BAVINA SOOKDEO

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we turn our attention to the TT Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI), an alliance comprising professional services associations and organisations.

At the forefront of advocating for trade in services issues and advancing the Services Industries, TTCSI holds a pivotal position in both the global and national spheres. Acknowledging the services sector as a significant employer of women, let’s focus on the dynamic female presidents leading services associations within TTCSI.

With a vast network of 65 associations and affiliate companies, the TTCSI represents over 600,000 firms and individuals.

Among them, a substantial number are led by visionary women. As we mark International Women’s Day, we asked these women three questions:

1: Reflecting on your journey to becoming the president of your association, could you share some of the unique challenges you faced as a woman in leadership?

2: How have these experiences shaped your approach to promoting gender equality and inspiring inclusion within your organisation and the broader business community.

3: In your view, what are the most significant impacts female leaders are making in the business world today, and how do you envision the role of business support organisations in furthering this progress?

Here is what they had to say:

Cavelle Joseph-St Omer, Human Resource Management Association:

1: As president of a professional association that is not for profit, I am expected to concurrently provide leadership to the board and community, possess administrative and financial acumen, fundraising ability, political deftness, exemplify institutional values, as well as shape the policies within the organisation. This is while committing to my full-time job as an executive and managing family life.

Keeping a strong team with sincere intentions focused on the organisation’s mandate for altruistic purposes is a challenge. The team and I must be resilient innovators that can make strategic long-term decisions, take measured risks and thrive on turning challenges or moments of crisis into opportunities and sustain progress.

I have had to try and conquer perfectionism and recognise that no manager/executive/leader knows the precise, correct decision to make every time.

2: Being a leader means not simply having a seat at the table, but having the determination to own your voice and express yourself at whatever stage you are in your career. Your thoughts and suggestions may influence company policy, employee collaboration, and business development.

The saying “ rising tide lifts all boats” is an appropriate one. I therefore bring other women along the journey with me. I openly and willingly share power and information rather than guard it.

I firmly believe when we all work together, cultivating relationships and empowering the women around us, we build a mutually beneficial environment that enables each of us to succeed.

3: Women are able to make bold and wise decisions as leaders; this h