Bermuda took centre stage last week as Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, led a delegation of 15 Bermudian women to the International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai. The event was hosted by African business leader Madame Ibukun Awosika.
Under the theme “Women in Leadership: Living the Dream,” the 2025 conference welcomed over 600 influential women from around the world, including heads of state, entrepreneurs, academics, and activists, for a transformative gathering focused on leadership, legacy, and global collaboration.
In her address, Minister Furbert delivered a powerful message, highlighting Bermuda’s history and progress while encouraging women to expand their ambitions.
“My dream did not envision being here, but here I am. My dream did not envision running for Parliament, or becoming a Minister, but here I am. We must release fear and embrace possibility, for we are meant to expand beyond the limits of what we once believed possible.
“And, as I reflect on the journey that brought me here, I am reminded of another Bermudian woman, one whose legacy shaped history. This famous sister once said, “To be free is very sweet.” That was her eternal dream, to one day be free. Mary Prince dared to DREAM of freedom, and this was reflected in her ‘super-power’ in that…she refused to be silenced.
And, although Mary Prince never lived to taste the sweet fruit of freedom; she left a legacy impacting women to this day. It’s because of Mary Prince, and so many women like her, that I stand here today.
“Bermuda’s contribution was both symbolic and substantial. Two Bermudian women participated in the open forum: Dr. Crystal Clay, executive coach and leadership strategist, and Sherry Lilly, entrepreneur and advocate for wellness and community engagement. Their contributions resonated with the global audience and reinforced Bermuda’s leadership in multiple sectors.”
The delegation’s attendance was made possible through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), and organisational support from Dr. Dana Selassie, who played a key role in coordinating Bermuda’s participation. Dr. Selassie, who attended last year’s conference as part of the UN Women delegation, was instrumental in advocating for Bermuda’s deeper involvement in the global women’s leadership movement. Her efforts in 2024 led to the establishment of Bermuda’s first Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, which launched last summer.
Building on this momentum, it was announced that Madame Ibukun Awosika will return to Bermuda to headline the second annual Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, scheduled for 6–8 August 2025.
“The energy, purpose, and power coming out of Bermuda is undeniable,” said Dr. Selassie. “This is no longer just a moment, it’s a movement. We are proud to help shape a global platform that connects women of Africa, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora with real tools, real impact, and real sisterhood. I want to thank Minister Furbert, Permanent Secretary Valerie Robinson-James, and the team at BEDC for believing in this vision for Bermuda's women entrepreneurs and leaders.”
Minister Furbert added, “I am incredibly proud of the delegation that represented Bermuda. The 15 Bermudian women who attended spanned industries including education, finance, health, technology, cultural preservation, social innovation, and entrepreneurship. Several attendees were self-funded, demonstrating the passion and commitment of Bermudian women to lead on the world stage.”
Bermuda’s growing influence in global leadership conversations is evident, and the Mary Prince Conference is rapidly establishing itself as a key forum for these discussions to continue at home.
For more information or to register interest in the 2025 Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, please email info@zhyoninternational.com.