AFETT elects new board

THE Association of Female Executives of Trinidad and Tobago (AFETT) has elected its board of directors for the 2024-2026 term.

The newly elected board was installed on June 20, following the association's annual general meeting (AGM).

Speaking at the AGM, newly appointed president Simone Francois-Whittier expressed her optimism for the future.

"I extend my heartfelt thanks to our past presidents for their unwavering commitment and foresight which has been instrumental in establishing AFETT as a cornerstone among civil society organisations in TT and a leading female-focused NGO. I am thrilled about the journey ahead with our new board. With a team of outstanding women leaders, I am confident that we will harness our collective expertise and leadership to drive AFETT's strategic goals forward and further our mission in the coming years," she said.

She added that the board looks forward to working on several strategic objectives during its tenure. These include enhancing member engagement and professional development, forging meaningful partnerships and advocating for policies that support women's empowerment in the workforce.

"The board is dedicated to embracing progressive values and aligning with the evolving needs of today’s women, ensuring AFETT remains at the forefront in addressing current challenges and opportunities. They are eager to drive innovative initiatives that reflect the evolving landscape for female executives in TT, solidifying AFETT’s role as a leader in championing positive change," Francois-Whittier said.

Founded in 2002, AFETT is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to empower women throughout TT to become leaders, mentors and agents of change within their communities.

AFETT also produces a weekly column for Newsday's Business Day magazine, which addresses issues and concerns of female professionals.

The other elected board members are:

– Afeisha Melville McKain, president-elect

– Ceronne Bayley, secretary

– Peridot Webster, director of programmes

– Ricia Ali-Lindow, director of membership

– Simone Tomwing, director of communications and public relations

– Desree Jack, director of fundraising and special events

– Romana Peters, director of finance

– Dionne Guischard, director of social outreach

– Jenelle Fraser, director of research and public advocacy