44 JUNE 2025 • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG Women across the Caribbean are integral to the aquaculture and marine science sectors, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. To address this disparity, the Women in Caribbean Aquaculture (WiCA) Leadership Summit was held online from March 10–21, 2025. This pioneering event aimed to equip women with the skills, networks, and visibility needed to thrive as leaders in aquaculture and the blue economy. Organized by Dr. Juli-Anne Russo, CEO of the Caribbean Aquaculture Education & Innovation Hub (CAEIH), and Mariana Flores of Hatch Blue’s Women in Ocean Food Innovation Studio, the summit attracted 50 women scientists, educators, and entrepreneurs from across the Caribbean. The event addressed systemic challenges such as gender bias, limited access to capital, lack of mentorship, and cultural perceptions of leadership as a male domain. Insights from Regional Leaders The summit featured keynote addresses from prominent figures. Dr. Juli-Anne Russo emphasized the role of inclusive leadership in advancing the Caribbean blue economy. Honorary Guest Speaker Patricia R. Francis, CD, Chair of Jamaica’s Trade Facilitation Taskforce, Executive Director of the International Trade Centre, and Former head of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) discussed the intersection of trade, gender equity, and sustainable development in the Caribbean aquaculture sector. The summit featured esteemed Caribbean women scientists as moderators: Mia Avril (The Island School, Bahamas), Dr. Lisa Benjamin (University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago), and Leanne Morris Bennett (National Fisheries Authority, Jamaica), who facilitated discussions on barriers and opportunities for women in aquaculture. Building Skills for Sustainable Impact The summit covered diverse themes relevant to Caribbean women in STEM and aquaculture: • Entrepreneurship, Leadership and Finance: Sessions by Dr. Stacey Williams, (Institute for Socio-Ecological ResearchCARIBE), Crystal Robinson (Resolute Accounting) and Jessica Giannotti (SeaDyes®) offered strategies for small businesses, non-profits, and start-ups. These sessions focused on building leadership, independence, and entrepreneurial strategies for women in aquaculture. • Innovation and Technology in Aquaculture: Edward Fridie (FridayNite Design) introduced AI tools to enhance operations and decision-making. Discussions highlighted the integration of AI tools and sustainable practices to advance the aquaculture industry. • Personal Branding and Storytelling: Workshops by Hazel Peat (Number Nine Marketing) and Sherrill Bernard (Idle Sky Publishing) emphasized the power of visibility and narrative Empowering Women in Caribbean Aquaculture: A Leadership Summit for Change Juli-Anne Russo Women remain underrepresented in leadership throughout the Caribbean aquaculture sector. Mr. Donny Bunting, a pioneer in Jamaican aquaculture, provided tips on integrated self-care with professional development at the Summit.
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