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The Commonwealth of Dominica, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), hosted senior government officials from across the Eastern Caribbean at State House, Roseau on Friday, August 30 for the Preparatory Meeting of the XVI Ministerial Forum for Development in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Ministerial Forum will be held in Barbados on October 31 – November 1, under the theme “Resilience in Action: Social policies to navigate uncertainty in Latin America and the Caribbean”. The Eastern Caribbean Preparatory Meeting was launched in the presence of Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of Dominica, with the in-person and virtual participation of Ministers and senior personnel for Social Development, Environment and Finance from English-speaking member and associate member states of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), as well as Barbados. The Meeting was opened by the Hon. Dr. Cassandra Williams, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, with the Hon. Kirk Humphrey, Barbados’ Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, giving remarks contextualizing the Meeting ahead of the upcoming Forum. The Representative of the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre, delivered the feature address. The Minister said, “As we look ahead to the upcoming Ministerial Development Forum, let us leverage this opportunity to collaborate, learn from each other, and work towards a more prosperous and resilient future for all. Together, with the support of partners like UNDP, I am confident that we can make significant strides in achieving our shared goals of sustainable development and inclusive growth.” During the Preparatory Meeting, senior UNDP specialists facilitated roundtable discussions on resilience and adaptability in social protection and social inclusion; climate vulnerability and social safety nets; digitalization; and financing for social policies. Participants explored innovative approaches to address inequality and shocks, make social safety nets more resilient, and promote inclusive economic growth so they can approach the upcoming Ministerial Forum for Development with greater clarity and focus, as well as examples of success representing the broader Caribbean region. UNDP Resident Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Ms. Limya Eltayeb, emphasized the importance of clearly articulating the Caribbean perspective, noting this was the first time the Ministerial Forum was being held in-person in the English-speaking Caribbean. “Social protection and social justice are needed now more than ever to support vulnerable communities in Latin America and the Caribbean, where almost one third of people live in poverty. The high-risk, high-vulnerability communities and nations are those most exposed to the increasing uncertainties of today’s world. For the Caribbean, that includes more frequent and severe climate events, as well as heightened vulnerability to instability and disruptions in other parts of the globe. This Preparatory Meeting for Eastern Caribbean States has been instrumental to current discussions, will inform new policies, and is timely. We are grateful to the Government of Dominica for partnering with us to host this important event. It was a truly collaborative effort, and we anticipate a dynamic Ministerial Forum in Barbados in October.” The Ministerial Forum for Development in Latin America and the Caribbean was held for the first time in 2007 with the aim of offering ministers and other decision makers a space to discuss experiences in public policies in the field of human and social development and respond to the new challenges of the region. The last Forum was held in 2023 in Santiago, Chile.

The Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge, newly renamed from the GEMS Entrepreneurship Challenge, officially launched its second round of grant funding for local entrepreneurs on September 2, 2024. This initiative aims to provide substantial financial support to entrepreneurs looking to invest in and grow their businesses. This initiative stems from the influence of Phillip Nassief, the visionary behind Dominica Coconut Products (DCP) and the Fort Young Hotel (1986) Ltd. who had a profound influence and positive impact on Dominica’s economic and social landscape. Phillip passed away on April 28th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of entrepreneurship, generosity, and community spirit. Lizra Fabien, the Foundation’s Director of Entrepreneurship, stated, “This Challenge is designed to empower entrepreneurs by enhancing and expanding their businesses within the hospitality and tourism supply chain. The top winner will receive $20,000 EC, while second and third place winners will be awarded $15,000 EC and $10,000 EC, respectively. We welcome applications from businesses that supply products and services related to tourism and hospitality, along with those that demonstrate innovation and scalability while maintaining ethical business practices. In order to be successful in the application process, each applicant must provide details of the new and innovative idea that will be implemented with the use of the grant.” Lizra further shared, “The Foundation is delighted to make a significant impact on the experience of our local entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses. During our recent visit with Terri Henry Lovel of Bee Natural, the winner of the inaugural Entrepreneurship Challenge, she shared the transformative effect of the grant on her business. With the funds, Terri acquired a new machine named Big Mama, which has boosted her production capacity to twelve times her previous output, significantly reduced production costs, and increased her profit margins.” The Foundation encourages all eligible businesses to apply. To qualify for this grant, applicants must meet the following criteria: - Be citizens or legal residents of Dominica. - Have a registered and operational business in Dominica for at least two years. - Provide financial statements for the last fiscal year and budgets for the current or upcoming year. - Include all relevant personal and business documents in the application. - Submit references from at least four customers attesting to the quality and reliability of the product or service. - Previous winners of this Challenge are not eligible to apply. For more information on eligibility requirements, evaluation criteria, and to access the application form, please refer to the Phillip Nassief Entrepreneurship Challenge | GEMS Foundation Guidelines. Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their applications by September 30, 2024, to foundation@gems.dm. A shortlist of seven applicants will be notified on November 13, 2024, and those selected will participate in a live pitching event on November 27, where the winners will be announced. The GEMS Foundation invites all interested applicants to join an information session on Thursday, September 12, at 7:15 PM. More details will be shared via the Foundation’s Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/gemsfoundation/ and Foundation Website www.gems.dm/foundation/ . The GEMS Foundation extends its gratitude to key donors and the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce for their support in making this Entrepreneurship Challenge possible.

The Technical Staff of the Senior Men's National Football Team has named a 23 man Squad for the first two matches in the Concacaf Nations League. The team includes 3 newcomers and 4 overseas based players. The new comers are Calibishie FC goal keeper Ronnie Lockhart, Harlem defender Dwayne Etienne and Middleham United midfielder Malachai Bonney. The overseas based players are Glenson Prince, Julian Wade, Troy Jules and Rufuson Pierre-louis. The squad will be led by Glenson Prince. Dominica will play its first match on Saturday September 7th against Antigua. The Technical Staff includes Heinrich Anselm - Manager Ellington Sabin - Head Coach Delroy Watt- Assistant Coach Nathaniel Angol - Goal Keeping Coach Mutiu Olagunju - Team Doctor Clevon Vidal - Team Medic Garvin Richards - Media Officer Reginald Darroux - Equipment Manager

In response to the economic challenges facing Dominica, particularly the dearth of viable employment opportunities for the nation's youth, persons with disabilities, and the "Men at Risk" demographic, IsraAID Dominica has successfully concluded a transformative skills development program in partnership with the Dominica Business Training Center (BTC). This collaborative initiative aimed at addressing the island’s employment downturn in a virtual graduation ceremony held today Monday September 2nd, 2024. The program empowered 75 participants, aged 18 to 45, equipping them with essential digital skills and business training to thrive in both traditional and online employment spheres. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of the participants—ranging from individuals lacking formal college education to university graduates seeking specialized digital proficiencies—the training was tailored to meet the unique needs of each group. This inclusive approach ensured that high school dropouts with a propensity for computer literacy and those with advanced education could benefit from the initiative. The program focused on key areas such as, offering training in essential digital tools like QuickBooks, Excel, Word, and Photoshop. Capacity building was also emphasized, with workshops on vocational skills, entrepreneurship, and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), as well as information on the Work Online Dominica Programme and understanding remote work. Upon completion, participants received certification, enhancing their employability in local and global markets. The program’s effectiveness was ensured through monitoring & evaluation, with continuous adjustments made to meet participants' evolving needs. Recent assessments have shown a rising interest in online tutoring among previously trained youth, especially as virtual education has gained wider acceptance due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program not only tackled the pressing employment challenges youth but also established a sustainable foundation for their socioeconomic empowerment. “I love learning new skills, and I love learning about graphic design, so I'm happy that I got a chance to explore another platform that helped me broaden my horizons in that subject. Having the skill and certificate will definitely help me get to the places that I need to, especially as I venture into the online working world, " said one of the participants from the program. The online graduation ceremony held earlier today was a celebration of these achievements and a momentous occasion for the graduates, their families, and the wider community.

The Castle Bruce Family and Friends Reunion 2025 will be launched in Glu Glu Castle Bruce on Sunday 1st September under the theme “Se Plas Nou” (“It’s Our Place”); commencing the promotion for the highly anticipated week-long event expected to draw Castle Bruce natives, their extended families and friends from communities around Dominica, the Caribbean and the world.   Reunion Local Coordinator Jefferson Drigo sees the launch as a springboard of interest in the 2025 Reunion scheduled for August 10-17, 2025.   “This launch is going to let everyone know what this Reunion is all about. It will be the start of us getting the word out that this major activity will be taking place in our community.”   The launch will feature remarks from the Parliamentary Representative for the Castle Bruce Constituency, Hon. Octavia Alfred, as well as representatives from the Ministries of Tourism and Community Development.   Invited guests will include the Castle Bruce Village Council and parliamentary representatives from surrounding communities. There will be cultural performances from Castle Bruce youth.  The highlight will be the reveal of the official week of activities and official banner for the 2025 Reunion.   The Castle Bruce Family and Friends Reunion 2025 was created as a much-needed follow up to the mother of all community reunions, the Castle Bruce Reunion of 2004- spearheaded at that time by then Parliamentary Representative Loreen Bannis Roberts and Jacinta Bannis. There was a second reunion in 2011.   For 2025, organisers say the aim is the same- to reunite persons from Castle Burce through food, music, culture and history.   PRO for the 2025 Reunion Ayeola George says its “a reintroduction of the community to those who have been gone for a while. An opportunity for their children, spouses, friends to get to know the village and for everyone as a collective to enjoy each other through shared experiences-good, church, culture, natural environment and more.”   On Sunday viewers will also be introduced to the local organising committee as well as the Diaspora organising committee which is chaired by Mr. Anthony Drigo.   The launch will commence at 4:30P.M. on Sunday 1st September in Glu Glu. All are invited.

The Dominica Athletics Association is excited to announce the upcoming Kids' Athletics Festival, scheduled to take place on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 9:00 AM at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium. The DAA Kids’ Athletics Festival will serve as a culmination of the 4-week DAA Kids’ Athletics Summer Grassroots Program which aimed to foster athletic talent and promote healthy lifestyles among children in our communities. The DAA Kids' Athletics Summer Grassroots Program is an initiative designed to introduce young children to the fundamentals of athletics in a fun and engaging way. Through this program the DAA hosted approximately 175 children ages 4-14. The program was hosted 3 days weekly by 6 clubs across the island in the following areas; • Aithons Athletics Club- Bellevue Chopin, Grandbay and Bagatelle • Kalinago Eagles Athletics Club-Gaulette River and Londonderry Playing Field • Pioneers Athletics Club-Botanical Gardens • Striderz Athletics Club-Botanical Gardens • Wesmar Rangers Athletics Club-Londonderry Playing Field and Woodfordhill • Winners Circle Athletics Club-Benjamin’s Park Organized under the esteemed guidance of the Dominica Athletics Association, the festival will feature a series of engaging activities tailored to introduce children to the fundamentals of athletics. The program aligns with the World Athletics Kids'; Athletics framework, ensuring that the activities are both educational and enjoyable, fostering a lifelong love for the sport. The program was geared towards creating a foundation for future athletes and nurturing young talents to become the next Thea Lafond-Gadson, Dennick Luke and Trenesse Hamilton. The hosting of the Kids’ Athletics Festival will also serve as an inspiration to the future generation of athletes as Olympic Gold medalist, Mrs. Thea Lafond Gadson will be present at the event. Parents, guardians, and community members are invited to attend and cheer on the young participants as they take part in this exciting festival. The event promises to be a day filled with energy, joy, and the spirit of sportsmanship.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services, with support from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Dominica, is proud to announce the successful completion of a specialized training program designed to equip journalists and communications specialists with the necessary skills and knowledge to report sensitively and accurately on issues related to child abuse and domestic violence. This training, held on August 23, 2024, brought together journalists and communications professionals from various media outlets, stakeholder agencies, and the Ministry to participate in the training, including discussions and hands-on exercises. The program was developed in response to the growing need for responsible media coverage that respects the dignity of survivors while raising awareness of these critical issues. Key Highlights of the Training Program: ● Ethical Reporting: Participants learned best practices for ethically reporting on cases of domestic violence and child abuse, with a focus on protecting the privacy and safety of victims. ● Trauma-Informed Journalism: The training emphasized the importance of trauma- informed approaches, helping journalists to understand the impact of trauma on survivors and how to report in a way that minimizes harm. ● Cultural Sensitivity: Sessions were dedicated to exploring the cultural contexts of domestic violence and child abuse, ensuring that reporting is inclusive and respectful of diverse communities. ● Legal Considerations: Legal experts provided guidance on the legal implications of reporting on these sensitive topics, including the importance of protecting victims of abuse, safeguarding against defamation, and the need to comply with reporting restrictions. ● Collaboration with Advocacy Groups: Participants were encouraged to work alongside national domestic violence and child protection organisations to foster connections to enhance future reporting and support for survivors. While outlining the importance of the media’s role in raising awareness and shaping public perception, Sheena Harry, Communications Officer, Ministry of Health, Wellness and SocialServices said, “Media reporting on abuse and domestic violence carries a profound responsibility. It is a powerful tool for change that goes beyond revealing facts. It must balance exposing the truth with honoring the dignity of survivors, pushing for accountability, and encouraging empathy,” she said. “This training opens the door to foster a better partnership between the Ministry, through the Department of Social Services, and media professionals to achieve just that." - Sheena Harry - Communications Officer, Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services Journalists from DBS Radio, Variety News, Emo News & Q95 FM attended the training, which IOM, Dominica hopes to extend to journalists throughout the Caribbean. “The training has been invaluable in enhancing my understanding of approaching these sensitive topics with the care and accuracy they deserve,” said Laila Langford from Dominica Broadcasting Corporation, DBS Radio. “I feel more confident in my ability to report in a way that informs the public and supports those affected. “This training also deepened my understanding of the critical role the media plays in addressing sensitive issues while maintaining a commitment to child protection,” she said. - Laila Langford - Journalist, Dominica Broadcasting Corporation, DBS Radio. This training program represents IOM’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Government of Dominica by enhancing social protection services and highlights the role of the media in combating domestic violence and child abuse. We believe that through informed and ethical reporting, we raise the AWARENESS that encourages persons to take the ACTION needed to bring about CHANGE and contribute to a society that is more aware, empathetic, and proactive in addressing these critical issues.

The inaugural Kreyol Basketball Championship concluded with a spectacular finale on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex in Dominica. The championship saw the Wadadli Elite Stingerz from Antigua emerge victorious, defeating Dominica’s D-Treads Blazers in a thrilling final that highlighted the best of regional basketball talent. Running from August 22 to August 25, 2024, the Kreyol Basketball Championship brought together six top-tier teams from across the Caribbean, marking a historic moment in regional sports. Over four days, basketball fans were treated to high-energy matchups, impressive athleticism, and a celebration of the sport's growing popularity in the region. Championship Highlights: • Opening Day – August 22, 2024: The championship kicked off with two intense matchups. The Wadadli Elite Stingerz secured their first win against the Dr. Darroux PSC Falcons 1 with a score of 75-63. Meanwhile, the D-Treads Blazers edged out the Soufriere Kings in a nail-biting finish, 69-68. • Day Two – August 23, 2024: The Wadadli Elite Stingerz continued their winning streak, defeating the Paix Bouche Super Eagles 80-66. GGB from Guadeloupe also emerged victorious, winning against the Soufriere Kings 75-65. • Day Three – August 24, 2024: D-Treads Blazers showcased their dominance with a 70-64 win over GGB, securing their place in the final. • Final Day – August 25, 2024: The championship day began with the 3rd Place Game, where GGB defeated Dr. Darroux PSC Falcons 1 with a score of 88-80. The grand finale saw the Wadadli Elite Stingerz overpower the D-Treads Blazers with a decisive 88- 61 victory to claim the championship title. Championship Awards: • Champions: Wadadli Elite Stingerz (Antigua) • 2nd Place: D-Treads Blazers (Dominica) 3rd Place: GGB (Guadeloupe) • Most Valuable Player (MVP): T-Shawn Lewis (Wadadli Elite Stingerz- Antigua) • Top Scorer: T-Shawn Lewis (Wadadli Elite Stingerz- Antigua) • Coach of the Tournament: Byron Andrew (Wadadli Elite Stingerz- Antigua) All-Tournament Team: • T-Shawn Lewis (Wadadli Elite Stingerz- Antigua) • Lester Langlais (D-Treads Blazers- Dominica) • Theo Santoro (GGB- Guadeloupe) • Kijuan Thomas (Dr. Darroux PSC Falcons 1-Dominica) • Jayzee Saltibus (Soufriere Kings- St. Lucia) • Most 3-Pointers: Lester Langlais (D-Treads Blazers- Dominica) The success of the Kreyol Basketball Championship underscores the vibrant sports culture within the Caribbean and sets a promising foundation for future events that will continue to engage and inspire basketball enthusiasts across the region. The Kreyol Basketball Championship has set a new benchmark for regional basketball tournaments, showcasing the potential for sports to unite and uplift communities across the Caribbean. Congratulations to the Wadadli Elite Stingerz (Antigua) for their outstanding performance and to all participating teams for making the inaugural Kreyol Basketball Championship a resounding success.

The Department of Social Services within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP), successfully hosted a two-day workshop titled “Effective Preparation for Impact and Needs Assessments for Hurricane Response.”The workshop was held on Thursday, August 22 and Friday, August 23, 2024 and brought together all relevant ministries and sub-committee members to review the current National Emergency Planning Organisation (NEPO) National Disaster Plan (NDP), and clarify roles and responsibilities as outlined in the response mechanisms and framework, focusing specifically on impact and needs assessments. “For any humanitarian and disaster response, timely and accurate assessments are crucial for effectively identifying and addressing the needs of affected populations. This is a key area where the World Food Programme (WFP) focuses its expertise, including work in supporting shock responsive social protection programmes in Dominica in partnership with the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services,” explained Ayisha Richards, Programme Assistant of United Nations World Food Programme Caribbean Multi-Country Office, Dominica Satellite Office. The workshop featured a series of expert-led sessions focusing on key aspects of impact and needs assessments, including data collection methodologies, harmonization of assessment forms among key government and non-governmental organizations, identification of gaps and possible opportunities for digitization, community engagement tactics, and resource allocation strategies. “As we continue to improve on our preparedness for the 2024 hurricane season and beyond, the Ministry of Health Wellness and Social Services in partnership with the World Food Programme is honored to welcome you all to this critical hurricane response exercise on impact and needs assessments,” said Delia Giddings Stedman, Director of the Department of Social Services. “The Department of Social Services’, experience with Hurricane Maria in 2017 and most recently the impact of the 2022 trough system in Petite Soufriere revealed that multiple assessments were carried out by a number of agencies covering a wide range of sectors. This included rapid assessments of immediate needs, to long term recovery and risk assessments. However the number of assessments conducted by every agency utilised diverse methodologies resulting in lack of clarity in the planning of recovery phase,” she continued. Participants had the opportunity to network with fellow professionals and share best practices, fostering a collaborative environment for advancing disaster preparedness. The workshop emphasized a multi-disciplinary approach, recognizing the importance of inclusion from various sectors, including healthcare, infrastructure, and social services. “It is hoped that at the end of this activity, participants will be equipped with practical guidance for effectively conducting impact and vulnerability assessments, to inform an effective and equitable response and recovery plan for a hurricane emergency,” Giddings Stedman noted. “Your expertise and insights will be instrumental in pinpointing potential challenges and collaboratively crafting solutions that guarantee a smoother and swifter response in the aftermath of a hurricane. Through this collective effort, we strive to cultivate a more resilient Dominica, one that possesses the strength to weather any storm and safeguard the well-being of its most vulnerable citizens.” The workshop concluded with a commitment from participants to continue their collaboration and share insights as they develop and implement their individual assessment plans. Support from the Government of Canada, European Union and USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, made this essential emergency preparedness activity possible.

National Red Wine Day, celebrated on August 28th, is a day dedicated to the rich tapestry of history, culture, and flavor that red wine embodies. From its ancient origins to its modern-day popularity, red wine has a storied past that reflects both tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual sipper, this day invites you to savor the complexity and enjoyment that red wine brings to our lives. A Historical Journey Red wine's journey spans thousands of years, tracing back to the earliest civilizations where it was more than just a beverage—it was a central element in social and religious rituals. Ancient Greeks and Romans revered wine, and their winemaking techniques laid the foundation for many modern practices. The art of winemaking evolved through the centuries, influenced by cultures and innovations across Europe and beyond. The rich history of red wine is not just about its production but also its role in human experience. It has been a symbol of celebration, a marker of social status, and a companion to countless meals and moments of connection. The Diversity of Flavors One of the joys of National Red Wine Day is exploring the incredible diversity of flavors that red wine offers. From the bold, tannic Cabernets to the smooth, velvety Pinots, red wine encompasses a wide range of profiles that cater to different palates. Each variety reflects the terroir—geographical and climatic factors—that influences its taste. For instance, a robust Malbec from Argentina might evoke rich, dark fruit flavors, while a Chianti from Italy could present bright cherry notes with a hint of earthiness. The diversity extends beyond regions, with different winemaking techniques and aging processes contributing to a wine’s unique character. Pairing and Enjoyment Red wine is often celebrated for its ability to complement a wide array of foods, enhancing the dining experience. Classic pairings include red meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses, but the versatility of red wine allows it to pair with many other dishes as well. The interaction between food and wine can elevate both, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. National Red Wine Day is the perfect opportunity to experiment with different pairings, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Consider trying a new wine and matching it with a dish you haven’t paired before. It’s a chance to explore and expand your palate. Savoring the Moment Celebrating National Red Wine Day is as much about savoring the wine itself as it is about appreciating the moments shared over a glass. Wine has a unique ability to bring people together, fostering conversation and connection. Whether you’re sharing a bottle with friends, enjoying a quiet glass after a long day, or learning about different varieties, the experience of drinking red wine is deeply personal and communal. Reflecting on Tradition and Innovation While we enjoy a glass of red wine, it’s also a moment to reflect on the tradition and innovation that shape the world of winemaking. Modern winemakers continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, experimenting with new techniques and technologies while honoring traditional methods. National Red Wine Day serves as a celebration of this rich legacy, encouraging us to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind each bottle. It’s an invitation to explore the depths of flavor and history that red wine represents. Conclusion As you raise a glass on National Red Wine Day, take a moment to enjoy the complexity and depth that red wine brings to our lives. Celebrate the history, savor the flavors, and relish the connections forged over this timeless beverage. Here’s to the joy of red wine and the many moments it enhances! Cheers!

Ace Academix CEO Jemima Mills is set to officially launch her debut book, The ‘Grade 6 National Assessment Practice Test Workbook’. Designed to give Grade 6 students across Dominica a distinct advantage in the National Assessment Exam, this comprehensive guide is now available for pre-order and will be officially launched on September 15th, 2024. Grade 6 has always held a special place in Jemima Mills’ heart, as she believes this stage is a pivotal moment in a student’s academic journey. “Grade 6 is where students begin to lay the foundation for their future success,” Mills asserts. “It’s a crucial step, and I want to ensure every grade 6 student has the tools they need to navigate this journey confidently.” Despite only being in her 20s, Mills has not let this deter her from achieving her goals with Ace Academix, as she believes age hardly equates to expertise. Her dedication to educational excellence and her commitment to providing impactful resources reflect her belief that meaningful achievements in critical fields such as education can be realized regardless of age. Her mission has always been clear: to ensure quality and equitable education opportunities for students not only in Dominica but across the Caribbean. Through Ace Academix, Mills and her dedicated team of educators have consistently gone above and beyond to prepare Grade 6 students for success. Over recent years, they have introduced well-established and effective preparation classes tailored to the National Assessment Exam, organized the Ace Academix National Grade 6 Mock Exams—which have provided students with invaluable insights into the exam format—and launched Grade 6 summer headstart programs that blend advanced learning opportunities with enjoyment. Now, with the release of their inaugural book, Mills and her team are adding another powerful resource to their educational arsenal. The Grade 6 National Assessment Practice Test Workbook is more than just a collection of practice tests. It encompasses all subjects tested in the Grade 6 National Assessment, including Mathematics, Science and Technology, Social Science, and Language Arts. Additionally, it provides detailed notes and exercises on Composition writing—an often challenging but critical component of the exams. Each section is carefully designed to mirror the actual exam format, providing students with practical scenarios and questions. To further enhance their preparation, the book includes answer keys and a free Exam Success Guide, offering targeted strategies and tips for the Grade 6 National Assessment. This book is the result of a collaborative effort from Ace Academix’s Grade 6 team, who have crafted practice questions that align with the curriculum and exam expectations. This collaboration ensures that the book is not only relevant but also exceptionally effective in addressing the students' needs. The official launch will be a key highlight of the virtual Grade 6 information session on September 15th. This session, gathering students, parents, and teachers from across Dominica, is part of Ace Academix’s Back-to-School series, designed to equip the educational community with the tools needed to succeed in the upcoming academic year. During the session, Mills will share her insights, discuss the development of the book, and offer guidance on how to make the most of this new resource. For Mills, the release of this book is deeply personal. “As someone who has walked the same path as these students, I know how critical this stage is in their academic journey,” she shares. “To not only prepare them through our classes but to also provide a resource that can change their lives is a dream come true.” As Malcolm X famously said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” This book is Jemima Mills’ way of ensuring that every Grade 6 student in Dominica holds that passport, ready to embark on a future filled with promise and possibility. With this resource, students are not merely preparing for an exam—they are preparing for life, paving the way for a new generation of scholars who will shape the future of Dominica and beyond. Looking ahead, Mills envisions creating many more resources to further support students’ educational journeys, continuing Ace Academix’s commitment to academic excellence.

The Board of Directors of Dominica Electricity Company Ltd. (DOMLEC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Dwayne Cenac as the company’s new General Manager. Mr. Cenac, an accomplished electrical engineer with extensive experience in the power systems sector, will assume his role on September 2nd, 2024 .   The Board of Directors of DOMLEC is confident in Mr. Cenac’s abilities to lead the company. Chairperson of the Board, Ms. Francine Baron states that “Mr. Cenac assumes the role of Manager of DOMLEC at a challenging time for the company, as it plays its part in Dominica’s transition from fossil fuel generation to renewable energy, in particular geothermal energy. The Board is satisfied that Mr. Cenac is qualified and able to successfully manage that transition and lead the company to stability, profitability, and efficiency.”    Mr. Cenac who previously held a management role at another Eastern Caribbean power company brings to DOMLEC, his knowledge and understanding of the unique characteristics of island utilities, their challenges and opportunities for growth.   Born in Grenada, Mr. Cenac holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Universidad de Oriente, Santiago de Cuba and a post-graduate diploma from the University of Wales, in Business Management with a specialisation in Project Management.   As an electrical engineer he worked in various departments within GRENLEC (Grenada Electricity Company Ltd.) starting in Generation and since then, has held several management positions to include System Control Manager and Generation Manager.   His career there has been marked by significant accomplishments, including the expansion of a 33kV, 40MVA distribution substation, and the implementation of new protection schemes to improve reliability. He also revised system planning methodologies to better inform the budgetary process for major investments in Transmission, Distribution and Generation. During the past three years, in his capacity as Generation Manager, he placed much emphasis on human resource development as well as the sustainability of the department to meet growing demands in capacity. His leadership and management skills were pivotal in the roll-out of major capital maintenance and upgrade projects aimed at restoring efficiency and ensuring the reliability of GRENLECs generation assets.   As General Manager of DOMLEC, Mr. Cenac will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, overseeing the company’s day-to-day operations, and steering the planning and execution of infrastructure development projects aimed at improving DOMLEC’s efficiency and capacity. His financial acumen and leadership skills will be crucial in managing the company’s financial strategy and controls, as well as leading the team in achieving customer satisfaction and stakeholder management.   DOMLEC is currently in the process of installing a 4.8MW system at its Fond Cole plant, this will increase significantly its generating capacity and improve the reliability of service of the company to its many customers island-wide. With Mr. Cenac’s extensive experience in the sector, he is well-positioned to ensure the successful implementation of this project.   DOMLEC expresses its sincere appreciation to Ms. Ellise Darwton, Company Secretary and Legal Officer who has very efficiently managed DOMLEC as its Acting General Manager, since March this year, following the resignation of Mrs. Bertilia McKenzie.   DOMLEC welcomes Mr. Dwayne Cenac to the team and looks forward to a successful future under his leadership.