Castries, Saint Lucia – July 28, 2025
Sport took on new meaning this past Saturday 26th July 2025 as leaders from across Saint Lucia gathered at the Bel Jou Hotel for the powerful and purpose-driven “Level Up: Sports Leadership and Officiating Workshop.” Hosted by Ms. Dora Henry, a 2024–2025 Commonwealth Women’s Leadership Programme Grant Recipient, the one-day workshop marked a bold stride toward advancing gender equity and leadership in sport.
Bringing together 25 enthusiastic participants—ranging from emerging leaders to seasoned sport administrators—the workshop focused on building the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to lead effectively on and off the field. It formed a core part of Ms. Henry’s commitment to supporting dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable leadership within Saint Lucia’s sporting arena.
The day featured a vibrant and interactive agenda delivered by a stellar line-up of facilitators who brought energy, expertise, and inspiration to each session:
- Elijah Williams empowered participants with practical tools for Mastering Communication and Public Speaking, emphasizing confidence and clarity.
- Vernessa Long took participants through Branding and Image in Sports Leadership, helping them define and elevate their personal and professional presence.
- Urban Dolor, seasoned educator and mediator trainer, offered strategies for Fostering Empathy, Building Stronger Teams, and Resolving Conflict through Non-Violent Communication.
- Tracy van Ginkel, joining virtually, shared insights on Networking and Mentorship, highlighting the value of building meaningful relationships in sport leadership.
- Dora Henry, workshop lead and facilitator, shared her growth journey journey.
Participants left the workshop energized and inspired, armed with new tools, strengthened networks, and a deeper understanding of their role in shaping the future of sport in Saint Lucia.
“Level Up is more than a workshop—it’s a movement to equip leaders with the skills and support they need to lead confidently and sustainably in sport,” said Ms. Henry. “It’s about creating space, sharing knowledge, and building each other up.”
As Saint Lucia’s sport sector continues to grow, initiatives like Level Up are vital to ensuring that leaders are not just present but are actively shaping policy, practice, and performance. The event stands as a shining example of the Commonwealth Women’s Leadership Programme in action—empowering leaders in particular women, advancing equity, and promoting change through sport.
