In a moving tribute that bridged journalism and diplomacy, veteran media professional Kenton X. Chance commemorated the enduring legacy of Asberth Williams, founder of Asberth News Network (ANN), during funeral services held in Calder this past Sunday. Williams, who succumbed to cancer on December 23 just two months after marking his 50th birthday, was celebrated for his transformative impact on Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ media landscape.
Chance, the founder of iWitness News who is now transitioning into diplomatic service after 23 years in journalism, delivered a heartfelt eulogy on behalf of local media practitioners. He chronicled Williams’ remarkable evolution from a popular radio commentator to the pioneering founder of ANN—a venture Chance described as both “brave, if not reckless” given Williams’ lack of formal journalistic training or experience.
The tribute revealed an extraordinary professional relationship between the two media figures. Chance, who received formal education in communication and international relations in Taiwan, became an unexpected mentor to Williams, providing guidance rooted in professional training and practical experience. This mentorship included granting permission for Williams to utilize iWitness News content for his commentaries, voluntary feedback on ANN’s editorial approach, and even direct editing of Williams’ articles.
“Without fail, he replaced his own copy with my edited version. He always thanked me for my feedback and efforts,” Chance recounted, highlighting Williams’ humility and commitment to journalistic quality.
Their collaboration extended beyond content development, with Williams occasionally requesting guidance for new writers he had recruited. Despite occasional “intense interactions” that Chance noted are natural in human relationships, their professional bond strengthened over time, ultimately helping transform ANN from a breaking news portal to a source of detailed news reporting.
Chance emphasized that Williams’ most significant contribution was recognizing an opportunity that eluded many trained journalists—transforming popularity into a sustainable business model while providing countless Vincentians with a platform to seek redress and have their voices heard.
Beyond his media achievements, Williams was recognized as Searchlight newspaper’s Best Social Media Personality on multiple occasions and maintained active involvement in sports activism, business ventures, and charitable initiatives throughout his impactful fifty years.