Seven women honoured in new Hall of Fame |16 March 2011

This initiative was launched last week as part of activities to mark International Women’s Day this year.

Susan Chang-Him was among those honoured. She was one of the first dental hygienists and helped set up the children’s dental service. She also formed the Lespwar group in the Anglican Diocese for unmarried mothers and was involved in many community activities.

Martha Beatrice Lira Rene, who died in 1987, was described in the Hall of Fame as a pioneer of insurance companies in Seychelles and was the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations.

As chairperson of the National Council for Children, she played a leading role in setting up the President’s Village home.

Danielle Marie-Madeleine de St Jorre is also one of those honoured. She was a well-known figure in the government and served as Minister for Foreign Affairs, for Planning and Environment, and was described as a woman with professional skills.

Rita Sinon became an important figure in the 1980s when she was appointed Minister for Internal Affairs in September 1986. As the first woman minister, she was well respected for her efforts to promote women’s rights and equality in Seychelles.

Another woman to join the Hall of Fame was Gertrude Vel, who was village mother at the President’s Village from 1987-1996.

Dr Hilda Stevenson-Delhomme is also featured as she was the first woman politician and was elected an unofficial member of the Legislative Council.

The Hall of Fame also pays tribute to Mère Angèle Morel for being a co-founder of the initiative.