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The GEMS Foundation today proudly launched the 3rd Annual Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge, continuing its mission of empowering Dominica’s entrepreneurs to strengthen and grow their businesses within the hospitality and tourism supply chain. In just two years, the Challenge has awarded EC $90,000 to six entrepreneurs, fueling growth that has translated into enhanced operations, increased revenues, and improved efficiency for winning businesses. The impact has gone even further as shortlisted applicants have also benefited from mentorship that have sharpened their business strategies and boosted their long-term sustainability. This year, the Challenge once again invites applications from businesses within the hospitality and tourism supply chain including food and beverage, agro-processing, wellness, entertainment, transport, technology, safety, marketing, and energy efficiency services. Three winners will share EC $45,000 in grant awards: ● 1st Place – EC $20,000 ● 2nd Place – EC $15,000 ● 3rd Place – EC $10,000 Director of Entrepreneurship for the GEMS Foundation, Lizra Fabien shared “This initiative is not only about funding, but also about celebrating resilience, innovation, and determination among Dominican businesses. Their success stories are a testament to the Challenge’s role in building stronger enterprises that contribute to the country’s economy. We encourage all suitable businesses to apply to participate in this transformative experience.” Applications open September 1, 2025 and close September 30, 2025. Seven finalists will be shortlisted for the Ultimate Pitching Event on November 26, 2025, where winners will be announced live. The GEMS Foundation encourages all suitable and innovative Dominican businesses to apply and seize this chance to receive both financial support and valuable mentorship. Apply today at www.gems.dm/foundation or send applications to foundation@gems.dm . To support the application of all interested entrepreneurs, an information session will be hosted on Monday, September 8 at 7:00 PM via Zoom. Follow @gemsfoundation on Facebook for details on this event and other updates. This initiative is supported by the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), whose partnership strengthens the Foundation’s mission to empower local entrepreneurs and enhance Dominica’s business ecosystem.

In just 10 months, Bleu Magic, a bold new premium rum from Dominica, has captivated the Caribbean and beyond with its sleek branding, cultural storytelling, and meteoric social media rise—cementing itself as the fastest-growing premium rum brand in the region. Launched in October 2024 at Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival in the exclusive Botanica VIP Lounge, Bleu Magic set out to defy expectations. The rum is inspired by the legacy of Dominica’s famed Maroon Chief Jacko and the island’s rebellious history of resistance to colonialism and slavery. Crafted at the historic Belfast Estate, a site of rum-making since the 1800s, Bleu Magic stands as both a tribute and a challenge—honouring its roots while rewriting the Caribbean rum narrative. “Our story is rebellion in a bottle,” says Elroy Harrow, product manager of Bleu Magic. “We’re building a brand for the new generation—one that is Caribbean, is premium, and is unapologetically ours.” Bleu Magic’s journey reads like a startup fairy tale. The brand has racked up just under 20,000 Instagram followers in just 10 months, outpacing all local competitors and closing in on regional spirit giants. This social media growth is a likely reflection of boots-on-the-ground activations in other Caribbean islands since the start of 2025.  In April, the brand touched down in Jamaica during Carnival Week and featured partnerships with globally renowned Selector Boom Boom AKA World Boom, and appearances at Boom Sundays and Uptown Mondays, solidifying Bleu Magic’s presence in Kingston, the capital city.  The following month, Bleu Magic was making its debut in St. Lucia at Gros Islet Friday Night, supported by island distributor Food Center, and with a surprise appearance by brand ambassador Mr. Ridge. Ridge’s partnership with Bleu Magic was solidified in December 2024 when he was signed on as brand ambassador.   A two-time Caribbean Music Award Bouyon Artist of the Year winner (2024 & 2025), he has become a central figure in Bleu Magic’s rise. A boundary-breaking Dominican artist, now performing internationally, Ridge embodies the brand’s mission of cultural authenticity and global ambition. “I think Bleu Magic and Ridge is a great partnership because we have a similar mission—which is to conquer the world and promote Dominica fully,” says the artist. His rising star is helping the rum brand break into new markets; and its summer activations throughout the Caribbean has played a major role in building the brand’s footprint. Unlike most major rum brands—many of which are pitched as "Caribbean" but owned by multinational corporations outside the Region, Bleu Magic is owned and operated by a young, dynamic Caribbean team with a vision to reshape the industry from the inside out. “This is not just rum. It’s a movement,” says Dajan Bleau, Marketing Manager of Bleu Magic. “We’re exporting not just a premium product, but a piece of Caribbean heritage with ambitions of turning the colonial triangle on its head, from the Caribbean to Africa to Europe.” Ivor Nassief, owner of the historic Belfast Estate where Bleu Magic is crafted, adds, “The patience and detail their team has taken to craft the entire experience—from product to packaging—is inspiring. We look forward to seeing how far Riki and his team can take it. They have our full support.” With distribution expanding across the region, repeat local orders from supermarkets, top bars and hotels in Dominica, and a loyal—and growing—online following, Bleu Magic is rewriting the Caribbean rum playbook. The brand’s future is as bold as its origins: cultural impact, global expansion and reclaiming the rum space for those who’ve too long been left out of its narrative.

Ambassador Leroy “Wadix” Charles: Building Cultural Confidence for Business and Community Creole Heartbeat, under the banner of Creole 4 Business (C4B) , proudly announces the launch of its Six (6) Weeks Introduction to Kwéyòl Language Course , taking place from September 16th to October 23rd, 2025 , every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm  at the Alliance Française de la Dominique  and online via Zoom. The course, valued at just EC$300 , is designed to give participants the tools to connect authentically with local communities and regional partners through Kwéyòl. Registration closes on Thursday, September 11th, 2025 . Speaking on the launch, Creole & Cultural Ambassador Leroy “Wadix” Charles  emphasized the importance of the initiative: “For generations, Kwéyòl has been more than just a language, it has been the bridge that binds our people, our culture, and our commerce across Dominica and the French West Indies. With Creole 4 Business, we are equipping Dominicans, entrepreneurs, and frontline service providers to communicate confidently and to weave culture into every interaction. This six-week course is the first step in positioning our nation as the Creole Capital of the World.” Why This Matters The Kwéyòl course is the flagship of Pillar One: Cultural & Language Training  of the Creole 4 Business platform. It empowers businesses, agro-processors, hoteliers, tour operators, and everyday citizens to use Kwéyòl in real-world contexts, from hotel check-ins and restaurant menus to product labels and trade fairs. Participants will benefit from:   Conversational Role-Play  to build confidence in customer and buyer interactions.   Sector-Specific Phrase Kits  and signage for immediate business use.   Cultural Sensitivity Training  that highlights Creole music, cuisine, customs, and etiquette. According to Ambassador Charles, this course is not only about learning a language, it’s about creating a competitive advantage  for Dominica. “Language is power. By speaking Kwéyòl fluently in business and community spaces, we affirm our identity, strengthen regional trade, and open doors for tourism, culture, and commerce. Creole is not just our heritage; it is our future.” Registration Information Interested persons can register online at www.creoleheartbeat.com/creole-4-business  or scan the QR code on the official flyer. For more details, call 767-616-3457 / 767-317-0395  or email creoleheartbeat@gmail.com About Creole 4 Business Creole 4 Business (C4B), led by Creole Heartbeat and Ambassador Leroy “Wadix” Charles, is a four-pillar program aimed at creating opportunities for trade, culture, and growth with the French West Indies. Its pillars, Language & Cultural Training, Product Development & Branding, Creative & Performing Arts Exchange, and Business Visibility, position Dominica as the hub where culture meets commerce.

The Rotary Club of Dominica is proud to announce that Ms. Jewel Sarai Henry has been awarded the Major L. Earle Johnson Memorial Scholarship, established in honor of Charter President, Past District Governor, Major L. Earle Johnson, a distinguished Rotarian whose vision, leadership, and service laid the foundation for the Club’s enduring legacy of community impact. The award ceremony, held at the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities Inc. Conference Room on August 27, 2025, brought together Rotarians, and family members to celebrate Ms. Henry’s outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and commitment to service — values that resonate deeply with the Rotary motto “Service Above Self.” “Today, we not only honor Jewel’s hard work and dedication, but also pay tribute to the life and legacy of Charter President L. Earle Johnson,” said PHF Luana Laurent, Past President of the Rotary Club of Dominica. “This scholarship is a reflection of his commitment to empowering future generations through education and service.” Ms. Henry expressed her gratitude to the Rotary Club of Dominica, noting that the scholarship will provide significant support as she continues her academic journey. “I am humbled and grateful to be chosen for this award. I will carry forward the values of excellence and service that Mr. Johnson embodied,” she said. To be eligible for the scholarship, the student must demonstrate academic merit and leadership potential, belong to a low-income household, be in Form 4 of a recognized secondary school in Dominica, be active in the Dominica Cadet Corps, and demonstrate good academic standing (minimum grade C in all subjects). The scholarship is an annual award of $3,000 XCD to be paid in two installments yearly. Renewal of the scholarship in the second year of study is dependent on the student maintaining a suitable grade point average (GPA), as well as suitable behavior and character, and promoted to 5th Form. The Major L. Earle Johnson Memorial Scholarship is part of the Rotary Club’s ongoing commitment to youth development, education, and nation-building. By investing in the potential of young Dominicans, the Club continues to uphold its mission of creating lasting change in the community.

Young people remain 'almost invisible' in the policymaking processes that will shape their futures, despite comprising a global population of 1.2 billion and being central to 90 UN Sustainable Development Goal indicators, according to a recent UN policy brief . In the Caribbean, where climate threats are accelerating, youth are stepping forward as key drivers of regional environmental solutions. The inaugural Caribbean Youth Environment and Climate Change Conference, set for September 9–12 at the Jamaica Conference Centre, marks a shift from youth consultation to youth leadership in environmental and climate policy and action. Held under the theme “Securing Our Planet for Current and Future Generations,” the event will bring together young leaders from across CARICOM to engage decision-makers on issues ranging from renewable energy and biodiversity to climate finance and health resilience. This youth-led approach has drawn support from leading Jamaican organizations, including the Tourism Enhancement Fund and GraceKennedy Foundation, alongside regional and international partners such as MercyCorps, the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, the United Nations Environment Programme Cartagena Convention, and the Global Environment Facility. “We are proud to support this historic moment. It reflects our deep commitment to environmental stewardship and building sustainable communities,” shared Mrs. Caroline Mahfood, CEO of GraceKennedy Foundation. “Most importantly, it ensures young people are at the forefront of shaping decisions that will define their future.” “The backing of both Jamaican and international partners really validates what we want to achieve,” said Mario Galbert, CYCC’s Executive Coordinator. “Their aid shows that the region believes in the power of youth to not only contribute to policy, but to drive actions that safeguard our Caribbean future.” Recognizing the urgent need for fresh perspectives, the conference will harness contributions from young leaders and underscore that youth engagement is essential for shaping a resilient Caribbean. Organizers welcome continued collaboration to ensure lasting impact. By investing in this conference, sponsors are helping to equip the Caribbean’s next generation to influence policy, lead climate action, and strengthen resilience across the region. Fishing boats lie in the middle of the street for protection from Hurricane Beryl, Kingston, Jamaica. Photo Credit - Collin Reid

Jollys Pharmacy was awarded the second place prize in the “Best Pharmacy” category at the prestigious Caribbean Pharmacy Sigma Business Awards 2025, hosted by the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP). The award was presented during CAP’s annual convention, which recognizes outstanding innovation, excellence, and service in the pharmaceutical industry across the region. Sponsored by Health 2000 Canada, the award reflects the continuing commitment of Jollys Pharmacy to raising healthcare standards and delivering quality service to the people of Dominica and the wider Caribbean. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our team and our commitment to our patients,” said Dr. Orrin Jolly, Managing Director of Jollys Pharmacy. “We are deeply honoured to be acknowledged among the region’s leading pharmacies. At Jollys, we believe that pharmacy is more than just dispensing medication, it’s about community care, education, and innovation in health solutions.” Founded in 1980 Jolly’s Pharmacy has grown from a small local establishment into one of Dominica’s most trusted healthcare providers, offering a wide range of pharmaceutical services, health products, and patient-centered programs. From pioneering wellness initiatives and health education efforts to embracing digital solutions for customer convenience, Jolly’s continues to set benchmarks in community pharmacy practice. The Caribbean Pharmacy Sigma Business Awards highlight businesses that exemplify professional excellence, innovation, and resilience. This year’s awards celebrated organizations that navigated challenges, expanded access to healthcare, and made measurable contributions to their communities. As Jolly’s Pharmacy celebrates this milestone, the company reaffirms its vision of “Healthcare for All” and its commitment to serving Dominicans with trusted, reliable, and affordable pharmacy care.

The Investment Migration Agency (IMA) Grenada took a meaningful step toward blending education and cultural pride this carnival season with its innovative Back-to-School Trivia Series. Launched during the height of the school break, the six-week promotion invited students island-wide to participate in weekly Carnival-themed questions via IMA Grenada’s social media platforms. The interactive series was launched for the first time last year and was designed to keep young minds engaged during the break, while deepening their knowledge of Grenada’s rich cultural heritage. As a result, student endowments of over $20,000 have been made since the series inception. From exploring the roots of traditional mas to testing knowledge of music competitions and national treasures, the activity encouraged students to see culture not just as celebration, but as a vital part of identity and education. In total, six winners, ranging from secondary to tertiary-level students were awarded prizes for their outstanding participation. At the prize-giving ceremony, held at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort, students received school supplies including $500 gift vouchers from Bryden & Minors and D Sports Shop and, for one lucky winner, a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Karline Purcell, Deputy CEO of IMA Grenada, shared: “This initiative was born from the idea that education is not just about what happens in the classroom, but creating opportunities that nurture a love for learning, build confidence, and provide tangible support for students and their families.” IMA Grenada extends heartfelt thanks to all students and parents who supported the series and continue to prioritize education in its many forms.

Discover Dominica Authority is proud to announce that Contour Airlines will launch new nonstop flights connecting Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) in Dominica. These flights will be operated with Contour’s fleet of 30-seat regional jet aircraft, offering passengers extra legroom, complimentary snacks and in-flight service. This historic milestone marks Contour’s official entry into the Caribbean market, expanding travel opportunities and improving accessibility for residents and visitors across Dominica, San Juan and St. Thomas. “We’re thrilled to bring Contour’s brand of reliable, comfortable jet service to the Caribbean,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “Launching service in Dominica is an exciting step for us and we look forward to making it easier for Dominicans to travel and for visitors to discover Dominica, the Nature Island.” Contour’s new routes will offer the only non-stop jet service from Dominica to both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. From these points, passengers will be able to book onward connections to destinations throughout the world. “When I visited St. Thomas, I heard firsthand the desire for a direct connection to Dominica” said Honorable Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of Dominica. “With the launch of Contour Airlines’ inaugural service, that vision has become reality. This new link strengthens ties between our islands and opens new doors for tourism, trade and investment. It is a meaningful step toward greater regional connectivity and I am proud that Dominica can be at the center of this progress.” Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister responsible for Tourism, Ports and International transportation, added “We welcome Contour Airlines’ new services from St. Thomas and San Juan to Dominica. This development strengthens connectivity within the region and improves access for visitors, returning nationals and business travelers. We look forward to working with Contour Airlines as part of our ongoing efforts to support sustainable tourism growth and showcase Dominica’s natural and cultural offerings. Contour Airlines will be the only carrier offering non-stop service between The U.S. Virgin Islands and Dominica. Virgin Islands Port Authority Executive Director Carlton Dowe expressed enthusiasm about the new direct service to Dominica provided by Contour Airlines, stating, “The U.S. Virgin Islands is thrilled to welcome Dominica as a new direct destination. This added service enhances convenience and flexibility for both residents and visitors, while also strengthening regional connectivity. With improved access, we anticipate increased opportunities for tourism, deeper cultural exchange, and a positive boost to our economy.” Dowe emphasized that this milestone highlights the significance of collaboration in maintaining the Caribbean as a premier travel destination worldwide. In addition to the non-stop flights between St. Thomas and Dominica, Contour’s flights to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport will provide greater connectivity between Dominica and Puerto Rico and allow travelers the opportunity to connect anywhere in the world. “We are delighted to welcome Contour Airlines to Puerto Rico with the launch of its new nonstop service between San Juan and Dominica. This represents an important step in recovering intra-Caribbean capacity and reaffirms our government's commitment to restoring connectivity via the San Juan hub. We look forward to the positive impact this new service will have on tourism, commerce, and the cultural ties that unite our islands,” said the Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, Willianette Robles Cancel.  For further details, please visit www.contourairlines.com. For customer inquiries or travel assistance, kindly contact us at (888) 332-6686.

The Grenada Sailing Association entered 2 sailors in for the 2025 Pan Am Junior Games in Paraguay. The Petite Calivigny Yacht Club/Woburn Wind Warriors Junior Sailing Program had participated in the Grenada Olympic Committee Panam Preparation Program since 2022 and they selected sailors Azalia Renaud and Kishon Bruno who are active members of the program, both racing and also coaching younger sailors. Grenada joined with other Caribbean Nations to prepare the sailors for the Games with 2 training camps, one in the Bahamas and one in St Vincent. As well as providing the opportunity to develop skills and race experience, this enhanced our regional connections – something we identified as an important necessary development following Elleje Bernard’s participation in the World Sailing Youth Championships in Italy last year. The Bahamas Camp was run by Trinidad Coach Andrew Lewis, who then led the sailors at the Games themselves. Azalia and Kishon were supported at the Games by members of the Grenada Olympic Committee and Barbados Team Manager, Penny McIntyre. The Caribbean ‘Team’ consisted of junior sailors from St Vincent, Barbados, Trinidad, Antigua and Bahamas. As their first venture into international competition, our sailors found the racing competition tough. The winds were light creating additional challenges over the 5 races. Azalia placed 19th in the ILCA 6 class and Kishon placed 18th in the ILCA 7 class. Coach Andrew Lewis noted ‘there is still so much more potential waiting to be unlocked’. As a result of his performance and dedication at the Games, Kishon has been invited to the Caribbean Dinghy Championships in Antigua in October. Azalia will continue sailing and coaching, and further her role as Race Committee Lead at Grenada Sailing Week and other National and Regional Regattas and sailing events. The high level of teamwork from all the Caribbean sailors was also noted by Coach Andrew Lewis who said ‘From a teamwork point of view, this has been one of the best experiences of my life. You were truly a 10 out of 10 in the way you worked together, supported one another, and balanced so many moving parts. It was admirable, inspiring, and an incredible success.’ As well as the many individuals, companies and organisations in Grenada who supported the GSA to provide equipment and support the preparation camps, the GSA would like to recognize the Grenada Olympic Committee; coaches Andrew Lewis (Trinidad), Niels Broekhuizen (Bahamas), Kristoff Stuven (Trinidad) and Noah Bullen (Grenada); Team Manager Penny McIntyre (Barbados); St Vincent Sailing Association and Rob Holden from World Sailing.

Every year on August 26th , we pause to honor our loyal companions — dogs! National Dog Day is more than just a chance to shower our furry friends with extra treats and belly rubs; it’s also a reminder of the joy, comfort, and unconditional love they bring into our lives. Founded in 2004, National Dog Day also raises awareness about the countless dogs in shelters waiting for a forever home. From hardworking service dogs to playful pups curled up at our feet, each one deserves to be celebrated. 💡 Ways to Celebrate Today: Adopt, foster, or volunteer at a local shelter. Spoil your dog with a long walk, a new toy, or a special treat. Share a photo of your pup and spread the love online. Donate supplies to an animal rescue organization. Whether they’re our protectors, helpers, or best friends, today we salute dogs everywhere for the paw prints they leave on our hearts. ❤️🐕

A Promising Start for Dominica’s Athletics Campaign National record holder Addison James will open Dominica’s athletics campaign tonight at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games. He will compete in the male javelin event at 6:10 PM local time. This is an exciting moment for both Addison and the nation. Addison is the youngest competitor in the field, but he remains confident. He believes in his training and abilities. His goal tonight is to set a new personal best and break his own national record. Currently, Addison holds the national record with a mark of 67.48 meters, achieved at the 2025 CARIFTA Games. However, he aims for a remarkable 70-meter throw at the PanAm Juniors. Coach’s Confidence in the Team Athletics Coach Joel Hamilton has also expressed strong confidence in Dominica’s athletics representatives. He noted that the athletes have been training diligently with their personal coaches. Coach Hamilton trusts that their dynamic preparations will yield excellent results. This level of commitment is crucial for success on such a significant stage. Addison will not be alone in his endeavors. He will be joined by Treneese Hamilton, who competes in the Women’s Shot Put on Thursday, August 21st. The camaraderie among the athletes adds to the excitement of the event. The Venue: A Stage for Greatness The athletics events will take place at The Paraguayan Olympic Committee-Olympic Park in Asuncion. This venue is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and has hosted numerous prestigious events. Competing in such an environment can inspire athletes to perform at their best. As the competition unfolds, the atmosphere will be electric. Athletes from various countries will showcase their talents, making it a thrilling experience for spectators and participants alike. Setting New Standards Addison’s ambition to achieve a 70-meter throw is a testament to his dedication. He understands the importance of setting new standards, not just for himself but for future athletes from Dominica. Achieving this goal could inspire a new generation of javelin throwers. The journey to greatness is often filled with challenges. However, with determination and hard work, Addison is poised to make his mark. His story is one of resilience and ambition, qualities that resonate with many aspiring athletes. The Road Ahead Looking beyond the PanAm Junior Games, Addison and his fellow athletes have their sights set on future competitions. Each event is an opportunity to learn and grow. The experience gained at the PanAm Juniors will be invaluable as they continue to develop their skills. In conclusion, tonight marks a significant milestone for Addison James and Dominica’s athletics. With confidence, preparation, and a supportive team, the sky's the limit. I am excited to see what the future holds for these talented athletes.

CEO Training Series prepares 147 providers to champion service excellence and teamwork – The Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), in collaboration with the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), have successfully concluded the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Training Series, an initiative aimed at raising service standards across Dominica’s tourism sector. The program, which ran from July 28 to August 11, 2025, equipped 147 frontline service providers with the skills to deliver exceptional and consistent visitor experiences. Participants represented a wide spectrum of the industry, including NISE-certified taxi operators, tour guides, craft and souvenir vendors, hair braiders, accommodation staff and forestry park wardens. The training emphasized teamwork and collaboration, shifting the mindset from “Me” to “We,” with a focus on collective destination success. Sessions were facilitated by Mr. Norris Clement, Project Manager for the CTO Human Capital Development Project, who drew on over 26 years of experience in service excellence. Core topics included emotional intelligence, service recovery, continuous improvement and stakeholder collaboration. “Our service providers are the heartbeat of Dominica’s tourism industry. This training has strengthened their skills and reinforced their critical role in shaping the visitor experience. By investing in our people, we are investing in the continued growth and positive reputation of Dominica as the Nature Island of the Caribbean,” said Marva Williams, CEO/Director of Tourism. The CEO Training Series reflects the Ministry of Tourism and DDA’s ongoing commitment to human capital development, service excellence and the sustainable growth of Dominica’s tourism industry.