Junae Crockwell, Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Centre, is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative designed to uplift vulnerable women in Bermuda by supporting the whole person—emotionally, practically, and professionally. The Centre’s new signature initiative, the Transform Programme, launched in 2024 with generous support from HSBC, is already changing lives and creating ripple effects across the community.
“This isn’t just a workshop or a class,” said Crockwell. “It’s a journey—one that gives women the therapeutic space, practical tools, and mentorship they need to move from surviving to thriving.”
The nine-month programme targets women aged 25 to 40 who feel stuck and uncertain about their next steps in life. Many participants come to the programme carrying the weight of financial hardship, trauma, or lack of access to resources. What sets Transform apart is its emphasis on meeting women where they are and walking with them through every stage of personal and professional development.
The journey begins with three months of counselling, funded entirely through HSBC’s sponsorship. This initial phase allows participants to pause, reflect, and unpack some of the emotional and psychological barriers that have held them back.
“Many of the women we work with haven’t had the space—or the support—to even think about what they want for their future,” Crockwell explained. “So we start by giving them that space. Healing has to come first.”
During this phase, each woman works with her counsellor to develop a personal life plan, identifying goals that are meaningful and attainable. From there, the programme transitions into phase two: life skills training. Participants engage in sessions on self-esteem, assertiveness, CV writing, interview skills, and financial literacy. These workshops are delivered with compassion and care, ensuring that women not only gain knowledge but also the confidence to apply it.
HSBC has played a hands-on role in delivering these sessions. Two team members from the bank’s financial team led budgeting and money management workshops, while members of HSBC’s HR team conducted mock interviews and CV clinics.
“Most corporate sponsors write a cheque and step back,” Crockwell said. “But HSBC showed up—every step of the way. From helping shape the programme content to celebrating with us at the end, they’ve been fully invested. Their staff even volunteer as mentors.”
That mentorship forms the cornerstone of phase three. Each woman is paired with a mentor from HSBC’s staff, who supports her for six months after the programme ends. The mentorship is not symbolic—it’s a vital part of the aftercare model, providing accountability, guidance, and encouragement as participants take the next steps toward employment, further education, or entrepreneurship.
Participants also receive a $1,000 scholarship to put toward a certification or training course of their choice. So far, women from the first cohort have enrolled in everything from associate degrees in human resources to entrepreneurship courses at Bermuda College and BEDC. Others have pursued administrative certifications to help open doors to entry-level roles in the corporate world.
Transform was developed after an earlier WRC life skills initiative was reviewed and found to be lacking the depth of support needed to create lasting change. “We saw that workshops alone weren’t enough,” Crockwell noted. “That’s when we realised the missing piece was the therapeutic foundation. Without that healing component, it’s difficult for anyone to move forward.”
The results speak volumes. All ten women in the pilot cohort completed the programme, and the impact goes beyond certificates and CVs. Many of the graduates remain involved with the Centre—some return for continued counselling, while others now attend support groups or volunteer their time to help others.
“Transform isn’t just about individual change—it’s about building community,” Crockwell said. “These women are not just clients anymore. They’re contributors. They’re mentors in their own right. And they’re helping shape what this Centre can be.”
As the Women’s Resource Centre prepares to launch its second cohort this autumn, there’s a buzz of excitement—and deep pride.
“This programme reminds women that they are not alone,” said Crockwell. “With the right support, healing, and guidance, they can reclaim their power—and chart a path toward a brighter future.”
For more information about the Transform Programme or to support their mission, contact the Women’s Resource Centre by clicking here.
