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The Dominica Association of Industry & Commerce (DAIC) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Ashma McDougall as its new Executive Director. In her role, Ms. McDougall brings a wealth of qualifications and experience that will without a doubt, deliver a host of benefits to the Chamber and its valued members. With over a decade of experience in academia, economic research, and academic leadership, McDougall is uniquely positioned to advance the mission of the Chamber. Most recently, she served as the Director of Student Activities at Dominica State College and has been a dedicated Senior Lecturer of Economics for thirteen (13) years. Her tenure as the President of the National Youth Council of Dominica (2021 - 2023), has equipped her with invaluable skills in NGO management and advocacy, allowing her to continue to forge strong relationships with key stakeholders and provide effective leadership for the Chamber. As a small business owner and an international development advocate, the newly appointed Executive Director understands the distinctive challenges and opportunities within the private sector landscape. McDougall is poised to lead the Chamber toward unprecedented growth and development. “I am honoured to step into this role at such a pivotal time for our business community,” stated Ashma McDougall, the new Executive Director. “I am committed to fostering innovative resilience among local businesses and advocating for data-driven policies that will contribute to building a robust private sector ecosystem. In this pivotal role, I believe it is essential to strengthen connections and collaboration among our members to drive growth and innovation. My approach will focus on creating opportunities for engagement and partnership, ensuring that every business feels valued and supported. Together, we can build a thriving ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders”, McDougall added. Ashma’s immediate goals include strengthening partnerships and implementing targeted initiatives that support the long-term success and vitality of our local economy. “More importantly; recognizing the critical need for evidence-based decision-making, our team is committed to utilizing comprehensive data analysis to inform and shape policy recommendations that will empower businesses, foster innovation, and stimulate sustainable economic growth. By integrating data into our recommendations, we can create more effective regulatory environments that support businesses and encourage growth”, the new Executive Director concluded. President of the Board of Directors of the DAIC, Brenton Hilaire congratulated the new ED on her appointment and mentioned his assurance of the future of the organization. “We are pleased to welcome Ashma to our leadership team”, he stated. “Her extensive background and vision for the Chamber will undoubtedly drive positive change for our members and the broader community. We look forward to the transformative impact she will make”, Hilaire affirmed. Ashma succeeds previous ED, Kerwin Jno Baptiste, who stepped down in July to pursue further education after serving as Executive Director since March, 2023. McDougall expresses her interest in meeting with the members in November, 2024, as she aims to bolster the efforts of the DAIC towards its stakeholders. “Our members are what drives us as an organization therefore, we have already initiated meetings with our membership and strive to represent their collective voice. I don’t want to speak solely from my position but rather add my expertise for informed decision making and greater inclusiveness”, McDougall declared.

We have been made aware of a false and misleading statement claiming that the Prime Minister, the right Honorable Roosevelt Skerrit, of Dominica instructed us, the contractors, to reduce the wage structure for workers on the Cable Car project. We wish to categorically deny this allegation. A decision to adjust the wage structure was made solely by us, the contracting company. One key reason is the imparity to other developer’s wage scales, where our wage rates were higher than theirs, which could lead to dissatisfaction among their workers. To maintain industry harmony and fairness, we opted to adjust wages for all new hires in response to these potential concerns. We also want to make it clear that we employ individuals based on their work ethic, experience, and qualifications, and not on their political beliefs or affiliations. Our hiring process is transparent and centered on the skills and contributions each person can bring to the project. Since making this decision we have hired more new workers at the new wage rates and continued to employ all that have been working previously at the original wage rates. Transportation to and from the project sites is provided by Cable Car Dominica at no charge to the employees. At no point did the Prime Minister of Dominica, The Right Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit or any representative of the Dominican government intervene or provide instructions regarding the wages of workers on this project. We value the hard work and dedication of our workforce and are committed to ensuring fair and equitable compensation while maintaining the financial viability of the project. We urge the public to disregard the false information being spread and to trust in the viability of the project. Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Randall Gliege Project Manager Outdoor Engineers

The Dominica Credit Union Movement is celebrating Credit Union Week from October 13-19, 2024, and proudly joins credit union members around the world to celebrate International Credit Union Day On October 17, 2024, an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement’s impact and achievements. This year marks the 76 th anniversary of this annual event, which will be celebrated under the theme of “One World Through Cooperative Finance”. This theme underscores the pivotal role that credit unions play in promoting financial inclusion and unity More than 82,000 credit unions exist globally, empowering more than 403 million members in 98 countries worldwide by providing a plethora of affordable financial services for their members, recognized as a force for positive economic and social change. Our six (6) Credit Unions, through innovation, education, and community engagement continue to offer sustainable solutions that foster economic empowerment, inclusion, and shared prosperity in Dominica. General Manager of the DCSLL Phoenix Belfield said “As we celebrate Credit Union Week and International Credit Union (ICU) Day 2024 under the theme 'One World Through Cooperative Finance,' we are reminded of the pivotal role that credit unions play in promoting financial inclusion and unity. This theme reflects our mission to empower communities and bridge economic divides by offering accessible financial services to all. Through the strength of our cooperative model, we continue to build a world where financial opportunity and security are not just privileges but rights. Together, we are creating a unified, inclusive financial landscape for the betterment of our members here in Dominica and further afield”. In honor of this special day, our credit union affiliates across the length and breadth of Dominica will be hosting a series of events this week, including educational workshops, financial wellness sessions, and community outreach activities, designed to further strengthen the spirit of unity and cooperation, On Thursday, all credit unions will be closed and on Friday, the movement celebrates member appreciation day. We invite all members and the entire community to visit your Credit Union Branch Office this week to be part of the celebrations.

The rise in climate-related disasters has become a growing concern, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, people with disabilities and migrants. The 2024 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR), observed on October 13, focuses on "Empowering the Next Generation for a Resilient Future." This theme encourages countries to empower their youth by providing education that not only helps them understand the risks posed by disasters, but also equips them to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their families. Promoting education that fosters resilience among youth is aligned with global efforts to mitigate risks under frameworks such as the UN Secretary-General’s Early Warnings for All initiative and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. According to UNICEF, around one billion children worldwide face heightened risk, including displacement, due to climate impacts. These risks extend beyond immediate danger, impacting essential aspects of life such as education, healthcare, and nutrition. To protect young people from these cascading effects, it is essential to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to become agents of change within their communities. Dominica’s Kiddies Disaster Preparedness Summer Club: A Model for Youth Engagement A prime example of youth empowerment in disaster preparedness is Dominica's Office of Disaster Management (ODM) Kiddies Disaster Preparedness Summer Club, which was launched at the Warner Primary School in July 2024. Supported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), this ODM initiative offered interactive sessions on disaster readiness and hands-on activities such as building emergency kits and engaging with local experts like the Dominica Fire and Ambulance Services and the Department of Social Services. Joian Coipel, Junior Programme Officer at the ODM, highlighted the value of this programme: "The ODM summer program has strengthened youth capacity by deepening their knowledge of disaster preparedness, promoting resilience, and developing essential life skills to assist their communities during emergencies." The program drew enthusiastic participation from both students and teachers, allowing children to grasp the significance of disaster preparedness while engaging in games and contests designed to strengthen their knowledge. Warren Edwards, an intern with the ODM, reflected on the program’s success: "The concept of human security was well received by the youth. They quickly grasped its importance and even provided suggestions on how to strengthen human security in various fields. These young minds are Dominica's future." The Intersection of Climate Change, Education, and Human Security Human security, which is focused on enabling people to live free from fear, free from want, and to live in dignity, goes beyond immediate disaster preparedness. It encompasses the interconnected eight dimensions of security (environmental, economic, food, health, community, political, personal security, and access to technology), all of which are essential in a world facing increasing climate challenges. The collaboration between ODM and IOM during this summer’s Kiddies Disaster Preparedness Club program provided a holistic view of disaster risk reduction, helping participants to understand and assess the vulnerabilities in their communities. Viola Pascal, Project Coordinator forIOM, stressed the importance of this collaboration: "Climate-related events have significantly impacted the economic security, education, healthcare, and well-being of children and youth in the Caribbean. This collaboration provided another opportunity to strengthen local and national efforts in DRR, while affording youth a space to propose solutions to enhance their protection and empowerment." Human Security as a Cornerstone for Youth Development The core message of reducing threats to the human security of vulnerable people resonates strongly within the context of disaster risk reduction and the need to ensure no one is left behind. By harnessing the power of technology and equipping young people with the tools to understand the broader implications of climate change and human security threats, programs like the ODM’s Kiddies Disaster Preparedness Club are laying the foundation for a future where the next generation is not only prepared but also proactive in safeguarding their communities. By empowering children and youth through education, countries can ensure that the next generation is well-equipped to navigate the uncertainties ahead and build stronger, more proactive communities. As Dominica continues to engage with its youth on issues relating to disaster management, the country is setting an example of how education and youth participation can drive meaningful change in disaster risk reduction. The IDDRR 2024 theme serves as a reminder of the need to invest in the younger generation—not just as beneficiaries of disaster preparedness efforts, but as active contributors to a resilient future.

As the world observes International Day of the Girl Child, attention turns to the challenges faced by girls globally and the need to empower them for a future filled with opportunity. Celebrated annually on October 11, this day emphasizes the importance of addressing issues like gender inequality, access to education, and protection from violence and discrimination. Breaking Down Barriers to Education For millions of girls, education remains out of reach due to poverty, cultural norms, or lack of resources. According to UNESCO, over 130 million girls worldwide are not in school. Yet, studies consistently show that educating girls yields enormous social and economic benefits. Girls who receive an education are more likely to escape poverty, delay marriage, and contribute to their communities. In regions where girls’ education is particularly under threat, grassroots organizations are working tirelessly to ensure girls can access quality schooling. Programs that offer scholarships, provide school supplies, or create safe spaces for girls to study have been pivotal in changing lives. Promoting Health and Safety Access to healthcare and protection from violence are also critical areas of focus on International Day of the Girl Child. Issues like child marriage, trafficking, and female genital mutilation still affect millions of girls worldwide. However, progress is being made. More countries are enacting laws to protect girls, and awareness campaigns are shining a light on harmful practices. Voices of Resilience and Leadership This year’s theme, “Girls’ vision for the future,” underscores the importance of supporting girls as they become leaders and changemakers in their communities. Across the globe, young girls are stepping up to advocate for issues that matter to them, from climate action to digital rights. Their voices are a reminder that girls are not just beneficiaries but active participants in shaping the future. Consider Malika, a 16-year-old from Kenya who has become a vocal advocate for climate justice in her community. Or Ana, a 14-year-old in Brazil, who started an initiative to teach computer programming to other girls, aiming to close the gender gap in tech. Their stories exemplify the power and potential of girls when they have the support and resources to succeed. How We Can All Take Action Individuals and communities can make a difference by supporting organizations dedicated to girls’ education and rights. Investing in girl-focused programs, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness about the issues girls face are all meaningful ways to contribute. By championing girls’ rights today, we are laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future for everyone. As we celebrate International Day of the Girl Child, let’s commit to a world where every girl has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and lead.

Companies across the globe are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting mental health in the workplace. With recent surveys showing a rise in workplace stress and burnout, organizations are exploring innovative ways to promote mental well-being among their employees. The New Normal: Mental Health as a Business Priority Once considered a private matter, mental health has now become a focal point for corporate leaders. Many companies are beginning to understand that supporting employees’ mental well-being is not just the right thing to do but also beneficial for business. Companies that invest in mental health support often see reduced absenteeism, higher productivity, and improved morale. Real Stories of Change Take, for example, a mid-sized marketing firm that recently rolled out a comprehensive mental health program. Employees are now offered flexible work hours, access to mental health days, and free counseling sessions through an employee assistance program. According to their HR manager, the company has seen a noticeable shift in workplace culture and employee satisfaction since implementing these changes. “I feel like I can finally take care of myself without worrying about being judged,” says Sarah, a marketing specialist at the firm. “Knowing that I have access to support if I need it makes a huge difference.” Practical Ways to Foster Mental Well-being For businesses looking to make similar changes, experts recommend starting with small steps: 1. Promote Open Communication: Encouraging a culture of openness about mental health can make employees feel supported. 2. Offer Flexible Work Options: Allowing employees to work remotely or adjust their hours can reduce stress. 3. Provide Access to Mental Health Resources: This might include counseling services, workshops on stress management, or mindfulness programs. 4. Train Managers to Recognize Signs of Burnout: With the right training, managers can identify when an employee might need support and offer appropriate resources. Looking Ahead As the stigma around mental health continues to diminish, companies that prioritize mental well-being will likely become more attractive to top talent. By fostering an environment where employees feel cared for, businesses can build stronger, more resilient teams.

Dominica opens the 2024-2025 cruise season with the arrival of Celebrity Summit today, October 9, 2024 . The season is expected to be vibrant, featuring 235 cruise calls and potentially bringing approximately 375,000 cruise passengers to the island. Notably, 12 ships, including MV AIDAbella, MSC Explora II, MV Sapphire Princess, MV Majestic Princess, and MV Resilient Lady, will make their inaugural visits. Dominica concluded the 2023-2024 cruise season with remarkable achievements. From October 2023 to April 2024, the island welcomed 306,601 cruise visitors—an 11% increase over the previous season and a 62% rise compared to pre-pandemic figures for 2019-2020. December 2023 alone attracted 71,000 visitors, while 16 inaugural visits from reputable ships like MS Vista and MSC Explora 1 significantly boosted the island’s profile in the cruise industry. This influx of visitors generated approximately $20.4 million for the local economy, benefiting businesses and tour operators. Among these visitors, 247,922 disembarked to explore the island; more than half participated in organized tours that enhanced their experience while supporting local enterprises. “As we welcome the new cruise season, I am filled with excitement and pride for our beautiful island. The remarkable growth in our tourism sector reflects our team and partners'dedication and hard work. Each visitor gives us a chance to showcase Dominica’s rich culture, stunning scenery, and genuine hospitality. Together, we will create memorable experiences that inspire our guests to return and share their stories. Let’s continue to work together to position Dominica as a premier cruise destination,” said Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority. To celebrate the season’s opening, the Discover Dominica Authority will host a series of activities on the Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard (Bayfront) from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.,including musical entertainment, drumming, and rum tasting. Significant efforts were made during the off-season to enhance service quality in preparation for a successful season. TheAuthority hosted the “Elevate Your Service” Training Series and the 2024 Cruise Service Providers Symposium, with 189 service providers completing training aimed at fostering a culture of service excellence essential for encouraging repeat visits. Dominica was also actively represented at the FCCA PAMAC Summit in Jamaica by key figures such as Mr. Benoit Bardouille, CEO of Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority; Ms. Odile Jno Baptiste, Product Promotions Manager, Discover Dominica Authority, and Mr. Daniel Nunez, a NISE-certified Cruise Tour Operator. This summit facilitated crucial networking and business discussions aimed at strengthening relationships between cruise lines and destinations. To further enhance visitor experiences, the Ministry of Tourism has implemented upgrades at major tourism sites, including improvements to access roads, reception facilities, and trails. The Government of Dominica remains committed to promoting the island as a premier cruise destination while continuously enhancing visitors’ overall experiences.

The Dominica Hospitals Authority is pleased to inform the general public of the resumption of our mammography service commencing Tuesday, October 15, 2024. This marks a significant achievement as we join the world inobservance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To officially relaunch our mammography service, we invite the public to an information-sharing open house session on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. in the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital Auditorium. Healthcare professionals will discuss the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, as well as other cancers such as prostate and colon cancer. This event will also include how to prepare for a mammogram and feature testimonials from breast cancer survivors. Persons with a referral from their physicians are now able to schedule a mammography appointment. Please contact The Diagnostic Imaging Department at 266-2110, 275-4658 (call or WhatsApp) or email at diagnosticimaging @ domhospitals.dm

Kevorn Vidal, one of Dominica‟s most innovative and enterprising young farmers, has been named the CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year at the 18th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The award recognizes outstanding young farmers across the Caribbean who are driving sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to regional food security. The Caribbean Week of Agriculture, an annual event that brings together key decision- makers from the public and private sectors, focuses on the importance of agriculture and rural livelihoods to the region's economic, social and environmental stability. This year's event being held from October 7-11 is centered on the theme, „Climate Smart Agriculture for a Sustainable Future.‟ Dominica's Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, Hon. Roland Royer expressed his pride in Mr. Vidal‟s accomplishment. “This is a proud moment for Dominica. The Government of Dominica congratulates Kevorn for this outstanding achievement. This prestigious award not only recognizes his personal dedication, innovation and commitment to agriculture, but also highlights the vast potential of Dominica‟s agricultural sector.” Mr. Vidal, who farms a diverse range of tree crops, vegetables and fruits in the village of Salisbury on Dominica's West Coast, incorporates modern technology and digital tools into his operations. He also utilizes climate-adaptive and environmentally sustainable practices including greenhouse technology, irrigation systems, water collection tanks, storm drains and buffer zones. As an advocate for youth engagement in agriculture, both nationally and regionally, Mr. Vidal is actively involved with the National Association of Youth in Agriculture in Dominica. His excellence was previously recognized when he was named the Dominica Youth Farmer of the Year 2023. The Government of Dominica warmly congratulates Kevorn Vidal on his achievement and reaffirms its commitment to supporting youth involvement in agriculture.

DA Next Level Sports Management & Recruiting Group is thrilled to announce the launch of its new monthly digital newsletter, "Student Athlete Focus." This publication is dedicated to highlighting the achievements, stories, and journeys of Dominican student-athletes, both at home and abroad, across various levels of competition. The inaugural issue will be available on October 14, 2024, and will feature exclusive interviews, athlete profiles, and insights into the challenges faced by student-athletes as they balance both academic and athletic success. "Student Athlete Focus" aims to inspire and motivate the next generation of athletes, celebrate excellence in both the classroom and on the field, and foster a sense of community among student- athletes, their families, coaches, and sports enthusiasts. The newsletter will provide valuable content, such as feature stories, recognition of top performers, and advice on topics ranging from time management to mental health, making it a key resource for student-athletes and their supporters. Key Features of the Newsletter Include:  Feature Stories: In-depth profiles of standout Dominican student-athletes.  Exclusive Interviews: Personal insights from athletes and their mentors.  Top Performers: Recognition of academic and athletic excellence.  Journey Tracker: Following the progress of student-athletes and their milestones.  Athlete Resources: Advice on scholarships, recruitment, and balancing academics with athletics. The newsletter will be fully digital, distributed through DA Next Level’s email list, social media platforms, and available for viewing and download on the DA Next Level website. “We are excited to provide a platform that not only celebrates our student-athletes but also connects them with the broader sports community. Our goal is to inspire, support, and recognize the hard work and dedication that these young athletes put into excelling both in the classroom and on the field,” said a representative from DA Next Level Sports Management & Recruiting Group. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and organizations that want to support sections of the newsletter, such as athlete recognition segments or feature stories. Sponsors will gain visibility in the sports community and contribute to the growth and development of Dominican student-athletes. For more information on "Student Athlete Focus," sponsorship opportunities, or to subscribe, please call us at 7672251287 or email dnextlevelsports@gmail.com.

Dominica is gearing up for the 24th annual World Creole Music Festival at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium from October 25th to 27th, 2024. This year’s festival will showcase a mix of performances from local, regional, and international artists, featuring diverse genres such as bouyon, cadence, reggae, dancehall, zouk, kompa, soca, and afrobeats. The festival will kick off on Friday, October 25th, with performances by Dominica’s Extasy Band and TK International alongside international acts T-Vice from Haiti, Nadia Batson from Trinidad and Tobago, Valiant from Jamaica, and Rotimi from Nigeria. Saturday, October 26th will see headline performances from Caribbean Music Awards People’s Choice, Asa Bantan; Caribbean Music Awards Artist of the Year in the Bouyon category, Mr. Ridge alongside Pudaz; Kassav from Martinique & Guadeloupe; Damien &; Stephen Marley from Jamaica; and Grammy Award Winner WizKid from Nigeria. Performers from St. Lucia, Umpa &; Subance will also take the stage. The final night, Sunday, October 27th, will feature Kai from Haiti, Dominica’s Signal Band and Midnight Groovers, Caribbean Music Awards Male Soca Artist of the Year Skinny Fabulous from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Voice from Trinidad and Tobago and Tian Winter from Antigua. Gramps Morgan & Friends, Luciano and Dwayne Stephenson from Jamaica, and Fanny J from French Guiana will bring the festival to a close. Ticket Information:  Friday: Advance - EC$175 | At Gate - EC$200  Saturday: Advance - EC$250 | At Gate - EC$300  Sunday: Advance - EC$175 | At Gate - EC$200  Season Ticket Price: EC$450 | At Gate – EC$500 All tickets can be purchased online at www.dominicafestivals.com. Tickets can also be purchased in Dominica at Depex Color Lab, Bullseye Pharmacy and the General Post Office (opposite Roseau Ferry Terminal) from Monday to Friday, between 8 AM - 1 PM and 2 PM - 4 PM. Season tickets can be purchased in St. Lucia at The Cell outlets at Bay Walk Mall, William Peter Boulevard, Vieux Port and Soufriere; and in Antigua at Roti King on St Mary Street and Cool and Smooth on Market Street. The 2024 festival sponsors include the Presenting Sponsors, the Government of Dominica, and the Discover Dominica Authority. The Platinum Sponsor is Montreal Management Consultants Development Ltd. The National Bank of Dominica Ltd. is the Premier Bank of the World Creole Music Festival. Tropical Shipping is the Gold Sponsor, and Digicel (Dominica) Ltd. is the Silver Sponsor. Corporate Sponsors include FRS Express des Iles, Republic Bank EC Ltd., and Belfast Estate Ltd./Kubuli. Media Partners are DBS Radio, GIS Dominica, Kairi FM, Q95/WICE, Emo News, Vibes Radio, The Wave St. Lucia, RCI Guadeloupe & Martinique, NRJ, Bel Radio, GIS Antigua, and ABS Antigua. The Business Sponsors are Carib Beer, Pirates Ltd., Josephine Gabriel & Company Limited – Heineken Beer, Patty Shack Dominica, InterContinental Cabrits Resort & Spa, Fort Young Hotel, and Alliance Francaise.

By Ronda Luke Franklyn Peter Moses, the entertainment titan whose voice has been a staple on Dominica’s airwaves for over 35 years, has made a triumphant return to the spotlight. Known for his pioneering contributions to entertainment and comedy in the region, Moses has captivated audiences with his unparalleled charisma and talent. However, beneath his public persona, he faced personal battles that threatened to silence his vibrant spirit. Now, thanks to a revitalizing collaboration with the National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) and the highly successful "All Jokes Aside" campaign, Franklyn is set to reignite his passion and make a powerful comeback. With his love for entertaining rekindled, he’s ready to inspire a new generation of fans. Franklyn’s Journey in Entertainment During an hour-long conversation filled with laughter, sadness and reflection, Franklyn recounted how his entry into the entertainment world was unplanned, yet it fulfilled a deep-seated desire to entertain. He began performing informally during his school days at St. Mary’s Academy (SMA), where he attended from 1978 to 1983. It was the late Principal Cuthbert Elwin who, impressed by his class antics, unexpectedly appointed him to emcee the Teenage Pageant and Calypso show. “I was like, are you kidding me? I started to get nervous because at the time I thought I could only do it for my class, but not in front of a crowd,” he recalled. “However, I went to the show, and with a bit of encouragement, I went on stage,” marking the start of his journey into comedy—a journey that would captivate many. Throughout his life, the applause and enjoyment of his audience have been his driving force. Despite facing criticism and negativity during his formative years—where he was judged for his appearance and capabilities—Franklyn says that he found motivation in the reactions of those who initially doubted him. As his performances grew more celebrated, he recognised his unique talent and launched his own comedy show, ‘Laughter in Fahrenheit,’ managing every aspect of the production himself. His career spanned the entire Eastern Caribbean, with performances in every country except Guyana, and even took him to international stages, showcasing his talent to audiences far and wide. His Battle with Bipolar Disorder While experiencing significant highs in his career, Franklyn has faced numerous lows over the years. He reflects on his lifelong struggle, revealing that something always felt amiss in his thinking. After performing, he would often feel a deep emptiness once the stage lights dimmed and the applause faded. He explained that on days when he felt overwhelmed and could barely muster the will to get out of bed, performing was his salvation, offering a momentary escape from his internal struggles. It wasn’t until 2008, upon his return from England, that he was first diagnosed with bipolar disorder. He likens his experience to the biblical passage from Second Corinthians 12:7, where the apostle Paul speaks of a “thorn in the flesh” and God’s assurance that “my grace is sufficient for you.” “I consider myself like a Paul, where the Most High gives you something to keep you humble,” he said. “So, he blessed me with bipolar disorder,” the veteran entertainer added. “And that is something I do not wish on any of my enemies. God made me strong enough to carry it, not take it away. So that’s like my thorn in my side.” His battle led him to misuse substances like cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol in an attempt to silence the incessant negative chatter in his mind. Despite seeking relief through these means and eventually going to rehab, nothing seemed to quiet the tormenting voices. Franklyn candidly admits that during these dark times, he experienced severe insomnia, a lack of motivation, and overwhelming feelings of guilt. It was a profound struggle to find peace within himself. Ultimately, he had to accept that he was his own source of strength and solace, a mantra and his spiritual journey that helped him navigate through his challenges. Since his first admission to the Acute Psychiatric Unit (APU) in 2008, Franklyn has experienced periods of both inpatient and outpatient care. However, for over two years, he has been living there full-time, stepping away from the entertainment industry to focus on his mental health. Recently, though, a project with the NDFD reignited his passion for his craft. The Collaboration That Rekindled His Entertainment Passion Franklyn describes the call from NDFD as the spark that rekindled his passion for the spotlight. Working with the team, who showed exceptional patience and support through his “unfolding and awakening,” made him rediscover why he fell in love with entertainment in the first place. He notes that the project has allowed him to showcase his acting and comedic skills, as well as his TV and radio experience, all in one compelling form which he believes has revived his popularity across different ages. “Doing this, in that moment I realised how much I miss my entertainment. I miss radio commercials. I miss just the validation as one of Dominica’s creative minds,” he shared. “It made me so happy and that has been somewhat of a healing for me at this stage because the NDFD team planted the seed of I believe in you.” Seeing the public’s enthusiastic response to the advert, which has garnered over 60,000 views on Facebook, truly ignited something within him. “When people stop me on the street to laugh about the commercial, it’s a profound validation for me,” he says. “The reaction to our video on social media reaffirmed that I needed to dive back into this world because I thrive on positive feedback and knowing that people enjoy what I do.” While Franklyn highlights that he has worked on a few projects since his admission at the APU, he says the collaboration with NDFD has been exceptional. The “life changing” Campaign To gain insight into why Franklyn was chosen for this campaign, I spoke with Donald Bercasio, Head of the Business and Entrepreneurial Development Department and the Concept and Campaign Director for the initiative. Bercasio explained that the campaign required someone who was deeply relatable and connected to the Dominican public. He noted that Franklyn’s approachable personality, humour, and strong rapport with the community made him the ideal ambassador to amplify their message. “We also believe that Franklyn has a unique ability to engage and inspire audiences, which was crucial in effectively communicating the importance of entrepreneurship and small business development and why the NDFD is the best institution to assist in these areas,” he stated. “His performance not only brought our vision to life but also resonated deeply with the community, contributing significantly to the viral success of the ad.” The campaign director further asserted that entertainment icon remarkable journey and resilience mirror the values which they champion at NDFD— which includes overcoming challenges, seeking growth, and contributing positively to society. “The campaign’s tagline, ‘NDFD –helping people when others would not,’ emphasizes NDFD’s role as a lifeline for those who may struggle to find support elsewhere,” Bercasio stated. “The phrase “All Jokes Aside” underscores the seriousness of the challenges being addressed, positioning the campaign as both an authentic and impactful call to Action.” Other team members who collaborated with Franklyn, such as Demian Dumas, the Production Coordinator, described the experience as truly rewarding. He revealed that working alongside someone he had long admired for his humour and charisma was both a privilege and a joy. “From helping brainstorm the concept to developing the script and helping shape the overall vision, seeing it come to life and resonate so deeply with the Dominican public was incredible,” Dumas stated. Adding his voice, Cletus Joseph, Executive Director of the NDFD, highlighted that this collaboration perfectly aligns with the Foundations mission to empower and uplift the local community and by partnering with Franklyn, they sought to reach a wider audience and highlight the importance of entrepreneurship as a key path to both economic and social empowerment. A call to other Businesses When asked about his message to businesses and the community regarding the support of talent, especially in challenging times, the entertainment pioneer emphasized a critical issue in Dominica: the tendency to celebrate individuals when they are thriving, only to forget them when they face adversity. He called for a fundamental shift in this mindset, urging businesses and the broader community to provide unwavering support—not just when success is visible, but also when people are fighting through their hardest battles. What’s next for Franklyn Alongside his trusted and longtime friend, Matthias ‘Matt’ Peltier Jr., who picks him up daily from APU and has been a constant source of support, Franklyn is ready to dive into new ventures once again. One of his most eagerly anticipated upcoming projects is hosting the NDFD’s annual Creole in The Street event on October 18, an opportunity that has him brimming with excitement. In addition to cherishing his role as a proud grandfather, the comedy maestro is deeply committed to inspiring others who are battling mental health challenges. He hopes his journey will stand as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and the possibility for renewal. As he approaches his 60th birthday this December, with his passion for entertainment reignited, in the words of Franklyn, “Life has once again started for me.” Link to Franklyn’s most recent commercial with NDFD here https://www.facebook.com/NDFD.LTD/videos/993310535776191/ .