video

In the News

SPECIAL ENVOY RENEWS CALL FOR OTS TO RECEIVE CLIMATE RESILIENCE SUPPORT

Special Envoy to the Premier of the Virgin Islands Mr. Benito Wheatley recently made a presentation at a Small Island Developing States meeting where he lobbied for Overseas Territories to receive climate resilience support caused by hurricanes. Wheatley spoke at length on the BVI’s own experience after the hurricanes of 2017. Additionally, he outlined what … Continued

SPACEX STARSHIP EXPLODES AND DISRUPTS FLIGHTS IN THE REGION

SpaceX’s latest Starship test flight ended in destruction Thursday after achieving a rare booster capture, marking another dramatic chapter in the development of the world’s largest rocket. The spacecraft, carrying 10 dummy satellites, broke apart approximately eight and a half minutes into flight after its engines shut down one by one during ascent. The last … Continued

RVIPF URGES RENTAL COMPANIES TO IMPROVE SECURITY MEASURES AMID VEHICLE THEFT SURGE

Superintendent Paula Alleyne of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued an urgent appeal to vehicle rental companies to enhance security practices following a spike in vehicle thefts across the territory, many of which involve rental cars being used in the commission of serious crimes. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, January … Continued

PREMIER CELEBRATES SECOND-EVER MILLION-VISITOR YEAR SINCE 2016

The Virgin Islands welcomed more than one million visitors in 2024, marking only the second time the territory has achieved this milestone since its first million-visitor year in 2016, Premier Natalio Wheatley announced. Tourist arrivals reached 1,092,139 in 2024, representing a 9.8% increase from 994,896 visitors in 2023, according to the Central Statistics Office. The … Continued

12 POLICE OFFICERS ON INTERDICTION

Twelve Royal Virgin Islands Police Force officers are currently interdicted from duty, primarily for breach of trust offences, Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool revealed Wednesday. Speaking at a press conference, Vanterpool said the affected officers, mostly sergeants and constables, face charges including aggravated bodily harm, assault, and theft. Vanterpool also provided a brief insight into how … Continued

Harneys Donates Laptops, Cell Phones, and Air Purifiers to BVIHSA

The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) say they are pleased to have received a generous donation of three laptops, four cell phones, and three air purifiers from Harneys. These items were donated to the Primary Health Care Department, which is charged with managing the community health services – including the various clinics throughout … Continued

USVI MAN ARRESTED AFTER SEIZURE OF 200 ROUNDS OF AMMUNITION

A man from the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) was arrested in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) after officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) discovered approximately 200 rounds of ammunition during a stop-and-search operation. Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool confirmed the arrest at a press conference on Wednesday, describing the operation … Continued

Local

12% CRIME SURGE IN BVI LINKED TO “MONEY BOYS GANG”

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) experienced a 12 percent increase in crime in 2024 compared to the previous year, largely due to the activities of the notorious “Money Boys Gang.” This is according to the Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool who made the announcement on Wednesday during a press conference at Police Headquarters. She … Continued

STAKEHOLDERS JOIN TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE HLSCC’S FOUNDERS DAY

As part of the H. Lavity Stout Community College 35th anniversary celebrations, stakeholders from across the Virgin Islands joined to celebrate and observe Founders Day, a celebration of the founding fathers of the institution. President of the Student Government Association Ms. Palesa welcomed attendees to this momentous occasion. President of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community … Continued

WOLUES FC EXTENDS WINNING STREAK TO REMAIN TOP OF THE TABLE

Defending champions Wolues FC kicked off 2025 on a high note, defeating Panther FC 2-1 to maintain their undefeated streak and top spot in the National Football League standings with 23 points. In the first match of Sunday’s doubleheader at the Greenland Football Stadium, Kiran Bown proved instrumental for Wolues, netting both goals for the … Continued

WINBVI host Annual Fundraiser Dinner Show & Coronation

The Women in Need of BVI (WINBVI) organization successfully hosted its Annual Fundraiser Dinner Show & Coronation on Saturday, January 11th, 2025, at Maria’s By The Sea, an unforgettable evening that brought together the BVI community to celebrate empowerment, beauty, and philanthropy. The night’s highlight was the crowning of the Mrs. British Virgin Islands Globe … Continued

Regional

USVI OFFICIALS PLEAD NOT GUILTY IN CORRUPTION CASE

Four high-ranking USVI officials, including current Sports Commissioner Calvert White, pleaded not guilty Friday to federal charges alleging they participated in separate bribery and fraud schemes involving government contracts. White appeared in District Court alongside former Police Commissioner Ray Martinez, former Budget Director Jenifer O’Neal, and government contractor Benjamin Hendricks. All four were released on … Continued

WHITE RESIGNS AMID BRIBERY ALLEGATIONS

USVI Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation Commissioner Calvert White has resigned amid federal allegations of bribery and bid manipulation involving a $1.43 million security camera contract. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced the resignation, naming Assistant Commissioner Vincent Roberts as acting head of the department. Federal prosecutors allege White demanded $16,000 in bribes from Mon … Continued

FEDERAL INDICTMENTS TARGET USVI OFFICIALS

Three prominent Virgin Islands officials, including two former members of Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s Cabinet, face federal indictments tied to a fraud case involving Mon Ethos founder David Whitaker, who has already pleaded guilty to wire fraud and bribery. Former Police Commissioner Ray Martinez, former Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Jenifer O’Neal, and … Continued

JAMAICA MONITORING CASE AFTER TWO FOUND DEAD IN JETBLUE AIRCRAFT

Authorities are investigating the deaths of two people whose bodies were discovered in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue aircraft during a routine inspection at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport Monday night. The grim discovery has sparked an international investigation, with officials working to determine both the identities of the deceased and how they accessed … Continued

World

CHINA DISMISSES HMPV FEARS – OFFICIALS CITE DECADES OF DATA

China’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed claims about an “unknown” respiratory virus as fearmongering, stating the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been documented for at least 60 years. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Wednesday that respiratory infections in China are currently lower than last year’s levels, despite typical winter increases in the Northern Hemisphere.The World Health … Continued

LA WILDFIRES DEATH TOLL RISES TO 24

The death toll from Los Angeles’ devastating wildfires climbed to 24 on Sunday as officials warned of new dangers from fierce winds forecast through midweek. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner attributed 16 deaths to the Eaton Fire near Pasadena and eight to the Palisades Fire along the Pacific coast. Sixteen people remain missing, with … Continued

Sports

WOLUES FC EXTENDS WINNING STREAK TO REMAIN TOP OF THE TABLE

Defending champions Wolues FC kicked off 2025 on a high note, defeating Panther FC 2-1 to maintain their undefeated streak and top spot in the National Football League standings with 23 points. In the first match of Sunday’s doubleheader at the Greenland Football Stadium, Kiran Bown proved instrumental for Wolues, netting both goals for the … Continued

Politics

FEDERAL INDICTMENTS TARGET USVI OFFICIALS

Three prominent Virgin Islands officials, including two former members of Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s Cabinet, face federal indictments tied to a fraud case involving Mon Ethos founder David Whitaker, who has already pleaded guilty to wire fraud and bribery. Former Police Commissioner Ray Martinez, former Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Jenifer O’Neal, and … Continued

WALWYN SAYS POLICE BILL IS “WOEFULLY INADEQUATE”

Opposition legislators have made clear the need to strengthen the Police Bill 2024. During a recent sitting of the House of Assembly on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, legislators highlighted its level of inadequate attention. One such voice was that of Sixth District Representative Hon. Myron V Walwyn. The motion to amend the Order Paper and … Continued

PREMIER EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER ARMED TEENS AND RISING CRIME

Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley is calling for an end to escalating gun violence in the Virgin Islands, particularly among the youth. Speaking during the House of Assembly session on Tuesday, January 7, the premier expressed grave concern over recent incidents, including shootings near schools and reports of teenagers carrying firearms. Dr. Wheatley highlighted … Continued

Community

PENN RAISES URGENT CONCERNS OVER INCOMPLETE SOCIAL HOME REPAIRS

Critical repairs to a social home in the Eighth District have stalled after reaching the programme’s $100,000 funding limit, leaving an elderly resident in potentially dangerous living conditions, officials revealed during a recent Standing Finance Committee deliberations. District Representative Hon. Marlon Penn brought the urgent matter before the committee, expressing deep concern that the resident had … Continued

DRAKES TRADERS LTD. DONATES $10,000 TO FAMILY SUPPORT NETWORK

The Family Support Network (FSN) received a $10,000 donation from Drakes Traders Ltd., marking the company’s continued commitment to supporting families in need within the Virgin Islands. The seasonal contribution was presented on December 17 at Drakes Traders’ Fish Bay location, where representatives from both organizations gathered for the occasion. In acknowledgement of Drakes Traders’ … Continued

ROTARY CLUB OF TORTOLA’s ANNUAL ROUNDABOUT LIGHTING

The Rotary Club of Tortola officially ushered in the Christmas spirit on Friday, December 13, with its annual Christmas Roundabout Lighting at Port Purcell. The well-decorated roundabout, a beloved tradition, once again illuminated the area, delighting residents and setting a festive tone for the holiday season. Following the lighting ceremony, Rotary Club members gathered to … Continued

MISS BVI ADACIA ADONIS ENGAGES BVI YOUTH WITH CHRISTMAS COMPETITION

Miss BVI 2024 Adacia Adonis is inviting students across the British Virgin Islands to showcase their artistic talents through a festive Christmas card decoration competition. The contest, open to all students, challenges participants to create original artwork under one of five creative themes: BVI Christmas Traditions, Under the Sea Christmas, Santa’s Island Vacation, Eco-Friendly Christmas, … Continued

Entertainment

RAMON G CLAIMS TWO PLACEMENTS AT STX FESTIVAL

BVI’s three-time Power Soca Monarch, Ramon George, known by his stage name Ramon G, delivered a stellar performance at the Crucian Christmas Festival 2025 Soca Monarch in St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands, placing in both competing categories. In the Jumpy Segment, Ramon wowed the crowd with his hit song VI Pride, amassing 1,241 points to secure … Continued

2025 VI ICON AWARDS TO PRESENT NEW CATEGORIES

The Virgin Islands Icon Awards has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated Virgin Islands Training Academy, offering life-changing opportunities for young individuals across the territory. This year, the Academy is seeking 50 motivated and energetic participants, ranging from 10th-grade students to college-level individuals, to join its next cohort and gain invaluable experience in event … Continued

PREMIER WHEATLEY COMMENDS REGIONAL PAGEANT

Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley lauded the recent hosting of the Haynes Smith Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant in the British Virgin Islands, highlighting its significant contribution to the territory’s tourism product. Speaking about the event, Wheatley commended the quality of the show and praised those responsible for organizing such a prestigious occasion. The … Continued

SID’S POMATO POINT WINS BIG AT 12TH ANEGADA LOBSTER FEST

After a weekend of culinary delight at the 12th annual Anegada Lobster Fest, Sid’s Pomato Point claimed the inaugural Alffy Trophy for Best Lobster Sampler, besting 12 other restaurants. Anegada Beach Club and Anegada Reef Hotel secured second and third place respectively. Held under the theme “Lobster, Fun and Anegada Sun”, the competition was judged by … Continued

Business

VG WRITER SPOTLIGHTS DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN DEBUT CHILDREN’S BOOK

Businesswoman, writer and Virgin Gorda resident Karyn O. E. Alexander hopes to increase understanding about the social challenges faced by persons with disabilities with her engaging debut children’s book Zuri’s Great Plan. She even selected December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities as the official launch date for her book. This heartwarming story, … Continued

CIBC CARIBBEAN APPOINTS FABIAN DEVONISH AS COUNTRY HEAD FOR THE BVI

CIBC Caribbean has announced the appointment of Fabian Devonish as Country Head for the British Virgin Islands (BVI), effective December 1, 2024. In his new role, Devonish will lead the bank’s operations in the territory under the Cayman Operating Company. He brings nearly 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, including 24 years … Continued

CARIBBEAN AIRLINES LAUNCHES J’OUVERT BAND AND RUM PUNCH TO CELEBRATE CARIBBEAN CULTURE

Caribbean Airlines has announced the launch of Caribbean Iere Mas (CIM), its first J’ouvert band, as part of the airline’s Caribbean Culture Program. This initiative celebrates the vibrant identity of the Caribbean region while providing an unforgettable experience for employees, customers, and Carnival enthusiasts alike. The CIM band promises an exciting, fun-filled, and safe J’ouvert … Continued

MSME CONFERENCE EMPOWERS ENTREPRENEURS IN THE BVI

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Republic Bank hosted its highly anticipated second MSME Conference, bringing together entrepreneurs and business owners from across the British Virgin Islands. The conference aimed to address the unique needs and aspirations of Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), providing a continuous platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and empowerment. Marion Blyden, … Continued

Crime

12% CRIME SURGE IN BVI LINKED TO “MONEY BOYS GANG”

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) experienced a 12 percent increase in crime in 2024 compared to the previous year, largely due to the activities of the notorious “Money Boys Gang.” This is according to the Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool who made the announcement on Wednesday during a press conference at Police Headquarters. She … Continued

BVI RECORDS FIRST MURDER OF 2025

The British Virgin Islands has recorded its first murder of 2025 following a fatal shooting in the Purcell Estate area early Wednesday morning. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed that officers responded to reports of a shooting around 2:00 a.m. Upon arrival, they discovered an unresponsive male victim at the scene. Despite the … Continued

WANTED MAN ARRESTED IN ATTEMPTED MURDER CASE – SECOND SUSPECT AT LARGE

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed the arrest of 22-year-old Shemoi Carey of Huntum’s Ghut, Tortola, who was previously wanted in connection with the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt on November 8, 2024. Carey has been charged with Attempted Murder, Carrying an Unlicensed Firearm, and Unlawful Possession of Explosives. As part of … Continued

Government

ECSC TO OPEN NEW LAW YEAR WITH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FOCUS 

The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court will officially commence its New Law Year on January 10, 2025, with a ceremonial opening under the theme “Accessibility and Awareness – The ECSC Bridging the Gap Through Community Engagement.” This annual event highlights the court’s ongoing commitment to fostering closer ties with communities across its nine jurisdictions. The ceremonial … Continued

$25M REVENUE INCREASE ATTRIBUTED IN PART TO ADVANCEMENTS IN TAX COLLECTION & E-SERVICES

Premier Natalio Wheatley has announced a revenue projection of $407.93 million for the British Virgin Islands in 2025, a marked increase over the estimated $382.67 million for 2024.  During his recent budget address, Premier Wheatley highlighted that $379.89 million of the projected 2025 revenue would come from tax sources, including payroll, property, and international trade … Continued

EDUCATION GETS $5.27M FOR PROJECTS IN 2025, BUT BROADER BUDGET DETAILS OMITTED

In his Budget Address delivered on November 11, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to education in the British Virgin Islands, outlining both achievements from 2024 and future plans aimed at strengthening the Territory’s educational infrastructure. In the 2025 budget, over $5.2 million has been earmarked for critical capital acquisition … Continued

GOV’T REVIVES PLAN TO MERGE ELECTRICITY AND WATER SERVICES FOR 2025

The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced plans to merge the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) with the Water and Sewerage Department (WSD) by 2025, reigniting a proposal initially announced in 2013 under the National Democratic Party (NDP) which was never realized. Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, made the declaration … 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

Travel and Tourism

PREMIER SAYS TOURISM SUMMIT TO CHART NEW COURSE FOR BVI

The British Virgin Islands will host its first-ever Tourism Summit next week at the newly reopened Peter Island Resort, marking what Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley describes as a strategic move to elevate the territory’s tourism sector. The event will feature keynote addresses from various industry professionals representing local and regional agencies. Premier Wheatley … Continued

BVI TO HOST TOURISM SUMMIT AT PETER ISLAND RESORT

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, in partnership with the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board and the British Virgin Islands Yachting, Hotel and Tourism Association (BVIYHTA), is set to host the much-anticipated Virgin Islands Tourism Summit 2025. The event will take place on 16-17 January at the Peter Island resort, bringing together key … Continued

Weather

BVIHSA ISSUES ALERT ON POSSIBLE CLINIC DELAYS AMID WEATHER

In response to severe weather conditions and an ongoing Flash Flood Warning, the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has issued an advisory, warning the public of potential delays or cancellations in clinic services and outpatient appointments at its healthcare facilities. The notice, issued early this morning, urges patients with scheduled appointments to monitor updates closely, … Continued

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

Health

CHINA DISMISSES HMPV FEARS – OFFICIALS CITE DECADES OF DATA

China’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed claims about an “unknown” respiratory virus as fearmongering, stating the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been documented for at least 60 years. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Wednesday that respiratory infections in China are currently lower than last year’s levels, despite typical winter increases in the Northern Hemisphere.The World Health … Continued

WHEATLEY HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN HEALTH SECTOR

The Virgin Islands is taking a significant step toward modernizing its health sector with the recent hosting of an Information Systems for Health (IS4H) workshop. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Social Development in collaboration with the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), brought together a diverse group of stakeholders for a multisector consultation. … 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

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

Education

STAKEHOLDERS JOIN TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE HLSCC’S FOUNDERS DAY

As part of the H. Lavity Stout Community College 35th anniversary celebrations, stakeholders from across the Virgin Islands joined to celebrate and observe Founders Day, a celebration of the founding fathers of the institution. President of the Student Government Association Ms. Palesa welcomed attendees to this momentous occasion. President of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community … Continued

HLSCC CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIVE EDUCATION

This year the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) is celebrating its 35th Anniversary of higher education in the Virgin Islands. On Monday, January 14, 2025, the college held a press conference speaking about the observations. Communications and Public Relations Manager Ms Bria Smith revealed that this milestone year celebrates decades of excellence, growth, and … Continued

STUDENT REGISTRATIONS FOR 2025/2026 OPEN

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports of the Virgin Islands has officially commenced the new student registrations for the 2025/2026 academic year. The registration period began on January 2, 2025, and will continue until April 30, 2025. Parents and guardians seeking to enrol students in public or private schools across the Virgin Islands … Continued

Events

BVIEC INAUGURAL CAREER EXPO DRAWS YOUTHFUL INTEREST IN ENERGY SECTOR

The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) hosted its inaugural Career Expo at its Long Bush Compound on Friday, November 29, drawing a large number of young residents eager to explore career opportunities in the energy sector. Speaking at the event, BVIEC General Manager Dr. Neil Smith highlighted the Corporation’s critical role in the stability and future … Continued

RESIDENTS CELEBRATE HISTORIC 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF 1949 MARCH

Residents of the Virgin Islands on Sunday, November 24th, commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Great March of 1949 with a historic march. What is being termed a momentous event by lawmakers brought together thousands of residents, community members, and local organisations, all marching in solidarity to honour the courageous actions of those who fought … 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

Environment

AMBITIOUS GREEN ENERGY GOALS COLLIDE WITH THE REALITIES OF FOSSIL FUEL RELIANCE IN SAINT LUCIA

On the heels of  COP29, Saint Lucia’s ambitious climate commitments are again in focus. The island has positioned itself as a regional leader in the fight against climate change, with its 2023-2030 National Energy Policy (NEP) setting an aggressive target of 50% renewable energy by 2030.  These bold aspirations come against the backdrop of a … Continued

2024 RECORD-SETTING ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON ENDS

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ended November 30. With 18 named storms and 11 hurricanes with five major hurricanes causing damage around the Atlantic and Caribbean; 2024 was the ninth consecutive above average hurricane season. Director of Disaster Management Mr. Jasen Penn said that the destructive power of hurricanes means residents should remain prepared all … Continued

“THE MANATEE” MURAL TO BE UNVEILED IN HONOUR OF VI MARITIME HERITAGE

Director of Culture Dr. Katherine Smith has announced that the mural, “The Manatee” will be unveiled on Friday at the Bamboushay Lounge in honour the Virgin Islands’ maritime heritage. Dr. Smith said this year, the Culture and Tourism Month has focused on cultural tourism and the Bamboushay Lounge represents a business with a cultural product. … Continued

HODGE-SMITH TO LEAD $500K TERRITORY-WIDE BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT

The Government of the Virgin Islands has addressed longstanding public concerns about the territory’s visual appeal and lack of aesthetic upkeep by empowering the BVI Tourist Board (BVITB) with a $500,000 grant for a beautification project. The initiative will be led by Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, the Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4). In … Continued

Youth

MISS BVI ADACIA ADONIS ENGAGES BVI YOUTH WITH CHRISTMAS COMPETITION

Miss BVI 2024 Adacia Adonis is inviting students across the British Virgin Islands to showcase their artistic talents through a festive Christmas card decoration competition. The contest, open to all students, challenges participants to create original artwork under one of five creative themes: BVI Christmas Traditions, Under the Sea Christmas, Santa’s Island Vacation, Eco-Friendly Christmas, … Continued

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

JAE’NYIAH DEFREITAS CROWNED FLPS ‘ANGEL OF CHRISTMAS’

Jae’Nyiah Defreitas made history on Thursday, December 12, by becoming the first-ever Angel of Christmas at the Francis Lettsome Primary School (FLPS) pageant. The event, held at the Eileen L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), saw Defreitas dominate four of the five judged categories, outshining her peers to earn the prestigious … Continued

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