Dame Nita first became interested in the YWCA when she stayed at the YWCA hostel as a student in Jamaica. She became a member to make changes that were needed at the hostel. From that time, the YWCA became the organisational love of her life, and as she moved around the region, she always participated in the activities of the YWCA and held leadership roles until she was elected to the World YWCA Executive Committee as the representative from the region.

In 1975, she was elected President of the World YWCA and served until 1983 completing two terms. Until the end of her life she never failed to give credit to the movement for the leadership and empowerment opportunities that she received in the YWCA.

Her leadership style was one that encouraged women to find their own voice and to have confidence in their abilities. She was always supportive, willing to mentor others and to share her time, energy, talents and wisdom with all who asked for or seemed to need her assistance. One of her well known expressions was ‘trust the group’, meaning any current group of women with whom she was engaged.

She was made Dame of the [British] Order of St. Andrew's in 1980 and as she rose to prominence on the world stage, she remained accessible and treated everyone with respect and dignity.

Her excellence as an administrator and organiser was recognised when she was appointed Convener for the United Nations Conference on Women in Nairobi, Kenya 1985.

She would go on to become the first woman Ambassador of Barbados to the United Nations (1986-1990), and by then she was an accomplished hand at supporting women and providing opportunities so women could fulfil their potential in various positions.

Dame Nita was the first woman to be appointed Governor General of Barbados from 1990 – 1995 when she died in office. Her record of service has been described as "pure sterling" and for women around the world she was a model for leadership in the service of community, women, country, and above all humanity.

Dame Nita Barrow was a pioneer and advocate for many women. Her legacy to the world was informed by a lifelong commitment to people's struggle for learning, justice, and empowerment.

Related Links:

• History of the World YWCA Day
• Stories of other remarkable women leaders in the YWCA
• Round-The-World Breakfast: Tips
• Power to Change Fund: make a donation
• Honouring Women Leaders