The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) Women’s Council recently organized a thought-provoking mini-seminar centered on self-care and mental health. Held on Wednesday, the event attracted a diverse group of women from the Union’s membership, all seeking to enhance their quality of life through actionable insights and shared experiences. The seminar featured a compelling presentation by Clinical Psychologist Feona Charles-Richards, who addressed critical topics such as fostering strong sisterhoods, overcoming past traumas, nurturing self-awareness, and embracing mindfulness. Her session was complemented by an interactive discussion where participants exchanged personal stories and strategies to strengthen connections and empower one another. Hazel Luke, the ABWU Women’s Coordinator, further enriched the event with a practical workshop on self-care. Through hands-on exercises, Luke emphasized the importance of focusing on controllable aspects of life to achieve peace and balance. Attendees lauded the seminar as a transformative experience, with one participant describing it as a powerful reminder of self-worth and the value of self-love. This event marked the first initiative since the ABWU Women’s Council’s reconstitution in August, signaling a renewed commitment to advancing women’s development and encouraging their active participation in the workforce. The Council plans to host a series of impactful activities in the coming year, continuing its mission to empower women across all levels of society.
标签: Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Government Invites Public to National Consultation on the Price of Goods Bill, 2025
The Ministry of Trade, Agriculture, Fisheries, and Barbuda Affairs, led by the Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, has announced a National Stakeholder Consultation on the proposed Price of Goods Bill, 2025. This landmark legislation aims to replace the antiquated Distribution and Price of Goods Act, Cap. 138, aligning Antigua and Barbuda’s pricing and consumer protection systems with contemporary economic demands. The consultation is scheduled for Monday, November 25th, at 10:00 AM in the Parliament Building on Queen Elizabeth Highway, St. John’s. The Bill is a cornerstone of the Government’s broader strategy to bolster consumer rights, enhance market transparency, and ensure equitable pricing practices. Key provisions of the Bill include measures to prevent price gouging, improve supply chain accountability, mandate transparent price displays, introduce modern enforcement mechanisms, and protect public interests during emergencies or supply chain disruptions. Minister Greene emphasized the Government’s dedication to fostering a balanced economic environment that safeguards consumers while supporting sustainable business growth. He highlighted the critical role of public participation, urging stakeholders to share their insights to ensure the legislation effectively addresses the needs of consumers, retailers, importers, and distributors. Draft copies of the Price of Goods Bill, 2025, will be accessible during the consultation and online at www.laws.gov.ag. The Ministry invites all interested parties to attend and contribute to this pivotal national dialogue.
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Antiguan student earns global recognition as Hofstra’s first Rhodes Scholar
Rhysa B. Nelson, a 21-year-old biology major from Antigua, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming Hofstra University’s first Rhodes Scholar in its 90-year history. Selected from a competitive global pool of finalists, Nelson’s groundbreaking research focuses on converting invasive Caribbean seaweed into sustainable biofuel, a project that has garnered widespread attention across the United States, the Caribbean, and the global academic community. Her work was inspired by the environmental challenges posed by seaweed accumulation on Caribbean coastlines. ‘There are piles and piles of it, and it’s degrading,’ Nelson explained. ‘This was one avenue I could pursue to address the issue.’ Guided by Dr. Javier Escudero, Nelson has explored innovative methods to transform seaweed into biofuels and other byproducts. Beyond her environmental research, she has also delved into cancer immunology and neurobiology, aiming to increase representation for African-Caribbean scientists in cell biology. ‘Ten years from now, I see myself developing the first Afro-Caribbean stem cell line,’ she shared. Nelson’s achievements extend beyond the lab; she is an accomplished flautist and a dedicated tutor for middle-school students. Described by colleagues as quietly determined, she is deeply committed to making meaningful contributions to science and her Caribbean community. Nelson will now embark on two years of fully funded postgraduate study at the University of Oxford, an opportunity she believes will advance her scientific ambitions and her mission to give back to the Caribbean. Hofstra University celebrated her selection, stating it has placed the campus ‘in the global spotlight’ and marked a significant milestone for the institution.
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PM Browne Among CARICOM Heads Visiting Storm-Devastated Communities in Jamaica Today
A high-level delegation of Caribbean leaders, accompanied by officials from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is set to arrive in Jamaica today to evaluate the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. The group, led by CARICOM Chairman and Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, includes Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Guyana President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Grenada Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett, and IDB President Ilan Goldfajn. Their itinerary includes visits to severely affected areas in St. James, Westmoreland, and St. Elizabeth, with stops planned in Westgreen and Catherine Hall, two Montego Bay communities still grappling with the aftermath of the Category 5 storm. Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, unleashed catastrophic flooding and landslides, particularly in the western parishes. The Barnett, Pye, and Montego rivers overflowed, submerging entire neighborhoods, destroying homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, and displacing thousands of residents. Many areas remain without reliable electricity or clean water. The tour aims to provide regional leaders with a firsthand understanding of the humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for coordinated recovery efforts. This visit follows pledges of solidarity and support from CARICOM member states, with Barbados establishing a field hospital at Cornwall Regional Hospital and other nations offering financial and technical assistance. The IDB, a key financial partner in the region, is expected to use this opportunity to discuss reconstruction funding and long-term climate adaptation strategies, especially as small island nations face increasing threats from extreme weather events. Prime Minister Holness has underscored the importance of regional unity and international collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by the disaster. Monday’s high-level engagement is anticipated to shape a comprehensive recovery framework, focusing on housing, infrastructure rehabilitation, and community support for the hardest-hit areas. Additional details of the delegation’s itinerary will be provided by the Office of the Prime Minister.
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21-year-old Jesse Guthrie of Ottos charged with Attempted Murder
In a recent development, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has announced the arrest and formal charging of 21-year-old Jesse Guthrie from Ottos for the alleged crime of Attempted Murder. The incident, which occurred on November 4, 2025, in Tinning Village, involved a violent altercation that left a 40-year-old man from Grays Farm severely injured. The victim was found unconscious by the roadside, suffering from multiple wounds to his right hand and neck. Following a thorough investigation, Guthrie was apprehended and taken into custody. He is now facing legal proceedings and is scheduled to appear in court to address the charges brought against him. This case has drawn significant attention from the local community, highlighting concerns over public safety and the prevalence of violent crimes in the region.
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Work Continues on Road to Cooks Landfill
Construction crews remain actively engaged in the extensive project along the mile-long stretch leading into Cooks Landfill. The initiative, which has been underway for several weeks, aims to enhance infrastructure and ensure safer access to the site. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of this development, citing its potential to improve waste management efficiency and reduce environmental risks. Residents in the vicinity have been advised to expect temporary disruptions but are assured that the long-term benefits will outweigh the short-term inconveniences. The project is part of a broader strategy to modernize landfill operations and align with stricter environmental regulations. Updates on the progress will be provided regularly to keep the community informed.
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Logos Hope Extends Bookfair Hours Ahead of Departure from Antigua
The Logos Hope, renowned as the world’s largest floating book fair, has announced extended visiting hours in Antigua as it prepares to set sail from the island. The vessel, currently docked at the Nevis Street Pier, will open its doors for an additional session on Tuesday, 18 November, from 18:00 to 20:00. This extension offers locals and tourists a last chance to explore its vast collection of books before the ship departs. Since its arrival, Logos Hope has attracted consistent crowds, with visitors eager to experience its volunteer-driven international outreach and literacy initiatives. Antigua Cruise Port has reminded the public that the book fair remains closed on Mondays. The ship’s departure concludes another successful visit, cementing its status as a cherished event for families, students, and book lovers across Antigua.
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Royalton CHIC Antigua Earns Spotlight in Forbes Travel Feature
Royalton CHIC Antigua has recently been featured in a Forbes travel article, garnering international acclaim for its opulent offerings and iconic overwater bungalows, which have quickly become a hallmark of Caribbean luxury. The adults-only, all-inclusive resort has been lauded as a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking both relaxation and sophistication. In the piece, seasoned luxury travel writer Debbi Karpowicz Kickham paints a vivid picture of the resort, describing it as a ‘posh tropical playground’ that seamlessly blends exceptional hospitality with state-of-the-art amenities. Kickham recounts her stay, beginning in a Diamond Club room and transitioning to one of the resort’s overwater bungalows, which she likened to ‘the Rolls-Royce of relaxation.’ The Forbes feature also highlights the resort’s relative youth, having opened just over a year ago, and commends its comprehensive fitness programs, expansive spa facilities, and signature dining experiences, including Antigua’s sole overwater restaurant. Notably, Kickham shines a spotlight on local talent, such as personal trainer Daniel Antonio, an internationally recognized arm-wrestling champion who infuses the fitness offerings with his unique energy. This feature in Forbes marks yet another milestone for Royalton CHIC Antigua, solidifying its status as one of the Caribbean’s most rapidly ascending luxury destinations.
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Funding Opportunity: Strengthening Caribbean Economic Growth Program
A groundbreaking funding opportunity has been unveiled to bolster economic growth across the Caribbean region. The Strengthening Caribbean Economic Growth Program, designed to address long-standing economic challenges, seeks to inject vital resources into key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy. This initiative comes at a critical juncture, as Caribbean nations continue to recover from the lingering impacts of global economic disruptions and natural disasters. By fostering innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting sustainable practices, the program aims to create a more resilient and diversified economic landscape. Stakeholders, including local governments, private enterprises, and international organizations, are encouraged to collaborate to maximize the initiative’s impact. The program also emphasizes capacity building and workforce development, ensuring that communities are equipped to thrive in an evolving global economy. With a focus on inclusivity and long-term prosperity, this initiative represents a significant step forward in the Caribbean’s journey toward economic stability and growth.
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Antigua Triumphs Over Grenada in the U23 Men’s Championship
On the fourth day of the ECVA U23 Men’s Championship, Antigua delivered a commanding performance, securing a decisive 3-0 victory over Grenada with set scores of 25-23, 25-19, and 27-25. This triumph on home soil solidified Antigua’s position as a formidable contender for the championship title. The match was a testament to Antigua’s strategic prowess and cohesive teamwork, as they edged out Grenada in attack points (33 to 32) and dominated the service game with 6 aces compared to Grenada’s 2. Despite their success, both teams struggled with unforced errors, with Antigua conceding 32 points and Grenada committing 26. George Freeland emerged as a standout player for Antigua, contributing 11 points, while Immanuel Asafar Donovan added 9 crucial points to the win. Grenada’s Kibose Hamilton fought valiantly, scoring 12 points in a commendable effort. Grenada’s Coach Javin Noel acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating, ‘Critical errors and missed opportunities cost us the match, but we remain optimistic about securing a podium finish.’ The championship’s excitement continues with upcoming matches, including Saint Lucia vs. Dominica, Grenada vs. Anguilla, and Antigua vs. St. Vincent.
