Ashley Lashley, a prominent youth advocate from Barbados, recently made her international debut as one of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Youth Advisors on Climate Change at the prestigious International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi. The event, held every four years, serves as a global platform for setting conservation and sustainable development priorities. This year’s congress attracted over 1,400 participants, including government officials, civil society organizations, Indigenous representatives, and corporate leaders. Lashley’s participation was hailed as a significant milestone, as she actively contributed to high-level discussions aimed at accelerating global climate action and conservation efforts. She was a key speaker in the Special Session titled “Nature’s Promise for Climate & People — A Call and Commitment from the Conservation Community to Belém and Beyond,” which focused on enhancing nature preservation, climate resilience, and human well-being. Additionally, Lashley participated in the session “Alliances Fit for the Post-2030 Era – Driving the Next Wave of Multilateralism,” exploring innovative partnerships to sustain environmental initiatives beyond 2030. Drawing from her experience as a former recipient of the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP), Lashley emphasized the critical role of youth-led organizations in developing scalable environmental solutions. She also highlighted the interconnectedness of human health, biodiversity, and ecosystems in the high-level session “One Health: The Only Healthy Future for People, Animals, and Ecosystems.” Lashley candidly addressed the tension between capitalism and environmental sustainability, advocating for economic models that support sustainable communities and healthy ecosystems. Her participation underscored the importance of youth voices in shaping global climate and conservation policies, particularly from the Caribbean region.
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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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VIDEO: Flooded Graves at Tranquility Park Cemetery
Antigua’s most visited news website is now offering fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages to businesses looking to enhance their online presence. With a proven track record of high traffic and engagement, the platform provides advertisers with unique opportunities to reach a broad audience effectively. The marketing solutions are designed to be adaptable, catering to the specific needs and goals of each client. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the team at [email protected] to explore tailored advertising strategies. This initiative aims to support local and international businesses in maximizing their digital outreach through innovative and targeted campaigns.
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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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Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission Delegation to Represent Antigua Carnival at Miami Carnival 2025
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, in collaboration with the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, has announced the participation of its delegation at the Miami Carnival 2025. This prestigious event, celebrated as the largest Caribbean Carnival in the United States, draws over 250,000 attendees annually, including Caribbean-Americans and global festival enthusiasts. The delegation aims to highlight the vibrant culture of Antigua Carnival, which shares many signature elements with Miami Carnival, such as fetes, Junior Carnival, Panorama Competition, J’ouvert, the Mas Parade, and Concert Day.
This cultural exchange underscores the strong regional ties between Antigua and the broader Caribbean community. A key feature of this partnership is the inclusion of Antiguan soca artists in the Miami Carnival International Show. Over the past two years, this initiative has expanded, enabling Antiguan artists to perform at premier Miami Carnival events like Citrus, No Borders, J’ouvert, One Link, One Fete, and the Miami Carnival International Show.
This year’s delegation includes prominent Antiguan musical talents such as Tian Winter, Soca Villan, Island Princess, Kid Fresh, Empress, and DJ Quest. The goal is to attract at least 1% of Miami Carnival’s audience—passionate ‘Carnival travelers and hoppers’—to experience Antigua’s authentic island culture.
Hon. Daryll S. Matthew, Minister for Education, Sports, and the Creative Industries, praised the initiative, noting its positive impact on Antigua’s Carnival tourism. He highlighted the strategic marketing efforts that have led to increased visitor numbers, supported by American Airlines’ three daily flights during the 2025 Carnival season.
Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, Chairperson of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to empowering local artists and showcasing Antiguan talent globally. Through workshops and international event placements, the Commission ensures that Antiguan artists are well-prepared to shine on the world stage.
This representation at Miami Carnival 2025 reinforces the Antigua Carnival brand as the premier choice for U.S.-based Carnival enthusiasts seeking an authentic Caribbean experience. With its rich cultural heritage, high-energy performances, and vibrant atmosphere, Antigua Carnival continues to live up to its reputation as ‘The Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival.’
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Belize’s Derrick Chavarria Takes Gold in U23 Time Trial
In a historic moment for Belizean sports, Derrick Chavarria secured the gold medal in the Under-23 Time Trial at the 2025 Caribbean Elite Cycling Championship. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone for Belize, as the nation hosts the prestigious regional tournament for the first time. The event, which commenced on Friday with an official team presentation at the Belize Biltmore Plaza, has attracted cycling enthusiasts from across the Caribbean, with nineteen nations participating. Chavarria’s triumph not only places Belize prominently on the leaderboard but also sets a positive tone for Team Belize as they prepare for the elite road race scheduled for Sunday. The championship has already drawn substantial crowds, underscoring the growing popularity of cycling in the region and the excitement surrounding this year’s competition.
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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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Caribbean Court of Justice Commemorates Its Fourth President with Special Sitting
On October 6, 2025, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) held a Special Sitting at its headquarters in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, to commemorate the inauguration of the Honourable Mr Justice Winston Anderson as its fourth President. The event was attended by Heads of Judiciaries from Barbados, Belize, Guyana, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, and Trinidad and Tobago, alongside regional dignitaries and judicial representatives. Justice Anderson, who assumed the presidency on July 6, 2025, in Montego Bay, Jamaica, has a distinguished career spanning academia and law, including roles as a professor at The University of the West Indies (UWI) and founding Chairman of the CCJ Academy for Law. In his address, President Anderson highlighted the CCJ’s role in enhancing access to final appellate justice for Caribbean citizens, citing a 450% increase in appeals from Barbados since the court’s establishment. However, he emphasized the need for full compliance with the CCJ Agreement to maximize its impact on regional jurisprudence. The ceremony featured speeches from prominent figures, including Chief Justice Ivor Archie of Trinidad and Tobago, who praised Anderson’s vision for accessible justice, and CARICOM General Counsel Lisa Shoman, who underscored the CCJ’s importance in fostering regional integration and stability. The event concluded with a vote of confidence from former CCJ President Sir Dennis Byron, who lauded Anderson’s contributions to landmark cases and regional crime-fighting initiatives.