In a significant diplomatic reshuffle announced by Foreign Minister Fitz Bramble on Thursday, distinguished journalist Kenton X. Chance has been designated as the new Ambassador of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to Taiwan, effective March 1. The appointment forms part of a broader realignment of the nation’s diplomatic corps unveiled in Kingstown.
Chance brings to the role an exceptional background in journalism and international affairs, having cultivated a prestigious career since 2002. His academic credentials include first-place honors degrees from Taiwan’s Ming Chuan University—a bachelor’s in journalism and mass communication (2011) followed by a master’s in international affairs with a focus on global governance (2012). His connection to Taiwan was first forged in 2006 when he received a government scholarship to study Mandarin Chinese, preceding his undergraduate studies.
The ministerial announcement also confirmed several other key diplomatic postings: Roland Matthews as Consul General to New York; Vynnette Frederick as Ambassador to the United Nations; Brereton Horne as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom; and Angella Ideisha Jackson as Ambassador to Cuba. Incumbent ambassadors Lou-Anne Gilchrist (United States) and Gareth Bynoe (Venezuela) will retain their positions. An appointment for Consul General to Toronto remains pending.
Chance’s professional stature is underscored by his 2022 recognition as the first and only Vincentian to receive the Distinguished Taiwan Alumni Award from Taiwan’s Ministry of Education—an honor granted to only ten individuals worldwide that year. His journalistic work has extended across five continents, with contributions to renowned outlets including The New York Times, Associated Press, The Guardian, and CGTN.
Founder and Executive Editor of iWitness News, Chance has committed to ensuring the publication’s continuity as a reliable news source without his direct involvement. In a personal statement, he acknowledged the gravity of his new role, expressing his commitment to national service with the support of his wife, Symantha Chance.