In Honor of International Women’s Day: Women Entrepreneurs Shine at We Lift 6 Expo on International Women’s Day

Every year on March 8, the world pauses to observe International Women’s Day, a global observance that celebrates the achievements and contributions of women while highlighting the continued push for gender equality and justice. This year, the day is being marked under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” which calls for stronger action to
remove barriers that prevent women and girls from fully enjoying their rights.

Despite progress in many areas, the call remains urgent. Globally, women currently hold only about 64% of the legal rights that men have, with gaps existing in critical areas such as work,financial independence, safety, family life, property ownership, mobility, business opportunities,and retirement protections. The theme therefore encourages individuals, communities, and governments to work toward dismantling discriminatory laws and harmful social practices that continue to limit opportunities for women. Organizations such as UN Women are also encouraging global participation through awareness campaigns aimed at mobilizing support for equal rights and justice for women and girls worldwide.

In Guyana, the observance was also marked with a celebration of women’s entrepreneurship through the “We Lift – Let Her Bloom” Expo, hosted by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.The three-day event brought together more than 450 women entrepreneurs from across the country, each showcasing products and services ranging from food and handcrafted items to beauty products and personalized gifts. The expo provided a platform for women to promote their businesses, connect with customers, and network with fellow entrepreneurs.

At the opening of the event, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud emphasized the growing role of women in Guyana’s development and encouraged them to continue using their voices, skills, and innovation to shape the country’s future.

Turning Creativity into Business

Among the entrepreneurs participating in the expo was Anita Ramotar, owner of Celine Candle Sanctuary, a business specializing in handcrafted candles, soaps, and hair oils. Her display featured a variety of creative candle designs including candle bouquets, candle dresses, and decorative candle bags that can be customized for special occasions such as birthdays, baby showers, bridal showers, and anniversaries.

Ramotar explained that the business began quite unexpectedly. “Sometimes we were just at home with nothing to do, so I bought some candle materials just to experiment,” she said. “From there we realized it could become a side hustle that helps with bills and brings in extra income,” and just a year and a half later, the hobby has grown into a developing business. However, she admitted that producing handmade items often comes with challenges, and requires trial and error when creating new products.“Sometimes the measurements may be off and the batch doesn’t come out right,”she explained. She also hopes to eventually secure a physical storefront where she can showcase her products, though rental costs remain a challenge. Despite this, Anita Ramotar said the expo has been a valuable experience. “It means a lot to interact with other small business women and receive encouragement to continue,”she said. “Next year, I plan to come back even stronger.”

Proprietor Celine’s Candle Sanctuary  Anita Ramotar

From Experiment to Expanding Brand

Another entrepreneur showcasing her products was Mawazo Porte, founder of Guyana Marketing International (GMI).The company produces a variety of locally made snacks including coconut biscuits, plantain chips, tamarind balls, fried channa, and fried split peas, along with green seasoning, dried seasonings, and pepper sauces.

Business owner of Guyana Market International – Mawazo Porte

Porte explained that her business started during the COVID-19 pandemic. “During the pandemic there was a lot of uncertainty,” she said. “Even though I had a full-time job, we were working on rotation and I became bored at home.” A friend suggested she try making coconut biscuits, an idea she initially doubted. “I told them I didn’t know anything about coconut biscuits,” she recalled. “But I did my research, made my first batch, and gave it to them to sell at their workplace. Their boss liked it and asked if I could supply them regularly.” Encouraged by the response, Porte registered the business and expanded her product line. Today, GMI products are sold in several supermarkets including Massy, Bounty, and DSL Cash and Carry, as well as other retail locations. The business has also undergone rebranding to meet international packaging standards. “We are Made in Guyana certified and currently working toward international certification because our goal is to export,” she said.

Balancing the business with a full-time job, family responsibilities, and studies can be demanding, but Porte says the experience has been rewarding.“This is my fourth year participating in We Lift, and it’s amazing to see so many women-owned businesses under one roof,” she said.

Personalized Gifts with Meaning

Also participating in the expo was Jenelle Daniels, owner of Custom Plush Gifts, a business specializing in personalized stuffed toys.The plush gifts feature custom messages and are designed for special occasions including birthdays, baby arrivals, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day.

Owner of Custom Plush Gifts Jenelle Daniels

Daniels explained that the idea for the business came from observing Guyana’s rapid growth and the increasing demand for personalized products.“People appreciate gifts that are meaningful and memorable,” she said. Although the business was launched only earlier this year, Daniels said participating in the expo has already helped increase visibility and attract new customers. However, sourcing quality materials remains one of the biggest challenges, since many of the supplies must be imported. Despite this, she encourages other women to pursue their ideas. “One of the biggest things that holds women back is fear of what others might think,” she said. “But you shouldn’t limit yourself because of that. Pursue what you are passionate about.”

Empowering Women to Bloom

As the sixth edition of the expo concludes on International Women’s Day, the event serves as a powerful reminder of the creativity, resilience, and determination of women entrepreneurs across Guyana. With hundreds of businesses showcased under one roof, initiatives like We Lift – Let Her Bloom continue to provide opportunities for women to grow their enterprises, gain exposure, and inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions.