Beyond the Runway

Mar 08, 2026 News

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By Sonia Noel

(Kaieteur News) – As we observe Women’s History Month and mark International Women’s Day today, the global theme “Give to Gain” invites us to reflect on the deeper meaning of generosity and how it shapes our lives, our communities, and our future.

When I first heard the theme, I immediately thought of my mother and my grandmother.

We did not grow up wrapped in a lot of material things, but we were surrounded by something far more valuable. There was always love in our home. Even when resources were limited, my mother found ways to share what we had with others. Whether it was a meal, encouragement, time, or a simple act of kindness, she believed there was always something we could give.

Looking back, I realize that this spirit of generosity did not begin with her. She inherited it from my grandmother as well. Both of them lived with the quiet understanding that giving was not about abundance of possessions but abundance of heart. They taught me that generosity is not measured by how much we have, but by how willing we are to care for others.

My mother never expected anything in return. Giving was simply who she was.

And yet, as life unfolded, I came to understand something powerful. When you give sincerely, seeds are planted. The person you help may not necessarily be the one who gives back to you. Sometimes the return comes through another person, another opportunity, or another season of life. Just as a tree eventually bears fruit, those seeds of generosity grow in ways we cannot always predict.

That is how the real gain happens.

In many ways, the life I have been blessed to live today reflects seeds that were planted long ago by women like my mother and my grandmother. Their example shaped the way I see the world and the way I approach my work and my purpose.

This year marks a significant milestone in my journey. I am celebrating 30 years in the fashion industry. When I reflect on these three decades, I realize that my career has never been solely about fashion. Fashion may have been the platform, but the mission has always been about people.

Throughout the years, I have been fortunate to create spaces where others can grow and shine. Through fashion shows, mentorship, creative collaborations, and initiatives that support entrepreneurs and young designers, my work has always been rooted in the idea of sharing opportunity.

I believe deeply that when we lift others, we rise together.

Many of the opportunities that came my way were possible because someone believed in me. Someone offered encouragement. Someone opened a door. Those moments of belief matter more than we sometimes realize.

They can change the direction of life.

One woman who played a particularly important role in the early days of my confidence journey was Mrs. Myrna McKenzie Shurland. When I was just eleven years old, she encouraged a very shy girl to participate in a pageant. I was terrified of the idea of standing on a stage in front of people, but her encouragement gave me the courage to try.

I did not win the crown, but I won something far greater. That experience helped ignite a journey of confidence that has influenced my life ever since. Sometimes it only takes one person to see something in us before we see it ourselves.

During this Women’s History Month, I made a personal commitment to honour women who have influenced my life and my path.

From March 1 through March 31, I am reflecting on women who have shaped my journey in meaningful ways.

It felt natural to begin with my mother because the spirit of generosity that guides my life truly began with her.

Each day this month, I will continue to honour women whose contributions, encouragement, and example have helped shape who I am today. Some are widely known in their communities, while others may never receive public recognition. Yet their influence is real and lasting.

That is the beauty of Women’s History Month. It reminds us that history is not only written in books or public records. It is written through everyday acts of compassion, mentorship, resilience, and courage.

Across the world, women continue to lead families, build businesses, nurture communities, and inspire transformation. Their contributions often happen quietly, but the impact is profound.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, the theme “Give to Gain” offers an important reminder for all of us. Giving does not always require wealth or large resources. Sometimes giving simply means sharing knowledge. Sometimes it means encouraging someone who doubts herself. Sometimes it means opening a door so someone else can step forward.

To women everywhere, in every community and every corner of the world, I send warm greetings and appreciation for the strength, resilience, and love you bring to humanity.

And as we celebrate this beautiful journey called life, may we continue uplifting one another and remember that there is always so much more waiting for us, ‘BEYOND THE RUNWAY’

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• Give to Gain, Sonia Noel, Women day, Women’s History Month

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