IN a meaningful celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, Red Stripe turned its Vibes Bar into a hub to host an immersive ‘Paint and Inspire’ session under its Women Empowerment through Collaboration, Allyship, and Networking (WE CAN) initiative. Designed to promote empowerment through creativity, the event brought together over 30 female employees for an afternoon of painting, self-reflection, shared experiences, and camaraderie. The experience, executed in collaboration with CEO of The Art of Motivation Inc and acclaimed Jamaican artist Shawn Ashman, illustrated the power of sisterhood in accelerating progress for women.

Red Stripe redefined the occasion by fusing artistic expression with impactful dialogue. Head of Corporate Affairs Dianne Ashton-Smith challenged participants to actively foster support among women with the same tenacity men apply to brotherhood.

“Too often, we hesitate to uplift each other. It’s easier to battle, to scrutinise, to project when what we truly need is to champion one another. Sisterhood is about encouragement, mentorship, and practical application — supporting each other beyond the confines of structured programmes,” she asserted.

She urged the women to see mentorship as a responsibility as opposed to an obligation, encouraging them to offer guidance, words of affirmation, and unwavering support to their peers.

“You don’t need an official programme to mentor someone. If you’ve never been mentored, mentor someone. If you admire something about a colleague, tell her. Encouragement isn’t a grand gesture — it’s the small, consistent affirmations that make the greatest impact,” she added.

Ashman, known for her dynamic work in both art and empowerment, led participants through a guided painting session interwoven with reflective discussions. Sharing her own journey in the corporate world, she highlighted the challenges women often face and the importance of self-confidence.

“Be confident. Be you. Rest in your uniqueness and creativity,” she encouraged.

Before creating their individual art pieces, each woman contributed to a Mobile Healing Mural, a transformative, travelling art experience provided by Ashman. Through this shared artistic experience, the women at Red Stripe became part of a moving sanctuary — one that sparks conversation, fosters connection, and uplifts spirits wherever it goes.

The WE CAN initiative has become a cornerstone of Red Stripe’s commitment to the holistic development of its female workforce. The programme fosters professional growth and mentorship for women within the company through various calendar activities annually. Through this session, the brand reinforced its dedication to creating and maintaining an environment where women are seen, heard, celebrated and uplifted. The event was a creative exercise as much as it was a call to action for women to actively champion each other’s growth.