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.
分类： society
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Peltier suggests gov’t scholarships in honor of ‘media-friendly’ Rosie Douglas
During the annual Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas Memorial Lecture held at the State House Conference Centre on Thursday, Matthias “Matt” Peltier Jr., a renowned talk show host and radio personality, made a compelling appeal to the Dominica Labour Party (DLP). Peltier urged the government to establish a scholarship program for local media workers in memory of the late Prime Minister Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas. He proposed that the scholarship be awarded every three years to support young media professionals. Additionally, Peltier called for the enactment of a Freedom of Information Bill to enhance transparency and accessibility to information in Dominica. He emphasized the necessity of these measures, stating, ‘I think that is very, very necessary.’ Peltier highlighted Douglas’s unique relationship with the media, noting that during his 30-year career, he had never encountered a prime minister as accessible and open to the press as Douglas. ‘You had access to him 24-7. Doesn’t matter what time you call, he might be in the bathroom, he would tell you to hold on then he will return your call,’ Peltier reminisced. Rosie Douglas, who passed away on October 1, 2000, served as Prime Minister for just eight months following his election on January 31 of that year.
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Dorpshoofden vragen om noodmaatregelen na instorting brug Witagron
In a pressing open letter to President Jennifer Simons, the village leaders of Apoera, Washabo, and Section have called for urgent measures following the partial collapse of the bridge over the Coppenamerivier near Witagron. The leaders emphasized the need for emergency provisions and long-term structural solutions to restore accessibility to West Suriname. They highlighted that despite repeated warnings, heavily loaded trucks, particularly from the timber industry, have continued to use the bridge, disregarding safety regulations. This negligence has left local businesses and workers without income once again. The letter also demanded clarity on potential compensation for affected entrepreneurs and criticized the unfair burden placed on communities that already benefit little from timber concessions. The leaders proposed two immediate solutions: deploying a pontoon at Witagron for safe transport of people and goods, and expediting the restoration of the road connection between Apoera and Nickerie, including the construction of a bridge over the Kaboerie Creek. They warned that without swift action, the region risks economic isolation, severely impacting supply chains and daily life. The letter concluded with a plea for the president’s prompt attention to ensure the region remains safe, accessible, and economically viable.
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Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority Reports Quick Operations Recovery in Wake of TS Jerry
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.
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Teen Promotion Group Launches “A Day of Giving Back” Community Initiative
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.
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I Am A Girl donates $5 000 in supplies to Springer Memorial
In a significant move to bolster educational resources, the non-profit organization I Am A Girl has contributed $5,000 worth of essential equipment to Springer Memorial School. The donation, which includes a printer, ink, and 20 boxes of paper, aims to enhance the school’s printing and learning capabilities. The handover ceremony occurred during the school’s morning assembly on Friday, where Samsha Payne, the Community Engagement and Programming Assistant at I Am A Girl, addressed the students. Payne highlighted the organization’s mission to empower young women through education and leadership development. She emphasized the significance of the week, which coincided with World Mental Health Day, the International Day of the Girl Child, and the organization’s 11th anniversary. ‘It felt right to give back to the school that has nurtured some of our DisruptHer mentees,’ Payne remarked. The DisruptHer Programme, a flagship initiative of I Am A Girl, recently concluded at Springer Memorial. This program is designed to cultivate leadership, confidence, and community among young women across the Caribbean. In an interview, Raeann Flatts, the communications and engagement coordinator, and Joy Drayton, the DisruptHer facilitator, shared insights into the program’s impact. Over the past three years, DisruptHer has reached schools in Barbados, Trinidad, Dominica, and Saint Lucia. ‘DisruptHer teaches girls to become positive disruptors, to use their voices, lead with purpose, and influence change,’ Flatts explained. ‘Many of our mentees go on to mentor others, perpetuating the cycle of empowerment.’ Springer Memorial Principal Sonja Goodridge expressed profound gratitude for the donation, noting that the new equipment will significantly benefit students, especially as they prepare for school-based assessments.
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Home Affairs Ministry Reacts to Murder of Cop
In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through Belize City, Police Constable Oswald Young, aged 44, was fatally shot on Friday night while en route to his duty at the Belama Police Station. The attack occurred around 9:40 p.m. in Unitedville Village, where Young, dressed in uniform, was ambushed. The Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries has confirmed that the shooting was a deliberate assault on a member of the Belize Police Department.
In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry expressed its unequivocal condemnation of the crime and pledged full support to the ongoing investigation. ‘This was a targeted attack on a member of the Belize Police Department, and it is being treated with the highest level of urgency,’ the Ministry declared. ‘We stand firmly behind the efforts to bring those responsible to justice.’
Police Minister Kareem Musa echoed the Ministry’s sentiments, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. ‘We will not rest until the person or persons responsible are found and prosecuted,’ Musa asserted. ‘PC Young was a public servant in uniform, and his murder is an attack on the rule of law itself.’ The incident has heightened concerns over the safety of law enforcement officers and the broader implications for public security in Belize.
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Young speakers, poets celebrated as literacy drive continues
The Ministry of Educational Transformation in Barbados has unveiled the finalists for its annual Pontifications and Poetry Competition, a cornerstone initiative in the nation’s literacy drive. The announcement was made during a ceremony on Friday, where Deputy Chief Education Officer, Reverend Stephen Scott, lauded the participants and reiterated the ministry’s dedication to fostering literacy and self-expression through the arts.
Rev. Scott emphasized the historical significance of pontification — the art of eloquent speech — and poetry in Barbados, tracing their roots to the island’s rich tradition of storytelling, resilience, and social commentary. ‘These art forms are not merely cultural relics; they are dynamic tools for articulating ideas, challenging perspectives, and inspiring societal change,’ he remarked. He further highlighted the transformative potential of these skills, stating that they empower students to embark on journeys of self-discovery, critical thinking, and confidence building.
The competition is a key component of the ministry’s broader educational transformation agenda, which seeks to integrate literacy, communication, and creative expression into the core of the learning experience. ‘By embedding pontification and poetry into our curriculum, we are not only enriching our cultural heritage but also equipping our youth with essential skills for leadership and innovation,’ Rev. Scott added.
Education Officer Gloria Haynes praised the competition’s evolution, now in its third year, as a vital platform for student engagement. ‘This event provides students with a unique opportunity to voice their perspectives on pressing national, regional, and global issues while refining their public speaking and creative writing abilities,’ she said. This year’s theme, ‘Speak Up, Speak Out,’ encourages participants to use their voices to advocate for change, share personal narratives, and inspire their communities.
The competition, slated for late November, aims to cultivate articulate, confident communicators who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society. By fostering creativity, critical thinking, and civic responsibility, the initiative aligns with the ministry’s mission to ensure that every child leaves school with the ability to read, comprehend, and communicate effectively, regardless of socioeconomic background.
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Ministry Highlights Role of Animals in Sustainable Development on World Animal Day
On October 4th, Antigua and Barbuda joined the global community in celebrating World Animal Day, a significant occasion dedicated to elevating the status of animals and enhancing their welfare worldwide. This annual event underscores the deep and multifaceted relationship between humans and animals, which extends beyond companionship to encompass food security, agriculture, livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy in Antigua and Barbuda has been a steadfast advocate for animal welfare. Through its various divisions, the Ministry emphasizes the importance of both domesticated and wild animals in national development and environmental protection. The Veterinary and Livestock Division, in particular, has spearheaded initiatives such as vaccination programs, disease prevention campaigns, and rural outreach efforts to promote responsible animal care and sustainable livestock management. These measures not only safeguard the nation’s food supply but also support the livelihoods of farmers and animal owners.
In addition to terrestrial animals, the Ministry recognizes the critical role of marine life in the Blue Economy. Fish, turtles, and other marine species are integral to ecological balance and economic sustainability. Conservation policies and public awareness campaigns are key components of the nation’s strategy to protect marine biodiversity and ensure that future generations can benefit from the ocean’s resources.
World Animal Day also serves as an opportunity for the Ministry to bolster public education on animal rights and humane treatment. By engaging schools, farmers, and community groups, the Ministry fosters greater awareness of the vital role animals play in the environment and economy. These educational initiatives highlight the importance of compassion towards animals as a hallmark of a progressive society.
As Antigua and Barbuda advances towards sustainable development, the observance of World Animal Day reaffirms the Ministry’s commitment to protecting and valuing all forms of animal life. This alignment with global standards ensures that animals remain a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural, environmental, and cultural identity. On this day, the Ministry celebrates not only animals but also the shared responsibility to treat them with dignity, respect, and care.
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Joe’s River right-of-way dispute heads to trial
A protracted conflict between the residents of Joe’s River, St Joseph, and a private developer over access to one of the area’s most cherished natural landmarks is poised to be resolved in the High Court next month. The trial, scheduled for three days starting November 10, will address the ongoing dispute that has persisted for several years. At the heart of the controversy is Ullswater Investments Limited’s construction of concrete columns, which locals argue will obstruct their access to essential community areas, including Joe’s River and the iconic Teacup and Saucer lookout point. The trial will feature testimonies from both the residents and the developer, Richard Hains. Over 20 residents and individuals from Bathsheba have submitted witness statements asserting their prescriptive right-of-way to these locations, further intensifying the legal battle.