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Rumour has been swirling across the Commonwealth of Dominica’s political landscape, hinting at something that could reshape the island’s political conversation. Word on the ground suggests that a new coalition party may be taking shape , reportedly spearheaded by several well-known figures who once stood firmly on the opposing side . While nothing has been officially confirmed, the whispers alone have sparked fresh interest, debates, and plenty of eyebrow-raising. Dominicans are asking the big questions: What could bring these individuals together now? Is this a response to shifting political winds? Could a new coalition truly challenge the long-standing status quo? And what would this mean for voters heading into the next election cycle? The idea of former adversaries aligning under a shared vision has added a layer of intrigue to Dominica’s already dynamic political atmosphere. Some believe such a coalition could energize the electorate and attract individuals seeking a new political direction. Others remain cautious, waiting to see whether the rumour gains substance -or fades as political chatter. For now, Dominicans continue to watch closely, listen to the talk in the rum shops and online spaces, and wonder whether this developing buzz signals a major shift… or simply the calm before something bigger emerges.

Dominica’s Senior Women’s National Team, the Sisserou Girls, endured a difficult outing on Saturday, falling 18–0 to a dominant Jamaican side in their opening match of the 2025–2026 CONCACAF Women’s Qualifiers, played at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. Jamaica showcased their world-class talent and efficiency from early in the match, with multiple players finding the back of the net. Notably, Khadija “Bunny” Shaw scored a first-half hat-trick, reaching 60 international goals, extending her record as Jamaica’s all-time leading scorer. She was ably supported by Kalyssa Van Zanten and Jody Brown who both earned hat-tricks, while Deneisha Blackwood, Shaneil Buckley and Natasha Thomas added two goals each. Despite the tough scoreline, Dominica returned from the locker room showing noticeable improvement. The Sisserou Girls tightened their defensive shape, and slowed Jamaica’s rhythm for periods very early in the second half. However, Jamaica’s attacking unit, known for its speed, accuracy, and international experience, quickly regrouped and proved too strong as they continued to find goals late in the match. Dominica’s Head Coach Ronnie Gustaveacknowledged the challenge playing against an elite team as Jamaica but praised his team’s effort. “That's one the aspects of the game that we see how organised they were. And their speed of play was very, very intense. Their communication, their non-verbal communication on the pitch, you know, so you could see, well, it's a team that have been together for a while. I mean, speaking to the coach as well, that even after the game, he said we shouldnot get discouraged because they were once like us, so just keep the girls together and continue what I'm doing. And we'll reach where they are at this point in time. But on our behalf, I figure there's a lot of work to be done with the girls. And I know a lot of people will want to see results at this point in time. But it's a process.” “And the nice, the good thing about the game that I saw with the girls is that they keep fighting and they keep fighting for one another... They realised that if we have to do this, we have to do it as a team and we have to unite. So that is one thing we surely can build on, that the unity is there among the girls,” he added.   Goalkeeper and Captain, Dymond Daniel, expressed her gratitude to her teammates for not giving up and displaying a strong sense of unity throughout. “Yes, with the tough loss against Jamaica, I just tried to tell the girls not to be too hard on themselves about this game. We knew the battle it was going to be going into the game and honestly, I think every one of them should be in a way proud because they did not give up. They fought until the last minute and I know everyone left their entire heart and soul on that pitch. So I just continue to tell them it's a work in progress. When we get back home, it's back to the drawing board to improve and to get better and be better prepared for the rest of the qualifiers.” Meanwhile, Hubert Busby, Head Coach for the Jamaica side said his team executed the game plan with precision. “The focus the entire week was making sure that we got the 3 points. On top of that we wanted to build on our performance and credit to the players. They went out there and had a business performance today, obviously led by our captain Bunny (Khadija Shaw). We went out there and executed the plan so job done.” Khadja “Bunny” Shaw added that Jamaica, as a people, needed this win. “Every time we put on the colours, it’s an honour. This is the start of the qualifiers, and first we wanted to focus on ourselves, as always, I think we did a very professional performance today. And I am sure the fans and the people back home would appreciate that right now especially with what we’re going through.” This match marked the first in Dominica’s four-game qualifying series, with upcoming fixtures scheduled for February (Guyana) and April (Nicaragua and Antigua & Barbuda). The team continues to build around its blend of experienced local athletes, overseas-based talent, and a new generation of young players—including DymondDaniel, the youngest captain ever to lead Dominica’s senior women’s team. The Sisserou Girls will continue to work to strengthen its program, develop emerging talent, and advance the standard of women’s football in Dominica. ##END## Goal Scorers – Jamaica • K. Plummer (2’) • K. Shaw (4’, 39’, 43’) • K. Van Zanten (7’, 21’, 26’) • S. Brown (9’, 35’, 82’) • C. Primus (12’) • D. Blackwood (51’, 89’) • A. Buckley (81’, 90+2’) • J. Thomas (86’, 88’) • R. Hayles (90+1’)b

The Dominica State College (DSC) is proud to announce the official launch of its newest Smart Classroom and Learning Hub, a state-of-the-art teaching and learning space established through a strategic partnership with Skills to Access the Green Economy (SAGE) and the Government of Canada. The launch event, held on Wednesday, November 27th, brought together members of the College’s Management, Faculty, and Staff, along with representatives from SAGE and officials from the Ministry of Education. Their participation underscored the shared commitment to advancing education, digital literacy, and workforce readiness in Dominica. The new Smart Classroom and Learning Hub is equipped with cutting-edge digital tools, interactive technology, and modern learning resources designed to elevate instructional delivery and strengthen student engagement. This initiative supports DSC’s ongoing efforts to enhance its academic infrastructure, promote innovative teaching methodologies, and broaden access to quality education across all programmes. Pat Bidart of SAGE, speaking at the event, emphasized the project’s significance to the college’s long-term educational vision. She noted that this initiative forms part of a wider push to empower Caribbean institutions with the skills and resources needed to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development and environmentally responsible economic growth. Trudy Christian, Officer in Charge of the Office of the President, also delivered remarks, highlighting that the Smart Classroom and Learning Hub represents a meaningful investment in the students’ future. She noted that the new facility ensures students have the tools, technology, and learning environment required to thrive in a modern, green-focused global economy. The partnership between DSC, SAGE, and the Government of Canada continues to play a pivotal role in supporting educational innovation, climate resilience, and workforce training. The Smart Classroom and Learning Hub will serve both students and faculty by fostering collaborative learning, creativity, and effective integration of modern technology into academic practice. The Dominica State College extends its appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the success of this project and remains committed to building learning environments that prepare students for a dynamic and sustainable future.

A five-member delegation from Dominica represented the Kiwanis Nature Island Club at the Eastern Canada and Caribbean District Division 27A Creole Caribbean Amazonia Division Council Meeting (DCM) held in Martinique from November 21 to November 23, 2025. The Eastern Canada and Caribbean District holds District Convention Meetings (DCMs) every year for various levels of the Organisation. These meetings involve discussions, voting on bylaws and resolutions, and reports on activities, finances, and membership. Each Kiwanian year includes three district council meetings, with this one being the first for the year. The meetings bring together member clubs from Dominica, St. Lucia, Martinique, and French Guiana. This year, Dominica was represented by its largest delegation, which included President Mary Winston, Vice President Nicole Karam, Secretary Daniah Labadie, Treasurer Lisa Francis, and Public Relations Officer Laila Langford. The participation of the Kiwanis Nature Island Club demonstrated the club's commitment to revitalizing the enthusiasm among its members and further promoting the Kiwanis movement in Dominica. President of the Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica Mary Winston stated that the training received serves as a beacon of hope for the club. “The three days of training at the District Council Meeting, under the theme -Fuel the Passion and Change the Game & has been remarkable. The knowledge and skills we gained will help us fulfill our promise to the Kiwanis club and the children and families we serve. Despite the challenges we may face, we must not give up; we must keep the faith and keep pressing on in everything we do. It is crucial that we prioritize the children of the world to help create a better future for all.” Meanwhile, Secretary of the Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica, Daniah Labadie, shared her excitement about her experience at the District Council Meeting (DCM). “Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to attend the DCM on behalf of the Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica. This was my first DCM, and it was both exciting and enlightening.” She expressed her commitment to helping the club grow, stating, “As a member and executive of the Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica, I believe it is my responsibility to take initiatives that will help the club grow and become a substantial presence both locally and regionally. At this DCM, we learned how to become influential leaders, but we were also taught what it means to be an influential leader. Additionally, we were reminded that solidarity among club members is essential for our clubs to remain relevant.” Labadie continued, “I left this DCM feeling motivated and content, knowing that my club members and I are eager to implement what we have learned to help our club grow. I look forward to attending many more DCMs.” The Treasurer of the Kiwanis Nature Island Club, Lisa Francis, shared her thoughts on the experience as well. “Attending the Kiwanis DCM, under the theme "Feel the Passion, Change the Game" was truly an inspiring experience for me. The event reminded me why service matters and highlighted how powerful our collective energy can be when we put our passion into action.” She added, “Hearing from other leaders and clubs motivated me to think bigger. It has reignited my passion to push not only myself but also the Kiwanis Nature Island Club of Dominica even further. I left the DCM feeling encouraged to bring new ideas to my club and approach service with a renewed sense of purpose.” Francis concluded, “Overall, the DCM has shown me, and reminded me, that when we work together as a team—with intention, enthusiasm, and passion—we truly can change the game for the futures of the young people we serve, and by extension, our communities.”

Dominica-born music coding expert and creative executive, Chester “Massive” Wilkins was on Saturday 22 November 2025, honored by Upper Room Theological University in Fayetteville North Carolina, with an honorary Doctor of Music degree (honoris causa) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to music, digital rights management, Caribbean cultural promotion, and global entertainment innovation. The degree was conferred during a graduation ceremony at the University, where Dr. Wilkins was acknowledged for his pioneering work in ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) coding and his leadership in facilitating revenue streams and rights protection for artists globally, including a particular focus on Caribbean creators. His decades-long commitment to bridging technology, creative culture and intellectual property make this honor especially appropriate. Upper Room Theological University is a faith-based institution committed to holistic higher education, combining bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programmes across theological, ministerial and creative arts disciplines. Its honorary degree programme is reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, cultural impact and vocation-driven service. The Iowa-based Dr. Wilkins is a widely respected strategist and entrepreneur, advocating for fair compensation, digital transparency, and empowerment of artists—especially from the Caribbean region. He has been on music and IP (Intellectual Property) panels from New York, to Trinidad, to Chicago- most recently at the National Bar Association’s Centennial Convention as a presenter on the “Entertainment Industry and Artificial Intelligence” panel, alongside notable legal minds, including fellow Dominican Bernice Lawrence an entertainment lawyer based in Atlanta Georgia. Through his company Know the Codes, Dr. Wilkins has trained dozens of lawyers across the US on ISRC coding and metadata, as digital advancements continue to impact the music industry and the lives of their clients. Receiving the Doctorate of Music signifies more than a ceremonial accolade—it reflects Dr. Wilkins’ consistent fusion of artistry, technology and advocacy. Dr. Michael Neely, an Atlanta-based music manager and former A&R (Artists and Repertoire) at Def Jam Records, said he was proud to recommend Dr. Wilkins for this honorary degree. “He is understanding, he is very intelligent and he is capable of doing everything he has mentioned.” Dr. Neely, who received an honorary Doctors of Music in 2024 added, “I have witnessed on the sidelines how he interacts with people. He doesn’t gatekeep and he is always teaching others including myself.” “To receive this honorary doctorate is humbling. I accept it not only for myself, but on behalf of every creative soul from Dominica, the Caribbean, and beyond—who has believed that our music, our culture, our stories belong on the world stage, states Dr. Wilkins. He continues, "My role is to help creators protect their works so that they can monetise their talent and earn the royalties that they deserve.” Dr. Wilkins intends to leverage this recognition as a springboard to expand his mentorship of Caribbean professionals seeking careers in music technology, rights management, and digital entrepreneurship. He hopes in 2026 to host and continue his training of legal minds in ISRC coding. Dr. Wilkins is the son of Winston Wilkins (Deceased) and Melvina Boyer, owner of the once popular hangout spot Melvina's Bar and Restaurant in the community of Pointe Michel. He is the stepson of Mr. Vincent Boyer who helped raise him. At Saturday’s convocation, honorary degrees were conferred in several categories: Arts& Entertainment, Civic, Community Involvement, Ecclesiastic, Humanitarian and Music Awards.   Chester Wilkins Credit: On Target Comm

Tuesday, November 25, the Parliament of Dominica paid solemn tribute to the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, on the ninth anniversary of his passing. At the request of Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, lawmakers observed a minute of silence in honor of the Cuban leader, whose figure transcended borders and marked contemporary history. In his speech, the Prime Minister mentioned Fidel Castro's work and his global impact due to his internationalist vision and unwavering solidarity. Skerrit recalled that “We in Dominica are well aware of his generosity and contributions to the economic and social development (of the country). We will always have fond memories of President Fidel Castro,” he said. The tribute is part of the activities taking place in various countries to mark the centenary of Fidel Castro, which will be commemorated in 2026. These initiatives highlight his political legacy, his thinking, and his influence on the processes of world integration. The tribute by the Parliament of Dominica reaffirms the historic ties of friendship between Dominica and Cuba and recognizes the mark left by one of the most influential leaders in the region. Site credit: https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/dominica-parliament-pays-tribute-fidel-castro

Public invited to experience the first official showcase of the 2026 Carnival season The Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) will host the official launch of Mas Domnik 2026 on Friday, November 28, from 5:30 p.m. at The Factory on Valley Road. The event is open to the public and will set the stage for the start of one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant and culturally rooted Carnival seasons. Mas Domnik, celebrated as “The Real Mas,” is among the region’s oldest Carnival traditions. Its origins stem from masquerade practices of formerly enslaved individuals in the 1700s, evolving into a festival that blends African, European, French and Kalinago influences. Today it remains a safe and welcoming celebration recognized for its authenticity and deep cultural expression. A key feature of the launch will be the official presentation of the Miss Dominica 2026 contestants. This first public appearance introduces the young women who will serve as cultural ambassadors throughout the season and participate in a pageant known for highlighting leadership, talent and national pride. Traditional mas will be showcased through performances from groups including Sennsé, Mahaut Lapo Kabwit, the Big Boom-Boom Ladies, Bwa Bwa, Darkies, the Kalinago Tete Mass and Ban Akiyo. Their appearances will spotlight the ancestral craftsmanship, rhythm and oral storytelling traditions that continue to define Mas Domnik’s cultural identity. The entertainment lineup will bring together the island’s top musicians and DJs. Patrons will enjoy live performances from TK Combo and Riddim Knockaz along with musical sets by DJ MJ and MV on the Keys, DJ Taffy and Friends, DJ Sleem, DJ Snow and DJ Flip. Their combined energy is expected to ignite excitement and signal the start of an unforgettable Carnival season. “Mas Domnik is one of our most powerful expressions of identity, creativity and resilience. As we launch the 2026 season, we celebrate the traditions that shaped us while creating new opportunities for our people, our cultural practitioners and our tourism sector. I encourage everyone to come out and experience the spirit of community and pride that makes Dominica’s Carnival unlike any other in the region,” said Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority. Residents and visitors are invited to join the celebration on November 28 and experience the traditions, creativity and communal spirit that make Mas Domnik truly unique. Those unable to attend in person can tune in to live coverage on Emonews, DBS Radio, Kairi FM and the Dominica Festivals Facebook page. The launch marks the official start of the 2026 Carnival season, which will culminate with the grand celebrations of Carnival Monday and Tuesday on February 16 and 17, 2026.

The Government of Dominica, through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, has launched a Rental Housing Survey beginning November 24, 2025. The survey targets both landlords and tenants and is designed to gather critical data that will inform the establishment and operations of the forthcoming Tenancy and Rent Commission. In the 2024–2025 National Budget Address, the Government committed to creating the Tenancy and Rent Commission as part of its pledge to strengthen the housing sector. The Commission will play a central role in providing stronger protections for both landlords and tenants, preventing exploitation, and ensuring access to safe, secure, and affordable housing across the country. The information collected through this survey will guide the Commission in addressing key challenges within the rental housing market. These include improving protections for landlords and tenants, setting and enforcing housing standards, and promoting a fair, transparent, and equitable rental environment. The survey questionnaires are available on the official Government of Dominica website: Tenant Survey: https://forms.dominica.gov.dm/x/72ByEpCF Landlord Survey: https://forms.dominica.gov.dm/x/y35cUejl The Ministry encourages all landlords and tenants to participate in this important national exercise. Your input is vital to shaping a modern, fair, and balanced rental housing system for Dominica.

By: Chalsey Gill Anthony, Environmental Communicator, on behalf of Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)   In the face of a disaster, the difference between quick recovery and prolonged hardship often comes down to one thing: information. Who is affected? How severe are the damages? Who needs help first? In the Caribbean, where disasters are growing stronger and more frequent, technology can turn chaos into action. The reality on the ground is that, too often, communities wait weeks for assessments before help arrives. A farmer loses not only her crops, but also stored seeds and irrigation equipment. A fisher is left without nets, fuel or safe harbour access. A market vendor loses stock during a power outage but still owes rent and supplier fees. These delays aren’t because governments don’t care, but because the systems we rely on are slow and need improvement. As we’ve seen with recent storms like Hurricane Melissa, delays in assessment mean missed planting seasons, extended income loss, and avoidable setbacks across multiple sectors. Can technology help? Only when it fits our realities. CPDC’s research across five Caribbean countries shows that only 21% of community organizations currently keep vulnerability data on their members. That means most cooperatives, credit unions, and civil society groups simply don’t have records ready and on hand about who is most at risk. Whether it’s the elderly farmer without irrigation equipment, the young fisher still repaying a motor loan, or the market vendor dependent on refrigeration with no backup power, help is harder to target, and delays are sure to happen. Digital tools like shared databases, mobile apps and surveys, and even SMS-based tools can help local organizations identify risks and track their members’ needs in real time. Imagine a cooperative with an app showing which members are most exposed to flooding, or a credit union instantly verifying who qualifies for an emergency payout after a storm. CPDC’s research recommends testing digital tools across the region through cooperatives and CSOs to help track member risk and deliver disaster support faster, starting with small-scale action rather than large technological overhauls. But While Digital Tools Show Promise, Not Everyone Has Equal Access Across the region, access to smart devices and stable internet is not the same for everyone. Many women, rural families, and the elderly are not using apps. Power outages after storms make digital tools temporarily inaccessible. If technology is built without considering gender, age, connectivity, or socio-economic gaps, the people most at risk remain excluded and unprotected. That is why any move toward a “Smart Caribbean” must consider who has digital access, who requires in-person support, and how to use technology to complement—not replace—human networks. It must help organise data and blend digital tools with long-standing traditional methods of support to determine what systems will truly work on the ground. Technology and Community-led Finance Technology also strengthens meso-level Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI). Parametric insurance, for example, relies on weather data triggers, like rainfall or wind speed, so payouts can happen automatically without lengthy inspections. Satellite imagery, weather stations, and mobile money transfers combine to ensure that affected families receive funds within days, not months. For informal workers, technology can be the key to inclusion. Mobile payments mean fishers without bank accounts can still receive insurance payouts. Digital surveys allow market vendors to register with their associations quickly, building the databases needed to prove their vulnerability. Even WhatsApp groups can serve as rapid communication channels during emergencies, linking communities to trusted organizations. Recovery Must Start Before Impact Tools alone won’t make us ready—but tools combined with trusted institutions can. With meso-level CDRFI and the right technology, we can shorten recovery times, target assistance more fairly, and ensure that no one is left behind. A Caribbean powered by smarter data, trusted institutions and people-centred tools is one where recovery happens faster and where fewer families are forced to start over. CPDC’s research provides a roadmap for how technology and meso-level CDRFI can work hand-in-hand to make this possible. The next step is putting those tools in the hands of the people who know their communities best. Learn more about how technology and meso-level disaster finance can protect livelihoods. Explore CPDC’s CDRFI research and join the conversation through the Risk Resilience Hub . Climate change isn’t waiting, and neither should we.  Damaged vessels from Hurricane Beryl, Barbados. Photo Credit - Ricardo Mazalan Osbourne Brumley at his “hurricane-proof” egg facility, destroyed by Hurricane Melissa in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica. Photo Credit - Maria Alejandra Cardona Crop field in Cayo District, Belize. (Photo Credit - contributed)

Dominica-The Dominica Football Association (DFA) is proud to announce that the Dominica Senior Women’s National Team- the Sisserou Girls- will meet Jamaica in a CONCACAF Women’s Qualifier on Saturday, November 29 at 3 p.m. at the Daren Sammy Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St. Lucia. This match forms part of Dominica’s journey to elevate women’s football on the regional stage and strengthen the presence of the Nature Isle in international competition. “We are proud of the work, discipline, and resilience of our women,” said Head Coach Ronnie Gustave. “This team has been training hard. Showing a lot of heart, and they are ready to represent Dominica.” Dominica recently participated in the WIFA Tournament in St Vincent, and while the team did not medal, Coach Gustave said the competition provided an opportunity to assess the team’s capabilities and make the necessary changes and work on the areas needing improvement. “Our focus has been discipline, structure, and simply the basics and fundamentals. This is a major test for us against a regional powerhouse, but our women are ready to give their all for Dominica. And as we saw recently in Curacao’s qualifier in the men’s, anything is possible and small islands can do big things. The players have worked hard, and we are ready,” he continued. The team, today, welcomed overseas-based players Jewel Harve, Trinity Esprit, Chloe Lecointe, Eden Lander, Starr Humphreys and LeMyah Forde during its 2-a- day training sessions. The complete roster reads: Goalkeepers: Dymond Daniel Jewel Harve Gaylisha Lockhart Defenders: Shajirah St. Rose Jarisha Laurent Breanelle Laurent Lean Laurent Kimra Joseph Jessica Pierre Louis Trinity Esprit Whitney Charles Daniella Laurent Midfielders: Timecia Pierre Louis Rosalinda Paul Kenisha Jno Lewis Alianne George Chloe Louise Lecointe Eden Rayne Lander Kimara Felix Nyomie Defoe Strikers: Britney Dennis Starr Humphreys Le-Myah Forde Staff: Head Coach: Ronnie Gustave Assistant Coach: Sheldon Casimir Goalkeeping Coach: Melvin Angol Team Manager: Regina Walsh Trainer: Duly Polydore Medical Staff: Rose Annette Peltier-Lugay Equipment Manager: Steve Casimir Media Officer: Sheena Harry Dominica is competing in Group B alongside Jamaica, Guyana, Nicaragua, and Antigua and Barbuda. The DFA calls on all Dominicans at home and abroad to support the team as they fly the flag of the Nature Isle with courage and determination. Match Details: • Opponent: Jamaica • Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025 • Venue: Daren Sammy Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St. Lucia • Event: CONCACAF Women’s Qualifier

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is pleased to announce that Grenada will host its first-ever national flower festival from 8 – 15 November 2026. The announcement was made today at a press conference held at The Tower Estate, marking a historic moment for the nation’s floriculture, tourism, and creative sectors. The Grenada Flower Festival will celebrate the natural beauty, floral heritage, and the talent of growers, arrangers, designers, and horticultural communities across the tri-island state. The eight-day celebration will include village beautification projects, garden tours, floral installations, workshops, community competitions, and curated culinary and cultural experiences inspired by Grenada’s botanical richness. “Grenada is blessed with an extraordinary natural environment, lush mountains, fertile valleys, and gardens that overflow with life,” said Randall Dolland, Chairman of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “As we continue to strengthen our destination offerings and expand our niche markets, the Grenada Flower Festival provides a new platform to showcase our islands in a fresh, meaningful, and sustainable way. From edible flowers in cuisine to the growing perfumery sector, from community gardens to sustainability practices, this festival will open new opportunities for culture, agriculture, tourism and enterprise.” The announcement was also attended by members of Grenada’s world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show delegation. Catherine John, long-standing member and current team lead of the Grenada Chelsea Exhibit, and the only person to have participated in all 18 of Grenada’s RHS Gold Medal-winning exhibits, shared her excitement about the festival’s potential. “Grenada has always been admired internationally for its flowers, foliage, and creativity,” John said. “People at Chelsea always ask us, ‘Where can we see these plants growing?’ Now we will finally be able to say, ‘Come to Grenada.’ This festival is an opportunity to show the world the abundance we have here at home, to inspire the next generation, and to celebrate our growers who create beauty every day.” The GTA also highlighted the importance of early engagement with growers, communities, and tourism partners, noting that planting for 2026 begins now. The festival will be planned and executed in partnership with floriculture groups, creative industries, the Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association, Ministries of Tourism and Agriculture and community associations across the country. More details about the festival, including branding, programme, competitions, tours, and participation guidelines, will be announced in early 2026.

No woman or girl should live in fear online. Women and girls deserve to be safe, and that safety must extend to digital spaces. It is our collective responsibility to ensure the Caribbean is a place where they can live, work and engage online free from fear, exploitation, and harassment.   The Caribbean Policy Development Centre, in reaffirming its commitment to Gender Equity, joins with the rest of the world in commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed annually from November 25 to December 10. This year, CPDC stands firmly in supporting the theme : UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls , highlighting the urgent need to address online harassment, cyberstalking, non-consensual image sharing and other technology-facilitated abuse.   Digital spaces have become central to communication, education and professional life in the Caribbean, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. For many women and girls, these spaces are meant to be a place of connection, economic empowerment, relaxation and creativity , such as scrolling Facebook, checking Instagram, marketing a small business or networking professionally. Yet these everyday activities are often disrupted by threats that violate their safety, freedom, and participation. According to CARICOM statistics (Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices survey), 63%–76% of women and girls in Latin America and the Caribbean have experienced gender-based violence in different settings [1] . Globally, a UN Broadband Commission report (cited by Internet Society) finds that women are 27 times more likely than men to be victims of cyber violence [2] .   CPDC therefore recognises digital violence as a human rights violation and a barrier to building inclusive, equitable and democratic societies. Thus, CPDC urges civil society organisations to take the lead in advocating for stronger protections, raising awareness, and providing support for survivors of digital violence. By working together with regional institutions, governments, and the private sector, civil society can help build safer, more inclusive digital environments across the Caribbean, ensuring that women and girls are allowed to interact on digital platforms without fear, exploitation or harassment.     Ways Civil Society Can Help:   Advocate for stronger laws and policies to address technology-facilitated gender-based violence. Raise awareness  through campaigns, workshops and educational activities on safe digital practices. Provide support services  for survivors, including counselling, legal assistance, and safe reporting mechanisms. Partner with digital technology platforms to improve reporting systems, content moderation and digital safety tools. Collaborate across sectors , sharing resources and building networks to promote safe and inclusive digital spaces.   The safety, dignity and freedom of Caribbean women and girls must extend to all digital spaces. It is only by protecting their rights, listening to their voices and empowering them to participate fully in society that we can work towards a truly inclusive, equitable and safe Caribbean for everyone. Let us stand up for our daughters, sisters, mothers and friends. Credit: A Mighty Girl