The 4th Annual Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl-‘Tout Biten Domnik’ event is set to captivate attendees from October 20 to October 23 at the Botanic Gardens in Dominica. This vibrant four-day celebration, running from 12 PM to 8 PM daily, highlights the products, skills, and talents of nearly 100 small businesses, offering a unique platform for local entrepreneurs to shine. Replacing the former Creole in The Park (CITP) event, Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl serves as a cultural prelude to the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), enriching the island’s cultural calendar. Daren Pinard, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development, emphasized the event’s role in showcasing Dominica’s rich heritage, including its music, food, traditional dress, language, and dance. The opening ceremony, initially scheduled for 11:00 AM, has been rescheduled to 1 PM, though no explanation was provided for the delay. Attendees can enjoy performances by renowned artists such as Bouyon musicians Ridge and Pudaz, Midnight Groovers Riddim Knockaz, and cultural groups like Paix Bouche Drummers and Morne Jaune Cultural Group. The event also features a diverse lineup of acts across the week, including Asa Bantan, Swinging Stars, and Signal Band, culminating in a grand finale on October 23. Admission is free for students in uniform, while tickets for adults and children are priced at $10 and $5, respectively. This year, local honey takes center stage as a highlight of the event, further emphasizing the island’s natural and cultural treasures.
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Maria Vanessa Browne: “Placed Here by the People; Working for the People”
In a heartfelt statement shared on her social media, Works Minister and Member of Parliament Maria Vanessa Browne reaffirmed her commitment to serving the nation despite facing ongoing political challenges. Known for her reserved nature, Browne emphasized her dedication to making a positive impact in her role, stating that her greatest satisfaction comes from solving problems and improving the lives of others. She acknowledged the difficulties she has encountered since taking office but expressed confidence in overcoming them through perseverance and faith. Browne also addressed recent attempts by political opponents to tarnish her reputation, calling them baseless and driven by a hunger for power. She vowed to remain steadfast in her principles of good governance and to continue working for the people who elected her. The minister concluded her message with gratitude for the support she has received and a reminder to pursue goals with integrity, as ‘murky ambition will block your blessings.’
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Remembering ‘Jimz’
The untimely deaths of young athletes are always a profound tragedy, leaving a lasting impact on their families, friends, and communities. The recent passing of Ajani ‘Jimz’ Hippolyte, who drowned in a boating accident at Marisule Beach in early October, has sent shockwaves through Saint Lucia. Hippolyte, a former youth football international, was the second local player to die this year, following Sherman Augustin, who was fatally stabbed during Carnival celebrations in July. These losses are a stark reminder of the fragility of life, especially for those with such promising futures. Hippolyte’s death brings to mind other young athletes like Bradley Felix, Nick Elibox, and Dhanraj ‘Chaz’ Cepal, who tragically lost their lives in car accidents between 2018 and 2019. Felix, a national footballer and track athlete, Elibox, a cricket scholar, and Cepal, a talented batsman, were all vibrant personalities whose potential was cut short. Hippolyte’s journey in football began at a young age, excelling in various schools and clubs, and culminating in his pivotal role with La Clery, where he helped secure multiple titles. Known for his versatility and infectious personality, Hippolyte was on the verge of his senior national debut. His death is a devastating blow to his community, leaving a void that will be hard to fill. The loss of these young talents underscores the need for a safer environment for aspiring athletes, ensuring their dreams are not extinguished prematurely. Their memories, however, will continue to inspire those who knew them.
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Ti Vilaj Kweyol Ceremony later start time
The organizers of the Ti Vilaj Ceremony have announced a significant change in the event schedule. Originally slated to commence at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 20, the ceremony will now begin at 1:00 PM. The event is set to take place at the picturesque Botanic Gardens, a venue known for its lush greenery and serene ambiance. While the announcement did not provide specific reasons for the delay, such schedule adjustments are not uncommon in large-scale public events, often due to logistical preparations or unforeseen circumstances. Attendees are advised to adjust their plans accordingly and arrive at the new start time to fully enjoy the cultural festivities. The Ti Vilaj Ceremony, a celebration of local heritage and community spirit, promises to be a memorable occasion despite the slight delay.
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COMMENTARY: The route to innovative solutions
The Caribbean region stands at a crossroads, where innovation is no longer a luxury but a necessity for building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous future. Outdated models and traditional thinking have long constrained progress, but the path to renewal lies in embracing bold, transformative ideas. Innovation is not merely about creativity; it’s the practical application of novel concepts to create economic, social, and functional value. This requires fresh thinking, proactive leadership, and a culture that empowers youth and secures future-proof jobs.
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Over 50 Artists to Take Part in Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025
The third edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is set to captivate audiences from November 26, 2025, with over 50 artists showcasing their works. Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) in collaboration with the Department of Culture, this year’s event promises a vibrant fusion of traditional and contemporary art, reflecting the nation’s rich cultural tapestry. Maria Blackman, ABTA’s marketing manager, expressed her enthusiasm for the overwhelming response from artists across the Caribbean, the US, Canada, and the wider diaspora. ‘From Haiti to Guadeloupe, the interest has been incredible,’ she remarked. ‘We are thrilled to continue supporting our artists and showcasing Antigua and Barbuda on an international stage.’ Local artist Stephen Murphy, a participant since the event’s inception, emphasized the significant impact of Art Week in promoting the island’s creative talent, citing recent sales at Carifesta in Barbados as evidence of its growing influence. The 2025 theme, ‘Culture in Color,’ aims to highlight authentic local experiences through visual arts, dance, spoken word, and music. The program will extend beyond traditional venues, offering visitors unique opportunities to engage directly with artists in their communities. All artworks displayed during the festival, including those at the airport and other public spaces, will be available for purchase, with a series of sub-events planned to enrich the experience.
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Corporal Shillingford and Constable Jeremy Honoured for Academic Achievement
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has publicly celebrated the academic accomplishments of Corporal Shillingford and Constable Jeremy, who recently graduated from Monroe College. In an official statement, the Force lauded the officers for their unwavering commitment to both personal and professional growth. Their success was highlighted as a testament to the organization’s dedication to fostering excellence and promoting lifelong learning among its members. The officers were commended for their perseverance and were encouraged to serve as role models, inspiring their peers to pursue higher education and continuous self-improvement. This achievement underscores the Force’s broader mission to enhance the skills and capabilities of its personnel, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve the community effectively. The recognition also reflects the importance of education in advancing law enforcement standards and fostering a culture of development within the police force.
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Single-Lane Traffic Continues on Major Roads as Repairs Progress
The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) has announced the continuation of single-lane traffic on several major roads to facilitate ongoing infrastructure repairs. These measures are part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project, a government initiative aimed at improving road conditions in Antigua and Barbuda.
On Valley Road North, asphalt repairs, drain cleaning, and road markings will be conducted daily, starting at approximately 8:00 a.m. Similarly, Old Parham Road will see drain cleaning near Fabi Building Supplies during the same hours. Anchorage Road will undergo sidewalk rehabilitation, drainage work, and road markings, while Sir Sydney Walling Highway will focus on asphalt repairs, junction fixes, and miscellaneous tasks.
Flag persons will be stationed at these locations to guide motorists, who are urged to follow instructions carefully due to the presence of heavy-duty equipment. Despite the disruptions, all businesses in the affected areas remain open. C.O. Williams Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project, has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and encourages stakeholders to adjust their travel plans to account for potential delays.
For further inquiries, the public can contact the C.O. Williams Project office at 562-9573. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing road infrastructure, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for residents and visitors alike.
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Tech takes the counter: Fast food and retail sectors go self-service
The rollout of self-ordering kiosks at KFC outlets across Saint Lucia has elicited diverse responses from customers and management alike. While the technology promises enhanced efficiency and convenience, it has also sparked debates about its implications for workers and accessibility. Clinton Camille, delivery and special projects manager at Real Foods Inc., the franchise holder for KFC Saint Lucia, clarified that the kiosks are not replacing employees but rather ‘repurposing’ them. He explained that staff are being reallocated to ensure a consistent workflow, with increased demand for kitchen personnel due to higher order volumes. The card-only kiosks, developed in collaboration with Republic Bank, streamline order processing, reducing wait times and improving accuracy. However, some customers have raised concerns about the exclusion of cash payments and the challenges faced by those less comfortable with technology. Despite these issues, many patrons have praised the system for its speed and convenience. Similarly, the introduction of self-checkout services at Massy Stores reflects a broader trend toward retail automation. Roxane de Freitas, CEO of Massy Stores Trinidad and Tobago, emphasized the benefits of the new system, including reduced space requirements and enhanced security through surveillance. However, some Saint Lucian shoppers have expressed concerns about potential theft and operational difficulties. As the island continues its digital transformation, the balance between technological advancement, accessibility, and employment remains a critical topic of discussion.
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STATEMENT: UPP member Attorney Joshua Francis on the passing of Julius Timothy
The nation of Dominica is in mourning following the passing of Julius Timothy, a revered political figure and dedicated public servant. Joshua Francis, a prominent voice in the country, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing Timothy as a humble servant whose contributions to the nation and its people were immeasurable. Timothy’s death marks a significant loss not only for his family and the Roseau North Constituency, which he represented, but also for the broader political community and the nation as a whole. Throughout his distinguished career in both politics and business, Timothy championed the causes of the marginalized, advocating for equality and human advancement. His repeated electoral victories in Roseau North were a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens. As the nation grieves, Francis extended his deepest condolences to Timothy’s family and loved ones, praying for strength and solace during this challenging time. He also called for the Almighty God to grant Timothy’s soul eternal peace, honoring the legacy of a man whose leadership and passion for public service will be deeply missed.