Two young Barbadians, Rebecca Bailey and Kareem Whitehall, have transitioned from participants in the King’s Trust International programme to proud members of The Barbados Police Service, attributing their success to the transformative impact of the initiative. At a press conference held at the Hastings/Worthing Police Station, the duo shared how the youth charity, formerly known as the Prince’s Trust, provided them with essential skills such as discipline, confidence, and communication, which have proven invaluable in their new roles. Bailey, a 20-year-old graduate of Daryll Jordan Secondary School, joined the King’s Trust in August 2023 and is now assigned to the Criminal Investigations Department. She highlighted how the programme’s residential experience and focus on personal development helped her navigate the rigorous six-month training at the police academy. “The programme taught me so much, especially in terms of communication. The residential experience was particularly beneficial in preparing me for life as a police officer,” she remarked. Bailey first encountered the Trust during a career showcase in secondary school and had long aspired to join the police force. Now two months into her role, she expressed how the experience has broadened her worldview. “It’s been a positive journey. I see the world differently now. My advice to young people is simple: determination leads to success,” she said. Whitehall, a 23-year-old former Combermere student, completed the programme in 2022. Despite holding six CXCs and an associate degree in music, he found himself unemployed and searching for direction before enrolling. “Before the Prince’s Trust, I was essentially idle and unemployed. I wanted to enhance my interpersonal skills before becoming an officer, and the programme delivered on that,” he explained. Whitehall, now a member of the Police Band, specialises as a tuba player and also performs on bass guitar and drums during parades. He emphasised the importance of personal growth in public service. “Growth is crucial. In today’s world, we must focus on self-development and embrace change,” he stated. Offering advice to other young people, he added, “Whether you aspire to join law enforcement, become a chef, or pursue any other path, the King’s Trust can help you develop the necessary skills before entering the workforce or continuing your education. It’s a prestigious programme, and I’m grateful to everyone involved.” Launched in Barbados in 2019, King’s Trust International is the global arm of the UK-based youth charity founded by King Charles during his tenure as Prince of Wales. The programme supports young people aged 16 to 30, particularly those facing barriers to employment or education, by equipping them with life, work, and leadership skills to help them thrive.
分类： society
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Why Being Informed Is More Important than Ever. by Garfield Joseph MBA
In an era where information is more accessible than ever, a paradoxical challenge has emerged: while we are inundated with data, many remain uninformed. Social media feeds, emails, news outlets, and workplace communications bombard us daily, yet confusion, misinformation, and disengagement persist. This raises a critical question: What does it truly mean to be informed? Being informed goes beyond mere exposure to information; it involves understanding, contextualizing, and applying knowledge to enhance decision-making, foster engagement, and drive meaningful action. It empowers individuals to navigate their environments with clarity and confidence, transforming reactions into thoughtful responses and survival into thriving. Information reaches us through various channels—electronic media, workplace interactions, traditional media, casual conversations, and formal settings. Each source has the potential to enlighten or mislead, depending on how it is shared and received. In the workplace, for instance, unclear communication can erode morale, reduce productivity, and damage trust. Conversely, keeping others informed has transformative benefits. It increases engagement and ownership, improves decision-making, enhances collaboration, builds resilience in crises, and fosters empathy. Organizations thrive when leaders provide clarity and consistency in communication, ensuring employees understand their roles and expectations. This principle extends beyond workplaces to customer relations, community outreach, and national development. In critical moments, such as natural disasters or health emergencies, timely and accurate information can be life-saving. Leaders, employees, citizens, and media professionals all have roles to play in fostering a well-informed society. Leaders must communicate openly, employees should seek clarity, citizens must engage with credible sources, and media professionals must uphold journalistic integrity. In a world saturated with noise, being intentional about the information we consume and share is crucial. Filtering distractions, verifying sources, and prioritizing truth over sensationalism are essential practices. Being informed is not just a personal advantage—it’s a civic responsibility. Sharing what matters, staying engaged, and helping others do the same can change lives and transform organizations.
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Police investigate armed robbery
In a startling early morning event on Wednesday, September 1st, 2025, Nassau, Bahamas, witnessed an armed robbery that has left the local community on edge. The incident occurred off East Street South, specifically on Cox Way, where a male victim was accosted by a masked individual wielding a firearm. According to initial reports, the confrontation took place shortly after 6:00 a.m. The assailant allegedly fired a shot before seizing the victim’s personal belongings and making a swift escape in an unknown direction. Fortunately, the victim emerged from the ordeal unharmed. The Nassau Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the matter and is urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in apprehending the suspect. Authorities have provided multiple channels for reporting tips, including emergency numbers 911 and 919, local police stations, and the Criminal Investigation Department at 502-9991. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted through CRIME STOPPERS at 328-TIPS (8477). The police are hopeful that community cooperation will lead to a swift resolution of this case.
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Police investigate stabbing incident
Authorities in Nassau, Bahamas, are currently investigating a violent altercation that unfolded on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, resulting in a man being hospitalized with serious injuries. The incident began shortly after 1:00 p.m. on Seventh Terrace, near Mount Royal Avenue, when a collision occurred between two vehicles. According to initial reports, one of the drivers involved fled the scene but was pursued and intercepted by the other driver. A heated argument erupted between the two individuals, escalating into physical violence. During the confrontation, one of the men was stabbed with an unidentified object. The injured party was rushed to the hospital in a private vehicle and remains in critical condition. Police have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the altercation and to identify those responsible.
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Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025 Announced
The Department of Creative Industries in Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans for the highly anticipated Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025. This annual event aims to capture the festive spirit through creative and dazzling lighting displays, encouraging both homeowners and businesses to participate. Registration is now open and will close on December 17, 2025. Forms can be collected at the Department of Creative Industries Headquarters on Old Parham Road, the INET office upstairs, or the National Festivals Office on Redcliffe Street and Corn Alley, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Pre-judging will take place on December 20 and 21, 2025, with final judging scheduled for December 28, 2025. Winners will be announced on January 5, 2026, during the Good Morning Antigua and Barbuda broadcast. Home entries will be categorized into East, West, North, and South zones, with participants receiving a 100% waiver on electricity services from December 15, 2025, to January 15, 2026, along with duty-free concessions on Christmas lights and decorations. Cash prizes of $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 XCD will be awarded to the top three winners in each zone. Business participants will enjoy a 50% electricity waiver for December 2025, similar duty-free concessions, and cash prizes matching those for home entries. The competition promises to bring joy and splendor to the holiday season, fostering community spirit and creativity. For advertising opportunities, contact [email protected].
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Antigua’s Junior Tourism Minister Kiara Kwenga to Compete at Youth Congress in Barbados Today
Antigua and Barbuda’s Junior Tourism Minister, 16-year-old Kiara Kwenga, is poised to represent her nation at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Regional Youth Congress on October 2, 2025. The event, a highlight of the State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados, will bring together young leaders from across the Caribbean to discuss the future of tourism in the region. Kiara, a fifth-form student at Christ The King High School, will showcase her innovative ideas on sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and cultural preservation. The Youth Congress, known for its lively debate-style format, challenges participants to address real-world issues facing Caribbean tourism, from enhancing visitor experiences to fostering community development. Kiara’s participation underscores the creativity and resilience of Antigua and Barbuda’s youth, as she competes for the title of CTO Youth Ambassador. The winner will take on the prestigious role of promoting Caribbean tourism globally and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. The event is a testament to the CTO’s commitment to empowering young voices in shaping the future of tourism.
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Blake Sentenced to Four Years for House Breaking and Larceny
In a significant legal development, Gibson Blake from Conaree, St. Kitts, has been sentenced to four years in His Majesty’s Prison for charges of House Breaking and Larceny. The incident, which took place in January 2025, culminated in Blake’s appearance before Justice Iain Morley KC at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 26, 2025, where the verdict was pronounced. Blake, who had been in custody since his arrest, will have the time already served—one year, eight months, and 21 days—deducted from his total sentence after remission is applied. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing property crimes and ensuring justice for affected parties.
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Adames Sentenced to Prison for Indecent Assault
In a significant legal development, Rafael Adames has been sentenced to five years in prison for the crime of indecent assault. The ruling was issued by His Lordship Justice Iain Morley, KC, at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 25, 2025. The incident, which occurred on June 8, 2024, led to Adames pleading guilty to one count of indecent assault on July 8, 2025. His sentencing was postponed until September 2025. Notably, the court has deducted the 10 months and 27 days Adames spent on remand from his total sentence. Under current legal provisions, Adames is required to serve two-thirds of his sentence, contingent upon good behaviour. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing serious offences and ensuring justice for victims.
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Sosúa Council orders removal of underwater Atabey Statue
The Sosúa City Council in Puerto Plata has unanimously decided to dismantle the Atabey statue, a 16-foot underwater sculpture installed in March 2023. The statue, created by the Maguá Foundation and Global Coralition, was intended to serve as both a tourist attraction and a project to restore coral reefs. It represented Atabey, the Taíno mother of water deity, and aimed to promote art, culture, and environmental conservation. However, the decision to remove it was made during a session led by Council President Fausto Santos, following a proposal by Catholic priest Johnny Espinal Castillo and pastor Sebero Cordero Capellán, head of the Federation of Pastors. Since its installation in Sosúa Bay, the sculpture has been a source of controversy. Supporters praised its cultural and ecological significance, while critics, particularly religious groups, labeled it as promoting idolatry. The municipal ordinance has reignited debates on social media, with opinions divided between viewing the statue as a valuable cultural and environmental initiative or as an unwelcome foreign element.
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Public trust fund proposed to tackle energy losses
The Energy Institute at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) has unveiled a groundbreaking proposal to address the persistent issue of energy losses plaguing the Dominican Republic’s distribution company, Edeeste. The initiative, introduced during the panel discussion ‘Energy Loss Management in the Dominican Republic’ hosted by the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, advocates for the establishment of a public trust fund. This fund aims to mitigate the financial strain caused by electricity fraud and non-payment, which have led to a structural deficit currently subsidized by the state. Dean Omar Segura Alcántara emphasized that reducing these losses is crucial for developing a sustainable, competitive, and socially equitable electricity system. The proposed trust fund would ensure transparency, continuity across political transitions, and access to international financing. Additionally, it would introduce pay-for-results contracts to drive efficiency improvements. The initial implementation is planned for the Eastern region, excluding Edenorte and Edesur. José Luis Moreno San Juan, another representative from the UASD Energy Institute, highlighted that a significant portion of revenues—73%—is allocated to generators, leaving distributors with limited resources to manage operations effectively.