In the aftermath of the recently launched Women in Sports Commission, President of the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) Ephraim Penn has revealed that the BVI has well exceeded the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) mandate of including women in member-committees.
Penn noted that while the IOC mandates a ratio of having at least 30 percent of each member committee inclusive of women, the BVIOC presently consists of approximately 43 percent of women.
Penn at the time of his statement was speaking to 284 Media on the recent establishment of the Women in Sports Commission in the Virgin Islands.
The commission consists of President Gloria L. George, Secretary Debora Hodge, Public Relations Officer Mia Lennard and committee members Winnette Lawerence, Makeda Fahie, Patricia Hodge and Raynecia Simmons.
Speaking on the main objective of the commission, Penn said it is to work with the BVIOC to advise on the development and implementation of a women in sports strategy.
He said the commission will campaign for increased participation of female athletes in the Olympic programme and leadership positions in the Olympic movement, to promote the rights and well-being of women and girls in and through sports, giving greater access. Under the commission, Penn noted that recommendations will also be made to recognize the achievements of individuals, including through a Women and Sports Award.
He thanked President George for fulfilling the mandate of establishing the committee and noted that it was no small feat, as several attempts dating back to 2008 were previously made but to no avail.
Following news of the launch of the commission, Penn said it has been gaining recognition not only across the region but also at the international level.