FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – In recognition of International Women’s Day, Freeport Container Port and Freeport Harbour Company hosted a mixer, connecting some of the women representing diverse disciplines across our business units with a group of 11th and 12th grade girls from Eight Mile Rock High School. 

The event was birthed with a view to connect with young ladies in our community – in celebration of the tremendous strides women have made professionally, in acknowledgement of the continuing climb to lessen the gender gap in our society, as well as in support the next generation of women who will continue our journeys and blaze their own trails. 

The girls met and had the opportunity to ask questions and dialogue with these ladies through introductions, presentations, and engaging panel discussions 

Our team is extremely proud of our commitment to representation, notably having female representation at the highest level within our companies as half of our executive leadership team is comprised of women: Ms. Malvese Capron, our Chief People Officer who oversees the Human Resources needs for our 900+ Team Members; Mrs. Sherry Brookes, our Corporate & Government Affairs Director who has responsibility for our Corporate Identity, Community Engagement, Government Relations & Public Liaison as well as Mrs. Berlice Pintard, our Legal Counsel for both Freeport Container Port and Freeport Harbour Company. 

Participants in the event included: FHC’s first female Cargo Operations Manager (Kayla Saunders), FHC’s first female Marine Pilot (Luna Maxis), Sr. Human Resources Business Partner (Monique Coakley), FCP Facilities Supervisor and a trained electrician (Khalila Deveaux), FCP Health & Safety Manager (Garelle Hudson), and an Engineering Technician (Keiannah Charlton) among other women excelling in several departments within the business units, including traditionally male-dominated fields. 

Some of the key discussions and advice from our team included: 

• Maintaining integrity 
• Earning respect from colleagues through confidence, knowledge and treating them with respect 
• Leading with empathy 
• Differing educational journeys (ranging from traditional 4-year degrees, to obtaining certifications while working, etc.) 
• The importance of mentorship and knowledge sharing with peers to help one another elevate 

The girls were encouraged to explore their passions and believe in themselves, no matter what their personal and professional goals may be. 

Hutchison Ports FCP and Hutchison Ports FHC remains committed to supporting our community through youth engagement.