The Tribune

THE women of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force met in full force at the Coral Harbour Base last week for a three-day symposium.

Held from February 20 to 22 under the theme: “United We Stand, Divided We Fall, more than 150 women listened to speakers on a number of topics.

Guest presenters included former protocol officer Beverley Wallace-Whitfield; Dr Pamela Carroll, gynaecologist at the Woman Care Centre, Attorney Sharon Rahming-Rolle of Hope Strachan & Company; Sandra Dean-Patterson of the Ministry of Labour & Social Development; Rev Angela Palacious of the Anglican Diocesan; Gregory Bethel, President of Fidelity Bank Limited, and Loretta Butler-Turner MP.

Lieutenant Commander Cheryl Bethel, said that the symposium was necessary and well received.

“There are a number of young females on the Force who need guidance and advice that will hopefully keep them on track towards a successful career in both their personal and financial areas of their lives.

“We definitely will address all concerns met out in the workshop, as we make this a biennial event.”

The first 16 women were allowed to join the RBDF in 1985 and today women represent 17 per cent of the Force.