The National Blood Collection Centre has significantly enhanced its operational capacity with the generous donation of a state-of-the-art multifunctional blood donor electric bed from Sagicor. This contribution increases the total number of beds at the facility to eight, improving both efficiency and comfort for donors and staff alike. Nurse Wendy Lorde, Senior Blood Collecting Technician, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the timely donation, emphasizing its transformative impact on the Centre’s ability to serve the public. ‘This new bed from Sagicor has revolutionized our daily operations,’ she remarked. ‘Previously, we had four beds, one of which required replacement. With the addition of three beds from the QEH and now this latest donation, we have eight fully functional units. This allows us to accommodate more donors simultaneously, with each bed facilitating at least seven donations daily. This not only reduces waiting times but also ensures a more comfortable experience for everyone.’ Nurse Lorde also highlighted a positive trend of increased blood donations in recent months, particularly from individuals donating on behalf of family and friends. However, she encouraged more people to become regular donors, stressing the importance of a consistent blood supply in saving lives. Paul Inniss, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Sagicor Life Inc. (Barbados), shared the company’s pride in supporting the National Blood Collection Centre’s vital work. ‘At Sagicor, we are committed to caring for our communities in meaningful ways. The Centre plays a pivotal role in sustaining our healthcare system, and we are honored to contribute to making the donation process more accessible and comfortable. We hope this donation inspires more Barbadians to give the gift of life.’ This initiative is part of Sagicor’s broader commitment to health and wellness across Barbados and the region.
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When the voice of labour falls silent, then what?
Since the dawn of the 21st century, the world has undergone profound economic and political transformations, reshaping global economies, societal structures, and labor markets. These shifts, often driven by the decisions of superpower nations, have ignited trade wars and intensified competition over critical resources such as land, oil, and minerals, fostering a new era of neocolonialism. Amid these changes, trade unions have faced scrutiny for their perceived silence on these pressing issues. While international trade union organizations have voiced concerns, the muted response from developing nations—many reliant on first-world support—raises questions about their ability to safeguard labor rights and employment gains. Critics argue that unions may be either hesitant to challenge powerful entities or disconnected from the global developments threatening workers’ welfare. The hostile legal and political environments in many countries, marked by anti-union legislation and measures criminalizing union activities, further complicate their efforts. Even in democratic nations, unions struggle to address global challenges effectively. The rise of the gig economy and non-standard employment has further eroded traditional union structures, making it increasingly difficult to organize fragmented and vulnerable worker groups. Declining membership, particularly among younger workers who view unions as outdated, has diminished their influence and public visibility. As the nature of work continues to evolve, trade unions must confront these mounting challenges to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
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Team Antigua Island Girls Present Uncharted Waters—an evening of untold stories from their historic Pacific Ocean row
Team Antigua Island Girls, the groundbreaking all-Black female rowing team, invites the public to an exclusive event titled ‘Uncharted Waters.’ This intimate evening, scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, at the John E. St. Luce Financial and Conference Centre, will feature emotional storytelling and never-before-shared insights from their record-breaking 2023 Pacific Ocean crossing. The event begins at 7:15 p.m., with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. for a pre-show experience. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore ‘Dadli Gyal,’ the boat that carried the team across 2,800 nautical miles over 47 days, sample the dehydrated meals that sustained the rowers, and participate in a raffle with prizes including a dinner for two at Jumby Bay. Tickets are priced at $150 for adults and $50 for youth under 16, available via the Ticketing app, Ken’s Club in Cassada Gardens, Kennedy’s in Powell’s, or SICON at the airport. All proceeds will support the establishment of a home for girls in conflict with the law, reflecting the team’s dedication to empowerment and social change. Team Antigua Island Girls, composed of Christal (author and swim instructor), Elvira (health and wellness coach), Kevinia (personal trainer and team captain), and Samara (Antigua and Barbuda’s first female boat captain), made history in 2018–2019 by rowing 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic. In 2023, Christal, Kevinia, and Samara took on the World’s Toughest Row—Pacific, inspiring global audiences with their determination and teamwork.
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ABWU Announces Dr Dwayne ‘Baba’ Thwaites as Featured Speaker for 2025 Men’s Conference
The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has revealed that Dr. Dwayne “Baba” Thwaites, a distinguished urologist, will be the keynote speaker at its 2025 International Men’s Day Conference. Scheduled for November 19, the event, themed “Healthy Men, Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Society,” will emphasize men’s physical and mental health, early disease detection, and fostering healthier work environments. Dr. Thwaites’ participation underscores the Union’s dedication to advancing discussions on men’s health both nationally and regionally. Recognized as one of the Caribbean’s foremost urology experts, Dr. Thwaites boasts a career marked by clinical excellence, groundbreaking research, and public health advocacy. His extensive training includes stints at prestigious U.S. institutions such as the University of Miami, Emory University, and the State University of New York. A graduate of Ottos Comprehensive School and St Joseph’s Academy, Dr. Thwaites completed his undergraduate studies at St Leo University in Florida and post-baccalaureate work at the University of South Florida. He earned his medical degree from the University of Miami, followed by a general surgery residency in New York and a trauma fellowship at St Vincent Hospital in Staten Island. Dr. Thwaites made history as Chief of Surgery at Alexandra Hospital in Nevis, performing the first laparoscopic surgery in the Eastern Caribbean. After specializing in urology at Emory University and the University of Miami, he returned to the region to conduct its first laser prostatectomy. Today, he maintains a successful urology practice and spearheads annual prostate screening initiatives across the Eastern Caribbean. The ABWU highlighted Dr. Thwaites’ trailblazing contributions and focus on early detection as vital to the conference’s mission. The event will convene on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
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APUA crew at work in Jamaica supporting power restoration
In a demonstration of regional solidarity, technicians from the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) have been dispatched to Jamaica to assist in ongoing electricity restoration efforts. This initiative is part of a coordinated response facilitated by the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC), which mobilizes resources and expertise across member nations during crises. The APUA team is working alongside the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) to address recent disruptions to the island’s power grid, focusing on repairing and stabilizing electrical lines in affected communities. This collaborative effort highlights the longstanding tradition of regional cooperation among utility providers, who routinely share manpower and technical knowledge in the aftermath of significant outages. APUA has confirmed that its technicians will remain in Jamaica until all assigned restoration tasks are completed, ensuring a swift and effective recovery.
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Antigua & Barbuda Marks Arbor Day with Month-Long Push for Climate Resilience and Green Restoration
Arbor Day, observed internationally on November 16, stands as a powerful reminder of the critical role trees play in environmental sustainability and humanity’s duty to protect the planet. Communities worldwide commemorate this day by planting trees, revitalizing green spaces, and raising awareness about climate change and biodiversity. While the date may vary across countries, the core mission remains consistent: fostering a greener, healthier, and more resilient Earth.
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ABHTA Announces Nominees for Rising Star and Young Hotelier of the Year
The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has unveiled the nominees for the prestigious Rising Star of the Year and Young Hotelier of the Year awards, set to be presented at the 2025 Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Awards. These accolades aim to honor the next generation of leaders in the hospitality industry, celebrating their dedication and professionalism in enhancing service standards nationwide.
This year’s nominees hail from some of the country’s most renowned establishments, including Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, and Trade Winds Hotel. According to the ABHTA, these individuals embody the passion and excellence that drive Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector forward, contributing to elevated guest experiences and fostering industry-wide innovation.
The winners will be revealed on November 29, 2025, during the Tourism Awards Gala, hosted at Sandals Grande Antigua under the theme “Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine.” The event is a collaborative effort between the ABHTA, the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), highlighting the collective commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the hospitality industry.
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Employee and Supervisor of the Year Nominees Announced For 2025 Tourism Awards
Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry is gearing up for a grand celebration of excellence as the nominees for the 2025 Tourism Awards have been unveiled. The prestigious event, organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), is scheduled for November 29, 2025, at the luxurious Sandals Grande Antigua. Titled ‘Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine,’ the ceremony aims to honor the remarkable contributions of tourism professionals across the nation. Key categories include ‘Employee of the Year’ and ‘Supervisor of the Year,’ spotlighting individuals who have exhibited exceptional dedication, skill, and enthusiasm in their roles. The nominees hail from some of Antigua’s most renowned hospitality establishments, such as Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocobay Resort, Cocos Hotel, Hawksbill Resort Antigua, Hermitage Bay, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Mill Reef Club, Royalton Antigua, Royalton CHIC Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, Siboney Beach Club, Tamarind Hills Resort & Villas, Trade Winds Hotel, and The Escape at Nonsuch Bay. The ABHTA emphasized that the awards are a tribute to the individuals who propel the success of the country’s leading industry and foster a culture of excellence. The winners will be announced during the gala, marking a significant milestone in the tourism calendar and a moment to reflect on the resilience and growth of Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality sector.
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Education Director Urges Full Participation in OECS Student Census
Clare Browne, the Director of Education in Antigua and Barbuda, has passionately appealed to students, parents, and educators to actively support the upcoming 2025 OECS Student Census. Describing it as a pivotal initiative, Browne emphasized that the census transcends mere data collection, aiming instead to provide profound insights into how students ‘learn, live, and thrive’ within their educational environments. He highlighted that the findings will inform policy decisions focused on equity, quality, and inclusivity, ensuring the education system evolves to meet the diverse needs of students. The census, conducted by trained enumerators, guarantees a straightforward, confidential, and respectful process for all participants. Browne urged students to participate confidently and called on parents and educators to offer their unwavering support. ‘Together, we are shaping an education system that truly listens — one that responds to the needs, dreams, and voices of every child across the OECS,’ he stated. This initiative marks a significant step toward regional educational enhancement.
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Ministry of Works Reports Steady Progress on Community Road Projects
The Ministry of Works in Antigua and Barbuda has reported significant progress in its nationwide infrastructure development initiatives during October. Over 36,000 cubic feet of concrete were produced last month, facilitating the ongoing rehabilitation of roads, curbs, and drainage systems across multiple communities. In a recent update, the Ministry revealed that its concrete plant generated 36,585 cubic feet of poured concrete, enabling construction teams to accelerate their efforts in various districts. Preparations are also underway for the much-anticipated restoration of All Saints Road, a critical artery in the country. This project is being carefully coordinated with APUA’s national repiping initiative to ensure alignment and minimize disruptions to the public. A comprehensive update on the All Saints Road restoration is expected after next week’s Cabinet meeting. The Ministry expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the nation’s infrastructure. “The best is yet to come,” the statement concluded, signaling optimism for future developments.