分类： society

Kadeem Charles, a first-class honours graduate in Data Science, Innovation Management, and Computer Science, was named valedictorian of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus Class of 2025. In his valedictory address, Charles shared his journey of resilience and called on his peers to responsibly navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI).

Speaking under the theme “Pelicans in an AI-Driven Future: Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow,” Charles recounted the challenges he faced during his academic journey, including moments when he nearly dropped out. “There were at least three occasions when I almost left university,” he said. “But faith, support from lecturers and colleagues, and the belief in a brighter tomorrow kept me going.”

Charles credited his passion for gaming as the spark that ignited his love for technology, leading him to his current role as a fraud analyst. “This experience showed me how the skills I gained at UWI could address real-world problems in an AI-powered era,” he explained.

Reflecting on his early struggles, Charles revealed that he almost lost his scholarship in his first year. “It was a humbling moment filled with self-doubt,” he admitted. “But I realized the only comparison worth making was to my own progress. I studied smarter, worked harder, and moved forward.”

Beyond academics, Charles emphasized the lessons of resilience, teamwork, and creativity he gained at UWI Five Islands. “The university gave me resilience when I wanted to quit, lifelong friends, and opportunities I couldn’t have created alone,” he said. He fondly recalled late-night hackathons, volleyball matches, and student club activities as formative experiences.

Charles also addressed the transformative potential of AI, highlighting its applications in healthcare, disaster prediction, and beyond. “AI will reshape work, business, and creativity,” he noted. “But it also raises critical issues like privacy, job displacement, and over-reliance on machines. These are not just global concerns—they are Caribbean issues too.”

He urged graduates to lead with ethics and empathy, ensuring technology serves humanity rather than the reverse. “While AI may shape our tools, it is our resilience, community, and creativity that define us,” he asserted.

In closing, Charles expressed gratitude to his family, lecturers, and classmates, particularly mentioning Saskia. “To God, our families, lecturers, and my fellow graduates—thank you. I wouldn’t be here without you,” he said. “Congratulations to the Class of 2025. Let us continue to rise together.”

The 2025 graduation ceremony highlighted UWI Five Islands’ growing role in nurturing the Caribbean’s next generation of innovators and leaders. Charles’s speech, blending gratitude and determination, encapsulated the optimism of a class ready to embrace an AI-driven future.

In a remarkable display of resilience, 27-year-old Shabo Nedwell attended her graduation ceremony at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus just days after surviving a harrowing pit bull attack. The event, held on Saturday, saw Nedwell receive her Bachelor of Science in Accounting diploma to a heartfelt standing ovation from attendees, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and his wife, Maria Bird-Browne. Despite her injuries, Nedwell arrived in a wheelchair, her face partially covered, embodying courage and determination. Her presence moved the audience, turning the ceremony into a poignant celebration of perseverance. Nedwell’s family revealed that she was adamant about attending, determined to honor her academic achievement despite the physical and emotional toll of the attack. Last week, she was mauled by four pit bulls while visiting a family home, sustaining severe injuries to her legs, hands, and face. The incident has sparked widespread discussions about dog control and public safety in Antigua and Barbuda. Nedwell’s story has since become a symbol of strength, inspiring many with her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Jerry, which brought torrential rain and high winds to Antigua and Barbuda on October 10, 2025, the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has successfully restored operations at both the V.C. Bird International Airport (VCBIA) and the Barbuda International Airport (BIA). Despite the storm’s intensity, both airports resumed services by midday on the same day. A post-storm assessment revealed that BIA experienced significant flooding on its roadways and runways, with water levels reaching up to 12 inches. However, the floodwaters receded quickly, allowing for a prompt return to normal operations. VCBIA, with its modern infrastructure, emerged unscathed, showcasing the resilience of its design. In contrast, the decommissioned 40-year-old terminal at VCBIA suffered water damage due to clogged drainage systems, a result of decades of accumulated debris and recent roof repairs. ABAA has since pressure-flushed the drains and is implementing additional measures to prevent future issues. While the storm caused some flight disruptions, including the cancellation of one North American flight and several regional flights, passengers reported positive experiences, praising the airport staff for their efforts during the delay. The swift recovery of both airports highlights the effectiveness of the ABAA’s emergency response and infrastructure management.

Ultim8 Promotions, a youth-founded organization, has unveiled a groundbreaking community initiative titled ‘A Day of Giving Back.’ Scheduled for November 22nd at a local soup kitchen, this event marks the launch of a broader youth-driven outreach program focused on service and leadership. The initiative seeks to engage young people in meaningful community work, starting with volunteering to serve meals to the homeless and those in need. Organizers emphasize that the project is designed to support vulnerable members of society while instilling values of responsibility, empathy, and civic engagement in youth.

What distinguishes this initiative is its youth-led approach. Unlike many community programs, ‘A Day of Giving Back’ is entirely planned and coordinated by young individuals, giving them a direct voice in decision-making and event organization. Ultim8 Promotions has a proven track record of successful youth engagement through events like ‘End of Term Jam’ and ‘UnderRated: The Ultim8 Teen Event.’ Now, the group is expanding its efforts beyond entertainment into impactful community service.

As part of the launch, Ultim8 Promotions is calling on more young people to get involved. Teens aged 13–18 are encouraged to volunteer and participate in future outreach activities. Interested individuals can sign up by contacting the group via Instagram (@Ultim8_promotions) or WhatsApp (785-6653). Organizers believe this initiative will not only benefit the community but also nurture the next generation of leaders in Antigua. Community members are also invited to support the initiative by contributing supplies or resources, as donations of any kind are welcomed and will directly aid those in need.