This Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating some fearless, game-changing Caribbean women who have made an indelible mark on history, culture, and society. Every day in March, we’ll spotlight one extraordinary woman—sharing her story, achievements, and lasting impact. From pioneers in politics and science to icons in the arts and activism, join us as we honor 31 trailblazing women in 31 days! Today, some women who were the first of their kind.
Janet Jagan: The First Female President of Guyana
Janet Jagan made history as Guyana’s first female president and one of the most influential political figures in the Caribbean. A champion for workers’ rights, gender equality, and social progress, her legacy is one of resilience and dedication to the people of Guyana.
Born in Chicago, USA, in 1920, Janet Rosenberg Jagan moved to Guyana (then British Guiana) after marrying Cheddi Jagan, a young Guyanese politician and future prime minister. She quickly immersed herself in the country’s political landscape, advocating for labor rights and fighting against British colonial rule. She co-founded the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in 1950 alongside her husband, helping to shape Guyana’s independence movement.
Jagan’s political journey was not easy. As a woman and a foreigner in a male-dominated political sphere, she faced significant opposition. However, her commitment to social justice never wavered. She served as the first female elected official in Guyana, becoming a member of the Legislative Council in 1953. Over the years, she held multiple government positions, including Minister of Health and Minister of Home Affairs.
After Cheddi Jagan’s death in 1997, Janet Jagan stepped into the role of President, making history as the first woman to lead Guyana. Though her presidency lasted only until 1999 due to health issues, she left an enduring impact, advocating for press freedom, education reform, and healthcare improvements.
Beyond politics, Jagan was a writer and cultural advocate, supporting literature and the arts in Guyana. She was awarded the country’s highest honor, the Order of Excellence, in recognition of her contributions.
Janet Jagan’s life was defined by service, courage, and a deep love for the people of Guyana. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Janelle Penny Commissiong: The First Black Miss Universe
Janelle Penny Commissiong made history in 1977 when she became the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Universe, a groundbreaking moment that challenged global beauty standards and inspired generations. Representing Trinidad and Tobago, her victory was more than just a pageant win—it was a powerful statement of representation and empowerment for Black women worldwide.
Born in 1953 in Port of Spain, Trinidad, Commissiong moved to the United States as a child, where she pursued her education in fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. However, her heart remained in the Caribbean, and she returned to Trinidad to embrace her roots. Encouraged by friends, she entered the Miss Trinidad and Tobago pageant, where she won the national title and earned the right to compete on the world stage at Miss Universe in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
At a time when beauty pageants favored European beauty standards, Commissiong’s presence as a Black Caribbean woman was a radical shift. As she advanced through the competition, her confidence, intelligence, and grace captured the world’s attention. When she was crowned Miss Universe 1977, it was a monumental moment—not just for Trinidad and Tobago, but for women of African descent everywhere.
Following her historic win, Commissiong became a global advocate for racial diversity in beauty standards and used her platform to speak out on human rights issues, including the need for greater representation in fashion and media. She was celebrated throughout the Caribbean and internationally, receiving Trinidad and Tobago’s Chaconia Medal (Gold), one of the nation’s highest honors.
After her reign, Commissiong ventured into business and entrepreneurship. She later became chairperson of the Tourism Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago, helping to promote her country’s rich culture and heritage. Her influence in pageantry also remained strong, as she continued to mentor young women aspiring to make an impact on the global stage.
Janelle Penny Commissiong’s legacy as a beauty queen, advocate, and role model continues to inspire young women in the Caribbean and beyond. Her story reminds us of the importance of representation and the power of breaking barriers.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar: The First Female Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago
Kamla Persad-Bissessar is a political trailblazer, making history as the first female Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago and one of the most influential women in Caribbean politics. Her leadership, dedication to education, and commitment to social reform have made her a symbol of resilience and progress.
Born in 1952 in Siparia, Trinidad, Persad-Bissessar grew up in a modest Indo-Caribbean family that emphasized the value of education. She excelled academically and pursued a career in law, earning degrees from The University of the West Indies, Hugh Wooding Law School, and the University of London. She worked as a teacher before entering politics, a path that would lead her to shatter glass ceilings in Trinidad and Tobago’s male-dominated political landscape.
Her political career began in 1987 when she joined the United National Congress (UNC), a political party that represented many Indo-Trinidadians. She quickly rose through the ranks and, in 1995, became the country’s first female Attorney General. Over the years, she also served as Minister of Legal Affairs, Minister of Education, and Leader of the Opposition.
In 2010, Persad-Bissessar made history by winning the national elections and becoming the first woman to lead Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister. Her tenure was marked by efforts to improve education, including expanding the Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) program, which provided free tertiary education for students. She also prioritized infrastructure development, healthcare improvements, and social welfare programs, particularly for low-income families.
As the country’s leader, she navigated challenges such as economic instability and natural disasters while advocating for gender equality and greater representation of women in leadership. Despite political opposition and controversies, she remained a strong force in Trinidadian politics and continues to serve as Leader of the Opposition today.
Her legacy is one of breaking barriers—not just for Indo-Caribbean women, but for all women in the region striving for leadership roles. Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s story highlights the power of perseverance, education, and commitment to public service.
As we honor these women’s contributions, we invite you to explore more stories of remarkable Caribbean women in this series and share their inspiring journeys with others.
