Mrs Monel Nickie created BVI history after being appointed District Officer for the sister island of Virgin Gorda to become the first female to be selected for the post.
This was confirmed in a government-commissioned media release which said she will be responsible “for coordinating designated government activities on Virgin Gorda to ensure the departmental objectives of the Sister Islands Programme are met in her new role.”
Speaking on her appointment, Nickie expressed that she was delighted to be selected for the whole, describing the opportunity to serve the territory in such a capacity as an honour.
“The strength of our success as a territory lies in our ability to work together and serve one another. I am committed to contributing to my community in a positive way and look forward to our continued growth and development”, she stated.
Deputy Governor Mr. David Archer Jr. congratulated Nickie for her historic appointment, stating it is one that is work celebrating.
He said, “While we acknowledge this milestone, it is also important to make note of Mrs. Nickie’s unique strengths and vigour which awarded her this appointment for the betterment of the Virgin Gorda community.”
“After Mr. Verne Wheatley, who previously held the post, served for 25 long years, we are grateful to him for leaving behind a legacy that will not be forgotten, and one which Mrs. Nickie will certainly benefit from and extend,” he added.
Nickie held various roles in the teaching profession, including working as both an adjunct lecturer at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College as well as a primary school teacher based on Virgin Gorda.
She is also the founder and director of MOSADI, a women empowerment initiative that offers spiritual, emotional, physical, financial, and social mentoring through conferences, workshops, and one-on-one sessions.