Hundreds of women gathered at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in Kingston on Saturday, January 22, for the Woman Ignite Success Summit, an event that inspires and empowers women from diverse backgrounds.
The fourth annual summit, which drew over 300 participants, was a vibrant blend of workshops, keynote presentations, and personal testimonies under the theme: Thrive.
For first-time attendees, the event was quite the experience, while those returning, known affectionately as “Igniters,” came ready for a transformative day of learning and connection.
The summit was created to help women gain the skills and motivation needed to overcome challenges, build their legacies, and grow both personally and professionally.
One of the summit’s standout features was its impressive lineup of speakers, including Prophet Christopher Beleke, Dr. Shalette Ashman, Pastor Dianne Fletcher, Alicia Taylor, and Megan Ashley. The speakers shared their personal journeys and expert insights, creating a powerful atmosphere of encouragement and growth.
Megan Ashley, a popular international speaker, shared a particularly moving moment during her podcast-style interview, where she spoke candidly about the responsibility that comes with influence. “It’s both humbling and terrifying to realize the depth of my impact and that so many Jamaicans know who I am,” she said. “It’s a powerful reminder that to whom much is given, much is required.”
The day kicked off with praise and worship, setting the tone for a day focused on personal empowerment. Workshops were packed with practical advice, such as Dr. Shalette Ashman’s “Vision to Victory: Building Your Business Legacy” and Prophet Beleke’s “Empower Your Mind: Strategies for Breaking Mental Barriers to Success.”
These sessions were designed not just to teach, but to equip women with actionable steps they could take home and implement immediately.
Another highlight was the lively panel discussion, “God’s Leading Lady,” which delved into leadership, family dynamics, and the role of women in both the workplace and the home.
Speakers Pastor Dianne Fletcher, Alicia Taylor, and Pastor Trudy Tucker shared their experiences, offering valuable wisdom on balancing faith, family, and career. The summit also spotlighted the W.A.R. (Women at Risk) Initiative, an outreach program of the Woman Ignite Foundation, which provides mentorship, counseling, and financial support to vulnerable women in Jamaica.
Keneshia Nooks Blake, the founder and conference convener, expressed her gratitude towards the participants, speakers, and partners who made the event a success. “WISS has always been about creating a space for women to dream big, conquer challenges, and thrive in every area of their lives,” she said. “This year’s theme, Thrive, is a reminder of our commitment to empowering women to rise above obstacles and step boldly into their God-given purpose.”
The Woman Ignite Success Summit serves as a platform for personal growth, strengthening a community of women dedicated to thriving together.