The 2025 Regional Tourism Youth Congress, a highlight of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), showcased the burgeoning talents of the Caribbean’s next-generation tourism leaders. Held on October 2nd at the Hilton Barbados, the event was organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) in partnership with the Barbados Ministry of Tourism and International Transport. Participants from across the region gathered to present their innovative ideas and demonstrate their readiness to shape the future of the tourism industry. The congress featured prepared speeches and a challenging “Mystery Topic” segment, designed to test participants’ quick thinking and adaptability. Jole St. John of Tobago emerged as the top performer, earning the title of Caribbean’s Junior Minister of Tourism for the upcoming year. Caleader Lewison of Jamaica and Alanis Morris Seymour of the Cayman Islands secured second and third places, respectively, with Lewison appointed as the region’s inaugural Secretary-General of Tourism. Isaiah Toney of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was also recognized with a special award for his exceptional contributions. The winners received educational gifts to further their professional development. Ian Gooding-Edghill, Chairman of the CTO and Barbados’ Minister of Tourism, praised the participants for their creativity, dedication, and passion, emphasizing the event’s role in showcasing the Caribbean’s robust human resource potential. The congress underscored the region’s commitment to nurturing capable and passionate leaders who will drive the tourism industry forward.
分类: society
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WEATHER (12:00 PM, Oct 3, 2025): Showers, possible thunderstorms during afternoon
The region is set to experience heightened moisture levels throughout the day, though dry sinking air is likely to limit substantial shower activity across the island. Light winds combined with elevated daytime temperatures may trigger sporadic showers, with a slight possibility of isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon. Residents in areas susceptible to flooding, landslides, and falling rocks are urged to remain vigilant. Additionally, sea conditions are predicted to range from slight to moderate, with waves reaching up to 7 feet. Northerly swells are expected to impact the western, northern, and eastern coastlines today. Those living near or traveling through these coastal areas, as well as sea users, are advised to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures.
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Ministry of Education: Service disruptions 6–10 October
The Ministry of Education has announced the completion of a significant refurbishment of its headquarters, marking a pivotal step in enhancing its operational efficiency. However, the relocation process will lead to temporary service disruptions, necessitating adjustments in its operations. On Friday, 3 October 2025, the Ministry will operate for a half-day, closing at noon. Additionally, the office at the Ministerial Complex will remain closed on Monday, 6 October 2025, as staff will be working remotely. During this period, the public can contact the Ministry via email at [email protected], which will be actively monitored. The week of 6–10 October 2025 will see further disruptions as staff transition to the newly refurbished building. Normal services are expected to resume on Monday, 13 October 2025. The Ministry has expressed its apologies for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s understanding as it strives to deliver improved services in a more conducive environment.
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Fourth edition of Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl officially launches with special emphasis on ‘Honey’
The fourth edition of the highly anticipated Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl has officially been launched, marking a significant milestone in Dominica’s cultural calendar. Scheduled to take place from October 20 to 23 at the Botanic Gardens, the event is a cornerstone of the island’s Independence Celebrations. This year, the festival will place special emphasis on honey, highlighting its cultural and economic significance.
Fenella Wenham-Sheppard, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence, emphasized the event’s growing prominence during the launch ceremony on Thursday. ‘Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl has firmly established itself as a household name and a cultural product in Dominica,’ she stated. ‘Last year, the event attracted approximately 9,100 paying patrons, and this year, we aim to surpass that number by 50 percent.’
Wenham-Sheppard underscored the collaborative efforts of the ministries of labor and tourism, as well as the public and private sectors, in supporting the event. ‘Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl is more than just an event; it is a platform for commerce, exposure, entrepreneurship, networking, reconnection, entertainment, cultural affirmation, and nation branding,’ she explained.
Over the four-day festival, attendees can expect a vibrant showcase of music, food, crafts, storytelling, demonstrations, and immersive experiences. The event aims to draw Dominicans from across the island and international visitors, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride. Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl continues to serve as a testament to Dominica’s rich heritage and its commitment to cultural preservation and economic growth.
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Dominica Association of Teachers ends World Teachers’ Day celebration with activities in Roseau
The Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT) marked World Teachers’ Day on Friday, October 3, with a vibrant series of events in Roseau, capping off a week-long celebration dedicated to honoring educators across the island. The festivities commenced with an ecumenical service and a recognition awards ceremony at the Roseau Cathedral, as highlighted by DAT Public Relations Officer Juanita Carbon. ‘Teachers from all corners of Dominica gathered at the cathedral for the service and to honor outstanding educators and schools,’ Carbon remarked. Following the service, the celebrations moved to St Gerard’s Hall and the St Mary’s Academy Courtyard, where a talent showcase and social gathering took place. ‘The day’s events continued with a lively talent showcase and a social event, bringing teachers together in a spirit of camaraderie,’ Carbon added. The week-long observance, known as Teachers’ Week 2025, began on Sunday, September 28, with prayer and thanksgiving services held in churches island-wide. On Monday, September 29, DAT hosted a radio talk show on DBS Radio titled ‘Voice of Teachers,’ providing a platform for educators to share their experiences and insights. Tuesday’s agenda included a hybrid panel discussion titled ‘Breaking the Silence: Masculinity and Mental Health for Men,’ followed by a basketball match at Benjamin’s Park in Portsmouth, where male and female teachers teamed up with students. Another highlight of the week was the ‘Teachers in the Streets’ initiative, which encouraged the public to express their gratitude and appreciation for educators through heartfelt tributes and messages.
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Fond Cole landfill now accepting white goods and other metal items
The Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC) has officially reopened the Fond Cole Landfill for the disposal of white goods, derelict galvanize, and other metal items. This announcement marks a significant shift from the temporary restrictions imposed earlier this year. The landfill will now accept these materials from Monday to Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. White goods, which include large household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, stoves, ovens, dishwashers, air conditioners, and water heaters, had been barred from disposal since July. This restriction was implemented following a fire at the Fond Cole Landfill on June 30, which caused thick smoke to engulf parts of the surrounding community. During the interim period, the landfill was restricted to accepting only general waste. Rhoda St. John, the DSWMC Public Relations Officer, emphasized the importance of responsible waste management in a previous statement, urging the public to adhere to proper disposal practices. The reopening of the landfill for these items is expected to alleviate the backlog of waste and improve community safety and environmental conditions.
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JTA rushes to the aid of critically ill educators
In response to the growing number of educators battling severe illnesses and facing financial hardships, the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) is intensifying its efforts to establish a robust Critical Illness Trust Fund. Newly appointed JTA President Mark Malabver emphasized the union’s commitment to this cause during a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer. Malabver highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that the fund aims to provide financial support to teachers diagnosed with critical illnesses such as cancer or those requiring expensive surgeries. The JTA is hosting a wine and cheese fundraiser at Shortwood Teachers’ College in St. Andrew, with the goal of raising $3 million this year. Malabver revealed that the union has already set aside a portion of its internal funds for this purpose, with the long-term ambition of accumulating $1 billion. The fund, officially launched in 2019 by former JTA President Dr. Garth Anderson, is managed by a dedicated board that evaluates applications and allocates resources based on need and availability. Malabver acknowledged the alarming number of educators falling ill, citing at least four requests for assistance since he assumed office in August. He shared a poignant example of a veteran high school teacher facing blindness and requiring costly surgery. While the initiative is not a core JTA activity, Malabver stressed the union’s moral obligation to support its members. The fundraiser, patronized by Metry Seaga, President of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica, requires a $15,000 contribution per attendee.
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Hellshire fatal crash victims identified
A tragic early morning accident in Hellshire, Portmore, St Catherine, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left several others injured, including a 12-year-old child. The incident occurred around 3:00 am on Saturday when a Honda Shuttle, driven by Jevaughn Martin, collided with a BMW on the main road. Both vehicles sustained severe damage, and the impact caused the BMW to crash into a utility pole. The occupants of both cars were rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital, where Martin, a 33-year-old taxi driver from Portmore, and Ryan Tulloch, a 17-year-old resident of Tawes Meadows in Spanish Town, succumbed to their injuries. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, which has left the community in mourning.


