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  • Faith, focus, and the future

    Faith, focus, and the future

    The formidable financial barriers obstructing higher education for countless aspiring students have been dramatically overcome in the inspiring account of Joshua Gazader, a recent Caribbean Maritime University alumnus. His academic pursuit, once shadowed by monetary constraints, evolved into a profound narrative of perseverance and transformative support, courtesy of the Supreme Ventures Foundation (SVF).

    Selected as a beneficiary of SVF’s prestigious 20th-anniversary scholarship in 2021, Gazader emerged from a highly competitive pool of thousands of applicants to become one of only twenty recipients. This critical intervention fundamentally altered his educational trajectory, which he had anticipated would be dominated by student debt and exhaustive work-travel commitments necessary to finance his logistics and supply chain studies.

    The scholarship’s impact extended far beyond the elimination of his four-year tuition burden, estimated at over $2 million. It created a comprehensive support system that enabled Gazader to concentrate exclusively on his rigorous academic demands without the distraction of financial pressures. The foundation supplemented financial assistance with professional development initiatives, including mentorship sessions featuring accomplished Jamaican leaders, practical career-building workshops, essential technological resources, and vital support for basic necessities.

    The transition to university education presented significant academic challenges that tested Gazader’s resilience, particularly during his first year when he considered abandoning his studies after failing to meet the required GPA standards. The foundation demonstrated exceptional belief in his potential by granting him a second chance—an act of confidence that propelled him to redouble his efforts through spiritual faith and collaborative study sessions with peers.

    Gazader’s perseverance culminated in his triumphant graduation ceremony this January, attended by foundation representatives who celebrated his achievement. Now established in the inventory management sector, he is actively working toward his five-year goals of vehicle acquisition and home ownership while aspiring to become an industry leader and inspirational figure for disadvantaged youth.

    Reflecting on his journey, Gazader emphasizes the importance of purpose identification, spiritual foundation, and relentless perseverance through obstacles. His story stands as powerful testimony to how targeted educational investment can unleash human potential and create leaders who transform their communities.

  • Lamar Uffar trained for stronger service delivery

    Lamar Uffar trained for stronger service delivery

    Liberty Caribbean and its subsidiary FLOW are revolutionizing customer service excellence through their innovative Technician Pathways Programme, a comprehensive workforce development initiative launched in 2025. This strategic program provides telecommunications technicians with structured training, mentorship, and support systems while they pursue internationally recognized credentials alongside practical field experience.

    The program’s impact is demonstrated through the achievement of Lamar Uffar, a FLOW field services technician who recently earned the prestigious Broadband Premises Installer certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE). This globally recognized credential establishes technical standards across the telecommunications industry worldwide. Uffar’s accomplishment positions him among the first technicians in the Caribbean region to achieve certification through this pioneering program.

    According to Darron Turnquest, Director of People and Communications at FLOW, this investment in technical education directly enhances service capabilities. “By equipping our technicians with advanced technical knowledge and globally recognized certifications, we’re significantly strengthening our capacity to diagnose network issues more efficiently, improve installation quality, and deliver faster, more reliable support for both households and businesses,” Turnquest stated. “Celebrating achievements like Lamar’s underscores our commitment to investing in our team’s professional growth and development.”

    The initiative has gained substantial traction, with 583 technicians across Liberty Caribbean’s markets currently enrolled and actively working toward SCTE certifications. This development is particularly significant given that technicians typically serve as the primary interface between the company and its customer base.

    For Uffar, the certification represents both personal accomplishment and advancement for Jamaica’s technical workforce. “This certification stands as a proud milestone that reflects the dedication and training required to deliver optimal service to our customers,” Uffar commented. “The Technician Pathways Programme has enabled me to deepen my technical expertise and enhance my understanding of daily operational systems. This translates to faster issue diagnosis and more reliable connections for customers during field installations and troubleshooting procedures.”

    The program forms part of a broader corporate strategy to professionalize field roles while developing a pipeline of highly skilled technical professionals throughout the region. Beyond improving service quality, the initiative creates substantial career advancement opportunities for technical staff. Certified technicians gain access to advanced organizational roles, mentorship positions, and opportunities to contribute to complex regional projects across Liberty Caribbean’s network infrastructure.

  • JCI Antigua Hosts 5th Annual Recycle and Create Competition in Observance of National Recycling Day

    JCI Antigua Hosts 5th Annual Recycle and Create Competition in Observance of National Recycling Day

    Antigua’s Multipurpose Cultural Centre became a hub of youthful environmental innovation on March 24th as JCI Antigua hosted its fifth annual Recycle and Create Competition in honor of National Recycling Day. The event showcased exceptional creativity from over 28 participants representing multiple schools across the island, who transformed discarded materials into purposeful artworks and functional creations.

    JCI Antigua President Collet Gordon addressed the gathering with enthusiastic praise for the competitors, noting their demonstrated commitment to sustainable practices. ‘The visionary concepts and executed projects displayed here today confirm that our younger generation recognizes their environmental responsibility and possesses the willingness to champion meaningful change,’ Gordon stated. ‘By converting waste materials into valuable creations, these students are fundamentally reshaping perspectives on consumption patterns, conservation ethics, and community engagement.’

    The competition has established itself as a significant platform for promoting environmental consciousness among youth while encouraging creative problem-solving. This year’s award recipients included: Shemarie Williams from Pares Primary School (1st Place), Tareas Joseph representing Liberta Primary School (2nd Place), and K’Nizia Thomas of Old Road Primary School (3rd Place).

    JCI Antigua extended gratitude to the Ministry of Education, sponsoring organizations, collaborative partners, supporting entities, participating educational institutions, and all contributors who facilitated the event’s success. Through initiatives like the Recycle and Create Competition, the organization reaffirms its dedication to empowering Antigua and Barbuda’s youth, cultivating innovation, and advancing environmental stewardship throughout the community.

  • Boy seriously injured in road collision in Cooks area

    Boy seriously injured in road collision in Cooks area

    A severe traffic incident involving a young pedestrian and a motor vehicle has sparked urgent safety concerns within the Cooks community. Emergency services responded to a roadway collision on Saturday after a truck struck a juvenile male, resulting in critical lower body injuries, particularly to one leg. While official medical reports remain pending, preliminary assessments indicate the child sustained serious trauma requiring immediate hospitalization.

    Local authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the accident circumstances, examining factors including road conditions, visibility, and compliance with traffic regulations. The collision has reignited longstanding community apprehensions regarding pedestrian safety infrastructure in residential areas.

    Residents have mobilized following the incident, organizing community meetings and drafting petitions demanding immediate safety enhancements. Proposed measures include improved crosswalk visibility, reduced speed limits near residential zones, and installation of traffic calming devices. Community representatives emphasize this incident represents an escalation of previously documented safety concerns rather than an isolated occurrence.

    The municipal transportation department has acknowledged receiving formal safety improvement requests and confirmed planned review of area traffic patterns. Psychological support services have been offered to witnesses and affected community members as the neighborhood processes the traumatic event. Further developments are anticipated as investigators complete evidence collection and analysis.

  • INSIDE TRANSPORT: Bus drivers warn of rising piracy, weak enforcement on key route

    INSIDE TRANSPORT: Bus drivers warn of rising piracy, weak enforcement on key route

    Bus operators along Saint Lucia’s critical 2H Castries-Vieux Fort transit corridor are confronting escalating operational challenges as government-promised modernization reforms remain stagnant. Despite years of advocacy, systemic issues including infrastructure deficiencies, unfulfilled policy amendments, and most critically, rampant route piracy continue to undermine driver livelihoods and passenger safety.

    Kurt Celestine, veteran driver and Public Relations Officer of the Southern Minibus Association (2H), describes the deteriorating working conditions: “Our work has become a hassle. We face daily competition from unauthorized operators, and piracy has plagued us for years.” The nation’s transport sector operates through privately-owned buses government-regulated via route-specific permits, yet enforcement against illegal operations remains conspicuously absent.

    The piracy phenomenon involves both unregistered vehicles and—more alarmingly—alleged police officers operating illegal transit services. Marcellinus Faisal, President of the Southern Minibus Association, identifies two specific officers using private vehicles (bearing ‘P’ plates instead of required ‘M’ or ‘H’ designations) to illegally transport passengers along their route daily. “Every single day it’s happening,” Faisal states, “and they’re saying nobody can stop them.”

    Drivers express profound frustration with authorities’ inadequate response despite repeated appeals to law enforcement and transport ministries. Errol Francis, a 2H route driver for over thirty years, highlights the laminated permit explicitly authorizing only Castries/Vieux Fort operations, noting authorities possess revocation powers for violations that remain unused.

    Transport Minister Stephenson King recently acknowledged systemic violations during pre-cabinet briefings, admitting some operators have “broken off from the system” while discussing potential three-tier modernization plans. However, drivers note that promised disciplinary committees—first proposed four years ago—have yet to materialize, leaving them without procedural recourse.

    Beyond immediate piracy concerns, operators emphasize broader needs including laybys, improved Vieux Fort terminal facilities, and southern road rehabilitation. Yet with fundamental enforcement mechanisms failing, confidence in larger modernization efforts remains low. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s Department of Road Safety and Traffic Investigations has commenced examining the allegations, though drivers await tangible action after years of operational hardship.

  • LISTEN: MP’s Lewis, Walker, Bowen pay respectful tributes to Veteran Parliamentarian Sir Molwyn Joseph

    LISTEN: MP’s Lewis, Walker, Bowen pay respectful tributes to Veteran Parliamentarian Sir Molwyn Joseph

    The Lower House of Antigua and Barbuda’s Parliament witnessed heartfelt tributes to Sir Molwyn Joseph, the retiring Member of Parliament for St. Mary’s North, as colleagues honored his distinguished career spanning over three decades. Lawmakers Richard Lewis, Sherfield Bowen, and Trevor Walker delivered commemorative addresses recognizing his extensive contributions to national development.

    Richard Lewis initiated the proceedings by acknowledging Sir Molwyn’s remarkable longevity in public service, emphasizing his significant impact across multiple ministerial portfolios. Lewis highlighted that Joseph’s dedicated service to Antigua and Barbuda ‘over a very long period’ warranted special recognition, noting his substantial influence on contemporaries throughout his political journey.

    Sherfield Bowen followed with reflections on Joseph’s extraordinary electoral consistency, interpreting his repeated re-election as clear evidence of constituent confidence. Bowen candidly addressed their vigorous political exchanges, characterizing their parliamentary debates as featuring the classic ‘cut and thrust’ of democratic discourse while extending sincere retirement wishes.

    Trevor Walker provided additional perspective, recalling Joseph’s ministerial tenure particularly as Tourism Minister and his substantive engagements with Barbuda on critical matters. Walker acknowledged the often intense nature of parliamentary debate while praising Joseph as one of the chamber’s most formidable debaters, asserting that his continued electoral success demonstrated the enduring trust of St. Mary’s North constituents.

    The ceremonial addresses collectively painted a portrait of a dedicated public servant transitioning from active politics after more than thirty years of legislative service, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in the nation’s political history.

  • Woman who died in Freetown I’d As 48-year-old Karen Pigott of Wireless Road

    Woman who died in Freetown I’d As 48-year-old Karen Pigott of Wireless Road

    Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have launched a formal investigation into the tragic passing of a 48-year-old woman following a single-vehicle collision in the Freetown area. The Royal Police Force confirmed the identity of the deceased as Karen Pigott, a resident of Wireless Road.

    The incident unfolded on the evening of Friday, March 27, 2026, when law enforcement officials received an emergency alert at approximately 6:20 p.m. regarding a vehicle that had veered off the roadway and become embedded in roadside vegetation along a secondary thoroughfare in Freetown. Initial reports indicated the driver was unconscious and unresponsive within the damaged automobile.

    First responders arriving at the location discovered a gray Toyota Ractis stationary against the eastern hedgerow, containing a solitary female occupant who was visibly slumped in the driver’s position. Emergency Medical Services personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene and conducted preliminary assessments, but were unable to detect any vital signs.

    The subsequent arrival of a medical practitioner at 8:05 p.m. resulted in the official pronouncement of death. Preliminary evidence suggests no criminal elements were involved in the unfortunate occurrence, though authorities continue to examine all potential contributing factors.

    The Police Administration has publicly expressed profound sympathies to the family circle and associates of the deceased during this period of profound grief. Investigative procedures remain active as officials work to establish the precise sequence of events leading to the fatal outcome.

  • Crabbs Accident Victim Identified as 35-year-old Charles Paul Rippon of Fitches Creek

    Crabbs Accident Victim Identified as 35-year-old Charles Paul Rippon of Fitches Creek

    A tragic high-velocity traffic incident on Crabbs Main Road has resulted in the untimely death of a 35-year-old Fitches Creek resident, Charles Paul Rippon. The calamity unfolded on the evening of Friday, March 27, 2026, prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement and emergency services.

    Preliminary investigative reports from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda indicate that the fatal sequence began when a silver Honda CR-V, traveling at excessive speed in a north-to-south direction, experienced a catastrophic loss of control. The vehicle subsequently veered from its trajectory, collided with a tree located off the southern shoulder of the roadway, and overturned multiple times before coming to rest.

    Personnel from the All Saints Fire Department were dispatched to the scene, where they employed specialized hydraulic rescue apparatus to extract the unconscious driver from the wreckage. Despite rapid transportation to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre by Emergency Medical Services, Mr. Rippon was pronounced deceased at approximately 8:30 p.m., merely one hour after the initial collision.

    In an official communiqué, the Police Administration conveyed its profound condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the deceased, acknowledging the profound grief accompanying such a sudden loss. The statement also reiterated a crucial advisory to all motorists, emphasizing the imperative of vigilant driving practices and strict adherence to posted speed limits to prevent future tragedies.

    The investigation into the precise causative factors of the crash remains active and ongoing, with authorities continuing to analyze the circumstances that led to this devastating outcome.

  • LETTER: Who Is the Right Man for St. George?

    LETTER: Who Is the Right Man for St. George?

    The St. George constituency, Antigua and Barbuda’s largest electoral district, has emerged as the central battleground in the nation’s evolving political landscape. This historically significant region continues to serve as the primary arena for competition between the country’s two dominant political forces: the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) and the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP).

    The upcoming electoral contest features new standard-bearers for both parties following incumbent representative Algernon ‘Serpent’ Watts’ decision not to seek re-election amid widespread constituent dissatisfaction. The UPP has selected Kelton Dalso, a former Democratic National Alliance affiliate, who secured his candidacy through a January primary that drew scrutiny for its limited participation—only 16 eligible branch members participated, with Dalso claiming victory with just 9 votes.

    Conversely, Senator Michael Freeland represents the ABLP following a competitive, well-attended primary in March 2025. Freeland has demonstrated a collaborative approach since his selection, working cohesively with former primary opponents to advance constituency interests—a notable contrast to the internal challenges reportedly facing the UPP.

    Freeland brings substantial credentials to the race, including two Senate terms, service as Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works, and current roles as Deputy Chair of the Festivals Commission and Chairman of the Social Protection Board. His additional leadership as President of the Antigua and Barbuda Basketball Association underscores his deep community involvement.

    The senator’s candidacy is further strengthened by his familial connection to the constituency—his father, Sir Adolphus Freeland, served five terms as Parliamentary Representative for St. George. This legacy provides Michael Freeland with unique insights into effective representation and community leadership.

    With his proven track record, policy experience, grassroots engagement, and established trust among constituents, Freeland presents himself as a candidate capable of delivering steady, people-centered leadership. His comprehensive qualifications and unifying approach position him as the frontrunner in this critical political contest that will significantly influence Antigua and Barbuda’s future direction.

  • Sir Molwyn Joseph Backs Dr. Philmore Benjamin as Successor in St. Mary’s North

    Sir Molwyn Joseph Backs Dr. Philmore Benjamin as Successor in St. Mary’s North

    In a significant political transition, outgoing St. Mary’s North representative Sir Molwyn Joseph has formally endorsed Dr. Philmore Benjamin as his chosen successor, ensuring continuity of representation as he concludes his parliamentary career. The veteran statesman made his position unequivocally clear during his valedictory address to Parliament, explicitly throwing his full support behind Benjamin’s candidacy.

    Joseph emphasized that his retirement would not create a service vacuum for constituents, revealing that both men have established a collaborative framework to maintain the tradition of dedicated representation. ‘He and I will work together to continue the tradition of high service,’ Joseph assured parliamentary colleagues, signaling an orderly transition process.

    The seasoned parliamentarian, whose public service spans more than four decades, addressed selection methodology concerns by highlighting that Benjamin’s endorsement followed a scientifically conducted poll rather than arbitrary decision-making. This strategic move effectively positions Benjamin as the clear political heir in the constituency, backed by one of Antigua and Barbuda’s longest-serving legislators.

    Joseph’s endorsement carries substantial weight within St. Mary’s North, where he cultivated an enduring political base across multiple election cycles. While stepping back from parliamentary duties, Joseph confirmed he would maintain involvement in public affairs and continue supporting both the constituency and the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party machinery.

    This endorsement sets the stage for Benjamin’s candidacy in the upcoming general election with the advantage of established political legacy and institutional support, potentially influencing voter confidence in the continuity of representation.