The aviation industry offers significant opportunities for global connection and career advancement, yet gender diversity remains a challenge. Kurt A.G. Menal, Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority Ltd, highlights the critical need for Caribbean women to enter aviation fields.

Menal stresses the importance of breaking down societal stereotypes, stating, “The aviation industry has historically been male-dominated, with outdated views discouraging young women from considering careers in piloting, engineering, air traffic control, and airport management.” He emphasises that promoting the inclusion of Caribbean women in aviation not only challenges these stereotypes but also aligns with global movements advocating for gender equality in all sectors.

As the demand for skilled workers in aviation continues to grow, Menal asserts that Caribbean women can play a pivotal role. He notes, “The aviation industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. By encouraging more women to pursue aviation careers, we can help fill the skills gap and create a workforce that better reflects society as a whole.”

Economic empowerment is another strong argument for encouraging women to join the industry. Menal explains, “The aviation sector offers well-paid, stable jobs, which can empower women to achieve financial independence and support their families.”

Moreover, Menal underscores the positive impact of representation on future generations: “When women succeed in male-dominated industries, they create a ripple effect. A Caribbean woman who becomes a pilot can inspire other girls to consider careers in aerospace, continuing the cycle of empowerment.”

He also highlights the importance of diversity in fostering innovation: “Diverse teams are better at problem-solving and generating creative ideas. In aviation, this is crucial for safety and efficiency.”

Menal advocates for increased support from governments and institutions to make aviation careers more accessible to Caribbean women, stating, “Governments and aviation organisations need to work together to remove barriers to entry and provide opportunities for women, such as scholarships, mentorship programmes, and internships.”

In conclusion, Menal asserts that the future of Caribbean aviation depends on a diverse and inclusive workforce: “The Caribbean region has a rich cultural heritage, and its women possess the resilience and leadership skills needed to thrive in aviation. It’s time to recognise this untapped potential.”

The Government of the Virgin Islands has invited tenders for the provision of insurance coverage for the Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex, located at 33 Administration Drive, Wickham’s Cay 1, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. The required coverage includes Contractor’s All Risk, Public Liability, and Fire and Extended Perils, which encompasses storm and earthquake protection.

The Ministry of Communications and Works, acting on behalf of the government, seeks proposals from locally based insurance companies to provide these services. Prospective tenderers must meet specific criteria, including holding a valid licence to operate as an insurance company or agent in the British Virgin Islands and demonstrating compliance with tax, duty, and social security obligations.

Interested parties must submit a completed Form of Tender, a financial proposal, and proof of good standing with relevant governmental agencies. Additional documentation outlined in the tender instructions must also be provided. Failure to submit the required documentation will render a bid non-responsive.

Tender documents can be requested via email at procurement@gov.vg with the subject title “Insurance Coverage for the Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex.” Applicants are responsible for ensuring receipt of documents, as the government’s procurement mailbox does not provide automatic confirmations.

A virtual pre-tender meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 13th March, at 10:00 a.m. local time. Access credentials for the meeting will be provided to all prospective tenderers beforehand.

Tenders must be submitted in one original copy, three additional copies, and a flash drive containing all documents. The original tender should be placed in a sealed envelope marked “ORIGINAL,” while additional copies should be placed in a separate sealed envelope marked “COPIES.” These envelopes must then be placed in an outer envelope labelled “Tender for Insurance Coverage for the Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex” and addressed to the Chairman of the Central Tenders Board, Ministry of Finance, Procurement Unit, RFG Place 2nd Floor, Road Town, Tortola VG1110, British Virgin Islands.

The submission deadline is 10:00 a.m. local time on Tuesday, 1st April. Late submissions will not be accepted. The tenders will be opened at 11:45 a.m. on the same day at the Procurement Unit, Ministry of Finance, RFG Building, Road Town, and tenderers may witness the process via Webex.

The Government of the Virgin Islands reserves the right to reject any or all tenders and will not be responsible for any costs incurred by applicants in the preparation of their proposals.