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The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with Industry 360, Mel&NMedia, Chambers Media, Sandals Grenada, and other valued partners, proudly hosted their third curated press trip themed “Respect The Tradition”, that welcomed top-tier influencers and journalists both regionally and internationally, including prominent voices from the United Kingdom and the United States. This immersive initiative was designed to showcase this year’s Spicemas celebration, Grenada’s signature cultural celebration, while offering a deeper experience of the nation’s rich heritage and traditions. The trip officially kicked off with a warm and festive welcome at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, with big drum performances, cultural dancing and many other showcases of Grenada’s culture, followed by an exclusive welcome event at Sandals Grenada, where guests were greeted with live entertainment, local cuisine, and remarks from tourism officials and partners. Highlighted on the itinerary, was a hands-on cultural workshop held at Paraclete, St. Andrew, that explored the origins of Mas, with a special focus on traditional characters such as Jab Jab, Shortknee, and Véyé Cou (Vieux Corps). The experience also included a culinary dive into Grenada’s national dish, oil down, not just as a meal, but as a story of community, flavor, and heritage. “This is about authentic Caribbean storytelling, ensuring that not only are people coming to the Caribbean shores, and particularly Grenada’s shores to experience Spicemas, but to also really understand its history, its impact, it’s the culture of Grenada.” Said Melissa Noel, Founder of Mel&NMedia, and Co-Producer of the trip. “This is cultural preservation, this is ensuring that not only are people coming here to experience and amplify, but understanding the importance ofkeeping traditions, and respecting traditions.” Tenille Clarke, Founder of Industry 360 also spoke on what this trip meant to Grenada. “This year’s theme is respect the tradition. It's meant to take a two pronged approach. Obviously to showcase Grenada as having one of the premier carnival experiences in the Caribbean, but also when you think about the etymology and generational history behind Spicemas, you think about tracing lineage.” By collaborating with creative agencies like Industry 360, Chambers Media, the GTA is amplifying Grenada’s voice across global markets, connecting with new audiences, and reinforcing the tri-island destination as a place where authenticity meets adventure. “This year’s trip was a vibrant celebration of Grenada’s rich culture and heritage,” said Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “Our goal was to passionately showcase the soul of our island from its traditions and people to its music and cuisine. We hope that the authenticity and spirit of Grenada resonated deeply through the lenses of the regional and international storytellers who experienced it firsthand.” The Grenada Tourism Authority extends heartfelt thanks to all partners and stakeholders who helped bring this experience to life and looks forward to the vibrant stories and connections it will generate.

National Record holder Addison James ended with a 9th-place finish in the Men’s Javelin at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games. Addison had a solid 1st round throw of 62.48 meters but could not better that mark, gaining 62.06m in his 2nd round. Unfortunately, Addison fouled his 3rd round effort, missing his place in the finals, as only the top 8 advanced and gained 3 more throws. Addison currently holds the national record with a mark of 67.48 meters, which he set at the 2025 CARIFTA Games. He hoped to better that mark at the PanAm Juniors; however, he stated that he did his best in the field. Addison currently attends the Edwin Allen High School in Jamaica and he plans to continue training in order to break that 70-meter barrier next season. The Men's Javelin was won by Lars Flaming of Paraguay, who set a new games record of 81.56 meters. Cuba’s Leikel Cabrera won silver with 75.82m, and Brazilian Thiago Lacerda won bronze with 69.77m. Dominica will return to the field, with Treneese Hamilton in the Women’s Shot Put at 6:25 PYT/ 5:25 ECT on Thursday, August 21st. The athletics events are being held at The Paraguayan Olympic Committee-Olympic Park in the host city, Asuncion.

The Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP) is proud to announce that the CAP 2025 Annual Conference will take place from August 18 to 24, 2025, at the State House Conference Room in Roseau, Dominica. The conference will be held under the theme “Pharmacy 2025 and Beyond: Achieving Optimal Outcomes and Healthcare Transformation through Accountability, Innovation, and Research,” It is anticipated that this year’s conference will serve as a pivotal platform for healthcare professionals, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders from across the Caribbean and beyond. Hon. Cassani Laville, Minister for Health, Wellness, and Social Services of the Commonwealth of Dominica, expressed his excitement about the upcoming conference. He said, “Hosting CAP 2025 in Dominica showcases our commitment to advancing regional pharmacy practice and healthcare transformation. We are delighted to welcome our Caribbean colleagues to the Nature Island, where innovation will meet collaboration.” Ms. Kalawattie Datt-Singh, President of the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists, added: “Our theme reflects the need for accountability, research, and innovation in shaping the future of healthcare across the region. Dominica provides the perfect setting for these vital conversations, and we are excited to create opportunities for growth, learning, and partnership.” Conference highlights will include:  Keynote sessions led by regional and international experts in pharmacy and healthcare systems.  Workshops and training focused on research, accountability frameworks, and emerging technologies in pharmacy practice.  Research paper presentations showcasing advances and findings from Caribbean professionals.  Exhibition zone featuring pharmaceutical companies, service providers, and innovations.  Cultural activities and networking highlighting Dominica’s rich heritage and hospitality. The conference is expected to bring over fifty delegates to Dominica, providing significant economic benefits through tourism and hospitality, while strengthening professional development and healthcare collaboration across the Caribbean. About CAP (Caribbean Association of Pharmacists) Founded in 1976, CAP is the leading professional body representing pharmacists across the Caribbean. The organization promotes professional excellence, healthcare advocacy, continuing education, and regional collaboration in the pharmaceutical sector.

The Dominica Athletics Association is proud to announce that two of Dominica’s outstanding athletes will represent the nation at the prestigious North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) Senior Championships, taking place in Freeport, Bahamas, from 15th to 17th August 2025. Treneese Hamilton will compete in the Women’s Shot Put, bringing her strength, skill, and determination to the field as she aims to achieve a personal best and secure a strong placement for Dominica. Known for her dedication and powerful performances, Hamilton has consistently been one of Dominica’s leading female throwers on the regional stage and currently hold the Shot Put National Senior Record. National Record Holder, Dennick Luke will take to the track in the 400M Hurdles, a challenging event that demands speed, endurance, and precision. Luke, a rising star in athletics, has demonstrated exceptional potential and competitive spirit in national and regional competitions, and is eager to make his mark against some of the region’s best. The NACAC Senior Championships will bring together elite athletes from across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, offering a platform to showcase talent and strengthen sporting connections within the region. The Dominica Athletics Association extends its full support to Hamilton and Luke, and calls on all Dominicans to rally behind them as they proudly fly the nation’s flag at this major international event.

By: Jan-Willem Wegdam – Emergency Response Specialist (IOM) Simon Springett - UN Resident Coordinator, Barbados and Eastern Caribbean In the Caribbean, where hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, and climate-driven displacement are constant threats, humanitarian action must be swift, inclusive and anchored in local leadership. With the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season already underway, the urgency is clear. When national and community actors lead the disaster response and global partners stand firmly behind them to support the humanitarian response, recovery efforts become faster, more effective, and more likely to save lives. This is the heart of World Humanitarian Day 2025 and this year’s campaign theme, #ActforHumanity a call to move beyond acknowledgment and take meaningful steps to empower local capacities, dismantle barriers to resources, and place communities in the driver’s seat of their own response and recovery. The United Nations in the Eastern Caribbean has recognized the importance of bridging global humanitarian aspirations with local knowledge and partnerships. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has adopted this approach through its localization framework, which places the power, knowledge, and expertise of local actors at the center of humanitarian response. This is particularly vital in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), where national agencies, public servants, non-government organizations (NGOs), and civil society organizations (CSOs) are often the backbone of resilience and recovery. The lessons of recent history are instructive. In 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated the Caribbean, with Barbuda rendered virtually uninhabitable and Dominica's infrastructure shattered. IOM and other UN bodies in Dominica joined efforts with village councils, community leaders, and regional volunteer organizations, who ultimately played leading roles in the recovery, ensuring aid reached the most marginalized who needed it the most. In 2019, Hurricane Dorian struck the northern islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama in The Bahamas, sparking a remarkable wave of solidarity across the country. The IOM co-led the shelter sector, with coordination meetings drawing more than 100 organizations, many of them local. Groups donated mattresses, water, house repairs, and arranged the transportation of locally donated relief supplies to NGOs and the government. More recently, Hurricane Beryl in 2024 tested the region's preparedness and adaptability. The leadership of the Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and national disaster offices in Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines set the pace. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), as the agency mandated to coordinate humanitarian action, in collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinator, supported CDEMA and facilitated joint UN efforts to ensure a coherent, needs-driven response. IOM, as part of the UN response, aligned its efforts again with local and national authorities, distributing emergency shelter materials, supporting cash-based interventions, and deploying critical assessment tools. IOM’s pre-positioning of relief supplies at the Caribbean Logistics Hub, in coordination with the European Union, Amazon, and the World Food Programme, enabled rapid response, but it was the networks of local responders and volunteers who ensured timely delivery to those most in need. The Caribbean's unique context demands a preparedness and response system that values inclusion, accessibility, and the agency of local actors. Regional policy approaches of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) ensure that no country faces disaster alone. National disaster management organizations, supported by partner organizations, faith-based organizations, local businesses, and grassroots groups, bring context, trust, and innovation to every stage of the response. The work of people with disabilities and their representative organizations has been vital for ensuring that disaster preparedness and recovery are truly inclusive. Localization is not merely a policy—it is a practice. The UN invests in building local capacity across the Eastern Caribbean, providing technical expertise to national mechanisms, supporting training in emergency coordination, and sharing data tools that strengthen response systems from within. These efforts enhance, rather than overshadow, the leadership of national and community actors. As we mark World Humanitarian Day, let us recognize the real heroes of the Caribbean’s disaster response: the public servants who work through the night, the NGOs and local organizations that never leave, and the regional bodies like CDEMA that unite countries in solidarity. The future of humanitarian action in the Caribbean will be shaped by the courage and ingenuity of its people, and by our collective resolve to #ActForHumanity, and match their leadership with the resources and partnerships they deserve.

The Dominica Red Cross Society is urging all residents to closely monitor updates and take immediate steps to prepare as Hurricane Erin approaches the region. While the exact path of the storm is still being tracked, forecasts suggest that Dominica may experience heavy raintall, strong winds, and potential flooding in the coming days. We know that hurricanes can be unpredictable, and we want everyone to be ready, not panicked but prepared What You Can Do Right Now: Prepare Your "Go Bag" Pack essential items like water, canned food, medications, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, and important documents. Keep it in a waterproof container and make sure it's easy to grab if you need to leave quickly. Secure Your Home Clear drains and gutters, bring in outdoor furniture, and check your roof and windows. Trim trees and remove loose debris that could become dangerous in high winds. Know Where to Go Identify your nearest emergency shelter and plan how you'll get there. Share your plan with family and neighbors, especially those who may need Stay Connected Charge your phones and devices in advance. Stay tuned to updates from the Office of Disaster Management (ODM), the MET Office, local radio stations, and the Dominica Red Cross Society's platforms. We'll keep you informed every step of the way. Check on Others Reach out to elderly neighbors, people with disabilities, and anyone living alone. A quick check-in can make a big difference. The Dominica Red Cross Society reminds the public that we are in the hurricane season; residents are encouraged to pay attention to the warnings and information being provided by the Office of Disaster Management. -End-

National Swimmer, Jasmine Schofield, has officially ended her stint at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games. Jasmine competed in Heat 1 of the 50m Freestyle this morning with an 8th place finish in 29.43 seconds.   This race is the end of Jasmine’s long competition season and although Jasmine expressed disappointment in her performance, her effort was commendable.   Jasmine is currently the National Record holder in both the 50m freestyle and 100m freestyle and she hopes to better her times and improve those records. In preparation for a new swimming season, Jasmine plans to return to training in order to work on technique and strength in her races.   The Dominica Olympic Committee thanks Jasmine for her effort and representation for the 2025 season. Yesterday, Jasmine Schofield had a 5th-place finish in Heat 2 of the 100m freestyle with a time of 1:04.05.   The events were held at the aquatics complex of The Paraguayan Olympic Committee-Olympic Park in the host city Asuncion.

CARICOM Youth Ambassador, Ashley Lashley of Barbados, is one of 14 youth climate leaders appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General to his Third Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change. This cohort of the Advisory Group was announced today, International Youth Day, which in 2025 highlights "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond".    The Advisory Group comprises youth advocates from all global regions – including in this cohort, two from Latin America and one from the Caribbean – representing a variety of identities, experiences, perspectives, and expertise in their respective countries, communities of influence and networks.  It provides the Secretary-General with practical and outcome-focused advice, diverse youth perspectives and concrete recommendations to advance achievement of his climate priorities.    On the launch of this cohort, the Secretary-General praised young people’s “fearless advocacy” as pivotal in the fight against the climate crisis. “This is why I am proud to announce the launch of the third cohort of my Youth Advisory Group on Climate – and to expand its membership from 7 to 14,” he said. “That means more space for young voices at the table, more space for youth leadership and more space to shape climate action. To young people everywhere, don’t give up.”   For Ashley Lashley, this sub-region’s youth voice on the Advisory group, to serve in this role “is to carry the Caribbean’s cry for climate justice and to hold the world accountable for the debt it owes to SIDS."   Ms. Lashley is founder of The Ashley Lashley Foundation and the SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit.     Resources Press release: https://www.un.org/sites/un2.un.org/files/press_release_yag_3.0_12_aug_2025.pdf Webpage: https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/youth-in-action/youth-advisory-group UN News story: https://social.desa.un.org/issues/youth/events/iyd2025 Secretary-General’s Message on International Youth Day: https://www.un.org/en/observances/youth-day/messages

The Caribbean Youth Climate Council (CYCC), a regional network representing young people from CARICOM member states, will host the inaugural Caribbean Youth Environment & Climate Change Conference from September 9 to 12, 2025, in Kingston, Jamaica.  The conference will bring together youth delegates, policymakers, environmental experts, and development partners to share knowledge, build skills, and collaborate on solutions to address climate and environmental challenges in the region. The programme will focus on capacity building, youth advocacy, collaboration, and policy engagement, with sessions on key topics such as ocean conservation, biodiversity protection, climate finance, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and climate justice. Delegates will also have opportunities to propose and present additional topics relevant to their communities and the wider Caribbean. “According to a study published in Science , Caribbean coral reefs have lost approximately 80% of their hard coral cover over the past three decades, a harsh indicator that our ecosystems and coastal communities are in crisis,” expressed Mario Galbert, CYCC’s Executive Coordinator. “This conference arrives at a pivotal moment, placing youth at the forefront of conservation and policy action to champion the resilience our region urgently needs.”  This inaugural event will support young leaders in strengthening their role in policy and decision-making processes, equipping them with practical tools and networks to advance climate action at local, national, and regional levels. By creating a platform for young leaders to develop solutions, share innovations, and influence decision-makers, the Caribbean Youth Environment and Climate Change Conference will take a critical step toward building a resilient, sustainable, and equitable future.

National swimmer Jasmine Schofield had a 5th-place finish in Heat 2 of the 100m freestyle at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games. Jasmine finished with a time of 1:04.05. Though this time wasn’t good enough for a place in the finals, Jasmine had a commendable effort in the event.   Expressing some disappointment in her performance, Jasmine said that she plans to pace herself better for tomorrow's 50m freestyle race. She said that even after coming off a long swimming season, she gave this race her all. Jasmine said that she has had several changes made this season and she is thankful for the progress she has made thus far, but she will continue working on technique and strength as the season closes.   Swimming Coach, Shaminey Walsh-Dupuis, said that she’s pleased with Jasmine’s performance. Coach Walsh-Dupuis stated that although her time is much slower than her personal best, Jasmine competed well despite her challenges. Coach Dupuis plans to use this race as a guide for Jasmine’s next event in order for Jasmine to produce better results in the pool.   Jasmine will compete in the 50m freestyle on Wednesday, 13th August at 9:00 am PYT/8:00 am ECT. The events will be held at the aquatics complex of The Paraguayan Olympic Committee-Olympic Park in the host city Asuncion.   The game can be viewed on the official PanAm Sports YouTube page and website and updates on Team Dominica can be found on the Dominica Olympic Committee’s Facebook page.

Article by Marisa T It saddens me sometimes, when my mind wanders back to the Portsmouth I used to know. I remember the bustle, the easy laughter in the streets, and how the town seemed to hum with possibility. The air carried the scent of fried chicken drifting from KFC, a small but steady reminder that Portsmouth was on the move. HHV Whitchurch & Co. stood tall, its shelves filled, its doors always swinging with customers coming and going. And of course, there was Ross University. The campus buzzed like a heartbeat. Students from all over the world filled our restaurants, shops, and taxis. Their energy spilled into the community — every corner felt alive. Now, when I walk through certain parts of town, I see shutters drawn, buildings standing quiet like they’re holding their breath. KFC is gone. HHV Whitchurch & Co. has closed its doors. The departure of Ross took more than jobs — it took a piece of the town’s soul. We still have our sunsets, our sea, and our people’s resilience, but there’s no denying something has shifted. Portsmouth once felt like it was running toward the future; now it feels like it’s waiting for a spark to set it in motion again.

Dominica Olympic Committee President, Mr Billy Doctrove, emphasizes the importance of support for youth athletes.   Speaking prior to Dominica’s participation at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games, Mr Doctroves states that “a gold medal winner does not come automatically” but it is only achieved through adequate preparation.   Mr Doctrove expressed that games such as the PanAm Juniors are necessary stepping stones towards the development of an athlete, and in realizing this, the Dominica Olympic Committee continues to support junior athletes towards achieving excellence at the highest levels of competition.   In efforts to continue athlete development, Mr Doctrove urges members of the private sector to support athletes year-round.   “We are asking our private sector to come on board early to ensure the young athletes are prepared and the environment is prepared and our young athletes have a pathway to further excellence”, says Mr Doctrove.   The Junior PanAmerican Games was introduced in 2021 for athletes ages 16 to 21 and is considered the most important youth sports festival on the continent. This year, the games will feature over 4000 athletes across 42 disciplines. Dominica will officially begin competition with swimmer Jasmine Schofield in the 100m freestyle on Tuesday, 12th August.   Game highlights can be viewed on the official PanAm Sports YouTube page and website, and updates on Team Dominica can be found on the Dominica Olympic Committee’s Facebook page.