San Pedro’s Kristina Romero has been appointed as a member of the Board of Commissioners within the National Women’s Commission (NWC). Romero, who is also the Director of Operations at Hope Haven Children’s Home in San Pedro Town, is humbled and honoured to be part of the NWC and promises islanders to represent them well.
As a survivor of domestic violence, Romero understands those who are suffering in silence and judged. “I will be your voice at the national level,” she said. “I know how to rise, how to do good, and how to make a difference.” Romero looks forward to doing exceptional work with the team at NWC, which falls under the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous People’s Affairs.
The newly appointed Board of Commissioners held its inaugural meeting on Thursday, February 11th, with the Honourable Dolores Balderamos-Garcia in charge of the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous People’s Affairs. The Honourable Gilroy Usher and Chief Executive Officer Tanya Santos Neal of the same ministry were also present.
During the session, the commissioners pledged to advocate for issues related to women’s advancement and monitor the implementation and fulfilment of the standards, principles, and goals outlined in international commitments. Some of these include the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the Belem Do Para Convention on eliminating Violence of Women, among others. The Board of Commissioners intends to serve as an advisory body to the ministry as well.
The commissioners will look after the responsibility for women and gender issues and work towards more effective, efficient, planning, and coordinating efforts among relevant stakeholders on women and gender matters.
The newly installed Board of Commissioners includes members from across the country. Board President is Thea Garcia Ramirez, Vice President Marissa Cervantes Martin, Treasurer Pastora Castillo, and Secretary Dorla Vaughan.
Other commissioners include Anthony Sabal, Wendy Cabral Williams, Geovannie Brackett, Chelsea Cruz,
Aurelia Cal, Major Jonathan Kellman, Dr. Lesly Perez, and Ashanti Arthurs Martin.
These positions are not considered full-time, and commissioners volunteer their time for the greater good.
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