Throughout history, women have been the bedrock of our communities, their strength and unwavering determination shaping our society in profound ways. Progressive Labour Party women have been instrumental from the party's inception to the present day. Their contributions are woven into the very fabric of our history, reflecting a legacy of resilience and leadership.

PLP women have been instrumental in shaping Bermuda's political landscape. They have dedicated countless hours to supporting the party in various capacities, including serving as branch members, branch chairs, executive members and national leaders — all while balancing family life and contributing to the education of our youth. Their determination and pioneering spirit have set new standards of excellence, often venturing into uncharted territory and breaking barriers previously unchallenged by women.

As the PLP has nominated a record number of women candidates for this year’s election, we pause to remember those on whose shoulders we stand; those who have not only supported the PLP but who have advanced the progress of all women in Bermuda.

Dame Lois Browne-Evans was a trailblazer in Bermuda’s political and legal arenas. She was one of the first women elected as a Member of Parliament, becoming Bermuda’s first female lawyer, the first Black woman elected to Parliament, the first female Opposition leader in the British Commonwealth and the first female attorney-general in Bermuda.

Dame Jennifer Smith holds the distinction of being Bermuda's first female senator and the first PLP premier. She led the party to its first General Election victory in 1998, becoming the island’s first elected female premier. During her tenure, Dame Jennifer established Bermuda's first and only all-women Governor's Council, which included herself as premier and Dame Lois as attorney-general.

These pioneering women have not only shaped Bermuda’s political landscape but have also set a standard of excellence, inspiring future generations to continue their legacy of leadership and service.

Paula Cox was the youngest woman elected to Parliament. She was the first female Minister of Labour Home Affairs and Public Safety, and one of the four females appointed to the PLP’s first Cabinet.

Today we honour their contributions as well as the contributions of all women whose unwavering commitment has been instrumental in advancing the broader progress of women in Bermuda.

Together, we must explore new heights. We must be fearless in our pursuit for our voices to be heard.

Each day, we must uplift, empower and celebrate our grandmothers, mothers, sisters and friends.

I am proud to be a PLP woman. Together we will continue to shape history.

• Alexa Lightbourne is the Progressive Labour Party candidate for Devonshire North West (Constituency 14) in the next General Election

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