South African trailblazer delivers inspiring message at Egi summit

South African trailblazer Basetsana Kumalo delivered a stirring speech to scores of women gathered at the Wyndham Grand Sam Lord’s Castle for the Egi’s Women’s Day Weekend event.

In her message, which appeared to resonate with the audience, she touted their ability to inspire and create change.

Calling for women to not only survive but to thrive, Kumalo urged them to embrace their crown, own their story, and step boldly into their destiny. The former Miss South Africa is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and mentor.

She described Barbados as more than just an exotic holiday destination and explained that its history and heritage are a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people.

“It is the perfect place for us to exchange bold ideas, forge lasting connections, and create a space for new and exciting possibilities.”

She added, “Today, ladies, we have answered the call to bloom together in accountability, in partnership, and personal mastery…Women have the power of virtue, the power of influence on society and culture, and, indeed, the power to be effective role models.”

The three-day event, now in its fifth year, has been billed as the Caribbean’s most inspiring women’s summit. It embraced the message Bloom Together.

Founder of Egi Women Gina Cummins

“Our mission, as demonstrated throughout this weekend’s conference, is to create an inspiring environment where women feel celebrated, empowered, and motivated to make a difference wherever they serve in the world,” said Gina Cummins, founder of Egi Women.

“Encourage women to step into their power, she urged, “Own every room you walk into, understand that you belong, including in this room today.”

Cummins emphasised the strength of unity, stating, “We have built a bridge between the women of South Africa, Bermuda, and the women of Barbados and the Caribbean. Look at what happens when women build bridges with each other – we really can change the whole world.”

The Bloom Welcome Party and cocktail reception on Friday set the stage for the weekend experience.

On Saturday, the venue was transformed into a vibrant hub of activity. Fully embracing International Women’s Day, attendees stepped out in chic, colourful apparel for the all-day event.

Participants had the opportunity to choose from three empowering masterclasses: Image by Design: Aligning Personal Style and Image to Your Everyday Life by Shannon Ashley, Women’s Health Topics We Need to Be Talking About by Dr. Sandra Bynoe and Be Different: 5 Simple Strategies to Elevate Your Leadership Edge by Leah Dean.

The production also featured the Design District fashion show curated by stylist Greg Williams, which highlighted designs from local designers, including Black Flamingo by Rhea Cummins-Jordan. (STT)