WOMANHOOD: THE POWER WE CARRY CAPTIVATES OVER 160 ATTENDEES IN AN EVENING OF UNFORGETTABLE FEMALE ARTISTRY
Rockley, Christ Church — May 15, 2025 — Even the rain couldn’t dim the fire at Womanhood: The Power We Carry, a stunning showcase of female talent hosted by PoeTree Barbados and held at the welcoming Bean N Bagel 2.0. With more than 160 people in attendance, the event overflowed with raw emotion, vibrant storytelling, and an unwavering celebration of womanhood.
The show opened with an empowering rendition of Phenomenal Woman by La Shawna Griffith, Ashley Serieux and Cher Antoinette and rolled into three spellbinding segments: The Rise of the Woman, The Voice of the Future, and Woman Power. The first half of the evening was masterfully hosted by the multi-talented Cher-Antoinette, who later delivered one of the standout performances of the night. Her witty and sensually layered piece Delectable had the audience hanging on to her every word, earning thunderous applause and nods of appreciation.
La Shawna Griffith, co-founder of PoeTree Barbados and the evening’s featured performer, left an indelible mark with her piercing piece Society Likes To Police Women. “This night was beautiful. All of the ladies who performed tonight gave outstanding performances—my heart is full,” she shared.
“This show was our way of showing the public of Barbados the talent that lies in female artistes. It showcased the diversity of poetry—with storytelling, spoken word, and poetic readings—but also sought to empower and uplift. We at PoeTree Barbados are thrilled with the overwhelming support from the public and the generous partnership of Bean N Bagel, who welcomed us with open arms. We look forward to what’s next.”
Also among the night’s unforgettable performances:
• Brittany Gill-Denny explored beauty politics in Pretty Privilege
• Empress Zingha delivered the fierce and fearless Miss Too Thick
• Taitu Heron channeled ancestral reverence in Ay Oshun
• Nailah Imoja, recipient of the 9th PoeTree Barbados Griot Award, moved hearts with her signature poetic mastery and was surprised with a special gift from Cozy Spa Barbados as a token of gratitude for her cultural contribution
The event featured an expansive, all-star lineup including:
Jalisa Jordan (Naked), Dr. Jacinth Howard (reading from her award winning anthology-The Mother Island), Linda M. Deane (Medley of Her Work), Ebonee Carter (My Body Is An Open Wound), Sese Nova (The Stain and the Steel), Rojenna Holligan (Pan Medley), Zoe Sunshine (Self Love Song & Put Your Records On), Wanica Durant (Mind Trip), Ariel Hamilton (Dear Pretty Boy & Ideal Body), Ayana John(Daddy Long Legs & Sweet Sweet Thing), Ashley Serieux(Bones of a Woman, duet Comment Section with La Shawna Griffith), Kamz (Lioness on the Rise), and Aaliyah Cumberbatch (Rise Up).
Every performer gave a top-tier performance, contributing to a night rich in expression, empowerment, and artistry.
Special thanks to Rachel Charles, General Manager of Bean N Bagel, and her exceptional team who delivered delicious bites and handcrafted cocktails that guests couldn’t stop raving about. Their hospitality created the perfect backdrop for this moving celebration of women.
Womanhood: The Power We Carry was more than an event it was a statement. A powerful reminder of the stories women carry, the spaces they claim, and the art they create.
Check out Poetree Barbados on Instagram to keep tabs on their 2025 shows: @poetreebarbados
Remember when We Gatherin’ hosted the World Poetry Day show? If you missed that, check this out: We Gatherin Hosts World Poetry Day Show.
(PR)
