Saint Lucia is mourning the loss of Thecla Deterville, a distinguished human resource professional and former Business Person of the Year, whose contributions to the business community and women’s empowerment have left a lasting legacy.
Deterville, who was awarded the 2007 Business Person of the Year by the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, is being remembered as a trailblazer who helped shape corporate leadership while championing the advancement of women across the island.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, including from Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and members of his Cabinet, as the nation reflects on her life of service and impact.
Minister for Commerce, Emma Hippolyte, extended condolences to Deterville’s family while acknowledging her influence on women’s development, noting that she wished to express sympathy “on behalf of all the women of Saint Lucia” and to thank her family for the work Deterville had done in advancing women and their development in the country.
Hippolyte also highlighted that Deterville had recently been honoured for her contributions, describing her as one of the women recognised for her role in national development. Reflecting on their long-standing association, the Minister spoke to Deterville’s commitment to strengthening the women’s movement, explaining that their relationship spanned many years and pointing to her focus on training, advocacy, and professional development as a human resource leader.
Deterville’s passing marks the loss of a respected figure whose influence extended beyond business into community and national development, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
