The Caribbean Association of Women Judges (CAWJ) and the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Women Judges (TTAWJ) recently commemorated their 10th Anniversaries with a remarkable Professional Development Conference and Gala (PDCG) themed “Honouring our Journey, Strengthening our Sisterhood”. Held from April 26-28, 2024, in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, this event brought together distinguished judicial officers from across the Caribbean. UN Women, the National Center for State Courts (NCSC), and the US Department of State through the INL provided financial support to the Associations to enable their members to join the PDCG to celebrate, reflect, and chart a future course.
The festivities began with an exclusive tour of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), featuring discussions with its President, The Hon. Mr. Justice Adrian Saunders, and Justices Winston Anderson and Maureen Rajnauth-Lee.
This was followed by an elegant Opening Ceremony at the Waterfront Judicial Centre, which included a Flag Raising Ceremony and the performance of the National Anthem of Trinidad and Tobago. The evening saw notable addresses from CAWJ President, The Hon. Mme Justice Nadia Kangaloo, and TTAWJ President, The Hon. Mme Justice of Appeal Carla Brown-Antoine.
Greetings were also extended by The Honourable the Chief Justice Ivor Archie ORTT, The Hon. Justice Binta Nyako, President of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), Magistrate Rosa Elena Gonzalez (IAWJ Regional Director), Master Sherlanne Pierre (IAWJ Regional Director), and The Hon. Mr. Justice Peter Jamadar, Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and President of the Caribbean Association of Judicial Officers (CAJO).
A highlight was the keynote address by The Hon. Mme Justice Maureen Rajnauth-Lee, Judge of the CCJ and Patron of both the CAWJ and TTAWJ, reflecting on the formation of the associations and honoring the trailblazing women involved. The event also featured presentations recognizing dedicated service, a tribute to the late Hon. Mme Justice Désirée Bernard, the first Patron of the CAWJ, and a vibrant cocktail reception.
Day Two of the PDCG offered enriching sessions, including "Conversations with Outstanding Women Judges of the Caribbean," featuring The Hon. Madam Justice Roxane George SC, The Hon. Mrs. Justice Zaila McCalla, and The Hon. Justice of Appeal Margaret Reifer. Other sessions explored topics like AI's impact on the judiciary and judicial wellness. The Conference concluded with a meet and greet for Presidents and organizers of regional Women Judges Associations.
A Silent Auction showcased various donated items, the proceeds of which will contribute to the associations’ funding.
The PDCG concluded with a Gala Dinner at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, featuring a keynote address by Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes, ORTT (former President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago), and an evening of celebration and camaraderie.
The final day allowed attendees to enjoy the scenic beauty of Trinidad and Tobago with a bus tour of Port-of-Spain, Paramin Lookout, and Maracas Bay.
Attendees provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, marking the 10th Anniversary Professional Development Conference and Gala as a resounding success. The CAWJ and TTAWJ are excited to build on this momentum, continuing to promote gender equality and support the professional development of women judges across the Caribbean.
Stay connected with CAWJ through upcoming events and initiatives by visiting CAWJ's website or emailing info@cawj.org.
Submitted by
Nadia Kangaloo
President, Caribbean Association of Women Judges
June 19, 2024