The Tribune

Andrea Archer has been officially recognised as the Bahamas’ 2014 International Woman of Courage.

US Charg� d’Affaires John Armstrong presented her with the award at a reception at the SuperClubs Breezes resort on Friday evening.

Mrs Archer was honoured for her tireless efforts in the field of social work in the Bahamas’ school system and for making it possible for thousands of young people to have uninterrupted access to healthcare and education.

In his remarks, Mr Armstrong applauded Mrs Archer for being a nation builder, pioneer of women’s rights and a human rights activist who persevered in the struggle to effectively address inequalities faced by Bahamian women and children.

“Thanks to the accomplishments of women like Andrea Archer and progress of Bahamian society, the opportunities afforded to Bahamian girls today are only limited by their own imaginations,” he said.

Over the past seven years in honour of outstanding women, the United States Government has asked its embassies around the world to nominate one female leader for the International Woman of Courage award.

The recognition serves as a tangible way to show respect and appreciation for women who have exemplified economic, political and social achievements.

Present among those who were honoured in the past, were Rose Mae Bain for her work with HIV/AIDS and Janet Bostwick, for her contributions towards the empowerment and advancement of Bahamian women, particularly in the labour force.

During the event, Mr Armstrong also recognised the Bahamian young women who were nominated for the US State Department’s Global Leadership Mentoring Programme: Arinitha Komolafe, Nakera Symonette, LaToya Johnson and Deserie Miller.

The women were nominated for being strong examples of leadership, which has made a difference in building the Bahamas.