Deputy Prime Minister Navarre-Marie recognises the potentials of women entrepreneurs

“The ‘She Creates’ competition demonstrates that when provided with the right environment, opportunities, and equipment, women are empowered to make outstanding creations,” stated the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, this morning, in Réduit.

The Deputy Prime Minister was speaking at the twin ceremony of annual donation of grant to Women’s Associations and Regional Committees, and the award ceremony of the ‘She Creates’ competition, both organised by the National Women’s Council (NWC).

In her keynote address, the Deputy Prime Minister commended the participants for their immense dedication and talent which, she stressed, is a matter of pride for the country. She expressed admiration for the creativity, forward-thinking, resourcefulness and resilience of women entrepreneurs, highlighting the extraordinary potential of all women within the Republic.

Mrs Arianne Navarre-Marie pointed out that the ceremony aligns with the Government’s vision to empower women, foster independence, and promote their full participation in socio-economic development. “The competition essentially represents the Ministry’s revamped agenda to showcase the talents of women and the way these can be transformed into economic contributions,” she said.

Noting the NWC long-standing support for women, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed her intent to modernise the institution, transforming it into a dynamic body capable of meeting current needs. She emphasised the need to providing guidance to help every woman achieve her aspirations.

Also addressing the grant donations to 474 Women’s Associations and nine Regional Committees, Mrs Navarre-Marie called for the effective use of funds, insisting on the need for tangible, measurable outcomes while encouraging efforts toward self-sufficiency. Women’s Associations received each a grant of Rs 5,000 and the Regional Committees were offered a financial support of Rs 10,000, each.

The Chairperson of the NWC, Mrs Anoo Murachpersad-Lanfray, stated that the Council endeavours to create opportunities for women to reinforce their independence and enable their voice to be heard.

Describing the grants as a testament to Government's trust in women’s associations, she urged them to continue developing projects that support and guide women. Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of Regional Committees in fostering proximity to women across various regions, ensuring that their concerns are heard.

Winners of ‘She Creates’ competition

The winner of the competition, Mrs Persand Toswareesing, obtained a cash prize of Rs 25,000. The second prize, Rs 15,000, was awarded to Mrs Ponen Sayadevi; and the third prize, Rs 10,000, was remitted to Mrs Laurent Marie Rose Monne.

Trophies were also remitted to the winners of the competition, while all participants received a certificate.

09 May 2026

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Topics: Gender