Across the Caribbean, women in business are transforming industries, strengthening communities, and building companies that reflect both innovation and resilience. As the region celebrates International Women’s Day 2026, the theme “Give to Gain” highlights the power of generosity in leadership, as it shares knowledge, creates opportunities, and supports others along the entrepreneurial journey.
For many women in business, success is not measured solely by revenue or expansion. It is also defined by the value they create for their communities, employees, and fellow entrepreneurs. When expertise is shared and collaboration is encouraged, the benefits ripple outward across entire industries.
This International Women’s Day, we highlight a group of inspiring Caribbean women in business whose work demonstrates exactly what the “Give to Gain” philosophy looks like in practice. At the centre of this story is Krystle Phillips, a founder whose company helps manufacturers build stronger operational foundations.
Among the rising women in business shaping the Caribbean industry is Krystle Phillips, CEO and Founder of Your Equipment Suppliers (YES), Roll Ice Cream LLC, and Beezy Buddy Fragrances.
Krystle founded YES in Trinidad and Tobago in 2014 after noticing a recurring challenge facing manufacturers. Many businesses had strong demand and skilled teams, but struggled with equipment purchases made without enough operational guidance.
Machines were often sold without proper specification checks, voltage alignment, or realistic production planning. As a result, companies sometimes invested heavily in equipment that did not fully match their operational needs.
Krystle built YES to challenge that model. Her company works directly with manufacturers in China and India to verify specifications, confirm quality, and ensure electrical compatibility before equipment is shipped.
Under her leadership, YES has deployed over 100 machines across more than 14 countries, supporting manufacturers in food processing, agriculture, and production industries.
Her philosophy reflects the mindset shared by many women in business today:
“Manufacturers deserve more than access to equipment. They deserve clarity, context, and support that doesn’t disappear after the sale.”
By helping manufacturers make better equipment decisions, Krystle strengthens the operational backbone of many Caribbean businesses.
Another inspiring example of women in business driving change is Sian Cuffy-Young, founder and CEO of Siel Environmental Services Limited.
With more than 15 years of experience in environmental management, Sian launched Siel Environmental in 2015 to address one of the Caribbean’s growing challenges: waste management.
Her company operates as a social enterprise focused on waste education, sustainability training, and environmental consulting. Through workshops and strategic advisory services, Siel Environmental helps organizations improve waste efficiency and adopt circular economy practices.
The company’s work has earned several recognitions, including the Environmentalism and Advocacy Award (2019) and Best Waste Education Company in the Caribbean (2019).
Sian’s leadership highlights how women in business can shape industries while also promoting environmental responsibility.
Food innovation is another area where women in business are making a strong impact. Kathleen Joseph, founder of Trinibakes Limited, has introduced a creative solution to simplify baking while preserving Caribbean flavours.
Her company produces vegetable-fortified frozen dough, incorporating ingredients such as beetroot, bhagi, patchoi, and pumpkin into ready-to-bake bread products.
These dough products are pre-shaped and designed to save time for households, caterers, and hotels. Instead of kneading dough from scratch, customers thaw, bake, and serve.
Kathleen’s work demonstrates how women in business are combining innovation, convenience, and local ingredients to meet modern consumer needs.
Agriculture and food processing are also being shaped by visionary women in business like Gale Charles, founder of Charlo Farm.
Her agri-processing company produces dehydrated herbs and seasonings made from locally sourced ingredients. These products provide a longer shelf life while preserving authentic Caribbean flavours.
Popular items include pimento flakes, chadon beni flakes, and a signature seasoning blend featuring garlic, ginger, and thyme.
By turning fresh ingredients into shelf-stable seasonings, Gale supports both farmers and consumers while reducing food waste.
After a 20-year career as a travelling chef, Jeanette Marcelle joined the growing community of women in business by launching Handmade by Jeanette.
Her brand focuses on health-conscious artisanal foods made with at least 75% locally sourced ingredients.
Products include gourmet granolas, speciality sauces, and innovative spice blends that combine Caribbean flavours with modern culinary techniques.
Jeanette also emphasises sustainability by repurposing production by-products and working closely with local farmers.
Her journey highlights how culinary creativity can be achieved with sustainable practices.
Innovation and sustainability come together through the work of Mahalia Joseph, founder of Allamanda Flavours.
Her company processes herbs and spices using renewable energy systems that reduce energy waste while improving efficiency.
By dehydrating ingredients such as pimentos and herbs, Allamanda Flavours extends shelf life without chemical preservatives.
Products like Pimento Powder and 3Blends Seasoning deliver concentrated Caribbean flavour while helping reduce agricultural waste.
Mahalia’s work reflects how women in business are integrating sustainability into modern food production.
Entrepreneurship often begins with solving a personal problem. For Karlene Dick, that journey led her into the growing world of women in business.
She launched Tasters Premium Choice with just $200, creating probiotic-rich yogurt made with real fruit and natural ingredients.
The brand later expanded into homemade granola while maintaining a focus on low-sugar, natural food products.
Karlene’s daughter now assists with production and packaging, turning the business into a family effort.
Christine Williams: Celebrating Sweet Craftsmanship
Christine Williams, founder of Christine’s Addictive Sweets, represents the creativity and dedication that define many women in business across Trinidad and Tobago.
Her brand focuses on artisanal confectionery and homemade treats, offering a variety of handcrafted desserts that highlight both quality and presentation. From rich chocolates to beautifully prepared sweets, Christine’s creations reflect the growing demand for locally made specialty desserts.
Christine’s Addictive Sweets has built a strong presence through community and corporate events across Trinidad. The brand regularly participates in craft markets, fairs, and health events, bringing its signature treats directly to customers.
By combining craftsmanship with community engagement, Christine Williams continues to grow her business while contributing to the vibrant culture of local women in business throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
Afesha Marcelle-Nichols, founder of Tastebud Fantasy, has built a brand known for visually stunning desserts.
Her business specializes in custom cakes, gourmet dessert tables, and savoury catering options for weddings, celebrations, and corporate events.
Through social media, Afesha shares the creative process behind each design, building strong connections with her customers.
Her work blends presentation, flavor, and craftsmanship.
In Grenada, Lisa Andall Fletcher has built a beloved local brand through Tropicool Pennakool.
Her company produces Pennakools, classic Caribbean frozen ice pops sold in packs of assorted flavours.
The brand focuses on affordability and accessibility while maintaining strong connections with customers through social media and community engagement.
By keeping this nostalgic treat widely available, Lisa continues to celebrate a small but iconic part of Caribbean food culture.
The Power of Giving Forward
The women featured here represent a diverse range of industries, from manufacturing and sustainability to food innovation and culinary arts.
What connects them is their commitment to creating value beyond their own businesses. Each entrepreneur contributes something meaningful, whether supporting farmers, strengthening manufacturing infrastructure, promoting environmental responsibility, or preserving Caribbean culinary traditions.
That is the essence of International Women’s Day 2026: Give to Gain.
When knowledge, opportunity, and support are shared, the benefits extend far beyond individual success, helping entire communities and industries grow.
