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Nature Enhancement Team (NET), a local organisation working diligently to protect turtles who nest at Rosalie Beach, has partnered with US photography company Binding Waters LLC to launch a photo-course book on Father’s Day, Sunday 15th June, 2025at Rosalie’s Eco Peace Park, in support of its conservation efforts. The book, entitled “ The Peace Park Eco Photo Course,” is co-written by renowned photographer and lifelong learner Randy Kerr and NET Director, Simon George. Kerr, a former Top Pro educator for FjWestcott (a leader in photo lighting gear), has been resident at the nearby Rosalie Bay Resort during the month of May and will be there till the end of June. He has spent more than 15 years documenting Dominica’s natural and cultural beauty. His work earned global recognition, including a 2012 shortlist at the London Travel Market for ‘Responsible Tourism Photography.’ His latest project- the eco photo-course book, blends light-centered artistry with environmental stewardship, inviting readers to look closer and feel deeper while connecting with the rhythms of nature. The hands-on course offers a creative, meditative approach to nature photography, helping photographers of all experience levels deepen their awareness of and connection with their environment. It does so through four foundational lessons: “Understanding Ecosystems,” “Interacting with Light (with any camera),” “Storytelling for the Environment” and “Self and Planet Care.” Blending science, art and spirituality, the book invites readers across ages, cultures and beliefs to engage with nature’s rhythms.  It reflects the timeless call once expressed by Pope Benedict XIV: “If you want to cultivate peace, protect creation.” This is the aim of Simon George and his NET organisation. He maintains the Eco Peace Park and the trail which leads to Rosalie Beach where he guards the turtles nightly, and also tracks their visits-collecting key data on their nesting and hatching habits. He has been leading turtle sea conservation and eco-tourism efforts over the past 17 years. At Sunday’s launch event, guests will have a hands-on, interactive experience with Kerr, George and Doug Box a former Executive Director of the Texas Professional Photographers Association and a Kodak Education Mentor . Together Box and Kerr have taught thousands of photographers across the US at PPA events and universities.  For beginners and expert photographers alike, this is an exceptional opportunity to learn first-hand from internationally recognised photography educators and conservationists. The purchase of the book and participation in the course also means you are directly supporting NET and the continuation and development of their turtle conservation efforts.  Proceeds will also contribute to the production cost of a documentary titled The Sea Turtle and Us - produced in collaboration with George and highlighting the interconnection between sea turtles, healthy ecosystems and human population of all nations. It emphasises the role of conservation as a responsibility shared by every member of the global family. Come celebrate Father’s Day with purpose and get a copy of “The Peace Park Eco-Photo Course” this Sunday. Book launch follows brunch at Rosalie Bay Resort and commences at 5PM.

The RayAsta Foundation announces the upcoming Graduation Ceremony for their Supervisors’ Caregiver Training program. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday June 16 at the Dominica State College, Upper Campus room BC04. This program, the first of it’s kind will place trained caregivers into the community armed with the skills necessary to care for stroke patients. Not only will they be able to care for the patients, they will have the tools necessary to set goals and targets for patients recoveries while they build back their mobility. Jennifer Astaphan, Chair of the RayAsta Foundation, shared her thoughts: “Watching our participants complete this second phase of training is a clear reflection of their dedication and drive to strengthen both their personal expertise and the level of care available to patients in Dominica. This program has not only provided them with vital tools for supporting stroke survivors, but has also sparked a renewed passion for delivering high-quality care. Their success marks an important stride in advancing healthcare in Dominica, and I’m incredibly proud of their accomplishment. It serves as a powerful symbol of hope for those affected by stroke. Key highlights of the Closing Ceremony include: Certificate Presentation: Learners will be awarded certificates, symbolizing their successful completion of the program and their readiness to apply their newfound expertise in their careers. Officer in Charge, Ms. Trudy Christian from the Dominica State College, will present the certificates. Testimonials: Learners will share their insights and reflections garnered from their participation in the training program. Guest Speaker: Mrs. Jennifer Astaphan – Chairman of the RayAsta Foundation, known for her contributions and accomplishments in health, will inspire and motivate the graduating students with her words of wisdom.The RayAsta Foundation Caregiver Stroke Training was conducted in collaboration with the Dominica State College and the Dominica Dementia Foundation, a ten-week intensive course that has equipped its learners with essential skills and knowledge to excel in caring for stroke patients. Throughout the course, students have demonstrated exceptional dedication and a thirst for knowledge, making the Closing Ceremony an opportunity to commend their achievements. The RayAsta Foundation will continue offering caregivers quality training and professional development opportunities.

A distinguished panel of Caribbean health leaders, advocates, and communication experts will gather for a pivotal online webinar titled “Putting People & Health First in Disaster Preparedness, Response and Recovery.”  The event will take place virtually from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM AST/EDT , aiming to address the vital intersection between health systems and disaster management in the region. Organized by the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC)  in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)  and Earth Medic | Earth Nurse , this free webinar highlights the importance of prioritizing human health and well-being in all phases of disaster planning and response — especially amid increasing climate-related threats to the Caribbean. 🗓 Webinar Details: Date:  Monday, June 16, 2025 Time:  11:00 AM – 1:00 PM AST/EDT Register:   bit.ly/CLIMATEHCC 🎙 Presenters & Panellists Include: Dr. James Hospedales  – Member, HCC Board; Executive Director, Earth Medic | Earth Nurse Dr. Heather Armstrong  – Head, Chronic Diseases and Injury, Caribbean Public Health Agency Ms. Lealou Reballos  – Advisor, Health Emergencies (Caribbean), PAHO Dr. Gloria Giraldo  – NCDs and Mental Health Caribbean, Sub-Regional Advisor, PAHO Ms. Yvonne Alexander  – Public Relations Officer, Dominica Cancer Society Dr. Saria Hassan  – Assistant Professor, Emory University School of Medicine; Director, Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network Mr. Anthony Greene  – President, Caribbean Broadcasting Union Ms. Camelta Barnes  – Senior Nutritionist, Ministry of Health and Wellness, The Bahamas Ms. Danielle Toppin  – Director General, Barbados Red Cross Mrs. Maisha Hutton  – Executive Director, Healthy Caribbean Coalition Ms. Karissa Moss  – Youth Climate Advocate, The Bahamas Ms. Zaria Ingham  – Youth Climate Advocate, UNICEF Eastern Caribbean A Focus on Equity and Resilience With disaster risks intensifying due to climate change, this webinar seeks to ensure that community voices, public health, and equity remain central to emergency planning across Caribbean territories. Topics will span from mental health and nutrition to communication strategies and youth leadership in climate action. This event offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders, health professionals, and community members to engage with top regional minds and build a more resilient Caribbean — one where people and health come first.

Dominica suffers defeat to Dominican Republic. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – A tough night for the Senior Men’s National Football Team, as they were on the wrong end of a beat down going down to the Dominican Republic in their final match in the Concacaf Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday at the Felix Sanchez Olympic Stadium in Santo Domingo. Dominica entered the match of the heels of an emphatic 3-nil win over the British Virgin Islands the week before at Windsor Park, but it was the home team that dominated the match from the get go. The Dominican Republic who are preparing to face Mexico this weekend in the Gold Cup showed their class as the jumped to the early lead and never looked back. The Dominica team were down 4-nil at half time. Coach Ellington Sabin made some tactical adjustments and Dominica came out a better team in the 2nd half, but the damage was already done. The boys from the Nature Isle went down 5-nil in the end. The home team dominated the game with 65.9% of the possession, compared to Dominica’s 34.1%. They also managed 38 attempts at goal with 18 shots on target compared to Dominica’s 4 total shots on goal. The loss meant that Dominica finished 4th in Group E on 3 points. The Group was won by Jamaica who ended with 12 points, Guatemala finished 2nd on 9 points, the Dominican Republic 3rd on 6 points, Dominica 4th on 3 points and the BVI 5th on 0 points. -END

The Caribbean Democrat Union (CDU) extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Hon. Allen Chastanet, Political Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) of Saint Lucia and Leader of the Opposition, on his recent appointment to the Board of the International Democracy Union (IDU). This appointment marks a proud and historic moment for the Caribbean, as Hon. Chastanet becomes one of the few regional leaders to serve at the highest level of the global alliance of centre- right political parties. His selection is a testament to his unwavering commitment to democratic values and principles, good governance, and the rule of law—not only in Saint Lucia but across the wider Caribbean and international political community. Throughout his distinguished career, Hon. Chastanet has consistently championed policies rooted in transparency, accountability, and people-centred development. As a statesman and visionary, he has brought passion and pragmatism to the political arena, standing firm in defense of democratic institutions and the rights of citizens. Within the IDU, Hon. Chastanet has long been a respected advocate on issues that matter deeply to our hemisphere. His strong and persistent voice has helped elevate Caribbean perspectives in critical discussions on climate change, trade and investment, tourism, and sustainable development. His leadership has ensured that small island developing states are not only seen but heard in global policy dialogues. The CDU is proud to celebrate this achievement with Hon. Chastanet and the UWP family. We are confident that his presence on the IDU Board will further amplify the concerns and aspirations of Caribbean people, while strengthening our region’s contribution to the global democratic movement. We wish him every success as he continues this important work on behalf of the region and all who believe in the ideals of freedom, justice, and prosperity through democracy.

A Regional Tribute to Joseph “Reds” Perreira and Alington James Massacre, Dominica – The highly anticipated 2025 Kréyol Basketball Championship – Northern Conference tips off tonight, Friday, June 6, at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex, marking the beginning of four electrifying days of regional basketball action. The tournament runs through June 9 and is officially dedicated to two iconic Caribbean sports figures: Joseph “Reds” Perreira and Alington James. This dynamic sporting event—organized by Kréyol Sports International in partnership with Caribbean Sports and Sustainable Development (CSSD), In Nature Tours, Creole Heartbeat, and the Dominica Amateur Basketball Association (DABA)—brings together six elite clubs from Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Guyana for an unforgettable celebration of sport, culture, and legacy. An Exciting, Family-Friendly Experience The tournament kicks off tonight at 7:00 PM with back-to-back games, showcasing top regional talent in an exciting, family-friendly atmosphere. Fans of all ages are invited to enjoy live basketball, music, food, and entertainment in a safe and welcoming indoor environment. Admission: Only $5 per night – making it affordable fun for the whole family! Honoring Two Greats The 2025 championship is held in honor of: Joseph “Reds” Perreira – Celebrated broadcaster and former OECS Sports Desk leader, whose voice and vision elevated Caribbean sport and championed the dreams of small-island athletes. Alington James – Respected Dominican sports official and media figure who captured and preserved the spirit of Dominican sports through his decades of service both courtside and behind the camera. “This tournament is a tribute to two men who embodied the heart and soul of Caribbean sport,” said a representative of Kréyol Sports International. “Through competition, culture, and community, we celebrate their legacies and inspire the next generation.” Powered by Infrastructure and Vision The event is made possible thanks to the Government of Dominica’s investment in the Massacre Indoors sports facilities. The Massacre Indoor Sports Complex ensures games are played on time, in comfort, and without interruption—solidifying Dominica’s reputation as a top-tier sports tourism destination. Teams Competing Dominica: D-Treads Blazers & 767 Sports Club Dominators Guadeloupe: GGB & USR Guyana: Ravens & Eagles Join the Movement The Kréyol Basketball Championship is more than a tournament—it’s a celebration of excellence, heritage, and unity in sport. Join us tonight and all weekend long!

Over 30 private sector companies in Antigua and Barbuda recently joined with Government representatives, United Nations officials, and other development partners, for a Private Sector Engagement under the theme: “Private Sector Partnership for Sustainable Development”. The June 3 UN-led forum, focused on the Sustainable Development Gals (SDGs), with vital knowledge exchange between UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes, and local businesses, to enable integrated support for sustainable business practices and SDG funding and financing. Private Sector companies also learnt about the benefits of corporate sustainability and gained greater insight into opportunities for aligning the SDGs into their business models. In delivering remarks, UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Mr. Simon Springett, while noting challenges facing the sector, emphasized the potential for aligning business operations with the SDGs both in terms of unlocking private capital, and providing socially responsible solutions that translated into real-world benefits. “Sustainability opens doors to new sources of capital. Each year, over $1 billion in climate and SDG-aligned financing is available to the Caribbean, primarily for businesses that align with sustainability principles. Consumer preferences are also shifting. Globally, 73% of travelers now seek eco-friendly accommodation, and international buyers increasingly favor sustainable, ethically produced goods. For the Caribbean, embedding these values into our value chains is essential to boosting export competitiveness and accelerating tourism recovery,” he stated. Senator Dwayne George, in his remarks, acknowledged the Government’s awareness of the challenges faced by the private sector, providing assurance that deliberate steps are being taken to address these challenges. He noted: “In recent times, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has advanced several proactive measures to deepen public-private collaboration, particularly through innovative partnership models.” Senator George cited the promotion of innovative Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), strengthening of institutional mechanisms and improving access to finance, as among the key initiatives being undertaken. Immediately following the opening remarks, presentations were made by several participating UN Agencies, private sector companies, as well as from the UN Caribbean Global Compact Network. Participants also had ample opportunities to interact during the networking segment, learning more about available tools and resources, as well as opportunities for further dialogue and collaboration, to foster sustainable business practices in Antigua and Barbuda and the Eastern Caribbean. Ms . Joy-Marie King, Director of International Trade and SDG Focal Point in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in her presentation, outlined the role of the private sector in sustainable development and encouraged businesses to adopt sustainable business practices and work collaboratively with the government and development partners towards the achievement of the SDGs. In her closing remarks, Mrs. Andrea Andrew, UN Country Coordination Officer, underlined that sustainable partnership was at the heart of development. She encouraged participants to keep the momentum going, and to let engagement be the first step towards a strong and collaborative partnership between the UN and the Private Sector. ---Ends---

Glenson Prince plays final home match. ROSEAU, Dominica – National Captain Glenson Prince got an amazing send off at Windsor Park as the Senior Men’s National Football Team put 3 goals past the British Virgin Islands to secure their first win in the Concacaf Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Wednesday’s game was the last game on Dominican soil for Prince who has captained Dominica for close to 20 years. He has announced that he will hang up the gloves at the conclusion of the World Cup Qualifiers. Audel Laville set the tone getting the opening goal for Dominica in the 29th minute. Laville, had a world class finish, keeping his composure as he took a left footed shot hitting the ball over the onrushing BVI goal keeper. Troy Jules made it 2-nil soon after, as he showed some individual brilliance to shake off a few defenders and put Dominica in the drivers seat in the 35th minute of play. Dominica kept on pressing and dominating play and Audel Laville erased all hopes for a comeback for the BVI as he made it 3-nil in the 75th minute slotting in a right footed shot from long range on a difficult angle. All that was left, was to preserve the clean sheet for Glenson Prince, who had very little to do in terms of saves in the match. The defensive pairing of Eustace Marshall and Jaylan JnoVille broke up the majority of the BVI attacks. At the end of the 90 minutes, it was Dominica walking away with a 3-nil win and their first points in the campaign. National Captain Glenson Prince also got a hero’s send off with a Guard of Honor and he was showered with gifts and awards from the Dominica Football Association. Dominica will now play the Dominican Republic in their final match next Tuesday June 10th in the Dominican Republic. STORY CREDIT: GARVIN RICHARDS

The Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, on the occasion of the observance of Local Government month, celebrated under the theme: “Building Strong Partnerships for Sustained Community Resilience” has embraced the vision of Dominica becoming the first climate resilient country in the world. The Ministry recognizes that to build stronger communities, strategic partnerships must be forged and hence will host a Health and Wellness Fair dubbed “Highway to Health”. This dynamic, full-day event is scheduled for Friday, June 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. along the Bayfront in Roseau and is being done through a collaborative approach between the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, and the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services as well as the Private Sector. “Both ministries, having identified the importance of tackling the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Dominica also realize that the fight against non-communicable diseases is not the responsibility of the health sector alone. The Division of Local Government and Community Development continues to play a vital role in promoting healthier communities in an effort to build resilient communities,” noted Letitia Lestrade Wyke, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development. As the five weeks of activities for Local Government month climax, under the sub- theme “Cultivating a Culture of Health, Wellness, Unity, Collaboration and Community Service”, members of the public and private sectors are encouraged to take full advantage of the services that will be offered at no cost to them. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, Dr. Kyra Paul, made an appeal to the general public. “This is an opportunity for individuals and families to access various health care services in one convenient location; we are bringing the clinic to the people; offering screenings, consultations, and education to reach those who may not visit health centers regularly,” Dr. Paul said. The fair will offer a wide range of health services, including:  General medical consultations  Pap smears and breast exams  Prostate exams  Blood sugar and blood pressure checks, as well as Body mass Index (BMI)  Endocrinology and Nutrition Assessment  Educational sessions on prevention and management of chronic non- communicable Diseases. Patrons will be provided with a “Wellbeing Passport” following their consultations. To close the day’s activity, a high-energy cardio jam session, including a nostalgic jump rope section, will take place from 5pm to 6pm, encouraging participants to get active and have fun. The collaborating Ministries encourage all to come out and join the Health and Wellness Fair – “Highway to Health”- taking charge of your health one step at a time. -End-

The Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU) sponsored $3000 EC towards a reception hosted by The Ambassador for CARICOM and Commissioner to the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Dr. Gerard Jean-Jacques in honor of the Caribbean-Canada Leaders Dialogue (CCLD) 2025 Dominica Study Tour delegates on the 28th of May 2025. DPSU was pleased to host the group, and also provided cash, venue and logistics support which enhanced the Dominica experience. Alumni of CCLD General Secretary of the DPSU, Mr. Thomas Letang also made a personal contribution of an additional $200 to cover entertainment costs for the reception. “Dominica was honored to host this important delegation, and we are proud of the connections made and the conversations sparked; I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Letang and the Dominica Public Service Union for their kind contributions towards the reception, which also provided an opportunity to network with government officials, civil society and experience our culture.” This is the first time Dominica has hosted a tour and certainly not the last!,” said Ms. Rianna Patterson, country host for Dominica and co-lead of the Caribbean Canada Leader Dialogue. "Cultivating leaders at this time in a world of artificial intelligence and cascading crises is so critical. A world faced with a climate crisis, several wars, deepening inequalities and the debilitating impact on people, on workers in Small Island Developing States. He also told the participants "I truly hope that the experience in Dominica has inspired them to see the world through a gender neutral, and a just and rights based lens. One that values people and their families, the work that they do and for the DPSU those who provide public services that touch everyone in communities” expressed by Steve Joseph, DPSU President. Throughout the study tour, delegates engaged in site visits, fireside chats, and cultural activities designed to foster mutual understanding and to showcase Dominica’s unique approach to sustainable development and community resilience. The closing reception in Dominica was held at the close of a dynamic and impactful week of dialogue and exchange, the reception celebrated the success of the 13-member delegation’s visit to Dominica and the strengthening of diplomatic, developmental, and cultural ties between the Caribbean and Canada. The gathering brought together key government officials, civil society leaders, youth representatives in a spirit of unity and regional pride. The reception did not only serve as a formal end to the visit but also as a reaffirmation of ongoing collaboration between Canada and the Caribbean. Delegates expressed deep appreciation for Dominica’s hospitality, leadership, and role in advancing regional dialogue. Upon leaving Dominica, the delegates attending the closing plenary in Barbados where they showcased an emotional presentation on their learning this trip which included showcasing Bouyon music, our Kalinago language and Creole traditions by dancing to a Creole song with the inclusion of madras print in front of 100 leaders from Canada and the Caribbean. The CCLD initiative continues to serve as a vital platform for emerging and established leaders across Canada and the Caribbean to engage in cross-cultural learning, policy exchange, and joint action. Special thanks again to the Dominica Public Service Union and Mr. Thomas Letang, Alumni of CCLD General Secretary of the DPS who were the main sponsor for the reception, who made this engagement possible. Additional sponsors for the Dominica tour includes Fort Young Hotel, Belfast Estate, Charles Louis Photography, Jael Joseph, Fine Foods Inc, D Baked That, Jaydees Naturals and Bee Natural.

Island Recognized in Both “Countries” and “Islands” Categories; Voting Open Until June 30, 2025 – Dominica has once again been nominated for the annual Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, an internationally recognized, reader-led survey that allows travelers to vote for the world’s best resorts, hotels, destinations, and more. The 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards survey is currently open, with voting scheduled to close on June 30, 2025. Dominica appears in both the “Countries” and “Islands” categories, reflecting the island’s growing reputation as a premier travel destination. Votes can be cast by visiting the official Condé Nast Traveler voting page at  https://www.cntraveler.com/story/vote-readers-choice-awards . The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards are widely regarded as the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry. Each year, more than 600,000 readers participate in the survey. To qualify for an award, nominees must receive a minimum number of responses and achieve a high overall rating. Dominica's Tourism officials encourage supporters, residents, and visitors to participate actively in the voting process. They emphasize that every vote is valuable in elevating Dominica’s profile on the global stage. Supporters are urged to share the nomination widely among friends, family, and professional networks to maximize voter turnout. The winners of the 38th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards will be announced in the November issue of Condé Nast Traveler and featured on the publication’s digital and social media platforms in October 2025.

Dominica has once again been invited to participate in the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association’s (FCCA) annual Essay and Poster Competitions for 2025. These initiatives are designed to foster tourism awareness among youth while encouraging creativity and critical thinking. The 2025 Essay Competition will be held under the theme: If I were a cruise passenger, what would I like to see or do in my country? The Environmental Poster Competition will follow the theme: How to protect the marine environment from land-based activities. Both competitions will be conducted in two divisions:  Junior Division: Children aged 12 and under (contestants must not have reached their 13 th birthday by September 26, 2025).  Senior Division: Children aged 13 to 16 (contestants must not have reached their 17 th birthday by September 26, 2025). All entries must be submitted through the respective schools, with each school encouraged to submit one entry per category (Junior and Senior) to the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) by Monday, June 30, 2025. The FCCA will announce all winners on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. Winners in each category of both the essay and poster competitions will receive the following prizes: Junior &; Senior Division Student Prize School Grant 1st Place Laptop US $3,000 2nd Place Touchscreen Device US $1,500 3rd Place Smartphone US $1,000 In addition, all finalists (excluding the top three winners in each category) will be awarded a US $200 consolation prize by the FCCA. The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Discover Dominica Authority, encourages students across the island to participate in these competitions. The initiative aims to promote tourism education, enhance environmental awareness, and inspire future leaders to take pride in their country’s offerings. Schools are encouraged to support their students by nurturing creativity, providing guidance, and fostering a spirit of excellence.