The Kiwanis Club of Barbados is amplifying its initiatives to encourage more young men to participate in its service and leadership programs. This move comes in response to growing concerns about the declining interest among boys in assuming leadership roles. Karen Bascombe, the outgoing president of the Kiwanis Club of Barbados Benevolence, highlighted this strategic focus during the installation ceremony of 29 new members of the revitalized Key Club at St George Secondary School last Friday. Bascombe emphasized the organization’s deliberate efforts to inspire boys to take on leadership positions, citing the influence of young leaders like Jaheim Carter, the current governor of the Key Club Caribbean Atlantic District. Carter, a 17-year-old sixth-form student at Combermere School, has become a role model for his peers, demonstrating the impact of effective leadership and mentorship. Bascombe noted that Carter’s involvement has already led to an increase in male participation in Kiwanis programs, marking a significant step forward. Carter himself shared insights into the challenges young male leaders face today, pointing out the scarcity of male role models in leadership positions across Barbados. He stressed the importance of self-reliance and personal growth in leadership, urging young men to strive to be the best versions of themselves. Carter’s recent participation in the Key Club International Convention in Orlando, Florida, further fueled his commitment to recruiting more young men into the organization. He expressed his vision for a future where Barbados sees a more balanced representation of male and female leaders, starting with the youth. Carter’s efforts underscore the Kiwanis Club’s broader mission to foster leadership and community service among young people, with a particular focus on addressing the gender gap in leadership roles.
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Dog on runway delays British Airways landing in Antigua
A routine British Airways flight from London to Antigua experienced an unexpected delay when a dog wandered onto the runway at V.C. Bird International Airport. Flight 2157, carrying passengers from the UK, was forced to abort its initial landing approach after the animal was spotted on the tarmac. The aircraft circled the airport while ground staff swiftly cleared the area to ensure safety. The plane successfully landed on its second attempt, with no injuries or damage reported. Passengers on board took the incident in stride, with one traveler humorously remarking, ‘You expect turbulence over the Atlantic, not a dog delaying your landing.’ The incident highlights the importance of rigorous airport safety protocols and the unpredictable nature of air travel. Authorities are investigating how the dog gained access to the runway to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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On World Tourism Day, BHTA chairman urges vision, sustainability, and equity
On September 27, 2025, Barbados enthusiastically marked World Tourism Day 2025, embracing the theme ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.’ This year’s focus underscores tourism’s role not merely as an economic engine but as a catalyst for societal progress, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability. For Barbados, tourism is the lifeblood of its economy, generating foreign exchange, creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and offering opportunities across generations. It also serves as a cultural ambassador, showcasing the island’s heritage, creativity, and hospitality to the world. However, realizing tourism’s transformative potential demands more than growth—it requires vision, discipline, and sustainability. Key priorities include strategic governance, environmental conservation, human capital development, resilience against climate change, and equitable distribution of benefits. Javon Griffith, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to these principles, emphasizing collaboration among government, private sector, and communities. Despite challenges like rising global costs and climate pressures, Barbados aims to remain a premier, resilient destination. On this World Tourism Day, the nation recommits to leveraging tourism as a force for national transformation, community upliftment, and environmental protection, ensuring prosperity for future generations.
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Dominica joins the rest of the world in the observance of World Tourism Day today
On September 27th, Dominica marked World Tourism Day, reaffirming its commitment to becoming a resilient and innovative tourism destination. Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton emphasized that tourism is more than just an industry for Dominica—it is a national mission that empowers communities, sustains livelihoods, and promotes the island’s unique identity as the ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean.’
In her statement, Charles-Pemberton highlighted the strides Dominica has made in recovering from the challenges of the global pandemic. The government’s efforts to expand air access, improve infrastructure, and advance sustainable practices have yielded significant results. With weekly flights by United Airlines, daily services by American Airlines, and expanded regional routes through Contour Airlines and Caribbean Airlines, Dominica has become more accessible to international travelers.
A key milestone in this journey is the extension and grooving of the Douglas-Charles Airport’s runway, a project that enhances safety and prepares the island for larger aircraft. This development is part of the broader plan to establish Dominica as a hub for international travel.
Cruise tourism continues to thrive, creating opportunities for local vendors, tour operators, farmers, and cultural performers. Additionally, Dominica’s pristine waters and world-class diving and whale-watching experiences have solidified its reputation as the Caribbean’s premier eco-marine destination.
Cultural tourism also plays a vital role, with events like the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) and Dominica’s bouyon music scene energizing the youth, fostering national pride, and attracting thousands of visitors annually. These pillars of air, cruise, marine, and cultural tourism collectively create a diversified product that benefits every Dominican.
Charles-Pemberton underscored the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, cultural groups, and the diaspora in driving tourism growth. Through fiscal incentives, training programs, and strategic policies, the government ensures that the benefits of tourism reach every household.
As Dominica celebrates World Tourism Day under the theme ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,’ the island stands proudly on a path from recovery to renewal, and now to resilience. The mission is clear: to secure Dominica’s place as a world-class destination rooted in authenticity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
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Beneficiaries of new apartments in Eggleston promised grant title ownership
In a significant step toward improving living conditions and empowering citizens, the government of Dominica handed over keys to 16 modern apartment units to families in Eggleston this week. The ceremony, held at the State House Conference Centre, marked a milestone in the government’s Housing Programme. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit assured the beneficiaries that they would receive grant title ownership for their homes at the appropriate time, enabling them to leverage their properties for financial opportunities such as loans to start small businesses. ‘We are giving you these new homes to empower you as citizens of this country,’ Skerrit emphasized. He also addressed those still awaiting their turn, assuring them that progress is being made, as 16 families have now been removed from the waiting list. The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, including senior citizens and single parents, who often face challenges such as inadequate housing and exploitative landlords. ‘We use the little resources we have to build homes for them so that their children can have hope and confidence in the future,’ he stated. Chekira Lockhart-Hypolite, Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau South Constituency, described the event as a new beginning for the beneficiaries, emphasizing the transformative impact of the resilient homes. She acknowledged the overwhelming demand for housing, with 515 applications received, and pledged to continue working to improve living conditions for all applicants. Lockhart-Hypolite reassured the public that the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) remains committed to fulfilling its promises, noting that the government’s track record speaks for itself. ‘To the beneficiaries, you are relieved from the burden of servicing rent, and your savings can now lead to disposable income,’ she added, underscoring the financial relief and opportunities the new homes provide.
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Scholarship drive, energy institute to train youth for energy transition
A transformative $262,200 scholarship initiative has been unveiled by the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) in partnership with the European Union and the Inter-American Development Bank. This groundbreaking program aims to provide financial support to nearly 100 students pursuing careers in the automotive and energy industries. The initiative is part of the Youth Empowerment Programme and will fund SJPI certificate, diploma, and advanced diploma programs in refrigeration and air conditioning.
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Scholarship drive, energy institute to train youth for energy transition
A transformative $262,200 scholarship initiative has been unveiled by the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) in partnership with the European Union and the Inter-American Development Bank. This groundbreaking program aims to provide financial support to nearly 100 students pursuing careers in the automotive and energy industries. The initiative is part of the Youth Empowerment Programme and will fund SJPI certificate, diploma, and advanced diploma programs in refrigeration and air conditioning.
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Caribbean Health Leaders Call for Urgent Action to Build Resilient Health Systems amidst Climate and Economic Threats
The 50th Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development – Health (COHSOD-Health) convened in Washington, D.C., from September 26–27, 2025, bringing together CARICOM Ministers of Health, Permanent Secretaries, Chief Medical Officers, and representatives from regional and international institutions. The event, chaired by the Hon. Philip Telesford, Minister of Health, Wellness, and Religious Affairs of Grenada, underscored the urgent need to address pressing health challenges in the Caribbean region. Minister Telesford emphasized the dual social and economic implications of health threats, particularly Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs), which continue to strain productivity and national budgets. He highlighted that diseases not only impact individual well-being but also carry significant financial consequences, making health an economic imperative. CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General for Human and Social Development, Ms. Alison Drayton, reinforced the call for coordinated action, citing emerging communicable diseases, climate change, and rising crime rates as compounding factors. The meeting celebrated key milestones, including CARICOM’s endorsement of the Pandemic Agreement at the 78th World Health Assembly, the launch of the PAHO-CARICOM Joint Subregional Cooperation Strategy, and the signing of the CARICOM-HEDPAC Memorandum of Understanding. Efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance and address crime and violence as public health issues were also highlighted. The event reaffirmed CARICOM’s commitment to collaborative leadership and proactive responses to emerging health threats, ensuring the region’s health systems remain resilient in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
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VIDEO: Official Opening Ceremony of Independence Celebrations 2025
Dominica marked the commencement of its Independence Day celebrations with a grand opening ceremony held at the State House Conference Centre on October 26, 2025. The event, which preceded the much-anticipated Independence Opening Parade, brought together dignitaries, citizens, and cultural representatives to honor the nation’s journey to sovereignty. The ceremony featured a blend of traditional and contemporary performances, showcasing Dominica’s rich cultural heritage and national pride. Attendees were treated to a vibrant display of music, dance, and speeches that highlighted the country’s resilience and progress. The full video recording of the event is available for those who wish to relive the festivities. This annual celebration not only commemorates Dominica’s independence but also serves as a reminder of the nation’s unity and aspirations for the future.
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VIDEO: Official Opening Ceremony of Independence Celebrations 2025
Dominica marked the commencement of its Independence Day celebrations with a grand opening ceremony held at the State House Conference Centre on October 26, 2025. The event, which preceded the much-anticipated Independence Opening Parade, brought together dignitaries, citizens, and cultural representatives to honor the nation’s journey to sovereignty. The ceremony featured a blend of traditional and contemporary performances, showcasing Dominica’s rich cultural heritage and national pride. Attendees were treated to a vibrant display of music, dance, and speeches that highlighted the country’s resilience and progress. The full video recording of the event is available for those who wish to relive the festivities. This annual celebration not only commemorates Dominica’s independence but also serves as a reminder of the nation’s unity and aspirations for the future.