分类: society

  • Mother Seeks Truth After Son Dies in Shooting

    Mother Seeks Truth After Son Dies in Shooting

    A community in Camalote Village is grappling with uncertainty following the tragic death of Andy Suazo, a young man fatally wounded in a shooting incident under mysterious circumstances. The event occurred while Suazo was socializing with a friend on a local property, where a firearm discharged and struck him in the upper torso. Despite being rushed to medical facilities, Suazo succumbed to his injuries.

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine whether the shooting resulted from accidental discharge or self-inflicted action. The absence of clear answers has compounded the grief of those closest to the victim.

    At the heart of this tragedy stands Andrea Azueda, Suazo’s mother, who raised him primarily as a single parent since becoming a mother at age fifteen through a high-risk pregnancy. She remembers her son as a humble and intellectually gifted individual with profound musical talents—a young artist who composed original songs, including one that poetically documented their life journey together.

    Azueda recounts spending quality family time with her son during what would become their final hours together, completely unaware of the impending tragedy. Rather than demanding punitive justice, she emphasizes her desperate need for closure and transparency. “All I want is the truth,” she stated. “I want answers… If it was an accident, if it was self-inflicted, whatever. Because a dead man tells no tale.”

    The bereaved mother has made a heartfelt public appeal for anyone present during the incident to come forward with information that might provide clarity regarding her son’s untimely death.

  • Child activist wants more emphasis placed on community parenting

    Child activist wants more emphasis placed on community parenting

    A United Nations child rights authority has issued a stark warning regarding the powerful pull of negative community influences on Barbadian youth, advocating for an island-wide shift toward collective parenting responsibility. Faith Marshall-Harris, delivering the keynote address at a National Parenting Seminar in Bridgetown, revealed alarming insights from her direct work with at-risk teenagers, many of whom view illicit activities on the ‘block’ as their primary career path. The event, orchestrated by the Community Development Department, convened stakeholders to design a structured framework for community parenting and family-strengthening initiatives slated for national implementation by mid-2026. Marshall-Harris detailed how a pervasive ‘block culture’ offers adolescents not just income but a dangerous sense of structure and belonging, effectively competing with traditional education and family guidance. She emphasized that antisocial behavior is not innate but cultivated through systemic neglect, arguing that the community at large—not just parents at home—bears responsibility for shaping the next generation. The expert also confronted mounting misconceptions about children’s rights on the island, rejecting the notion that prioritizing young people’s welfare diminishes the rights of other vulnerable groups like the elderly. She dismissed claims linking children’s rights advocacy to increased youth violence, instead charging adults with the duty to teach balanced respect for both rights and responsibilities.

  • Brickdam Secondary School teacher sent off job amid sexual allegations

    Brickdam Secondary School teacher sent off job amid sexual allegations

    Education authorities in Guyana have initiated a formal investigation into serious allegations of a sexual nature involving a teacher at Brickdam Secondary School. Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain confirmed on Wednesday that the educator was immediately placed on administrative leave following established protocols.

    The teacher was removed from duty on March 13, 2026, the same day the allegations were formally brought to the attention of the Ministry of Education. The case has triggered a multi-agency response involving both governmental and non-governmental organizations specializing in child protection.

    Blossom Inc., a respected non-governmental organization focused on child rights, has been engaged to conduct forensic interviews with affected students. Hussain reported that one such interview has already been completed as part of the ongoing investigation.

    Concurrently, the Welfare Department of the Georgetown Department of Education has been actively engaging with parents of potentially affected students. Meetings were held with three separate parents between March 13 and March 17, with each receiving official referral letters to the Child Protection Agency in accordance with standard operating procedures.

    The Chief Education Officer explicitly addressed circulating social media claims, stating: “The Ministry of Education wishes to state unequivocally that, contrary to certain misleading claims circulating on social media, there has been no delay in the investigative process.” The statement emphasized the ministry’s commitment to thorough and timely resolution of the matter while ensuring proper procedural safeguards are maintained throughout the investigation.

  • Antigua And Barbuda Joins The Rest Of The World In Observing World Recycling Day

    Antigua And Barbuda Joins The Rest Of The World In Observing World Recycling Day

    Antigua and Barbuda has officially joined the global observance of World Recycling Day, with the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs leading national initiatives in partnership with the National Solid Waste Management Authority. This significant event underscores the critical need for enhanced waste management strategies, environmental conservation, and the adoption of sustainable practices across all levels of society.

    Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph articulated the government’s stance, framing recycling not merely as an environmental activity but as a fundamental national duty. “Recycling transcends basic environmental practice; it represents a collective national responsibility demanding every citizen’s engagement to secure the ecological future of Antigua and Barbuda,” he asserted during the commemorative events.

    The Minister further elaborated on the administration’s vision for fostering enduring ecological mindfulness. “By cultivating robust partnerships and maintaining continuous public involvement, we can establish a pervasive culture of environmental stewardship that benefits both our population and the planet,” Joseph added.

    This year’s observance coincides with the National Solid Waste Management Authority’s ongoing nationwide cleanliness campaign. The Ministry is actively encouraging community participation, urging residents to engage in or organize local and household cleaning initiatives to contribute to healthier, more hygienic living environments.

    Looking forward, the Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating with institutional partners to amplify public education efforts and implement actionable measures for progressive waste management reform throughout the twin-island nation.

  • Antiguan educator Alex Wharton named South Carolina Teacher of the Year finalist

    Antiguan educator Alex Wharton named South Carolina Teacher of the Year finalist

    In a remarkable achievement for Caribbean educators in the United States, Alex Wharton—a special education teacher from Antigua and Barbuda—has been selected as one of five finalists for South Carolina’s 2026 Teacher of the Year award. The announcement was made during a surprise visit by state and district education officials to Wharton’s classroom at Berkeley High School, where she serves as a resource teacher for special education.

    With an impressive 34-year career spanning both the Caribbean and the United States, including eight years in South Carolina, Wharton brings extensive experience to her role. Her educational journey began in her hometown of Grays Green, Antigua and Barbuda, before expanding across multiple educational systems.

    Wharton’s nomination follows her recognition as Berkeley County School District’s 2025 Teacher of the Year, highlighting her exceptional contributions to special education. Her teaching methodology emphasizes practical life skills and workforce preparation, combined with vigorous advocacy for her students’ needs and inclusion.

    The selection process for South Carolina’s Teacher of the Year program identifies educators who demonstrate exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication to student achievement. As a finalist, Wharton received a $10,000 award, while the overall winner—to be announced on April 23—will receive $25,000, a BMW for one year, and serve as a statewide education ambassador.

    Colleagues and administrators describe Wharton as a devoted educator who cultivates supportive and inclusive environments for both students and staff. Her influence extends beyond the classroom through her additional role as an ordained minister, reflecting her deep commitment to community service.

    Following the announcement, Wharton characterized the honor as both humbling and validating, acknowledging the unique challenges and profound rewards inherent to special education. The celebration included her family and school community members, underscoring the collective support for her achievement.

  • NUPW renews drive to attract younger members

    NUPW renews drive to attract younger members

    Facing a significant downturn in young worker engagement, the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) in Barbados has initiated an ambitious campaign to revitalize its youth membership. Under the leadership of Youth League Chairperson Randicia Kellman, the union is executing targeted outreach operations designed to increase visibility and directly connect with the next generation of employees.

    The initiative features highly visible tours of major business districts, with teams wearing distinctive new shirts visiting public buildings throughout the Warrens, St. Michael area. This strategic approach aims to bridge the information gap that has developed between the union and young workers. “We recognize that young people don’t get to see the union enough outside formal settings,” Kellman explained during the visibility tour. “We’re meeting workers where they are—at their workplaces—to listen to their concerns and demonstrate our presence.”

    The recruitment push addresses both traditional workplace challenges and emerging issues affecting younger employees, including contract work uncertainties and anxieties surrounding artificial intelligence and workplace digitization. Kellman emphasized that many young workers experience union-relevant problems without recognizing the NUPW as a potential resource for resolution.

    Research conducted by the Youth League revealed that declining membership stems primarily from informational deficits rather than disinterest. Many young employees remain unaware of union functions and support mechanisms, often struggling with workplace issues in isolation. The visibility campaign represents just the initial phase of a comprehensive program that will expand into educational institutions, with plans to introduce union advocacy concepts at both primary and secondary school levels.

    The NUPW’s multifaceted approach seeks to rebuild trust through consistent presence and transparent communication about the union’s role in addressing contemporary workplace challenges.

  • Former BCA employee passes on

    Former BCA employee passes on

    The Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) and the wider cricketing community are in mourning following the passing of Cheryl Butcher, a respected former employee, who died earlier today in the United Kingdom. Butcher, who was married to former international cricketer and BCA Board Director Roland Butcher for 46 years, dedicated two decades of service to the BCA before her recent retirement in 2024. Her long-standing commitment made her a valued and integral part of the organization’s operations. She leaves behind a grieving family, including her husband, her son Paul, her daughter Michelle, and her three adored grandchildren, Leevon, Leighenna, and Chase. In an official statement, the BCA’s Board of Directors, management, staff, and its broader membership body collectively expressed their profound sorrow and extended deepest sympathies to the Butcher family, honoring her memory and significant contributions.

  • Health Ministry Congratulates New Environmental Awareness Group Board

    Health Ministry Congratulates New Environmental Awareness Group Board

    In a significant development for Antigua and Barbuda’s environmental sector, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs has formally congratulated all newly appointed board members of the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG). The Ministry specifically highlighted the appointment of Garth Simon, a distinguished officer from the Department of Environment, to the organization’s governing body.

    Mr. Simon’s appointment recognizes his exceptional dedication to environmental protection, sustainable development initiatives, and enhancing national resilience. His substantial contributions have significantly advanced the nation’s environmental policies and conservation efforts, making his selection a testament to both his professional expertise and unwavering commitment to public service.

    The Environmental Awareness Group, founded in 1988, stands as one of the country’s foremost non-governmental organizations dedicated to conservation and ecological advocacy. Throughout its operational history, EAG has been instrumental in protecting biodiversity, promoting environmental education, and leading critical ecosystem restoration projects. The organization has gained widespread acclaim for its pioneering work in offshore island rehabilitation and safeguarding endangered species, particularly the critically endangered Antiguan racer snake.

    While extending congratulations to all incoming board members for their collective expertise, the Ministry emphasized particular pride in Mr. Simon’s achievement as a representative of the governmental environmental sector. This appointment is viewed as strengthening the collaborative relationship between governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations in addressing environmental challenges.

    The Ministry expressed strong confidence in the Board’s future leadership, anticipating substantial positive outcomes from their coordinated efforts to preserve and protect Antigua and Barbuda’s natural heritage for current and future generations.

  • ABWU and Jolly Beach Resort Sign New Collective Bargaining Agreement

    ABWU and Jolly Beach Resort Sign New Collective Bargaining Agreement

    In a significant advancement for labor rights within Antigua’s tourism sector, employees at Jolly Beach Resort have achieved a comprehensive collective bargaining agreement. The landmark deal, finalized between the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) and resort management, establishes formalized standards for wages and working conditions.

    The negotiation process commenced less than a year following the resort’s post-pandemic reopening, demonstrating accelerated progress in labor relations. Both parties have hailed the agreement as a model of constructive dialogue and industrial cooperation.

    Senator David Massiah, ABWU General Secretary, emphasized the agreement’s fundamental importance for workforce protections. “This achievement represents our core obligation to secure defined employment frameworks that guarantee fair treatment and structured benefits for those we represent,” Massiah stated.

    Management representatives similarly praised the collaborative process. Mark A. Grebby, Group Senior Vice President of Elite Island Resorts Caribbean, acknowledged the union’s professional engagement, stating: “We genuinely appreciate ABWU’s constructive approach in representing their dedicated Jolly Beach membership.”

    The newly ratified contract codifies industry-standard provisions covering compensation structures, allowance systems, uniform policies, and transportation arrangements. This legally binding agreement remains effective from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027, providing three years of stabilized labor relations.

  • “The Truth is Simple: Girls are Incredible Problem Solvers”

    “The Truth is Simple: Girls are Incredible Problem Solvers”

    In a significant move to address gender disparities in technology, Belize Bank has unveiled the latest iteration of its Girls4Tech program, providing hands-on training in coding, digital security, and analytical problem-solving for young female students across Belize. This Mastercard-supported initiative has now expanded its reach to approximately 300 participants nationwide, marking a substantial commitment to fostering female representation in STEM fields.

    The program emerges against the backdrop of persistent underrepresentation of women throughout Caribbean technological sectors. Girls4Tech was specifically conceived to dismantle these barriers and create equitable opportunities for female participation in digital innovation.

    At the official launch ceremony, Chief Banking Officer Monica Daryanani Urbina delivered a powerful address challenging entrenched stereotypes about gender and technology. ‘The fundamental truth remains undeniable: young women possess extraordinary problem-solving capabilities,’ Urbina asserted. ‘They demonstrate remarkable creativity, innovation, and consistently pose the critical questions that spark transformative ideas.’

    Urbina further observed that many participants already exhibit innate innovative thinking through their engagement with puzzles, applications, and computer systems—activities that form the foundational mindset for technological proficiency. She emphasized technology’s central role in modern development, stating, ‘Technology transcends being merely an organizational department; it represents the core engine of innovation, the primary driver of progress, and among our most potent tools for empowerment in the contemporary world.’

    In her concluding remarks, Urbina addressed the psychological barriers that frequently deter women from pursuing technical careers, offering an empowering perspective: ‘Every existing barrier presents an opportunity to dismantle it.’ The program represents a strategic investment in building a more inclusive technological landscape while equipping young women with essential digital skills for future professional success.