Arianne Navarre-Marie: "Women Have Extraordinary Potential to Transform Society"

Arianne Navarre-Marie, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, stated on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Réduit, "The 'She Creates' competition shows that when women have the right environment, opportunities, and proper resources, they can achieve exceptional creations."

The Deputy Prime Minister spoke during the annual grant donation ceremony for women's associations and regional committees, as well as the award ceremony for the 'She Creates' competition, both organized by the National Women’s Council (NWC).

In her keynote address, the Deputy Prime Minister praised the participants for their immense dedication and talent, which she highlighted as a source of pride for the country. She expressed her admiration for the creativity, future vision, ingenuity, and resilience of women entrepreneurs, emphasizing the extraordinary potential of all women within the Republic.

Ms. Arianne Navarre-Marie noted that the ceremony aligns with the government's vision to enhance women's empowerment, promote their independence, and encourage their full participation in socio-economic development. "The competition essentially represents the revised agenda of the Ministry to highlight women's talents and how these can be transformed into economic contributions," she stated.

Highlighting the NWC's longstanding support for women, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed her intention to modernize the institution, transforming it into a dynamic organization capable of addressing current needs. She emphasized the need to provide guidance to help each woman realize her aspirations.

Addressing the grants given to 474 women’s associations and nine regional committees, Ms. Arianne Navarre-Marie called for effective use of the funds, stressing the necessity for tangible and measurable results while encouraging efforts toward self-sufficiency. Each women's association received a grant of Rs 5,000, and the regional committees each benefited from financial support of Rs 10,000.

The President of the NWC, Ms. Anoo Murachpersad-Lanfray, stated that the Council strives to create opportunities for women to strengthen their independence and ensure their voices are heard. Describing the grants as a testament to the government's trust in women's associations, she urged them to continue developing projects that support and guide women. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of Regional Committees in fostering close connections with women in various areas, ensuring their concerns are addressed.

The winner of the 'She Creates' competition, Ms. Persand Toswareesing, received a cash prize of Rs 25,000. The second prize of Rs 15,000 went to Ms. Ponen Sayadevi, and the third prize of Rs 10,000 was awarded to Ms. Laurent Marie Rose Monne. Trophies were also presented to the competition winners, while all participants received a certificate.