Caribbean POSH Weekend highlights women’s empowerment as Teri Helenese inspires unity
ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands — Teri Helenese, the Washington representative for the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands, delivered a powerful keynote at Caribbean POSH Weekend in St. Thomas, urging Caribbean women to lead with purpose, support each other, and embrace their collective influence.
Speaking to an energetic audience at the annual celebration of women’s empowerment, Helenese’s address, titled “Empowering Growth: The Future of Caribbean Business in a Changing World,” called for bold action and regional unity. “We do not wait to be handed power; we walk in it. We do not wait for permission, we create opportunity. We do not shrink, we show up brilliantly,” she said.
Helenese traced her journey from her upbringing in St. Croix to her current diplomatic role in Washington, grounding her message in the resilience of Caribbean communities. She invoked the legacy of Queen Mary and the Fireburn Queens, emphasizing that freedom is something to be defended, not granted. For more on the struggles and victories that shaped the Virgin Islands’ fight against colonial rule, see this feature on Virgin Islands colonial injustice.
Turning to her work on behalf of the Virgin Islands, Helenese highlighted policy achievements, including securing the $2,500 Child Tax Credit reimbursement through 2028. “That is groceries. That is school uniforms. That is childcare for hard-working mothers and fathers just like you,” she noted. She also spoke about efforts to reduce tariffs on regional shipping, protect supply chains, safeguard jobs, and improve regional air and sea connectivity.
Helenese urged leaders to prioritize stronger links between the Caribbean and Africa, stating that direct transportation routes should be a strategic focus.
Her keynote struck a deeply personal note when addressing the importance of sisterhood. “We must mentor each other because mentorship is the bridge between potential and power,” she said. “When you choose to support a Caribbean sister’s business, you are not just buying a product, you are investing in a dream, a family, and a community legacy.”
Caribbean POSH Weekend, which began in 2016 as the POSHgirl POWER Brunch founded by Janette Brin, has grown into a multi-day destination event attracting women from across the region, including The Bahamas, Guyana, and beyond. The event features masterclasses, the Caribbean POSH ICON Woman Awards, and the PINK Sunday Sunset Sail.
During the weekend, the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) sponsored a retreat giveaway to Nevis, highlighting the importance of mental well-being alongside professional goals. Helenese reminded attendees that “your well-being and clarity are not just part of being prepared, they are your superpower.”
She closed with a rallying call for continued action. “Do not leave this weekend the same way you came. Leave charged. Leave changed. Leave with your crown straight and your voice projected. We are the ancestors someone prayed for. We are fully present, fully powerful, and just getting started.”
This year’s Caribbean POSH Weekend was more than a gathering. For many in attendance, it became a declaration of empowerment and a reaffirmation of the region’s collective strength.
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