Islands unite to promote multi-destination travel experiences for global visitors   — Dominica and Barbados have signed a landmark tourism partnership through an agreement to collaborate on promoting their tourism products and offering enhanced multi-destination packages.   The historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on October 1 at the Hilton Barbados Resort during the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC). The partnership between Dominica, the Nature Isle and Barbados, the Gem of the Caribbean— marks a significant step toward deepening regional ties and delivering greater value to travellers.   The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) and the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) entered into the MOU to cement this step toward strengthening the appeal of both countries, promoting sustainable tourism and developing new vacation experiences for travellers.   The MOU establishes a joint framework for cooperation, focusing on marketing, knowledge exchange and enhancing visitor experiences across both destinations. This collaboration is especially timely as the Caribbean continues to attract travellers from Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States and Latin America seeking diverse and enriching experiences.   The agreement was signed by Marva Williams, CEO and Director of DDA and Andrea Franklin, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BTMI. Cheryl Carter, Chief Operations Officer of BTMI; Graham Clarke, BTMI’s Director for the Caribbean; and Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive at DDA, witnessed the signing. Franklin acknowledged Barbados’ reputation as a tourism leader but stressed that the MOU would be mutually beneficial, emphasizing the need for creative collaboration and regional unity.   “Dominica may see Barbados as a tourism ‘grandparent,’ but there’s so much we can learn from each other. Barbados is proud to be the premier home port cruising destination in the region and we see this as an opportunity to attract more business to neighbouring islands as well,” Franklin said.   She added that the MOU serves as a stepping stone and could open doors to similar agreements with other islands.   “When it comes to attracting airlift to the region, it’s vital that we stop viewing ourselves as individual countries competing for flights. Instead, we must work together to bring more airlift into the Caribbean. If Barbados serves as the hub, we should channel that connectivity to our sister islands, like Dominica, ensuring all destinations benefit,” Franklin said.   “Our teams will meet to strategize on marketing and to engage airlines and cruise lines, ensuring we maximize the benefits of this partnership. We’re especially excited to collaborate in areas such as sports, eco-tourism and sustainable tourism, all of which are essential to the future of Caribbean travel,” Franklin added.   Williams supported Franklin’s comments by underscoring the value in leveraging the already strong relationship between the nations. They intend to ensure it benefits both destinations financially.   “This collaboration is part of a larger conversation and we look forward to learning from Barbados, which will help build greater awareness and create a ripple effect on the GDP and economic opportunities for both our countries,” Williams said. “We all have unique attributes to offer and this partnership isn’t just about tourism; it’s about exploring opportunities in other industries, such as manufacturing, that can benefit both nations. Improving air access is essential so that our people can move around the Caribbean efficiently and effectively,” Williams added.   Key areas of collaboration outlined in the agreement include: Curating and promoting multi-destination tourism packages that highlight the unique cultural, eco-tourism, adventure and wellness offerings of Dominica and Barbados Supporting the development of air and cruise connections to facilitate seamless travel between islands Coordinating media exchanges, media familiarisation tours, joint training and public relations events to raise the profile of both destinations globally Sharing expertise in sustainable tourism and product enhancement to ensure lasting benefits for local communities and the environment   Historically, Caribbean nations have recognised the value of working together to attract long-haul visitors, allowing travellers to experience the region’s diversity in a single trip. Graham Clarke, BTMI’s Director for the Caribbean, said that the new MOU builds on this tradition.   “Today’s global travellers are seeking value-added experiences and deeper engagement with local communities. This collaboration with the Nature Isle adds a unique dimension to the Barbados tourism product, and we believe Dominica will benefit in the same way. We’re excited for what this partnership means, not just for our tourism sectors, but for visitors, who will enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences across both destinations,” Clarke said.   A joint working group will oversee the implementation of the MOU with biannual progress reviews and the development of a detailed action plan to ensure the partnership achieves its objectives. Both parties have agreed that each will bear its own implementation costs with joint initiatives subject to separate funding agreements as needed.

The Dominica State College (DSC) proudly acknowledges a generous donation to its library made through the efforts of Rebuild Dominica Inc. This generous donor is a non-profit organization which focuses on disaster relief, sustainable development, and empowering Dominican communities, first established after the ravages of Tropical Storm Erika by Dominicans living overseas. The organization also works with various partners to implement renewable energy systems, promote sustainable agriculture, provide educational scholarships, and support communities with funds and resources. On Thursday, October 2, 2025 an official handing over ceremony was held to formally recognize the book donation. The contribution, valued at US$5,000, consists of a wide range of books that will significantly enhance the College’s library collection and academic resources. The donation includes an impressive mix of fiction and non-fiction titles, novels, and historical works focusing on Dominican and West Indian heritage, as well as publications by local authors Gabriel Christian and Justice Dr. Irving Andre through Pont Casse Press. These resources are expected to strengthen students’ access to diverse literature, encourage research and reading, and support the College’s ongoing commitment to cultural and intellectual growth. Present at the handing-over ceremony were members of staff, students, and special guests, including Miss Trudy Christian, Officer in Charge at the Office of the President, and Miss Jacqueline Royer, Library Director of the Dominica State College and (virtually) Mrs. Joan Christian of Rebuild Dominica. In expressing her appreciation, Miss Royer extended heartfelt thanks to Rebuild Dominica for their thoughtful and impactful contribution, noting that such partnerships play a vital role in fostering academic excellence and community development and encouraging further collaboration to improve the library’s technological resources. The Dominica State College conveys its deepest gratitude to Rebuild Dominica for this beyond-kind gesture, which reaffirms the organization’s enduring support for education and nation-building in Dominica.

“Paradise of Colours and Expressions” According to Ms. Aileen Joseph, PRO of The Waitukubuli Artist Association (WAA), and Ms. Vanessa Prevost , General Manager of The Prevo Cinemall, WAA in collaboration with The Prevo Cinemall, is proud to add to Dominica’s Creolé Season calendar 2025, Paradise of Colours and Expressions, an art exhibition featuring several of Dominica’s Artists, and timed to coincide with Dominica’s Independence and Creolé Season.” A Must Visit for Creolé Season Continued Ms. Joseph, “The Waitukubuli Artist Association (WAA) is a Dominica-based creative collective dedicated to elevating and showcasing local artistry in all its forms. Paradise of Colours and Expressions marks the collective’s first exhibition centered on the theme of Cultural Heritage and the celebration of Dominica’s rich history. Rhythm, language, and tradition take center stage, reimagined through contemporary art. Moreover, Creolé Season in Dominica is more than just paraphernalia—it is memory, music, delicacies, community, and so much more. Hence our bringing this Paradise of Colours and Expressions Exhibition forward to be an addition to Dominica’s Creolé Season 2025 Calendar.” The Art Exhibition will run from October 10 to November 14, 2025, and will be housed in The Middle Passage and Downtown Showroom at the historic Prevo Cinemall, formerly The Carib Cinema in Roseau, Dominica. According to Ms. Joseph “This years exhibition follows the success of Echoes of Resilience (December 6, 2024 – January 10, 2025), the first collaborative exhibition between WAA and The Prevo Cinemall, which welcomed more than 700 visitors, so many of whom in their comments asked us to do it again.”. Ms. Joseph went on to assure its many visitors that “like its predecessor Echoes of Resilience, WAA promises once again to transform the familiar space of the Prevo Cinemall into a living canvas, where art and tradition merge to tell one of Dominica’s greatest stories ever told”. Ms. Vanessa Prevost, General Manager of The Prevo Cinemall, commended the Artists of WAA very highly for their hard work and the high standard of the exhibition which they put on last Christmas Season and urged all Dominicans and visitors to support the Artists in whatever way they can; whether by buying their works or encouraging the young ones to see Art as a positive career. Said Ms. Prevost “The Echoes of Resilience Exhibition presented by WAA in collaboration with The Prevo Cinemall during the 2024 Christmas Season, was our first experience. Being a co- host, I had to be in, out, and around the exhibition countless times. From my own perspective and based on the many positive comments made verbally to me and those written in the visitors book, Echoes of Resilience was an exhibition of very high international standards. Our Artists really made Dominica proud.” Honoring Our Artists Continued Ms. Prevost, “At last year's Exhibition, Prevo Cinemall paid tribute to, and honored posthumously Earl Darius Ettiene, one of Dominica’s most outstanding Artists. Earl must have been smiling to see that his many years of hard work tutoring and mentoring did not go in vain, but was bearing abundant fruit. Putting on an Art Exhibition of this standard is hard work, plenty of creative talent is needed as well as hard physical work. And so, I wish to take this opportunity to salute the Artists of WAA for their tremendous efforts in putting on last year’s Exhibition and for having the courage to do it again. I also wish to invite every able-bodied Dominican and visitors to the island, to include a visit to The Paradise Of Colours and Expressions Art Exhibition at The Prevo Cinemall in your Creolé Season Calendar.” A Paradise Rooted in Home – Work of 23 Artists Going back to WAA’s PRO, Ms. Joseph spoke more deeply to the theme of Paradise. “The exhibition promises a seamless fusion of Creolé heritage and artistic expression—an explosion of color, vibrancy, and national pride. Paradise of Colours and Expressions will showcase a wide range of art forms, including painting, photography, poetry, and more” she expounded. “The Exhibition is more than an Art Showcase” .Ms. Joseph explained, “Work of twenty-three (23) male and female Dominican artists will be featured. Paradise of Colours and expressions offers visitors an immersive experience of storytelling, placemaking, and remembrance, where color is more than pigment—it is identity, resilience, and celebration. It is a paradise not built on escape, but on the richness of who we are as a people and where we come from. It is a paradise rooted in home. ”As part of the exhibition, Lyrics Under the Stars will take place on the evening of October 11, 2025, at the Prevo Cinemall. Paradise of Colours and Expressions is free and open to the public, (contributions are welcome) with daily viewing hours from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m from Monday to Saturday and closed on Sundays. Visitors are warmly encouraged to make a special effort to attend and experience this celebration of Dominican creativity.”

Dominica’s beekeepers have once again dominated and proven their excellence on the regional stage by winning an impressive 10 awards at the 2025 OECS Honey Show, the most by any individual county. The event was held in St. Kitts on October 2, 2025 as part of the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA). The Dominican contingent of beekeepers, all members of the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd., outstanding achievement builds on last year’s success, when Dominican beekeepers also swept the competition, firmly establishing the island as the apiculture leader of the OECS. Dominican beekeepers showcased excellence across multiple categories reflecting the diversity and quality of their products. Awards were claimed in the following categories: 1st place awards  Light Amber Honey - Nathaniel Lovell  Chunk Honey - Nathaniel Lovell  Beeswax Block - Terri Henry-Lovell  Commercial Product -Terri Henry-Lovell 2nd place awards  Medium Amber Honey - Nathaniel Lovell  Photography - Keeyah Casimir  Honey Cake - Erica Burnette-Biscombe 3rd place awards  Beeswax Candles -Terri Henry-Lovell  Commercial Product Honey - Terri Henry-Lovell  Mead - Nathaniel Lovell Dominica at the Forefront of Caribbean Beekeeping The consistent success of Dominican beekeepers is a source of national pride and a testament to the hard work and innovation of local apiculturists. From the purity and flavor of Dominican honey to the creativity in value-added products such as candles, cakes, mead, and beeswax items, the island continues to raise the bar for quality and craftsmanship in the region. The National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. highlights that these awards not only celebrate individual talent but also reflect the strength of Dominica’s beekeeping community, which has grown through training, cooperation, and a shared vision of excellence. Veteran winner and Vice President of the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. stated that “winning again at the OECS Honey Show, proves that Dominican honey and products have a consistent high standard across the region, and I’m glad to represent Dominica and show our potential.” The National Beekeepers Cooperative Society Ltd. extends congratulations to all the awardees and reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the apiculture industry, promoting sustainability, and ensuring that Dominica’s honey and bee products remain recognized among the very best in the Caribbean and international markets.

Dominica’s Cultural Ambassador and Creole advocate Leroy “Wadix” Charles has been selected as a Recognition Award Recipient at the 10th Annual Haitian Music Awards (PHMA). The prestigious ceremony will take place on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Lipman Performing Arts Theater in North Miami Beach, Florida. This Kompa Recognition Award is a profound acknowledgment of over four decades of dedicated, undiluted, and consistent work by Charles in promoting cultural exchange, strengthening bonds between Dominica and the Haitian kompa community, and celebrating the shared rhythms and heritage of the Creole world. “I am elated and deeply honored to receive this recognition. This award is dear to me because it represents a journey of unity, one that connects Dominica and Haiti through music, language, and shared cultural identity,” said Charles. The Haitian Music Awards is one of the leading platforms honoring excellence in Haitian music and culture, recognizing the achievements of artists, cultural leaders, and visionaries who have made significant contributions to the global promotion of Haitian music, particularly the kompa genre. Charles joins a distinguished roster of honorees and artists, including Robel Shalu of Top Vice, who nominated him; Cubano of Scat, DP Express, Jacot Serge Rochelle of Schlesler, Tat Lacoll, and other legendary kompa figures. Throughout his career, Charles has worked tirelessly to build bridges between Dominica and the Haitian community. He has served as Public Relations Officer of the Dominica Haitian Association, promoted Haitian Flag Day in Dominica for several years, and consistently championed platforms that celebrate Creole language, music, and identity across the Caribbean and the diaspora. His work through Creole Heartbeat, the World Creole Music Festival, and various cultural collaborations has played a key role in amplifying Creole culture on the world stage. “I extend the heartbeat of thanks to Kirby Lavier and the PHMA Committee, the City of North Miami Beach, committee members, cultural leaders, Francisole and Wanikoli, WCMF, DBS Radio, and the Creole family in Dominica, Martinique, and Guadeloupe who have walked this journey with me,” added Charles. As he prepares to accept this prestigious honor, Charles looks forward to proudly representing Dominica at the Haitian Music Awards 2026, continuing his mission of uniting Creole communities through music, language, and cultural pride.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Dominica partnered with the organizers of the Flavours of the World Festival on Sunday, September 28, bringing a farm-to-table showcase that blended local agricultural creativity with conversations on migration and inclusion. The event, held at the Stadium Forecourt in Roseau, celebrated Dominica’s cultural diversity through food, music, dance, and storytelling, while raising funds for the restoration of the historic Notre Dame du Bon Port, Our Lady of Fair Haven Cathedral. IOM Dominica’s booth featured plantain waffles drizzled with Bud’s Backyard Honey and guava cookies developed by 25-year-old Dominican entrepreneur, D Baked That. Both items demonstrated how everyday crops like plantain and guava can be transformed into innovative, value-added products that reduce food waste, support food security, and encourage sustainable agricultural practices. For D Baked That, the festival was an opportunity to introduce her creative approach to baking to a different audience. She explained that guava, which is currently in abundance on the island, inspired her new cookie recipe. By using a fruit that might otherwise go to waste, she highlighted how local produce can be turned into unique treats with economic potential. IOM Dominica staff and their children at designed booth at Flavours of the World Festival. “I wanted to show that we can take what we grow here and make something exciting and different,” she said. “Guava is part of our landscape, and I wanted to turn it into a product that people could enjoy in a new way.” Her participation emphasized the role of youth innovation in agriculture, a priority for both the festival and IOM Dominica’s work. By spotlighting a young entrepreneur, the event encouraged others to see farming and food production not only as essential for sustainability, but also as opportunities for business growth and cultural expression. Alongside the culinary showcase, IOM engaged patrons in its interactive “I Did Not Know I Was a Migrant” campaign, prompting many to reflect on their own family histories. The activity revealed that migration is deeply embedded in Dominica’s story, with many Dominicans tracing their roots to parents, grandparents, or ancestors who migrated to the island. “Food connects people, just as migration does,” said Natasha Greaves, Head of Office of IOM Dominica. “By highlighting local innovation and encouraging conversations about migration, we aim to promote sustainability, inclusion, and compassion in our communities.” The Flavours of the World Festival brought together cuisines and traditions from Haiti, Africa, China, India, Venezuela, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Europe, the United States, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Asia. With its emphasis on farm-to-table practices, the event also supported Dominica’s health and wellness agenda, particularly efforts to tackle non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through healthy eating. Proceeds from this year’s festival will go toward the continued renovation and restoration of the Our Lady of Fair Haven Cathedral, a cultural and historical landmark that has long been tied to migration as a place where sailors from across the world once gathered to give thanks for safe passage.

Tzaddi Trocard of the Dominica Grammar School will represent Dominica at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Tourism Youth Congress on October 2, 2025, in Barbados. The regional event will take place during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), the Caribbean’s leading forum on tourism development. Trocard earned the opportunity to represent Dominica after winning among five participants in the local Tourism Youth Congress, which was held in May during Tourism Awareness Month. At the regional competition, he will present on the topic “Connecting the Caribbean with Sustainable Transport.”  He will be accompanied by his coach and chaperone, Mrs. Dorcus Francis-Simon, a teacher at the Dominica Grammar School. “It is a privilege to represent my school and my country on such a big stage,” Trocard said. “I want to share ideas that can help us build a more connected and sustainable Caribbean and I hope to make Dominica proud.” The CTO Tourism Youth Congress provides a platform for secondary school students across the Caribbean to share innovative perspectives on the region’s tourism industry. Delegates will address pressing issues and propose creative solutions aimed at ensuring the sustainability and resilience of the sector. The competition underscores the value of youth engagement in tourism development, while fostering leadership, public speaking and advocacy skills among participants.

In response to its growing profile and the increasing demands of the global investment migration industry, the Investment Migration Agency (IMA) Grenada has officially opened the doors to its new headquarters at the Galleria Mall in Grand Anse. The opening ceremony, held on-site, brought together members of government, industry actors, and other stakeholders. The move marks a pivotal step in the Agency’s evolution, reflecting not only physical expansion but also an organizational shift to better accommodate the volume and caliber of stakeholders it serves. From international government officials to high net-worth investors and global service providers, the Agency’s daily operations significantly outgrew its previous facilities. The need for a new space, according to IMA Grenada CEO Thomas Anthony, was driven by both practical and symbolic considerations, “We now have an office space befitting of the work that we do and the contribution we make to the economy and nation building,” said Mr. Anthony. “This is not just an upgrade in location, it’s a strategic response to the level of traffic we experience and the professional expectations of those we serve.” Situated in one of Grenada’s newest accessible commercial hubs, the new office offers a more professional, client-friendly environment, designed to meet international standards of service delivery. It features upgraded meeting spaces, enhanced security infrastructure, and a layout tailored to support both in-person and virtual engagements. “IMA Grenada continues to grow from strength to strength,” said Prime Minister Mitchell. “The establishment of this new office, along with continued staff recruitment and institutional development, signals the Agency’s growing importance within the broader landscape of public services delivered by the state of Grenada.” The ceremony concluded with a symbolic ribbon-cutting by Prime Minister Mitchell and Chairman of the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Committee, Mr. Richard Duncan, officially opening the office and ushering in what many described as a new era for the Agency.

The Pathfinder Club, a global youth ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, this year celebrates 75 years of pathfinding—a legacy of nurturing the spiritual, social, physical, and leadership growth of young people. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, Pathfinder Clubs around the world observed World Pathfinder Day, held annually on the third Sabbath of September. This year’s celebration carried the theme “ Pathfinders on Purpose, ” a reminder of the values, spirit, and mission of the Pathfinder Club. Across churches and communities worldwide, Pathfinders and Adventurers gathered to reflect, celebrate, and recommit themselves to purposeful service and growth. In Dominica, the 75th anniversary was celebrated with vibrant community outreach led by the 13 active Pathfinder clubs across the island. Members gathered at three main locations, where they visited neighborhoods, delivered gift baskets, and carried out service activities to give back to their communities. In Salisbury, clubs joined together for a colorful march and open-air program featuring music, inspirational messages, and the distribution of food baskets to families in need. In Roseau, the celebration included a march and mini concert that concluded with a community open-air meeting in Tarish Pit. Meanwhile, in the north, activities also took place in Dos Dane, highlighting the nationwide spirit of unity and purposeful service. Over the years, the Pathfinder Club has played a vital role in supporting young persons to develop strong leadership abilities, preparing them to serve both within Dominica and across the globe. Many past members have gone on to excel in church, community, and professional leadership roles. As part of this year’s National Youth Independence Celebrations, the Pathfinder movement in Dominica will acknowledge its 75th anniversary with a joint squad of Pathfinders, Master Guides and Adventurers marching together in unity, representing the strength, purpose, and legacy of the club. Felicia Royer, Pathfinder Coordinator,  said: “This milestone reminds us that the Pathfinder Club is more than just uniforms and parades. It is a ministry that has shaped the lives of thousands of young people over the years. We celebrate not only our history, but also the promise of continuing to guide children in building strong character, resilience, and faith.” Ps. Sean Shepherd, National Youth Director,  added: “We are proud to invite every child between the ages of 10 to 16, and even older youth who want to grow in leadership and service, to join a Pathfinder Club near you. Pathfinding is about wholesome development, fun, friendship, and preparing to serve God and community. As we celebrate 75 years under the theme ‘Pathfinders on Purpose’ , we look forward to many more years of impact in Dominica and around the world.” The Pathfinder Clubs of Dominica remain committed to empowering young people and fostering a culture of service, faith, leadership, and excellence.

The RayAsta Foundation proudly marks the opening of the third Caregiver Training Course – Level 1 today, with 18 new students set to begin their journey into the field of caregiving. Over the next 12 weeks, participants will engage in hands-on training, interactive workshops, and guided learning designed to prepare them with the skills, confidence, and compassion needed to provide quality care in homes, communities, and professional settings. “The launch of each course brings us closer to a stronger network of trained caregivers across Dominica,” says Cecilia St. Hilaire, CEO of the RayAsta Foundation. “We are thrilled to welcome this new group of students today and look forward to seeing them develop into skilled, compassionate caregivers who will make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.” The Caregiver Training Course has quickly become one of the Foundation’s most impactful initiatives, equipping past participants to support patients, strengthen family bonds, and contribute to Dominica’s broader healthcare landscape. The program continues to receive strong support from the Ministry of Welfare and Social Services, which has praised it as a vital investment in social development and the care of vulnerable populations. With today’s launch, the RayAsta Foundation reaffirms its mission to raise the standard of caregiving in Dominica while empowering individuals to serve with dignity, resilience, and compassion.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Lambie and Lobster Festival, set to take place in January 2026 on the Sister Isles of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. The festival will spotlight the seafood and fishing heritage of the islands, placing a national focus on the people, culture, and traditions that have long sustained these vital sectors. The Lambie and Lobster Festival marks a significant milestone in the GTA’s efforts to develop and promote Carriacou and Petite Martinique as integral parts of the national tourism strategy. While Grenada has long been known internationally for its natural beauty and hospitality, this event represents a targeted initiative to increase visibility and economic opportunities for the islands in the Tri-Island State. Programming for the January festival will begin in Carriacou, with a welcome ceremony featuring local entertainment, traditional string band music, and food prepared by island vendors. Throughout the day, visitors will be able to take part in live cooking demonstrations and boat tours highlighting the natural and cultural offerings of the area. As part of the lead-up to the festival, the GTA held a launch event to introduce the vision behind the Lambie and Lobster Festival, provide details on the January programming, and offered guests a preview of the culinary and cultural experiences to come. Attendees experienced live string band music by the Culture Train String Band, remarks from key stakeholders, Ministers Hon. Tevin Andrews, Senator Hon. Adrian Thomas and, GTA’s Chairman, Mr. Randall Dolland. To give guests a taste of what is to come, four vendors from Carriacou, Petite Martinique, and Union Island were selected and challenged to create unique seafood dishes, which were displayed at the launch event. Their creations featured lobster salad, grilled lobster, cracked lambie and a fish centred dish of mahi-mahi with jalapeno and pineapple salsa, all keeping the theme of the event. “Lobster and Lambie Fest is ultimately going to be a new festival specifically designed for Carriacou and Petite Martinique. We think it's a great opportunity where we can create this new culinary festival to showcase the best that Carriacou and petite martinique has to offer,” said Mr. Randall Dolland, Chairman of the GTA. “ Most of the people here, make a living by the sea, and this is something we noticed and understand when you look at the impact of Hurricane Beryl, and now in the rebuilding process we see that the sea, is how they're able to sustain themselves, but also drive business and drive tourism, and by that you're driving more visitors to the island, you’re creating a much larger spinoff effect.” Minister for Carriacou, Hon Tevin Andrews, spoke on recent initiatives being undertaken in Carriacou, commended all involved parties on shining a light on the sister isles, and invited parties to attend. “Carriacou is on the right path, in the right direction, there is only one way to go from here, and it's up. So I invite all of you to Carriacou to the Lobster and Lambie festival, it is something you definitely don't want to miss.” The event will also extend to Petite Martinique, where planned activities include fishing and filleting competitions, tug-of-war, and the popular grease-the-pole contest. These events will be community-driven and supported by local partners, reinforcing the festival’s aim to highlight the everyday contributions of the people who keep the seafood and fishing industries alive on the Sister Isles. “This festival which we are proudly launching here today, will be much more than a celebration of food, it will be a celebration of identity, a reflection of who we are as a people. Lobster and Lambie may be the headline, but this festival is about everything seafood, everything that makes Carriacou and Petite Martinique unique, tempting and irresistible to the world. ” said Senator Hon. Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism. The Lambie and Lobster Festival is not just a celebration of food, it is a platform to showcase the craftsmanship, cultural identity, and resilience of the Sister Isles. It underscores GTA’s continued commitment to strengthening tourism throughout the entire Tri-Island State ensuring that Carriacou and Petite Martinique are included in the nation’s tourism growth and storytelling.

Dominica’s Minister for Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence, Honourable Octavia Alfred, will assume the role of Chair of the OECS Council of Ministers: Education when the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission hosts its 10th Meeting (COM:Edu) on September 25–26, 2025, at the State House Conference Center in Roseau. The meeting will bring together Ministers of Education and senior education officials from across the OECS region for strategic discussions aimed at advancing the goals outlined in the OECS Education Sector Strategy (OESS) 2012–2026. Developed in response to the unique needs of Small Island Developing States, the OESS provides a roadmap for harmonised and impactful education reform across Member States. The COM:Edu meeting will facilitate robust dialogue and knowledge exchange on shared priorities, including inclusive education, quality learning outcomes, and system- wide reform. Ministers will also engage development partners and regional agencies to deepen collaboration on education initiatives. The 2025 Council of Ministers: Education (COM:Edu) meeting will serve as a pivotal platform for advancing the regional education agenda. Grounded in the OECS Education Sector Strategy (OESS) and the broader vision for sustainable human development across the region, the meeting will seek to:  Advance the transformation of education systems across the OECS by aligning Member State efforts with the strategic priorities of the OESS-emphasising the modernisation of the primary curriculum, strengthening early grade assessment systems, expanding equitable access to quality early childhood education (ECE), deepening inclusive education practices, and cultivating innovation and future- ready skills for all learners.  Accelerate and sustain the OECS Digital Learning Ecosystem through coordinated action to expand digital infrastructure, improve access to devices and connectivity, integrate high-quality digital content and platforms, and strengthen educator and learner digital competencies to enhance equity and resilience in teaching and learning.  Strengthen strategic collaboration with regional and international development partners, fostering deeper alignment of technical expertise, financial support, and policy dialogue to drive implementation of shared education priorities and catalyse systemic change across the region.  Facilitate structured sharing of best practices and innovations, enabling Member States to learn from each other’s successes, scale proven strategies, and foster greater harmonisation, coherence, and efficiency in addressing common educational challenges across the OECS. The opening ceremony will be held at 8:30 a.m.