In a media release the Virgin Islands Festival & Fairs Committee announced that in keeping with the tradition of naming the BVI Emancipation Festival Village and bestowing titles of honour on persons who have contributed greatly to our festival heritage & culture they are “excited to announce the decision to name the 2023 Festival Village in honour of Mrs. Irene Penn-O’Neal.”
In 1975, young Miss Irene Penn left her home in West End, Tortola, and captured the first title of Miss British Virgin Islands [Until 1974, the queen crowned at Festival time carried the title “Festival Queen”]. Penn’s talent, a musical rendition of ‘Ram Goat Liver’ by Pluto Shervington sealed the selection for judges and brought great pride to the people of West End. Her achievement marked a significant moment for the Virgin Islands, as Penn’s new title was reflective of the intentions for the new queen to represent the Virgin Islands abroad at pageants like the Miss Universe Pageant. Following her win, Mrs. Penn-O’Neal served the Virgin Islands Festival & Fairs Committee as a committee member for many years.
The committee further said, “Her contributions through pageantry and service are undeniable and make her the perfect choice to be honoured at this time, on the 48th anniversary of her win in 1975.”
Additionally, the committee stated, “We are also thrilled to announce the winning theme for this year’s Festival, “A celebration of our freedom with cultural flair and creativity while embracing our unique diversity”.
They extended heartfelt congratulations to Anjanique Cheltenham of the Elmore Stoutt High School, for her exceptional submission and believe this theme will inspire and unite our community, celebrating our freedom, culture, and diversity in grand fashion.
Additionally, it was stated that the committee was “equally excited to announce the winning slogan submitted by Asia Riviere of Bregado Flax Educational Centre Secondary Division which reads, “It’s a Cultural Jamboree so let’s Fete and be Free for Festival 2023”. Both Anjanique Cheltenham and Asia Riviere received a cash prize of Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($250.00) each for their contributions.”
The honouree selected as the 2023 Parade Marshall is Rev. Yvonne Nibbs-Flores. Rev. Nibbs-Flores contributed to Festival in various ways, but most notably as a troupe member, a majorette troupe director who taught the art of twirling, and a Festival Committee member. Rev. Nibbs-Flores will take the ceremonial ride of honour as the first entry at the August Monday parade. She will receive a plaque, a bouquet, and other honours including free entry to all festival-related events.
This year’s BVI Emancipation Festival will feature a plethora of events beginning on 28th July with a Festival Warm-up Tramp and culminating in the second week of August with the August Monday Parade, Boat Races and events at East End and Carrot Bay. The final 2023 Emancipation Festival event will be the Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta on 11th August. For a full schedule of festival activities and other information visit