attorney Kye Walker, Leah Trotman, Darian Torrice-Hairston, April Donohoo, Sanni Craft, Lisa Hamilton, Margo Lynch, Nadia Bougouneau, and Personnel Director Cindy Richardson, each offering a unique perspective on leadership and growth.
Within both events, students engaged directly with panelists in a space where themes of courage, self-worth, and possibility echoed throughout. From personal stories to practical advice, the message was consistent: challenges are not barriers — they’re steppingstones.
“This isn’t just about the luncheon,” Farrington emphasized. “It’s about telling our young women they belong in boardrooms, in leadership, and at the head of the table. And we’re here to walk with them until they get there.”
Looking ahead, the Tourism Department plans to extend these efforts by launching school-based initiatives and similar mentorship programs for young men. Farrington also highlighted the importance of integrating more tourism and leadership programming into schools, recognizing that the next generation of industry leaders is already forming.
“We always say tourism is all of us — and that includes our students,” she said. “They’re not just the future. They’re part of what makes this community work right now.”
