WOSITA operates under 5 main pillars for the implementation of its activities and furtherance of its objectives, with a Leader and Co-Leader for each pillar.
Pillars and Support Group
Mentorship and Leadership
- Awards and incentives for best voted woman (in certain activities)
- Sports award sponsorship (women categories) to promote WOSITA
- Leadership conference (annual event or every 2 years)
- Capacity building in relevant sectors
- Introduction of a mentorship program in collaboration with Unisey and other local/international institutions.
- Podcast promoting and advocating women and girl’s issues
Led By: Jacqueline Moustache Belle (Click on Image for Bio)
Jacqueline Moustache Belle Short Biograpahy
A seasoned Seychellois professional with over 40 years of experience in journalism, diplomacy and public administration. Jacqueline is a trailblazer in media, having chaired its first controversial and political TV debate. She launched Seychelles’ first private FM radio station. Was the Mayor of Victoria and Chief Presidential Protocol Affairs. Renowned for her leadership in international fora, she excels in negotiation and mentorship. A dynamic communicator she has served in high-level international roles including Director of Gender and Youth with UCLGAfrica, and as co-President of its World Presidency. Jacqueline is widely respected for her leadership in international platforms and her commitment to empowering future leaders. As WOSITA’s Pillar Leader for Mentorship and Leadership, she brings a wealth of expertise in nurturing talent, promoting inclusive governance, and championing women in leadership.
Entrepreneurship
- Award sponsorship for best women entrepreneur (in collaboration with SCCI)
- Education and awareness sessions (tax, bank financing, insurance, etc…)
- Trade fairs / exhibitions / workshops promoting women’s entrepreneurship.
Led By: Veronique Laporte (Click on Image for Bio)
Veronique Laporte Short Biograpahy
Veronique Laporte has a Degree in Business Administration & Human Resource Management with Keele University, UK, and a Master’s in Business with the University of Auckland, New Zealand. Veronique has a strong track record of change management and corporate commercial performance. Her vast experiences span from 20 years of leadership roles in public, private and parastatal companies in different sectors, and from serving on different private/public/parastatal boards as Chairperson and Directors. Veronique is currently the CEO of Skychef Servair Ltd and serving as a Director of ABSA Bank, Seychelles. Since 2017, Veronique owns her own businesses, namely a men’s clothing retail Boutique, a business Consultancy company, and a Guest House tourism establishment.
Environment and Sustainability
- Capacity building in sustainable best practices / workshops (with international support)
- Award and incentives
- Grant financing of sustainable projects
- Tree planting or such other activities
- Eco-friendly marathon in collaboration with H&W pillar
Led By: Maryvonne Pool
Assisted By: Marie Neige Philoe (Click on Image for Bio)
Marie Neige Philoe Short Biograpahy
“Into the daybreak that wondrously clear I rise” one of my favorite line from the poem “I Still Rise” by Maya Angelou, a great poet that inspired me to become one myself. Aside from poetry and writing short stories, gardening is another passion that I enjoy, and my garden at home is filled with thriving local fruit trees and vegetables. As a dedicated advocate for climate change awareness, my line of work propels me to educate others about protecting the ozone layer and safeguarding Mother Earth for future generations. Through my words and actions, I strive to inspire a more sustainable world where humanity lives in harmony with nature. I joined WOSITA Foundation because I have always wanted to be part of an organization that has a meaningful impact on my life and community.
Innovation and Technology
- Awards and incentives to celebrate women in Technology
- Grant financing of innovative projects
- Digital marketing education
Led By: Veronica Bristol (Click on Image for Bio)
Veronica Bristol Short Biograpahy
Veronica Bristol is a distinguished advocate for gender equality in the maritime and marine science sectors in the Western Indian Ocean region. Hailing from Seychelles, she has played a pivotal role in empowering women within traditionally male-dominated fields. She is one of the founders and former Chairperson of the Seychelles chapter of the Association for Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA), which was officially launched in 2017. Under her leadership, the chapter has worked to amplify the voices of women in maritime professions and promote inclusive development aligned with the Blue Economy.
In 2018, Veronica was elected as the first Chair and the only Seychellois Woman so far to hold the position as Chairperson of the ‘Network of Women in Marine Science’ (WiMS); A network encompasses under the umbrella of the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA). This regional network supports and promotes the participation of women in marine science, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth across the Western Indian Ocean.
Health and Wellness
- Health and wellness talks or round table discussions
- Keep fit sessions or Zumba for members
- A day at the spa for members
- Nature walks
- Sports competition between NGOs
Led By: Mukta Benoiton (Click on Image for Bio)
Mukta Benoiton Short Biograpahy
With a degree in Mathematics and Electronics, Mukta spent over 15 years teaching secondary school mathematics, eventually serving as Head of Department. She later transitioned to managing a growing family-run tourism business, where she developed hands-on skills in strategy, operations, and leadership. Her natural curiosity also led her into home renovation, furniture restoration, and real estate investment—always driven by a need to understand how things work and create lasting value.
After her experience with menopause, she created online support groups focused specifically on menopause, including active WhatsApp and Facebook communities for Seychellois women to connect, share, and learn in a safe, judgment-free space. Today, as Health Pillar of the WOSITA Foundation, she advocates for open conversations, informed choices, and greater awareness around women’s well-being. Though she jokingly calls herself a “Google doctor,” her work is deeply rooted in medical research and expert guidance. Her mission is simple: no woman should feel alone, unheard, or uninformed about her health.
Assisted By: Melissa Jean-Louis (Click on Image for Bio)
Melissa Jean-Louis Short Biography
My name is Melissa Jean-Louis. Currently a practicing Nurse/Midwife at Seychelles Hospital. I am always eager to learn and help in ways I can. My goal is to enrich myself with knowledge and to simply be a better person. WOSITA for me means “time to give back”.
Arts and Culture
- Cultural Activities
Led By: Petrina Valentin (Click on Image for Bio)
Petrina Valentin Short Biograpahy
At 38 years old, the WOSITA Arts and Culture pillar leader is a dynamic, ambitious, and dedicated mother of three. Her deep passion for arts and crafts—particularly dance— allowed her to explore diverse regions of the world, where she engaged with multiple cultures and lifestyles through various exchange programs. In her role as the WOSITA Arts & Culture pillar leader, alongside her dedicated support team, she aims to create transformative experiences, fostering cultural exchange and artistic expression among members and broader target groups. Through both practical and theoretical approaches to arts, crafts, and cultural engagement, she is committed to inspiring meaningful interactions and creative growth. Her vision for the Arts & Culture pillar is to empower and enrich women by introducing them to various artistic disciplines and cultural traditions, promoting inclusivity, and shared learning.
Role of Pillar Leaders
- Shall take the lead to ensure participation of maximum members in the organization of activities.
- Shall be pro-active in the promotion of their respective Pillars or Support Group
Support Groups
Events Support
- Gala dinners or other social events to raise funds
- Sponsored walks
- Pop-up markets for local produce made by women
- Activities to engage with other NGOs
- Work closely with the Pillar Leaders and Co-Leaders in organizing activities
Our Event Coordinators
Josy Michaud-Payet
Leader
Events Coordination and PR
Josy Michaud-Payet – Short Biography
Josy Michaud-Payet is a dedicated media practitioner specialising in mass communication, leveraging her expertise in public relations and event planning to create impactful narratives and experiences. With a keen eye for detail, Josy brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to her work, ensuring every project she undertakes resonates with its intended audience.
Driven by her loyalty, passion, and strong work ethic, Josy has recently ventured into politics, fueled by her desire to be a voice for the voiceless.In addition to her professional and political endeavours, Josy is honoured to serve as a wedding celebrant. Valuing the sanctity of love, she takes pride in bringing two people together for life through memorable ceremonies. Through her diverse roles, Josy strives to connect with individuals and communities, fostering dialogue and promoting initiatives that uplift and inspire and create a lasting impact.
Vicky Elizabeth
Co-Lead
Events
Effie Chang-Thiou
Co-Lead
PR
Effie Raoul – Short Biography
Have a passion for life, family, friends and travelling…am even more passionate about respecting one another.
With over 18 years of progressive experiences in operations and supply chain-am respected for being a ‘go getter’ with proven track records-being employed as Logistics & Warehouse Manager in Seybrew.
My expertise also includes journalism, communications, public relations, security management and customer care, with skillset extending to analytical thinking, active listening, problem solving, leadership, detail oriented, relationship building, crisis and time management.
WOSITA-the ideal platform with a clear purpose for embracing endless opportunities through transformative programs and activities for ladies to further be empowered, appreciate and value not only ourselves but life.
I enjoy cooking, baking, gardening and listening to music.
Gina Isidore
Co-Lead
PR & Events
Gina Isidore – Short Biography
As a proud member of the PR and Events team at WOSITA, I am committed to supporting the organization’s vision of empowering and uplifting women from all walks of life. My passion lies in creating meaningful connections, organizing impactful events, and using communication as a tool to inspire and inform.
I believe in the power of unity and storytelling to drive real change. My goal is to help WOSITA grow stronger and go further, reaching more women, sharing more voices, and building a lasting legacy of empowerment in our communities and beyond.
Counselling
One on one sessions or informal counseling or round table discussions on common issues affecting women
Our Counsellors
Aviva Pool
Menda Ernesta
Jenna Dubignon
Jenna Dubignon – Short Biography
Jenna Dubignon, is a proud mother of two and a native of Silhouette island who moved to Mahe in 2000 to pursue her studies in the field of education, which marked the beginning of her professional journey. She dedicated twenty years to the teaching profession, nurturing the youth and contributing to the development of education, after which she transitioned into public service as a District Administrator for 9 years, gaining valuable experience in community leadership and administration. She is a good listener and mentor, through her work with the youth and the district community. She is currently employed at the Department of Foreign Affairs applying her skills in support of national service. She holds a Diplomas in Education and Public Administration and a Bachelor of science ( BSC) with Honors in Social Work.
Paquerette Fanchette