The seventh annual We Inspire Brunch — recently rebranded as We Inspire Women’s Wealth & Wellness Brunch — took place on Sunday, August 28, 2022 at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston. The event commenced with a stirring praise and worship session led by Montego Bay-based Seventh-Day Adventist vocalists Hearts In Service.

Approximately 150 women, elegantly dressed in shades of red, raised their hands in praise as the quintet belted out Kurt Carr’s I Almost Let Go. The delivery set the tone and indeed served as the cue for We Inspire founder and conceptualiser Cortia Bingham-McKenzie. “Good morning queens…God is good,” was her cry as the audience responded in unison “All the time”.

The energy shifted as moderator Joy Kelly invited panellists, certified trainer & pilates instructor Selena Deleon; Master Aesthetician Dermatology Technician Zoë Arscott-Bernard; Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Kimberly Martin; and health & wellness coach Cortia Bingham-McKenzie on stage for the ‘Wellness With Women’ discussion.

Deleon — who declared 2020 her hardest year — said it was sheer discipline that got her through. “I believe in the power of water,” explained the trainer who said a daily regimen of runs at the Mona Dam, YouTube affirmations, and puja was her refuge. She encouraged the women to make peace with their structure and touted intentional autonomy as the way to go.

Those expecting a clear-cut beauty regimen from Arscott-Bernard were in for a surprise as she revealed that there is “no quick fix”. But focused on the importance of putting one’s best self forward, positive energy and mindset. She also underscored time and commitment, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep.

Dr Kimberly Martin was out to usher in a new way of thinking. “It’s 2022, things have changed, and we need to change,” urged the OBGYN. “In 2022 we don’t need a man to have a baby. If you feel like you want a child, there are things we as doctors can do for you,” she continued as she encouraged women to explore artificial insemination as an option.

Cortia Bingham-McKenzie, aka Chef Bingy, wrapped the discussion with the importance of dieting, portion control, and a healthy diet.

With newfound knowledge on portion control, the women were encouraged to have lunch and prepare for the second half of the event.

Bank of Jamaica Deputy Governor Natalie Haynes kicked off the ‘money talk’ during a one-on-one with emcee Joy Kelly. Haynes revealed how a defining moment in her personal life came 16 years ago when her mom invited her to church. “I was successful in my career but [felt] something was missing. My pastor, Reverend Maxine Martin, taught me to recognise the light in every human being. And that has helped me as a leader,” said Haynes. She went on to share several gems, including her recipe for balancing a thriving career and family life. She also encouraged the women in attendance to be financially independent. “A woman should be able to take care of herself and her children if needs be,” she advocated. “Ensure your name is on everything,” she shared to lusty applause. She also emphasised the importance of saving, “No matter what you’re earning, you have to put something away every month!”

A question from the audience about building a career prompted her to deliver arguably her most poignant point, “Align yourself with people who can take you further…go the extra mile. Don’t just clock in at 8:30 and leave at 4:30, and invest in yourself. Do not wait for the company”

The evening ended with a love story as Phase 3 Productions Limited co-founder and executive chairperson Dr Marcia Forbes took attendees down memory lane, detailing her foray into nursing — the result of the fascination her late husband (Richard “Pardy” Forbes) had with the profession — to her transition as an entrepreneur at 30 years old. “It’s important to remember and acknowledge the women who paved the way and indeed laid the foundation for many,” she shared as she made mention of the likes of Rita Humphries-Lewin, Linnette Vassell, Donna Duncan, Elsa Leo Rhynie, Lisa Lewis, Chorvelle Johnson, Michelle Chong, Gloria Lannaman… to name a few. Forbes also spoke of her stint at the Bank of Jamaica.

Forbes closed by sharing life lessons like never playing victim, having a mindset of gratitude and the reality of nobody owing you anything. Her financial hacks included understanding the importance of money management: revenue is not cash flow, the importance of multiple revenue streams and giving back as her company has been doing for aeons.

The evening ended as it had begun with optimism and positivity. It was certainly a Sunday well spent.