The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

IN AN effort to embrace, inspire and empower women from all walks of life, Bahamian Pastor Dr Judy L McIntosh-Smith will host for the first time a ‘Winning In Life’ seminar at the Southside Christian Church, #1 Dignity Gardens, on Friday at 7.15pm.

In an interview with Tribune Woman, Pastor Smith said judging from the overwhelming requests for tickets, women are serious about what the event has to offer, from coaching and training sessions to counselling and mentoring for all in attendance.

“We were sold out in the first 14 days after the advertisements about tickets went online and on social media. I am an advocate for the development and advancement of women. I believe every woman deserves a fair chance in life to be the best she can. I also believe women should be given opportunities to advance and develop educationally - through degree programmes, certified courses, seminars and workshops. It continues to be my practice to encourage women to make time for reading, and to expose themselves to things that are important in life. WILFW (Winning In Life for Women) will also honour women and celebrate their achievements. I believe this plays an extremely important role in the enhancement of self worth,” said Pastor Smith.

Highlights of the seminar will include guest presenter life-coach extraordinaire Dr Melisa Hall, prizes and surprises, the ‘Winning In Life for Women: Nuggets for Success’ book release, a saxophone performance by Makarios, dance performance by SCCI Perfected Praise Dancers, musical guests and more. The festivities will climax on Sunday, beginning at 10.30am at the church grounds with a worship service to feature Prophetess Sharnette Kemp, Co-Pastor of Trinity City of Praise Outreach Ministries, Lower Bogue, Eleuthera.

“I hold deep convictions about the spiritual development of women. For me, true spirituality is the foundation for women who seek to truly win in life. This is why the church service will allow women the opportunity for spiritual nurturing, growth and an encounter with God,” said Pastor Smith.

She believes attendees will receive life transforming information and skills that will change the course and direction of their lives, saying that she and Dr Hall are both qualified and equipped with what is necessary to positively shift the mindset of women and help them begin the journey of excelling and soaring to greatness.

Pastor Smith holds a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Counselling, a Master of Arts Degree in Christian Education and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. She is also a trained Marriage and Family Counsellor, a certified Youth and Children’s Counsellor and Instructor, Mentor, Life Coach and Advisor. In addition, her concern for the overall physical health and wellbeing of people led her to pursue and complete training as a Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant.

“Having worked with women for many years, I noticed that too many had become discouraged and distraught. They were giving up on life, letting themselves go, accepting mediocrity and living in a second class status. I believe that with a little encouragement, inspiration and motivation, a woman understanding who she is can become great and do great things. It was out of this deep concern for women, that Winning In Life for Women was birthed. I feel that no one should settle for less in life and I am determined to make a difference where I can in assisting, equipping and empowering women in their advancement,” she said.

• WILFW seminar ticket information - 362-1357 or email at shantellscci@gmail.com.