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 fair provided opportunities for residents to engage with prominent companies and statutory bodies such as Scrub Island Resort, Oil Nut Bay, Moskito Island, Therapy Works, and Riteway Food Markets, alongside the BVI Airports Authority and BVI Electricity Corporation. Additionally, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) was present to discuss its Marine Studies Program and potential paid internships for young people interested in this field.
With a combined total of 170 paper applications and an additional 35 submitted online, Willock remarked that this year’s goal is to see at least 25 Third District residents gain employment through the fair—an improvement from last year’s 11 hires. He said within the next two weeks, follow-ups will be conducted with participating companies to track employment outcomes.
In addition to job-seeking opportunities, the event featured presentations from Roy Barry of the Social Security Board, who discussed national insurance benefits, and Ag. Labour Commissioner Marvin Hastings, who introduced the new Labour Management System (LMS) aimed at streamlining job placements.
Mr. Willock expressed gratitude to the sponsors who provided essential support, including Tortola Auto Group (TAG), Nanny Cay Marina, and Long Bay Beach Resort. The success of the fair, he added, reflects the confidence that local businesses have in the Third District Committee’s ability to organize impactful community events.