On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of Montserratian women in the UK making a difference.
To mark the occasion, the Head of the Montserrat Government UK Office posed a series of questions to Nerissa Golden, a media entrepreneur whose work has shone a spotlight on Montserrat’s rich stories and vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.
Goldenmedia began as a public relations venture after I transitioned from government service.
When I returned to Montserrat in 2009 to raise my family, I saw a wealth of untold stories – talented Montserratians whose achievements deserved a wider audience. That realization led me to establish Goldenmedia and, in 2014, launch the Discover Montserrat brand. Our goal was to present a fresh perspective on Montserrat, one that celebrated its people, culture, and entrepreneurial spirit. We played a pivotal role in promoting the island, its festivals, and the hardworking entrepreneurs shaping its economy. From the start, our mission has been clear: highlight positive stories while bringing attention to the critical issues that empower our people to make informed decisions.
Montserrat’s resilience, creativity, and close-knit community are at the heart of my work. By highlighting the stories of fellow Montserratians, I not only preserve the island’s cultural identity but also create opportunities for local businesses to thrive on a global stage. My dedication to amplifying Montserrat’s voice has contributed to a broader appreciation of the island’s rich heritage and economic potential.
Challenges in business are often attributed to gender, but I believe the bigger issue in the Caribbean is the widespread lack of business support and funding for entrepreneurs. Rather than allowing those limitations to hold me back, I expanded our services to include business strategy and entrepreneurship development. The key is to create value – whether by directly monetising a product or forging partnerships with people and organisations that can help bring your ideas to life.
I wish I could simply tell women to “know your worth,” but the reality is that many don’t fully grasp the value they bring – even before considering the ways they contribute light, care, and solutions to their families and communities. My friend and business coach, Sandra Baptist, offers a powerful piece of advice: whatever number you have in mind, add a zero to it. Don’t focus on being the cheapest option. Instead, position yourself as the business owner delivering the greatest value. When people recognise that you can solve their problem, they will pay for that expertise.
Happy International Women’s Day! As we embrace this year’s theme of ‘Accelerating Action,’ let’s amplify the voices of Montserratian women, celebrate their achievements, and drive forward opportunities for them to lead, innovate, and shape a brighter future.
