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In the News

PREMIER WHEATLEY & UK AMBASSADOR DISCUSS UK-OT INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley and United Kingdom (UK) Ambassador H.E. James Kariuki have discussed international cooperation between and the UK and Overseas Territories (OTs) following a United Nations’ (UN) agreement on the ‘Pact for the Future’, a declaration aimed at reforming the international system to encourage a safer, more peaceful, sustainable and inclusive … Continued

PUBLIC OFFICERS COMPLETE CUSTOMER SERVICE APPRENTICESHIPS

Three (3) Public officers have completed a one-month apprenticeship placements at the Customer Service Care Centre. The officers are Desima Lambert of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Kesheida Williams from the Survey Department and Mrs. Marcia Green of the Land Registry Department, all within the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change. Permanent … 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

BVI WELCOMES CARIBBEAN AIRLINES – NOW CONNECTS 24 COUNTRIES, BOOSTING REGIONAL TIES

Caribbean Airlines marked a significant milestone on Monday, October 14, 2024, with its inaugural flight to the British Virgin Islands (BVI). The flight departed from Trinidad and Tobago, with a stop in Antigua and Barbuda, before touching down in the Virgin Islands just after 11:00 a.m. Upon arrival at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, … 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

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

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

100 EDUCATORS TRAINED IN FIRST AID

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) Red Cross has trained 100 educators and school support staff in First Aid in a significant step towards bolstering community resilience. Director Ms. Stacy C. Lloyd said the training is a milestone in the Territory’s resilience-building efforts amidst climate challenges and is part of the ongoing SMART Schools initiative. The … Continued

Local

HEALTH MINISTER ENDS TENURE AS CHAIR OECS COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

Outgoing Chair of the OECS Council of Minsters: Health Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley said during his one-year tenure, strategies for enhancing preventive healthcare of OECS Member States, reducing costs through more efficient pharmaceutical procurement were explored.  Honourable Wheatley is attending the 37th Pooled Procurement Service (PPS) Policy Board Meeting … Continued

“MORE TALK THAN ACTION”: EX-TOURISM CHIEF FLAX-BRUTUS HIGHLIGHTS GAPS IN BVI TOURISM

Sharon Flax-Brutus, former Director of the BVI Tourist Board, has expressed concerns about the territory’s tourism sector, calling for more intentional planning and marketing of the British Virgin Islands’ offerings. Flax-Brutus, drawing from her lifelong experience in the industry, criticized the current approach to tourism as being “more talk than action.” She highlighted issues at … Continued

BVI TO HOST WEEKLONG TRIBUTE TO FORMER CHIEF JUSTICE

The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced a weeklong national celebration honouring The Right Honourable Dame Janice M. Pereira from October 21 to 27, 2024. The celebration recognizes her retirement as Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) and her recent appointment to His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council. Dame Pereira, originally … Continued

OPPOSITION LEADER QUESTIONS SOURCE OF GOV’T FUNDS FOR VYBZ KARTEL CONCERT

Opposition Leader Hon. Ronnie Skelton has raised concerns about the source of funding for the Government’s sponsorship of the upcoming Vybz Kartel concert, scheduled for March 2025. The event, organized by YOLO Promotions, is set to feature the Jamaican dancehall artist in the British Virgin Islands for the first time. Skelton’s comments follow the recent … Continued

Regional

GUYANA ON TRACK TO ACHIEVE SELF-SUFFICIENCY IN LIVESTOCK FEED BY 2025

The government of Guyana has announced significant progress toward achieving self-sufficiency in livestock feed production by 2025. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha confirmed that for the first time in the nation’s history, Guyana is producing its own corn and soybeans—key ingredients in livestock feed. Speaking at the commissioning of a new soil chemical services laboratory at … Continued

SAINT LUCIA KINGS CROWNED CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

The Saint Lucia Kings secured their first-ever Caribbean Premier League (CPL) championship Sunday night, defeating the Guyana Amazon Warriors by six wickets in a nail-biting final at the Guyana National Stadium. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the Kings’ bowlers dominated early, removing opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the first over and limiting the … Continued

DOMINICA INAUGURATES FIRST FEMALE KALINAGO CHIEF

History was made on Wednesday when Annette Sanford, 41, became the first woman to be inaugurated as Kalinago Chief in the Commonwealth of Dominica. Sanford, a native of the island’s Kalinago Territory, was formally invested and presented with her staff of office by Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton, who herself is the country’s first female president … 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

SAINT LUCIA KINGS CROWNED CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

The Saint Lucia Kings secured their first-ever Caribbean Premier League (CPL) championship Sunday night, defeating the Guyana Amazon Warriors by six wickets in a nail-biting final at the Guyana National Stadium. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the Kings’ bowlers dominated early, removing opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the first over and limiting the … Continued

BVI SET TO COMPETE IN PANAMERICAN U23 SQUASH CHAMPIONSHIPS

Three promising young squash players from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) have embarked on a significant international journey as they represent the territory in the PanAmerican Under-23 Squash Championships in Bucaramanga, Colombia. The competition, which runs from October 6 to October 12, will see BVI’s Luca Reich, Oliver Henderson, and Daniel Henderson contesting in individual, … Continued

Politics

OPPOSITION LEADER QUESTIONS SOURCE OF GOV’T FUNDS FOR VYBZ KARTEL CONCERT

Opposition Leader Hon. Ronnie Skelton has raised concerns about the source of funding for the Government’s sponsorship of the upcoming Vybz Kartel concert, scheduled for March 2025. The event, organized by YOLO Promotions, is set to feature the Jamaican dancehall artist in the British Virgin Islands for the first time. Skelton’s comments follow the recent … Continued

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AND JAMAICA COULD BE NEXT TO RECEIVE VISA-FREE ACCESS

Following the recent decision to grant visa-free access to Guyanese nationals, the Government of the Virgin Islands is now considering extending the same privilege to citizens of the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley announced at a press conference on Monday that the government is actively exploring the possibility of removing … Continued

Community

RESIDENTS CAUTIONED AHEAD OF EMERGENCY SIMULATION EXERCISES AT TERRITORY’S AIRPORTS

The British Virgin Islands Airports Authority (BVIAA) is advising the public to be aware of increased emergency service activity at local airports as it conducts its biennial emergency simulation exercises. These exercises will take place between Monday, October 7, and Thursday, November 7, at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island, Auguste George … Continued

Entertainment

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

DEYOUNCE LOWENFIELD IS MISS UNIVERSE BVI 2024

Ms. Deyounce Lowenfield was last evening Sunday August 11th, 2024, crowned Miss Universe BVI 2024.  Lowenfield who participated in the pageant in 2023, will be representing the Virgin Islands at upcoming Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico in November. The preliminary rounds will take place on November 14, and the coronation on November 16, 2024. Lowenfield … Continued

Business

GOVERNMENT OPENS APPLICATIONS FOR MSME GRANT PROGRAMME

The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, has officially opened the first round of applications for its highly anticipated Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Grant Programme. This initiative is designed to stimulate business development and promote economic growth across the territory. Local businesses that qualify are … Continued

CCT’S RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE ENSURES RAPID RECOVERY POST-STORM

Caribbean Cellular Telephone (CCT) is pleased to report significant progress in its network restoration efforts following the recent passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto, which brought hurricane-like conditions to the British Virgin Islands in mid-August. The company has announced that its wireless network is now fully restored at 100%, while its fibre network has reached 97% … Continued

Government

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AND JAMAICA COULD BE NEXT TO RECEIVE VISA-FREE ACCESS

Following the recent decision to grant visa-free access to Guyanese nationals, the Government of the Virgin Islands is now considering extending the same privilege to citizens of the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley announced at a press conference on Monday that the government is actively exploring the possibility of removing … Continued

AUDIT REVEALS MISSTEPS IN PUBLIC CONTRACTS; URGES FAIRER CONTRACTOR PRACTICES

An audit conducted on major public contracts in the territory has revealed significant gaps and vulnerabilities in the territory’s procurement practices between 2019 and 2022. The audit, commissioned following the recommendations of the BVI Commission of Inquiry Report, sought to evaluate the transparency, fairness, and overall effectiveness of the government’s procurement processes. The findings highlight … Continued

BVI MONITORING U.S. DOCKWORKERS STRIKE; NO IMMEDIATE IMPACT SAYS GOV’T & ONEMART

The Government of the Virgin Islands and local supermarket franchise, OneMart, have reassured residents that there are no immediate disruptions to food and cargo shipments following a dockworkers’ strike along the eastern seaboard of the United States, which began on October 1, 2024. The strike, involving thousands of workers from ports ranging from New England … Continued

TASHA BERTIE AND JOSEPH SMITH-ABBOTT CONFIRMED AS PERMANENT SECRETARIES

The Government of the Virgin Islands has officially confirmed the appointments of Joseph Smith-Abbott and Tasha Bertie as Permanent Secretaries within their respective ministries, following their service in acting capacities. The appointments were made in accordance with Section 24 (1) of the Service Commission Regulations. Smith-Abbott will now serve as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry … Continued

Crime

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

RVIPF WEEKEND OPERATIONS LEAD TO SIGNIFICANT SEIZURES AND ARRESTS

This past weekend, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) conducted a series of targeted operations resulting in significant seizures and the arrest of an individual in possession of a prohibited firearm and illegal drugs. These operations are part of the RVIPF’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and combat illegal activities within the community. … 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

THREE HURRICANES ACTIVE AS NEW THREAT EMERGES IN ATLANTIC

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is tracking three active tropical cyclones in the Atlantic basin, with a potential fourth system on the horizon, officials said Monday. Hurricane Kirk in the north-central Atlantic and Hurricane Leslie in the central tropical Atlantic continue to churn, while newly formed Hurricane Milton threatens the U.S. Gulf Coast. Adding to … Continued

HEAT INDEX TO TOP 103°F IN VIRGIN ISLANDS

The Territory is bracing for another period of extreme heat, with officials warning of potentially dangerous conditions lasting through Thursday. The Department of Disaster Management issued an alert Tuesday, forecasting temperatures in the low 90s Fahrenheit (32-34 Celsius) and heat index values exceeding 103°F (39°C), particularly during midday hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. … Continued

ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON QUIETS AS GORDON WEAKENS

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported Tuesday that no new tropical cyclone formation is expected in the Atlantic basin over the next seven days. In its tropical weather outlook, the NHC identified Tropical Depression Gordon as the only active system in the North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. The depression is currently located … Continued

Travel and Tourism

“MORE TALK THAN ACTION”: EX-TOURISM CHIEF FLAX-BRUTUS HIGHLIGHTS GAPS IN BVI TOURISM

Sharon Flax-Brutus, former Director of the BVI Tourist Board, has expressed concerns about the territory’s tourism sector, calling for more intentional planning and marketing of the British Virgin Islands’ offerings. Flax-Brutus, drawing from her lifelong experience in the industry, criticized the current approach to tourism as being “more talk than action.” She highlighted issues at … Continued

PENN FLAGS ‘QUESTIONABLE’ ACTIVITIES BY PORT BOARDS

Eighth District Representative Hon. Marlon Penn has raised concerns over the management and policies of the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) during a recent House of Assembly sitting. Penn highlighted “questionable” activities at the Ports Authority, particularly regarding taxi operations and decision-making processes.  The legislator expressed particular concern about the past operations of the Tortola Pier … Continued

GUYANA GRANTED VISA-FREE ACCESS TO BVI: PERFECT TIMING AMID GUYANA’S RAPID ECONOMIC GROWTH

The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced plans to remove the existing visa requirement for Guyanese nationals travelling to the territory, marking a significant step toward strengthening ties between the two Caribbean nations.  The announcement was made by Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley during a press conference on Monday, September 30. Premier Wheatley … 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

Health

TURNBULL URGES HIGHER PAY FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Honourable Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull, Representative for the 2nd District,  has called for urgent attention to the compensation packages offered to healthcare professionals in the territory. During a recent debate in the House of Assembly, he emphasized the need to raise compensation for doctors and nurses, citing concerns about losing skilled professionals to neighbouring territories such … Continued

DENGUE FEVER CONCERNS RISE IN KEY BVI COMMUNITIES AS HEALTH OFFICIALS RAMP UP EFFORTS

The East End community, Lower Estate, Huntum’s Ghut, Purcell Estate, Duffs Bottom, and Sea Cows Bay are among a few neighbourhoods that have been identified as areas of key concern as it relates to dengue fever in the Virgin Islands. This was disclosed by Chief Environmental Health Officer Lionel Michael during a recent interview with … Continued

OVER 80 DENGUE FEVER CASES REPORTED IN BVI

The British Virgin Islands has recorded more than 80 cases of dengue fever so far in 2024, with approximately 23 percent of those infected seeking medical attention. This update comes from the National Epidemiologist, Harmonie Brewley-Massiah, who shared the latest data during a recent interview with 284 Media. Brewley-Massiah noted that the territory experienced a … Continued

BVIHSA ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR A LOCAL NURSING SCHOOL

In response to mounting public pressure and recent tragedies linked to healthcare inadequacies, the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has announced plans to launch a nursing school in the territory. This initiative, expected to be realized by 2025, was disclosed by BVIHSA Chairman Ron Potter at a recent community meeting held on Virgin … Continued

Press Release

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

CUSTOMER SERVICE CARE CENTRE LAUNCHES LIVE CHAT

The Government’s Customer Service Care Centre has launched its live-chat feature, in an effort to ensure customers can easily access the Government’s services. The feature allows individuals to contact the centre through messaging, and receive instant support and is accessible through https://bvips.org. Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE … 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

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

TEAM BVI CLIMBS TO #111 AT FIRST GLOBAL 2024 – RANKS 6TH IN THE CARIBBEAN

Team BVI has proudly wrapped up their journey at the First Global Challenge 2024 in Greece, achieving an impressive overall ranking of #111 out of 180 teams, marking a significant leap from their #143 position in the previous year’s competition. In the Caribbean region, Team BVI secured the 6th spot, reflecting their growth and dedication … Continued

ORRETT KENNEDY EMERGES AS BVI’S TOP STUDENT IN 2024 CSEC EXAMS

Orrett Donald Kennedy from St. George’s Secondary School has emerged as the top student in the 2024 Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams in the Virgin Islands. Kennedy demonstrated exceptional academic proficiency by sitting 11 subjects and securing an impressive nine Grade I passes, earning him the top spot in this … 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

Environment

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

DEPARTMENT OF WASTE MANAGEMENT MAKES STRIDES IN TACKLING DERELICT VEHICLES

The Department of Waste Management (DWM) has made significant progress in its efforts to reduce derelict vehicles throughout the territory, according to Director Marcus Solomon. As of 2024, the department has tagged over 200 derelict vehicles and exported more than 53,000 pounds of scrap metal. Solomon emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining these … Continued

PREMIER CELEBRATES BUSINESSES COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

On Tuesday, the Office of the Premier celebrated 30 local businesses that have taken the VI Green Pledge, fortifying their commitment towards environmental sustainability in the British Virgin Islands. The pledges were made during the 11th OECS Council of Ministers for Environment Sustainability meeting last month. The list of participating businesses spans various sectors. The … Continued

Pageantry

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