The board of The Association of Female Executives of T&T (Afett) for 2013-2014 has made it their mission to introduce innovative ways to support the development of female professionals, executives and entrepreneurs.Led by president Keisha Cruickshank, the directors of the new board have committed to continuing the association's ten-year history of providing networking, professional and personal development opportunities to its members.
For the 2013-2014 term, the board will implement a social outreach agenda designed to support the development of women at work and in business and mentorship of young women and girls. In fact, 2013 marks the first time that Afett has a director of social outreach–a position held by incumbent Marlene Charles who has committed to leading the charge.A release from the association stated: "Afett recognises the value of leveraging technology to engage, excite and educate.
"Typically Afett serves by delivering a robust calendar of monthly meetings, as well as social outreach and developmental initiatives at identified locations. Afett recognises there are members and stakeholders who are sometimes unable to attend the development sessions due to traffic, professional, or personal commitments. In response, the association will be hosting its first virtual programme."
The group acknowleges that women "wear many hats," often at the expense of their emotional and health needs. With this in mind, a virtual programme Putting YOU First, has been developed. It is a series of videos featuring presentations from renowned female experts on a range topics. It will be on Afett's YouTube channel tomorrow from 6.30 pm. Interested persons can e-mail afettsocialoutreach@gmail.com to receive log-in details.
Afett is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 2002. It consists of a voluntary and multi-disciplinary team of professional women and hosts several events that champion women development; inclusive of its annual Suit Me UP sale, which creates the opportunity for upcoming female professionals to purchase gently-used executive suits at bargain prices. This year, the event takes place on November 9 at the Cruise Ship Complex, Wrightson Road, Port-of-Spain, from 9 am to 2 pm.
Afett events info can be found on its web site, www.afett.com or by contacting the secretariat at info.afett@gmail.com or 354-7130.