Breaking barriers, shattering ceilings: Celebrating the power of women in leadership

For generations, women have been told to stay in their lane – to shrink, to be silent, to follow instead of lead. However, we now live in an era where women are no longer just asking for a seat at the table; they are building the tables, pulling up chairs, and leading the conversations that shape our world.

As a Jamaican man, I deeply admire the resilience, intelligence, and sheer force of will that women display in every sphere of society. From finance to politics, sports to education, media to business, women are breaking barriers, rewriting history, and inspiring the next generation. Yet, despite their undeniable impact, they continue to face resistance, doubt, and outdated biases.

This International Women’s Day, under the theme ‘For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’, it is essential to recognise the powerful female leaders who have challenged the status quo and paved the way for others. And there are so many.

In finance, Audrey Tugwell-Henry, the president and CEO of Scotiabank Jamaica, has demonstrated that leadership in banking is not defined by gender but by vision, expertise, and the ability to drive economic success. In a sector historically dominated by men, she has proven that women belong in executive boardrooms, not as token figures but as architects of financial powerhouses.

In the political arena, Lisa Hanna, for example, has exemplified resilience and grace, redefining leadership in a space that is often unwelcoming to women. As a former Miss World turned member of Parliament, she has consistently advocated for policies that uplift women and youths, proving that strength and diplomacy are not mutually exclusive but essential components of true leadership.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is not just a world champion sprinter – she is an icon of perseverance, discipline, and excellence. While she has dominated the track, she has also been a fierce advocate for women in sports, maternal health, and youth development. She has shattered the notion that motherhood limits success, proving instead that women can be powerhouses both in their careers and in their personal lives.

Beyond sprinting, she has used her platform to empower young girls, showing them that they too can defy expectations, own their greatness, and pursue their dreams unapologetically.

In education, Dr Kasan Troupe, Jamaica’s permanent secretary in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, is at the forefront of shaping the future of learning, ensuring that the next generation has access to quality education. Her leadership highlights the crucial role that women play in national development.

Alongside her, women like Dr Terri-Karelle Reid and Karren Foster have used their platforms and positions to inspire, educate, and mentor young minds.

Dr Reid, a media powerhouse and motivational speaker, has shown that education extends beyond the classroom; it is about empowerment, storytelling, and human connection.

Meanwhile, Karren Foster has proven that women can balance diplomacy with decisiveness, which has helped The Mico University College’s Faculty of Education remain at the forefront of academic excellence.

A SOCIETY THAT EMPOWERS WOMEN IS A SOCIETY THAT THRIVES

As men, it is our responsibility to acknowledge that championing women’s leadership is not about competition – it is about progress. Too often, some men feel threatened by powerful women when we should be their strongest allies. A society that empowers women is a society that thrives.

Supporting women should not be limited to symbolic gestures on International Women’s Day; it should be an everyday commitment to mentorship, advocacy, and breaking down systemic barriers. It requires challenging sexist mindsets in workplaces, encouraging women to take up leadership roles, and teaching young boys that strength is not measured by dominance but by collaboration and respect.

The world is better because of the contributions of women, and their achievements should be celebrated not just today, but every day.

To the women of Jamaica and beyond: we see you, we celebrate you, and we stand with you. Keep breaking barriers, keep shattering ceilings, and keep leading the way.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Leroy Fearon is the acting dean, Faculty of Education, The Mico University College, author and researcher. Email feedback to: leroyfearon85@gmail.com and editorial@gleanerjm.com