Host of Coffee With Q Jaci Patrick Interviewed founder of Girl Power Limited, Cayman Islands.
Welcome back to the Coffee with Q Podcast, where we amplify and discover stories that often go unheard. I’m your host, Jaci Patrick, a news reporter by day and a passionate storyteller by night. Today, I have the immense honor of interviewing someone very special to me – not just as a guest but as a mentor and an inspiration. Pamela Ebank Small is a name that resonates deeply within the Cayman Islands community. She’s a former Miss Cayman and a competitor in the Miss World and Miss Universe competitions, whose grace and determination have made her a beacon of hope and empowerment. Beyond the glitz and glamour, she is the founder of Girl Power Limited, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young Caymanian women find their purpose and achieve their dreams.
Pam Ebanks-Small
In this episode, we dive into Pamela’s incredible journey from her humble beginnings to the international stage and her unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation. So, grab your coffee, sit back, and join us as we explore the life and legacy of Pamela Ebank Small.
A Journey from Humble Beginnings
Pamela’s story begins in Tampa, Florida, where she grew up after being born in the Cayman Islands. Her father worked in the U.S., so she did all her schooling in Florida, while spending her summers in Cayman with her mom’s side of the family. This blend of cultures and experiences shaped her upbringing, giving her a unique perspective on life.
“I had a fun childhood with parents who were very loving and supportive,” Pamela recalls. “They didn’t finish high school, so I was the first to go to university, which I did at a later age. I grew up in the church, loved to sing, and was very active in youth group. Those experiences really molded me and helped me understand the importance of giving back.”
Facing Challenges and Finding Strength
Growing up in the Cayman Islands comes with its own set of challenges. For Pamela, one of the significant struggles was the transition back to Cayman after spending much of her childhood in Florida. At 18, her father retired and moved the family back to the island. By 19, Pamela was asked to enter the Miss Cayman pageant.
“I didn’t feel like I knew enough about pageantry or my country at the time,” she admits. “But I took it as an opportunity to learn about my roots, and that year as Miss Cayman allowed me to network and grow in ways I never imagined.”
Pamela’s journey wasn’t easy. Competing in Miss World and Miss Universe was a monumental task, especially for someone so young and relatively inexperienced. Yet, she embraced the challenge, seeing it as a chance to grow both personally and professionally.
The Birth of Girl Power Limited
In 2017, Pamela became the franchise holder for the Cayman Islands for the Miss World pageant. It was then that she realized the need for a support system for young women interested in pageantry. Many of the girls lacked the stage presence and confidence needed to compete internationally.
“In 2018, we decided to start Girl Power Cayman,” Pamela explains. “Initially, it was focused on pageantry training, but it quickly evolved into something much more. We began offering life skills, career advice, and mentorship to help young women in various fields, not just pageantry.”
Challenges and Triumphs
Starting and running a nonprofit organization comes with its own set of challenges. Pamela highlights the struggle of securing resources and changing perceptions about the importance of nonprofits.
“People often see nonprofits as less than a business, but it’s loads of work,” she says. “Every day, I’m doing HR, managing people, marketing, and business development. But the support from volunteers and partners who believe in our mission has been incredible.”
Impacting Lives, One Girl at a Time
Over the years, Girl Power has touched many lives. From helping girls secure scholarships to encouraging them to pursue careers in male-dominated fields, the organization has made a significant impact. Pamela shares stories of girls who have gone on to achieve great things, thanks to the support and mentorship they received.
“One girl, in particular, took a year to get out of the house and participate in our events. But once she did, she flourished. She always wanted to model, and now she’s everywhere, participating in fashion shows and living her dream.”
A Message to the World
As we wrap up, Pamela shares her message to young women everywhere: “Get involved, take that step, and try new things. Whether it’s pageantry, sports, or school clubs, these experiences build confidence and life skills that will serve you well in any field.”
Pamela’s story is a testament to the power of determination, community, and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. Through Girl Power Limited, she continues to inspire and uplift young women, proving that with the right support and mentorship, anything is possible.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of Coffee with Q. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and remember – your voice matters.
