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In the News

EMPLOYERS REQUIRED TO POST ALL JOB OPENINGS IN NEW LABOUR MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

In an effort to promote transparency in the hiring process and boost local employment, the Department of Labour and Workforce Development mandates that all employers post available job openings on its recently implemented Labour Management System Speaking at a recent District Three job fair Acting Labour Commissioner Marvin Hastings said the initiative aims to enhance … Continued

MAJOR CABINET RESHUFFLE EXPANDS PREMIER’S OFFICE PORTFOLIO

The Premier’s Office has expanded its portfolio in a recent ministerial reorganization, assuming responsibilities for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Veterinary Services, previously managed by the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change. Additionally, Constitutional Advancement has been formally added to the Premier’s Office, consolidating its role in constitutional matters and further broadening its … Continued

BLACKMAIL SCAMS SURGE IN BVI – RESIDENTS WARNED NOT TO ENGAGE

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is alerting residents to a recent spike in blackmail scams involving demands for cryptocurrency, specifically Bitcoin. Police revealed that in these alarming scams, victims have reported receiving text messages from unknown numbers threatening to release compromising photos or personal information unless they comply with payment demands. The RVIPF … Continued

ATTEMPTED ROBBERY AT LOCAL BUSINESS

Reports have confirmed the attempted robbery of a local business Matcha’s Bar and Grill in Fort Hill, Tortola, Virgin Islands. On the afternoon of November 4th, 2024 a masked indivual armed with a high-powered weapon approached the business establishment. It was revealed that the owner of the business successfully escaped the gunman, who then fled … Continued

MOH OBSERVES #MEDSAFETYWEEK, ENCOURAGES SAFE MEDICINE USE AND REPORTING OF SIDE EFFECTS

The Ministry of Health and Social Development, in partnership with the Uppsala Monitoring Centre (UMC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), is promoting the safe use of medicines as part of #MedSafetyWeek, which is observed from November 4 to 10. This year’s campaign theme highlights the importance of correct medicine usage to prevent adverse effects … Continued

BVIEC RESTORES ONLINE PAYMENT PORTAL AFTER CYBER-ATTACK

The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has reactivated its online payment portal today, Monday, November 4, 2024. This welcomed development will allow customers to once again pay their electricity bills online, offering more convenience for many. The portal had been offline since mid-August, when the BVIEC experienced a cyber-attack that necessitated shutting down its online services … Continued

BVI BARRACUDAS DOMINATE AT VISF CHAMPIONSHIPS WITH 50 MEDALS

The BVI Barracudas Swim Team delivered a stellar performance at the 2024 Virgin Islands Swimming Federation (VISF) Short Course Championships, capturing 50 medals, including 47 individual medals and three 2nd-place finishes in relay events. Competing in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands on November 2, the Barracudas not only more than doubled last year’s medal … Continued

BVI CELEBRATING CULTURE AND TOURISM MONTH

Culture and Tourism Month 2024 is expected to highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands while promoting tourism as a vital component of the economy. Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture Honourable Luce Hodge Smith said the month-long celebration themed, “Telling Your Story Through Tourism: Sharing Virgin Islands Legacies’ will see the intertwining … Continued

Local

PUBLIC SERVICE WEEK 2024 SEEKS TO FOSTER UNITY WITHIN THE PUBLIC SERVICE

Public Officers across the Virgin Islands will be observing Public Service Week 2024 from November 10 to 16 under the theme, “Unity in Service: Our Public Service Standing Together”. The week is observed annually with an aim of encouraging togetherness through friendly competition and activities. The week also provides opportunities for community engagements and allows … Continued

RECRUITMENT OF NEW POLICE COMMISSIONER HALTED AMID RISING SECURITY DEMANDS

His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce announced on Thursday that he is terminating the recruitment process for the new Commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), citing the need for a revised approach to address the territory’s increasing security challenges. The governor emphasized that with evolving threats and new findings from recent law enforcement … Continued

1,500 EXPECTED TO MARCH ON 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF 1949 GREAT MARCH

Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley is inviting the public to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the historic Great March of 1949, in a ceremonial march on Sunday, November 24. Premier Wheatley said the march was a defining moment in the Virgin Islands’ pursuit for democracy and representation.  “As we reflect on … Continued

Regional

JULIEN ALFRED NAMED BEST FEMALE ATHLETE OF PARIS 2024 OLYMPICS

Saint Lucia’s sprint sensation and reigning Olympic 100-metre champion Julien Alfred has been awarded the prestigious title of Best Female Athlete of the Paris 2024 Olympics by the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC). Alfred, who clinched gold in the women’s 100-metre and silver in the 200-metre at the Paris Games, received the honour on Wednesday during … Continued

REGIONAL: FOUR UPM GOVERNMENT MEMBERS RESIGN

Deputy Premier André Ebanks, Ministers Ebanks-Wilks and Turner, and Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden resigned from the Government effective immediately. Grand Cayman 31 Oct, 2024 – Deputy Premier André Ebanks, Ministers Turner and Ebanks[1]Wilks along with Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden announced today they had resigned from the UPM Government effective immediately. Former Deputy Premier and MP … Continued

TRESAN SHARPE OF THE RVIPF CROWNED MISS CFPWA TRUE BLUE BEAUTY

On October 25, 2024, the Caribbean Federation of Police Welfare Associations (CFPWA) proudly hosted the True Blue Beauty Pageant, celebrating the outstanding contributions and achievements of female police officers from across the region. The event took place at the prestigious John E. St. Luce Finance & Conference Center, St. John, Antigua and Barbuda and showcased … Continued

COST OF LIVING PROTESTS ENGULF MARTINIQUE

Violent protests over high living costs on the French Caribbean island of Martinique have resulted in one death and multiple injuries, authorities have reported. A man succumbed to gunshot wounds amid clashes between demonstrators and police, which also left 12 officers injured, one by gunfire. The fatality occurred during a looting incident at a shopping … Continued

World

WHO DECLARES MPOX A GLOBAL HEALTH EMERGENCY

The World Health Organization on Wednesday declared the upsurge of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and several other African countries a public health emergency of international concern. WHO Director-General Tedros made the declaration following advice from an emergency committee of independent experts. The decision marks the second time in two years that … Continued

SIR KEIR STARMER BECOMES UK PRIME MINISTER FOLLOWING LABOUR’S LANDSLIDE VICTORY

Sir Keir Starmer has been appointed the United Kingdom’s first Labour prime minister since 2010, following his party’s overwhelming victory in the British General Election on Thursday. Labour secured a commanding parliamentary majority of 174 seats, marking a significant collapse in support for the Conservative Party. In a formal ceremony at Buckingham Palace, Starmer was … Continued

DR. JARECKI DENIES SEX TRAFFICKING AND RAPE ALLEGATIONS – CALLS LAWSUIT A MONEY-GRABBING EXERCISE

Dr. Henry Jarecki, a prominent psychiatrist with deep ties to the British Virgin Islands, has strongly denied allegations made against him in a recent sex trafficking lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed by an anonymous accuser associated with the late Jeffrey Epstein, claims that Jarecki engaged in non-consensual and abusive conduct, accusations that the 91-year-old vehemently refutes … Continued

Sports

BDO SCHOOLS FOOTBALL LEAGUE KICKS OFF IN GRAND STYLE WITH PARADE AND CEREMONY

The 2024-2025 BDO Schools Football League kicked off with a festive parade and official ceremony on Wednesday, October 30, showcasing the enthusiasm of over 100 students from schools across the British Virgin Islands. The event began at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park in Road Town, Tortola, and proceeded along Waterfront Drive and Walter James … Continued

JULIEN ALFRED NAMED BEST FEMALE ATHLETE OF PARIS 2024 OLYMPICS

Saint Lucia’s sprint sensation and reigning Olympic 100-metre champion Julien Alfred has been awarded the prestigious title of Best Female Athlete of the Paris 2024 Olympics by the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC). Alfred, who clinched gold in the women’s 100-metre and silver in the 200-metre at the Paris Games, received the honour on Wednesday during … Continued

Politics

NEW LEGISLATION GRANTS COMPLIANCE FLEXIBILITY FOR BVI BUSINESSES AMID TRANSPARENCY PUSH

The Government of the Virgin Islands has passed a legislative amendment granting the Financial Services Commission (FSC) authority to extend the deadline for companies to submit their annual financial returns by up to nine months. The amendment, the BVI Business Companies (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2024, was approved on Tuesday, October 29, in response to reports … Continued

REGIONAL: FOUR UPM GOVERNMENT MEMBERS RESIGN

Deputy Premier André Ebanks, Ministers Ebanks-Wilks and Turner, and Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden resigned from the Government effective immediately. Grand Cayman 31 Oct, 2024 – Deputy Premier André Ebanks, Ministers Turner and Ebanks[1]Wilks along with Parliamentary Secretary Heather Bodden announced today they had resigned from the UPM Government effective immediately. Former Deputy Premier and MP … Continued

Community

PREMIER EYES NOVEMBER 1ST COMPLETION FOR BREWERS BAY RESTROOM FACILITY

Responding to questions from Second District Representative Honourable Melvin Turnbull, Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley addressed the House of Assembly on the status of the Brewers Bay Restrooms and Waste Water Management Facility. Premier Wheatley noted ongoing technical issues with the facility’s electrical connection delaying its opening, a matter he said would be resolved … Continued

OVER 200 ATTEND ANNUAL THIRD DISTRICT JOB FAIR

With over 200 attendees and 205 job applications submitted, the Third District Job Fair, hosted by former Speaker of the House Julian Willock, saw one of its highest turnouts to date. Held on Sunday, October 27, at Therapy Works in Hannah Bay, Tortola, the event welcomed job-seekers and some of the territory’s leading employers. The … Continued

ROTARY CLUB SUNRISE HOLDS PEACE POLE PLANTING CEREMONY

On Thursday 24th October, 2024, the Rotary Club Sunrise of Road Town embarked on an exciting initiative to foster Peace in the Virgin Islands. This significant project coincides occurs during Rotary’s Economic and Community Development Month. Held at a private ceremony at the Youth Empowerment Project in Fat Hogs Bay Tortola British Virgin Islands, this … Continued

Entertainment

TRESAN SHARPE OF THE RVIPF CROWNED MISS CFPWA TRUE BLUE BEAUTY

On October 25, 2024, the Caribbean Federation of Police Welfare Associations (CFPWA) proudly hosted the True Blue Beauty Pageant, celebrating the outstanding contributions and achievements of female police officers from across the region. The event took place at the prestigious John E. St. Luce Finance & Conference Center, St. John, Antigua and Barbuda and showcased … Continued

PREMIER DEFENDS $220K SPONSORSHIP FOR VYBZ KARTEL EVENT – REJECTS POTENTIAL BAILOUT

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has made it clear that no additional funds will be provided to YOLO Promotions if their highly anticipated Vybz Kartel show, scheduled for March 2025, does not meet expectations. Speaking during an interview on JTV’s Big Story on Monday, October 14, the premier addressed growing public concerns … Continued

Business

BVI FINANCIAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY AND JERSEY FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION SIGN MOU TO ENHANCE COOPERATION IN COMBATTING FINANCIAL CRIMES

The Financial Investigation Agency of the British Virgin Islands has announced the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Jersey Financial Services Commission on October 25th. The Authorities entered the agreement to provide a formal basis for consultation, cooperation and exchange of information to achieve effective regulatory and supervisory functions under the relevant … Continued

UNITE BVI 2024 KICKSTART BVI SMALL BUSINESS LOAN PROGRAMME CONTINUES WITH MENTORING EVENT

The 2024 Unite BVI KickStart BVI Small Business Loan Programme launched in July 2024 and continues development with an exciting and successful evening of mentoring. On Friday October 11th, 2024 at Seven at the Pier 23 small business applicants had an opportunity to provide a one-minute elevator pitch aimed at selling their business to perspective … Continued

Government

PUBLIC SERVICE WEEK 2024 SEEKS TO FOSTER UNITY WITHIN THE PUBLIC SERVICE

Public Officers across the Virgin Islands will be observing Public Service Week 2024 from November 10 to 16 under the theme, “Unity in Service: Our Public Service Standing Together”. The week is observed annually with an aim of encouraging togetherness through friendly competition and activities. The week also provides opportunities for community engagements and allows … Continued

BVI TO HOST 67TH CARIBBEAN METEOROLOGICAL COUNCIL SESSION

The Government of the Virgin Islands is set to host the 67th Session of the Caribbean Meteorological Council (CMC67) from November 18 to 22. This high-profile event will bring together regional ministers, permanent secretaries, and directors responsible for meteorology from across the Caribbean, with discussions focused on strengthening climate and weather response capabilities amid the … Continued

PREMIER EYES NOVEMBER 1ST COMPLETION FOR BREWERS BAY RESTROOM FACILITY

Responding to questions from Second District Representative Honourable Melvin Turnbull, Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley addressed the House of Assembly on the status of the Brewers Bay Restrooms and Waste Water Management Facility. Premier Wheatley noted ongoing technical issues with the facility’s electrical connection delaying its opening, a matter he said would be resolved … Continued

MINISTER SAYS SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY PROGRESSING, DRAFTS BEING REVIEWED

The Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, recently provided an update on the development of the Sexual Offenses Registry Bill.  The minister, who assured the House of Assembly that the government is dedicated to safeguarding children and enhancing public safety through the establishment of a comprehensive sex offender registry, spoke in response … Continued

Crime

4 MEN ACQUITTED IN 2020 MURDER OF DALY

Four men accused of the 2020 murder of Matthew Daly were acquitted on Tuesday, October 15, after Justice Rajiv Persad upheld a No Case submission from their defence attorneys, citing insufficient evidence. The five-week trial, which began on September 16, 2024, ended with the judge directing the jury to return Not Guilty verdicts for Edward … Continued

GUNSHOTS REPORTED IN EAST END/LONG LOOK – NO INJURIES

Residents of East End/Long Look reported hearing gunshots in their community just before 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15 prompting a heavy police response. Details about the incident remain scarce, but one resident described it as a drive-by shooting. As of Tuesday evening, there were no reports of injuries related to the incident. Witnesses noted … Continued

GOV’T WARNS OF CERTIFICATE SCAM TARGETING BVI

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports has issued an urgent public alert regarding a fraudulent advertisement scheme currently proliferating on social media platforms. In a bulletin released on September 11, 2024, the ministry warned residents about a deceptive campaign falsely offering free online courses, certificates, and job recommendations purportedly on behalf of the … Continued

Opinion

COMMENTARY ‘UK LABOUR GOV’T CAN MEND FENCES WITH CARIBBEAN TERRITORIES’

The following Commentary was written by Mr. Benito Wheatley. The Labour Party’s landslide victory at the polls presents a fresh opportunity for the United Kingdom (UK) to establish a genuine modern partnership with the Overseas Territories (OTs) after 14 years of Conservative Party rule in which the relationship with the Territories was severely strained by … Continued

MINIMUM QUALITY OF LIFE

The following is commentary by Shaina M. Smith-Archer. I heard about the call for comments in the news on increasing the minimum wage, and there is so much here I don’t know which corner to start at. I think we should first complete the population census to understand what is really going on in our … Continued

Weather

FLASH FLOOD WATCH ISSUED FOR BVI AS HEAVY RAIN FORECAST

Residents in the British Virgin Islands are under a flash flood watch today, Thursday, October 31, due to expected heavy rainfall. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services have issued the alert for low-lying and flood-prone areas, advising residents to be prepared for moderate to major flooding. A developing low-pressure system over or near the territory … Continued

DDM WARNS OF HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING RISKS FOR BVI

Residents across the British Virgin Islands are being urged to prepare for potential flooding as forecasters warn of heavy rainfall that could dump up to eight inches of rain over the Territory. The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) issued a release on Wednesday afternoon, warning of deteriorating conditions beginning Thursday and lasting through the weekend. … Continued

INVEST 94L APPROACHES BVI; UNSTABLE WEATHER EXPECTED

Invest 94L, a weather disturbance in the Atlantic, is projected to bring unstable weather conditions to the British Virgin Islands within the next 24 hours. Currently situated approximately 700 miles east-southeast of the territory, the system is moving westward at a speed of 20 mph, with sustained winds of around 30 mph. While Invest 94L … Continued

Travel and Tourism

VG’S TADDY BAY AIRPORT CLOSED FOR RUNWAY REPAIRS

The Taddy Bay Airport on Virgin Gorda has temporarily ceased all fixed-wing operations to allow for essential runway rehabilitation work after recent heavy rainfall affected airport conditions. The BVI Airports Authority announced the closure on Friday, November 1, noting the impact of the rains on runway operations and prioritizing necessary maintenance to ensure safe conditions … Continued

BVI VISA EXEMPTION FOR GUYANESE NATIONALS NOW IN EFFECT

The Government of the Virgin Islands has officially removed the visa requirement for Guyanese nationals entering the territory for business or tourism purposes, effective Friday, November 1. Guyanese travellers are now able to travel to the British Virgin Islands without a visa, a significant move aimed at strengthening regional ties between the Virgin Islands and … Continued

INTERCARIBBEAN SERVICE SEES MAJOR IMPROVEMENT FOLLOWING GOVT INTERVENTION

The Government of the Virgin Islands’ recent intervention with InterCaribbean Airways has led to a significant improvement in the air travel services provided to the territory by the airline. This is according to the Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority, Kurt Menal, who shared the update during a recent interview with 284 Media. He … Continued

BVI VOTED #10 CARIBBEAN & ATLANTIC IN “THE BEST ISLANDS IN THE WORLD: 2024 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS”

The British Virgin Islands has again been recognized among the Caribbean’s most elite destinations, securing 10th place in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Islands in the Caribbean and Atlantic. The list, determined by 575,048 traveller votes cast for this year, reinforces the territory’s status as a destination celebrated by its visitors. … Continued

Health

BVI CANCER SOCIETY DONATES MRI INJECTOR TO BVIHSA IN MEMORY OF KIRIMA FORBES

The BVI Cancer Society has made a significant contribution to the fight against cancer in the Virgin Islands by donating a state-of-the-art MRI Injector machine to the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA). The donation, made in honour of the late Kirima Shameka Forbes, was presented during a heartfelt ceremony on Friday, October 18, at the … Continued

GOVT ENHANCES HEALTHCARE SERVICES AT NURSE IRIS O’NEAL CLINIC

In response to ongoing concerns raised by the Virgin Gorda community regarding healthcare delivery, the Ministry of Health and Social Development and the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) have implemented significant updates to services at the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic. During a recent meeting with residents, several issues were highlighted, prompting the government to prioritize … Continued

PUBLIC URGED TO USE DERELICT REMOVAL SYSTEM TO TRACK TAGGED VEHICLES

Director of Waste Management, Marcus Solomon, is encouraging residents to make use of the Derelict Removal Information System to track vehicles that have been tagged or removed under the territory’s derelict removal program. The system, which can be accessed online, allows users to see real-time updates on vehicles that have been marked as derelict on … Continued

Andrew Fahie Trial

MAYNARD’S SENTENCING DELAYED AGAIN; FAHIE REQUEST ANOTHER DELAY

The sentencing of Oleanvine Maynard, former Managing Director of the BVI Ports Authority has been pushed back once again despite a previous announcement that prosecutors would not be granting any further extensions. The reasons for the additional delay has not been provided. However, Maynard’s sentencing hearing is now reset for June 20th, 2024. Maynard, confessed … Continued

LEGAL SAGA CONTINUES IN FAHIE TRIAL – PROSECUTION & DEFENCE TO SUBMIT SOLUTION ON MARCH 7

Despite being found guilty on all counts relating to cocaine and money laundering charges on February 8, nearly two weeks following the verdict, the legal saga relating to the Andrew Fahie trial continues as a federal judge grapples with unresolved doubts raised by two jurors about their guilty verdicts. The latest development in what has … Continued

REPOLLING OF JURORS UNLIKELY BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE – SAYS LEGAL EXPERT

A local attorney with experience in the United States legal system believes the recent request by Andrew Fahie’s legal team to repoll two jurors following their decision to recant their guilty verdicts, is unlikely to be granted. The attorney who requested anonymity noted that while it is highly unlikely for the request to be granted, he said … Continued

Press Release

CCT CLARIFIES DISCONTINUATION OF SERVICES TO TOLA RADIO

Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT) wishes to clarify recent discussions in the public domain concerning the termination of our service exchange agreement with Mr. Floyd “Heritage” Burnett and Tola Radio. Since Tola Radio’s inception as a broadcast entity, CCT has been a supportive partner, providing various services to facilitate the station’s growth and development. These … Continued

CCT DELIVERS ON PROVIDING FREE FIBER INTERNET TO THE WILLARD WHEATLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL

Caribbean Cellular Telephone Ltd (CCT) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the educational experience for students and faculty at the Willard Wheatley Primary School, by transforming the school to a Wi-Fi enabled campus. On Monday, May 27th, CCT successfully completed the installation of fiber internet services at the school, providing access to high-speed internet and … Continued

BVIFARS PAYMENT PORTAL TO GO LIVE IN JAN 2024

The BVI Financial Account Reporting System (BVIFars) payment portal is set to go live in January 2024. The International Tax Authority (ITA) made the announcement on Wednesday, December 6, as it reminded all relevant entities with reporting obligations to enrol in the BVIFARS portal. By enrolling, the ITA said it would satisfy the entities’ respective … Continued

Events

PENN SLAMS LEGALITY OF TOURIST BOARD’S FESTIVAL OVERSIGHT

During a debate on the “Tourist Board (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” Hon. Marlon Penn, Member for the 8th District, raised concerns about the legality of the BVI Tourist Board’s continued assumption of duties which are still legally held by the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee. Penn argued that without proper legislative action, the Tourist Board’s … Continued

TOP MODEL VI 2024 WINNER, ENYA GLASGOW, TO MAKE HER MARK ON INTERNATIONAL RUNWAYS

Enya Glasgow, the newly crowned winner of Top Model VI 2024, is set to captivate the fashion world with a series of prestigious runway appearances. Enya, hailing from Tortola, British Virgin Islands, will showcase her talent at some of the industry’s most celebrated events, beginning in New York and culminating in London. Enya’s journey kicks … Continued

VIRGIN ISLANDS’ CREATIVES CELEBRATED AT INAUGURAL TOAST GALA, ADAM O DELIVERS HEARTFELT SPEECH

On a night filled with celebration, Kickin It held its inaugural gala, ‘Toast’, that brought together Virgin Islands culture, creativity and community. A highlight of the evening was a deeply moving speech from Trailblazer honoree Adam O. Adam O, a beloved figure in the Virgin Islands music scene, has enchanted audiences from around the world … Continued

DMV Unveils 70th Festival Commemorative License Plate

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)  has revealed the winning design for a special license plate commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Emancipation Festival. Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, extended his congratulations to the winning designer, Mr. Shaquille Bell. “Mr. Bell’s contribution to our 70th Festival Celebrations speaks to the liberty … Continued

Education

AMIAH CHANG AND YASMEEN SAID TAKE TOP SPOTS IN ANTI-BULLYING SPEECH COMPETITION

Amiah Chang from Claudia Creque Educational Centre and Yasmeen Said from St. George’s Secondary School emerged as the winners in their respective divisions of the Territory’s anti-bullying speech competition, which concluded on Wednesday, October 16, at Elmore Stoutt High School. In the primary school category, Chang secured first place, with John Claude Vergara of St. … Continued

PONCE HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY TO OPEN FIRST SCHOOL OF MEDICINE IN BVI IN AUGUST 2025

The British Virgin Islands will welcome its first-ever School of Medicine in August 2025, as Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) expands its Caribbean presence with a new campus in Tortola. The inaugural class will consist of 50 students, with an additional 75 students set to enrol in Fall 2026. This major development marks the opening … Continued

7 AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL OFFICERS ACHIEVE 100% PASS IN SPECIALIZED METEOROLOGICAL TRAINING

The British Virgin Islands Airports Authority (BVIAA) is celebrating the success of seven Air Traffic Control Officers who have completed the Aeronautical Meteorology Observer Training Course, achieving a 100% pass rate. The specialized training, conducted in partnership with the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), is part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to uphold … Continued

Environment

BVI VOTED #10 CARIBBEAN & ATLANTIC IN “THE BEST ISLANDS IN THE WORLD: 2024 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS”

The British Virgin Islands has again been recognized among the Caribbean’s most elite destinations, securing 10th place in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Islands in the Caribbean and Atlantic. The list, determined by 575,048 traveller votes cast for this year, reinforces the territory’s status as a destination celebrated by its visitors. … Continued

‘VIGILATE’ TO GUARD TERRITORIAL WATERS

The British Virgin Islands’ Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change officially launched a new motor vessel, “Vigilate,” on Friday, October 11, 2024, to bolster the monitoring and surveillance of territorial waters. The vessel, whose name means “be watchful,” was acquired through a $933,189 grant from the European Union’s Resilience, Sustainable Energy and Marine … Continued

GOV’T ENGAGES GLOBAL EXPERTS ON HIGH INSURANCE COSTS

The Government of the Virgin Islands is actively seeking solutions to address the territory’s high insurance costs, with recent efforts including discussions with global insurance leaders in the United Kingdom. Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade, Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, reported that during the recent official visit to the United … Continued

Youth

2023 CTO JUNIOR TOURISM MINISTER REFLECTS ON YEAR OF SERVICE

Naomi Onwufuju, the British Virgin Islands’ representative who held the title of CTO’s Junior Minister for Tourism 2023, recently presented her year-in-review to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) as her tenure came to a close. In her presentation, Onwufuju highlighted the valuable experiences and insights she gained during her year-long role. She emphasized how the … Continued

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE LAUNCHES $50,000 FUTURE FUND TO BENEFIT VIRGIN ISLANDS YOUTH

The Governor’s Office has announced the launch of the Future Fund, a $50,000 initiative aimed at supporting youth empowerment and promoting good governance in the Virgin Islands. Local organizations can now apply for grants of up to $10,000 to implement projects that will benefit young people and strengthen political accountability. The fund, supported by the … Continued

Pageantry

PUBLIC VOTING ONGOING FOR PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD IN TRUE BLUE PAGEANT

Miss Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, Tresand Sharpe, is set to represent the territory as contestant number 1 in the Caribbean Federation of Police Welfare Associations’ (CFPWA) True Blue Beauty Pageant. The pageant takes place this Friday in Antigua and Barbuda. In an interview with 284 Media’s Jhaka Wooding, Sharpe reflected on her journey leading … Continued

DE’NYA WINTER WELCOMED HOME WITH CEREMONY AT AIRPORT

De’Nya Winter, representing the British Virgin Islands, was crowned Miss Caribbean Cultural Princess 2024 on Sunday, October 6, in Hollywood, Florida. The pageant, reduced to two competitors, featured representatives from the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Winter dominated several categories, winning Miss Photogenic, Miss Congeniality, Best Cultural Doll Wear, Best Magazine Wear, … Continued

MISS BVI 4TH AT MISS JAYCEES QUEEN SHOW

Miss BVI 2024, Adacia Adonis, secured an impressive fourth-place finish at the recent Miss Jaycees Queen Show. The announcement was made by the official Miss British Virgin Islands page after receiving the official results from the event. Competing against 11 other contestants, Adonis came just short of a royal placement. The Miss British Virgin Islands … Continued

VI QUEENS SHINE AT INTERNATIONAL PAGEANT

Representing the British Virgin Islands (BVI) with grace and poise, Mrs. Amor James Ibechem and Mrs. Surbhi Williams recently showcased their talents at the prestigious Mrs. Globe pageant held in Palm Springs. The two remarkable women, who also serve as ambassadors for the WINBVI foundation, returned home with various awards and accolades, highlighting their achievements … Continued