Caribbean media personalities invited to compete for flights, accommodation and the opportunity to interview Caribbean stars at the 2026 Caribbean Music Awards in Trinidad and Tobago Three years after receiving her own opportunity to host at the Caribbean Music Awards, Dominican media personality and multimedia producer Jael Joseph is paying it forward, launching a Caribbean-wide search for an emerging media personality to take their place on the red carpet. Through Black Island Girl Multimedia, Joseph has launched the Black Island Girl Caribbean Media Correspondent Video Contest, giving one aspiring host or media personality living in the Caribbean the opportunity to travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the Caribbean Music Awards on September 19, 2026. The winner will receive flights and accommodation and will represent Black Island Girl Multimedia as a Media Correspondent on the Caribbean Music Awards red carpet, interviewing Caribbean artists, entertainers and personalities. For Joseph, the initiative is particularly meaningful because it builds on opportunities she herself received through the Caribbean Music Awards. “Three years ago, the Caribbean Music Awards gave me an opportunity to step onto its stage as a host, and last year, I had the privilege of returning to interview Caribbean artists on the red carpet. Those opportunities gave me access, visibility and experiences that have contributed to my journey as a Caribbean media professional. “Now, I want to open that door for someone else. There is incredible media talent across our islands, people with personality, knowledge of our culture and the ability to tell our stories. Through Black Island Girl Multimedia, I want to give one emerging Caribbean voice the opportunity to take the microphone, represent their island and our region, and experience the Caribbean Music Awards red carpet for themselves. Sometimes, one opportunity is all someone needs.” A Search for the Next Caribbean Media Voice The contest is open to aspiring and emerging hosts, presenters, content creators, journalists and media personalities living throughout the Caribbean. Rather than simply submitting a résumé or audition tape, contestants are being challenged to demonstrate their personality, creativity, cultural awareness and ability to engage an audience. To enter, participants must create a 60–90 second video answering two questions: 1. Why are you the best representation of Black Island Girl for the red carpet interviews? 2. In what ways do Caribbean music genres shape our daily identity as Caribbean people? The video must then be posted to Instagram, tagging @caribmusicawards, @blackislandgirl2 and @jaeljoseph. Entrants must also be following all three pages to qualify and must currently be living in the Caribbean. The Caribbean Gets a Say The competition is also designed to get individual islands and communities behind their representatives. Participants are encouraged to share their entries widely and rally support from their countries, communities and online audiences. Votes, shares, likes and positive engagement will help determine the winning correspondent. Joseph hopes the format will encourage Caribbean people not only to support emerging talent from their respective islands but also to engage in a wider conversation about the role music plays in shaping Caribbean identity. “Whether it is Bouyon, Soca, Dancehall, Reggae, Calypso, Dennery Segment, Zouk, Kompa or the many other sounds that come from our region, our music tells the story of who we are,” Joseph said. “I want to hear how the next generation of Caribbean communicators tells that story.” Caribbean, This Is Your Call Black Island Girl Multimedia is encouraging tourism authorities, cultural organizations, media houses, radio and television stations, universities, youth organizations, entertainment platforms, influencers and members of the Caribbean diaspora to help spread the word and encourage talented personalities from across the region to participate. From Dominica to Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago to Saint Lucia, Barbados to Guyana, Grenada to Antigua and Barbuda, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, The Bahamas, Belize and beyond, the search is on. The goal is simple: find a compelling Caribbean voice and give that person an opportunity to be seen and heard. The contest closes September 5, 2026, with the winner expected to be announced on September 8, 2026. The selected correspondent will then travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the Caribbean Music Awards on September 19, 2026. HOW TO ENTER Create a 60–90 second video, answer the two contest questions, post it to Instagram, and tag: @caribmusicawards @blackislandgirl2 @jaeljoseph Follow all three accounts and get your island behind you. Most votes. Most shares. Most likes. Positive engagement. Your Island. Your Voice. Your Caribbean Story. Take the Mic. Contest closes: September 5, 2026 Winner announced: September 8, 2026 Caribbean Music Awards: September 19, 2026 Location: Trinidad and Tobago

The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence will launch the Windward Islands Sector Transformation for Learning Enhancement (WISTLE) Project in Dominica on Friday, August 21, at 9 am in the Waterfront Room at Fort Young Hotel. This project is a four-year reform effort to design, pilot, and roll out a modern lower- secondary curriculum that is inclusive, technology-enabled, and relevant to the country's economy. Four participating member states, namely Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, each received a grant of US$2.4 million for implementation. The initiative is financed by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) through its System Transformation Grant, with the World Bank serving as Grant Agent. The project was approved on June 13, 2025, and runs through June 30, 2029. Dominica's national priority reform under WISTLE is "developing, implementing, and sustaining a comprehensive, inclusive, and equitable curriculum by integrating technology, life skills, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Arts and resilience education, and serving the needs of all students, in both general and special education settings." Roughly 3,000 students a year will benefit, including an estimated 360 students with special educational needs. Approximately 500 educators, including teachers, principals, deputy and assistant principals, will be trained on the new curriculum, with 50 teachers and officers receiving specialized training in TVET and a further 100 in special education. The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence invites the media to provide coverage of this event.

Global R&B superstar NE-YO forms part of an exciting WCMF 2026 lineup featuring Fridayy, Maxi Priest, Alkaline, Skillibeng, Uncle Waffles and leading Creole and Caribbean acts. ROSEAU, Dominica – August 19, 2026 – Dominica's World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) returns to Windsor Park Sports Stadium October 23–25, 2026, with a major lineup of international, Caribbean, Creole and Dominican artists for three nights of music during the island's Independence season. Tickets are on sale now and accommodations remain available across Dominica for regional and international travelers planning their October visit. Among the major names confirmed for WCMF 2026 are Grammy Award-winning American R&B star NE-YO, Trinidad and Tobago soca superstar Machel Montano, British reggae star Maxi Priest, Jamaican dancehall stars Alkaline and Skillibeng, South African amapiano star Uncle Waffles, Jamaican reggae icon Capleton and Haitian American singer and songwriter Fridayy. The wider Caribbean and Creole lineup includes Haiti's Klass and Tabou Combo; Guadeloupe's Les Aiglons, Jean-Marc Ferdinand and Edday; Martinique's Maurane Voyer; the Democratic Republic of the Congo's Diblo Dibala; Trinidad and Tobago's Full Blown; Grenada's V'ghn; and Saint Lucia's DYP Band featuring Shemmy J, Tall Boy, Sedale, Hollywood HP, Nerdy, Andrew Biscuit and Ezra D'Funmachine. Dominican music remains central to the WCMF experience, with Midnight Groovers, TK International, Asa Bantan, Signal Band, Extasy Band, Colton T, Mr. Ridge, Pudaz, Reo, Nice, Gwada G and Shaxx among the homegrown acts confirmed for the 2026 festival. The DJ lineup will bring together leading Dominican, regional and international names, including Osocity, Kevin Crown, Optimistic Sounds and DJ Outkast. Together, the lineup will span R&B, soca, dancehall, reggae, bouyon, cadence-lypso, kompa, soukous and amapiano while maintaining the Creole musical foundation that has distinguished WCMF since its inception. Chief Executive Officer of the Discover Dominica Authority, Marva Williams, said the World Creole Music Festival continues to distinguish itself as an authentically Dominican celebration with growing appeal across the Caribbean, the diaspora and international markets. “For nearly three decades, the World Creole Music Festival has provided a distinctly Dominican platform where our music meets the sounds of the Caribbean and the world,” Williams said. “The 2026 lineup continues that tradition, but WCMF is also part of something much bigger. We invite visitors to spend some time with us in Dominica this October and immerse themselves in the spirit of our Independence season, with WCMF as one of its major highlights. Come for the music, but stay for the culture, the cuisine, the traditional wear, the village celebrations, our people and the incredible beauty of the Nature Island. There is so much more to experience and this is one of the most exciting and authentic times of year to discover Dominica.” WCMF is one of Dominica's signature tourism events and a major driver of visitor arrivals during the country's Independence season. The 2025 festival recorded more than 42,000 attendees across its three nights. During the nine-day period surrounding the 2025 festival, Dominica welcomed 10,540 visitors, representing a 48% increase over 2024 and a 61% increase over 2023, underscoring the festival's impact on travel to the destination. For regional and international visitors, WCMF also provides an opportunity to extend their stay and experience Dominica during its Independence season. Visitors can take in the country's wider calendar of cultural activities while also exploring its adventure, wellness, culinary and nature-based experiences. A range of hotels, guesthouses, apartments, villas and other accommodations remains available across Dominica. Travelers are encouraged to secure their tickets, accommodation and travel arrangements early as demand is expected to increase closer to the festival. Visitors who need assistance planning their WCMF trip can connect with the Discover Dominica Authority's Concierge Team for support with travel arrangements, accommodations, festival tickets and experiences in Dominica. The team can be reached by telephone at (767) 275-7298 or (767) 275-7293, or by email at daconcierge1@discoverdominica.dm or daconcierge2@discoverdominica.dm

The Dominica Amateur Basketball Association’s Playoff Finals tipped off with an exciting opening night as Possie Pacers and Dr. Darroux Falcons recorded Game 1 victories in their respective championship series. Possie Pacers Take Game 1 Against West Coast Ballers Possie Pacers produced a dominant second-half performance to defeat the West Coast Ballers 88–69. The teams were evenly matched during the opening quarter, which ended 25–25. Possie Pacers edged the second quarter 24–22 to take a narrow 49–47 advantage into halftime. The decisive run came in the third quarter when the Pacers outscored the Ballers 28–9, turning their two-point halftime lead into a commanding 77–56 advantage. West Coast Ballers responded by winning the fourth quarter 13–11, but the deficit proved too large to overcome as Possie Pacers completed a convincing 19-point victory. Tyler Roudette led the Pacers with a game-high 28 points. Troy Brookes contributed 16 points, Nigel George added 14, and Hunter McBride finished with 12. Sherron Vidal led the West Coast Ballers with 19 points, while Dean Vidal contributed 15. Final Score: Possie Pacers 88–69 West Coast BallersKey Moment: Possie Pacers’ dominant 28–9 third quarter. Dr. Darroux Falcons Survive Dominators’ Comeback In the night’s Premier Division matchup, Dr. Darroux Falcons held off a determined second-half comeback from 767 SC Dominators to secure a thrilling 78–75 victory. The Falcons established an early advantage, leading 22–18 after the first quarter. They extended the margin during the second period, outscoring the Dominators 19–13 to enter halftime with a 41–31 lead. The Dominators responded strongly after the break, winning the third quarter 23–17 and reducing the Falcons’ advantage to four points at 58–54. The pressure continued throughout the fourth quarter, with the Dominators outscoring the Falcons 21–20. However, the Falcons remained composed during the closing moments and held on to claim the three-point victory. Edmond Williams led the Falcons with 16 points, followed by Yawani Regis with 15, Karim Daniel with 14 and Kijuan Thomas with 13. Shamar Felicite delivered the night’s highest individual scoring performance, recording 34 points for 767 SC Dominators. Kelsey Guye added 14 points. Final Score: Dr. Darroux Falcons 78–75 767 SC DominatorsKey Moment: The Falcons’ strong first half, which gave them a 10-point halftime advantage. GAME 2 – THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026 The DABA Playoff Finals continue on Thursday with Game 2 of both championship series: 7:00 p.m.West Coast Ballers vs. Possie Pacers 9:00 p.m.Dr. Darroux Falcons vs. 767 SC Dominators West Coast Ballers and 767 SC Dominators will be seeking to level their respective series, while Possie Pacers and Dr. Darroux Falcons will look to build on their opening-night victories. Basketball fans are encouraged to come out and support their teams as the battle for championship honours continues. — END —

Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC) extends sincere apologises to customers for outages experienced across Dominica, in some instances for extended periods, between Friday, August 14 and Saturday, August 15, 2026; and acknowledges the significant inconvenience as a result. These outages were due to a series of incidents which disrupted electricity supply in several communities. Acting General Manager, Ellise Darwton acknowledged the impact of the prolonged outages on customers and said the company accepts responsibility for identifying opportunities to improve its response. “We understand how difficult it is to be without electricity for several hours, particularly overnight and into the following day. Customers depend on electricity for their homes, businesses, food storage, communication and many other essential activities. We sincerely apologise for the disruption and frustration experienced,” Ms. Darwton said. She also acknowledged concerns about communication during prolonged outages. “We recognise that customers need timely information, particularly during a prolonged outage. While updates were provided through national radio and social media, we are reviewing how we communicate during major incidents and identifying additional, more grassroots ways of reaching customers who may not have access to electronic devices or internet service when their electricity is off,” she said. Customers were affected by four major outages during the 24-hour period, with the first occurring at 4:29AM on Friday morning, followed by another at 1:09PM. Both outages were due to disconnection of geothermal plant from the system. While the first issue was restored at 7:30 AM, restoration for the second outage was hampered by vegetation issues and inclement weather. At 10:30PM a tree fell on high tension lines in Fond Canie and at 4:00AM on Saturday morning, service to the East coast and Laudat was interrupted. Restoration took place progressively throughout Saturday, with supply being returned to the majority of affected areas by 2:00PM. For DOMLEC Engineering, Transmission & Distribution Manager Daryl Dalrymple, the recent events highlight some of the challenges associated with the ongoing transformation of Dominica’s electricity system. “The electricity sector is going through a significant transition, and we are working with the system we currently have while progressing the completion of the geothermal project and associated infrastructure,” Mr. Dalrymple said. He explained that the geothermal project is currently in Phase One of a three-phase development, and DOMLEC continues to work to optimise the use of the new generation capacity while addressing the technical challenges that arise. “We know that customers expect reliable electricity, and that expectation is completely understandable. It is critical, however, that we get it right, that we resolve all the issues and the problems that we are experiencing now to have a better, more reliable system.” Mr. Dalrymple also acknowledged the work of DOMLEC employees who responded to the incidents under challenging weather conditions. “Safety is one of our core values. We have to balance the safety of our employees, contractors and the public with customers’ needs for restoration of services. Our employees must be able to return safely to their families,” he said. DOMLEC thanks its customers for their patience and understanding during the outages and apologises for the disruption experienced. The company remains committed to addressing the challenges identified, completing the ongoing system upgrades and building a stronger and more reliable electricity network that will deliver long-term benefits to Dominica and its people.

The Dominica Amateur Basketball Association (DABA) will tip off its 2026 Playoff Finals tonight, Tuesday, August 18, at the Massacre Indoor Sports Complex. Game 1 of the best-of-five championship series will feature two highly anticipated matchups. At 7:00 p.m., the West Coast Ballers will face the Possie Pacers in the Division One Finals. At 9:00 p.m., Dr. Darroux PSC Falcons 1 will take on Happi 767 SC Dominators in the Premier Division Finals. Following a competitive season, all four teams will begin their pursuit of championship glory. The first team in each division to secure three victories will be crowned champion. Fans who cannot attend can watch the games live on the DABA Facebook page and Digicel Channel 14. Entertainment at the venue will be provided by DJ Blend. Basketball fans are encouraged to come out in large numbers and support the teams as the battle for national supremacy begins. GAME 1 SCHEDULE 7:00 p.m. — Division One FinalsWest Coast Ballers vs. Possie Pacers 9:00 p.m. — Premier Division FinalsDr. Darroux PSC Falcons 1 vs. Happi 767 SC Dominators Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026Venue: Massacre Indoor Sports ComplexFormat: Best-of-Five Championship SeriesLive Broadcast: DABA Facebook Page and Digicel Channel 14Entertainment: DJ Blend One goal. One champion.

The tragic death of 16-year-old Jerbiah Kaysia Paul has profoundly saddened and disturbed us. We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all those who loved her. Jerbiah was a child. She had a future ahead of her, dreams yet to be fulfilled and a contribution yet to be made to her family and community. Her death is an unimaginable loss to those who knew and loved her, but it should also cause all of us as a society to pause, reflect and ask some difficult questions. As a civil society organization, Circle of Friends would like to exhort other Civil Society Organizations that we cannot simply express outrage when another young life is lost and then return to business as usual. This moment demands that we look inward. We must examine our own work. Across Dominica, civil society organizations are doing important work with children, adolescents, families and communities. We provide education, mentorship, counselling, skills training, advocacy, youth development and support services. But this tragedy challenges us to ask: Are we doing enough? Are our programmes sufficiently responsive to the realities young people are experiencing today? Are we creating safe spaces where children and adolescents feel comfortable telling an adult when they are afraid, being threatened, being exploited or simply feel that something is not right? Are we equipping young people with the knowledge and confidence to recognize unsafe relationships and situations? Are we adequately supporting parents and caregivers to understand the changing risks facing children? Are our programmes reaching the young people who are most vulnerable—or are we primarily reaching those who are already connected to services? And perhaps most importantly: Are we working together effectively enough? This cannot be the work of one organization. The protection of children and young people cannot rest solely with the police, social services, schools, parents or individual NGOs. It requires a whole-of-society response. Civil society organizations must move beyond working in isolation and begin to deliberately build stronger systems of collaboration. Our collective impact will always be greater than the sum of our individual programmes. We at Circle of Friends therefore call on members of all civil society organizations across Dominica to use this moment as an opportunity to review, strengthen and realign our programming. We must examine where the gaps are, identify duplication, share information responsibly, strengthen referral pathways and determine where our collective resources can have the greatest impact. We need stronger partnerships between organizations working in: ● child protection and safeguarding; ● education and youth development; ● mental health and psychosocial support; ● gender-based violence prevention; ● parenting and family support; ● community development; ● faith-based engagement; ● disability and vulnerable-population support; ● law, justice and human rights; and ● youth leadership and empowerment. We need to move from programmes to a stronger protection network. Civil society should be asking how we can create clearer pathways of support for a child or young person who is at risk. If a young person discloses that they are afraid, who do they go to? If a child goes missing, what mechanisms exist for rapid communication and coordinated support? If a young person is experiencing abuse, exploitation, coercion or violence, can they easily access someone they trust? Do our organizations have appropriate safeguarding policies and procedures? Do our staff and volunteers know what to do when a concern is raised? And when one organization encounters a situation that falls outside its mandate, is there a trusted organization to which that young person can be referred immediately? These are not theoretical questions anymore. They are questions we must be prepared to answer. We are therefore calling for greater collaboration within civil society. We call on civil society organizations to come together to establish a more coordinated approach to child and youth safety, protection and violence prevention. This should include: 1. A review of our programming. Organizations should critically examine whether existing programmes are addressing the current risks facing children and young people and identify areas requiring strengthening. 2. Stronger safeguarding standards. Every organization working with children should have appropriate safeguarding policies, reporting mechanisms, staff training and clear procedures for responding to concerns. 3. Improved referral and response mechanisms. We must know who to call, where to refer and how to support a young person when a concern emerges. 4. Greater sharing of knowledge and resources. No organization has all the expertise or resources required. We must be willing to share training, tools, research, expertise and good practices. 5. More meaningful youth participation. We cannot design programmes for young people without listening to young people. They must have safe and meaningful opportunities to tell us what they are experiencing and what support they need. 6. Stronger engagement with parents and communities. Prevention begins long before a crisis. Parents, caregivers and communities need practical tools to recognize risks, communicate with young people and respond appropriately. 7. Collective advocacy. Where systemic gaps exist, civil society must use our collective voice to advocate for stronger policies, services and accountability mechanisms. Let Jerbiah's death challenge us to do better. This is not about assigning blame to civil society. It is about recognizing that we too have a responsibility. We must be courageous enough to examine our own work, acknowledge where gaps exist and ask what we can do differently. Our organizations may have different mandates, different approaches and different constituencies, but our ultimate responsibility is shared: to help create communities in which children and young people are safe, heard, respected and protected. Jerbiah's life should not become another statistic that fades from our national consciousness. Let her death be a catalyst for action. Let us come together—not simply to condemn violence after it occurs, but to strengthen prevention before another child is lost. As civil society, let us commit to reviewing our programmes, strengthening our safeguarding systems, building stronger partnerships and creating a coordinated network of support around our children and young people. Because protecting children is not the responsibility of one organization. It is our collective responsibility. And the time to act is now.

Thirty-six households in the Kalinago Territory are taking important steps toward greater food security, self-reliance, and climate resilience after receiving agricultural inputs and equipment through the backyard gardening component of the Strengthening Community Resilience in the Kalinago Territory (SCR-K) Project. The SCR-K Project is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with funding from the Government of India and in partnership with the Government of Dominica, the Kalinago Council and community stakeholders. The delivery of supplies and training was coordinated by IsraAID Dominica, as part of its collaboration with UNDP to implement targeted community-level activities under the SCR-K project. At a handover ceremony held at the Salybia Primary School on Thursday, August 13, participating families received a range of vegetable seedlings, fruit trees, farming tools, tarpaulins, and water storage equipment to help establish and expand backyard gardens. Additional supplies will be delivered in the coming weeks. For many recipients, the support represents an opportunity to increase access to fresh, nutritious food, reduce household expenses, and build more sustainable livelihoods. The distribution included vegetable seedlings such as tomatoes, cabbage, lettuce, cucumbers, sweet peppers, celery, and parsley, as well as fruit and perennial plants including avocado, soursop, cinnamon, nutmeg, cherry, citrus, and apricot. By combining short-term crops with long-term fruit-bearing trees, households will be able to diversify food production and strengthen resilience to future shocks. The handover followed a series of climate-smart agriculture training sessions, where participants gained practical knowledge in soil management, composting, sustainable farming techniques, and harvesting practices designed to help them adapt to the growing impacts of climate change. For Kalinago farmer, Joan Gabriel, the initiative provides both encouragement and practical support to continue growing food and generating income at home. “I want to thank UNDP, the Government of India and the Government of Dominica for this support. As Kalinago people, we have land, and we should make good use of what we are receiving today. We should not let these resources go to waste. I enjoy backyard gardening and already grow cucumbers, cabbages and seasoning peppers, and I keep poultry as well. I even have eggs for sale. I am proud of the help we are receiving today, and I encourage everyone to make the most of it,” she said. UNDP Project Analyst, Sawana Fabien, underscored the relevance of the intervention. “Backyard gardening may seem like a simple intervention, but at the household level it can be transformative. For women-led and vulnerable households in particular, it means greater access to nutritious food, an opportunity to reduce household expenses and generate supplementary income, and a practical way of strengthening the well-being of their families. They are building the knowledge and skills to produce food more sustainably and to better withstand and recover from climate shocks.” She added, “With the generous support of the Government of India, and in partnership with the Government of Dominica and the Kalinago Council, UNDP is translating these investments into practical action at the community level. We are pleased to have IsraAIDsupporting the delivery of this backyard gardening component, helping ensure that we reach households and contribute to stronger food security, livelihoods and resilience across the Kalinago Territory.” By pairing practical resources with training and ongoing support, the SCR-K project aims to equip families with the skills and confidence needed to sustain food production over the long term. The inclusion of fruit trees and perennial crops will help ensure a continuous source of food while promoting sustainable land use practices and a more food-secure future for the Kalinago Territory.

The tragic loss of a young life is deeply painful, and my thoughts and heartfelt condolences remain with the family, friends and all those affected. At moments such as these, our attention must first be on the life that has been lost and on what each of us can do to build a society in which our children are safer, heard, supported and protected. As Director of Social Services, I take very seriously the responsibility entrusted to the Department for the care and protection of vulnerable children. This is not simply a professional responsibility for me; it is work that I approach with compassion, integrity and a genuine commitment to the well-being of every child who comes into our care. I will not engage in personal attacks or respond in kind to disparaging comments directed at me. However, where the integrity of the child-protection process is called into question, I believe it is important that the public understands why safeguards exist. Children in national care cannot be made freely accessible to individuals simply because someone wishes to assist, however sincere or well-intentioned that offer may be. We welcome genuine partnerships. We welcome donations, resources, mentorship and other forms of support that can improve the lives of our children but access to children in care is an entirely different matter. There are established procedures governing visits, interaction, programmes, photography, information-sharing and other forms of engagement with children. These safeguards exist for obvious reasons. Children who have already experienced vulnerability, trauma, abuse, neglect or separation deserve even greater protection. We therefore have a duty to know who is interacting with them, why that interaction is taking place, whether it is appropriate, and whether the necessary authorization and safeguards are in place. Saying “no” to a particular request or proposed form of access is not the same as saying “no” to helping children especially when access is conditional to receive support. Sometimes responsible leadership requires us to say no, to propose another approach, or to insist that the correct process be followed. No individual regardless of status, influence, resources, charitable intentions or public profile is above those safeguards. It is also concerning when dissatisfaction with an administrative or professional decision becomes the basis for publicly attacking individuals or condemning an entire child-protection system. Constructive criticism is necessary. Accountability is necessary. Reform, where required, is necessary. But accountability must also be responsible, factual, fair, and centred on the best interests of children. The same responsibility applies to how we use social media. The fact that social media is accessible, immediate, and often free to use does not mean it is without consequence or responsibility. Social media is still a form of media, and it should be used with the same care, professionalism, accuracy, and ethical consideration expected of any other public platform. We must think carefully about what we share, how we share it, and the potential impact our words may have particularly when children, families, professionals, or sensitive child-protection matters are involved. The freedom to express concerns comes with a responsibility to do so thoughtfully, factually, and in ways that do not undermine the dignity, privacy, safety, or best interests of children. We can challenge decisions, raise concerns, demand accountability, and advocate for reform without resorting to personal attacks, public condemnation, or irresponsible use of social media. Our platforms should be used to inform, strengthen dialogue, encourage solutions, and ultimately contribute to better outcomes for our children. I therefore appeal to all of us: let us be responsible in what we say, what we share and what we do. If we know that a child is being abused, neglected, exploited, or placed at risk, we must report it. If we have resources that can support vulnerable families, we should offer that support through the appropriate channels. If we identify weaknesses within a system, we should bring forward constructive solutions that can strengthen it. When safeguards are put in place to protect vulnerable children, we should respect those safeguards rather than interpret them as hostility, obstruction, or opposition. It is deeply troubling and profoundly sad that the death of a 16-year-old child could be used as an opportunity to advance an unrelated agenda or to pursue personal interests. A child’s death should never become a vehicle for gaining attention, political or personal traction, or promoting narratives that are not grounded in verified facts. At such a painful time, our focus should be on the child, the family, the truth, and the lessons that can help prevent further harm not on exploiting tragedy to advance an unrelated cause. There is a profound difference between seeking accountability and using the death of a child to serve another agenda. I am also making it clear that established visitation and safeguarding procedures at our residential facilities must be consistently enforced. Protecting children cannot depend on personalities, friendships, influence or who knows whom. The same rules must apply to everyone. A system is not merely an infrastructure or governance framework. It is shaped by the people who participate in it, and there is a role and responsibility for everyone. We all contribute to the society and systems in which our children grow. Parents, families, neighbours, communities, professionals, institutions, and leaders all have a part to play. Our children deserve more than words. They deserve purpose, accountability, and responsible action. They deserve adults who speak up when something is wrong, do what is right, respect the safeguards established to protect them, and work together even when we disagree. Protecting our children is a shared responsibility. We must carry that responsibility with compassion, professionalism, courage, and an unwavering commitment to their safety, dignity, protection, and well-being.

It is with profound sadness and a very heavy heart that I address the people of Dominica following the tragic developments in the search for 16-year-old Jerbia Paul. For almost three weeks, Jerbia's disappearance has weighed heavily on our nation. Her family waited, searched and hoped. Communities shared information and appeals, and many Dominicans joined in the hope that this young girl would be found and returned safely to those who love her. Today, that hope has been replaced by immense grief following the the report by the police of the identification of the body of Jerbia in the Capuchin area. At this extraordinarily difficult time, I extend my deepest sympathy, prayers and solidarity to Jerbia's family, friends, and all those who have been affected by this tragedy. As Minister of State with special responsibility for Seniors Security; Children at Risk; Gender Affairs; and Persons with Disabilities, I am also compelled to speak to the wider concern that this tragedy has once again brought sharply into focus: the safety and protection of our girls and young women. Sexual abuse, sexual exploitation and violence against girls and women must never be normalized, excused, concealed or met with silence. No child should have to live in fear of an adult who should be protecting her. No young girl should be groomed, exploited or abused by someone who takes advantage of her age, vulnerability, trust or circumstances. And no family should have to endure the anguish of wondering whether more could have been done to protect their child. We must reject the dangerous attitudes that place responsibility on girls for the behaviour of adults. A child cannot be blamed for being exploited. Adults have a responsibility to protect children, not prey upon their vulnerability. This responsibility belongs to all of us. Parents and guardians must remain engaged in the lives of their children and pay attention when behaviour, relationships or circumstances suddenly change. Communities must not look the other way when there are warning signs of abuse or exploitation. Teachers, health professionals, social workers, churches, youth organizations and other institutions that interact with children must continue to recognize and report concerns. And those who know or suspect that a child is being abused must understand that silence can leave that child exposed to further harm. We must also speak directly to the men and adults in our society: there can be no justification for the sexual exploitation of a child. Age, authority, money, gifts, transportation, accommodation, influence or emotional manipulation must never be used to gain sexual access to a girl or young woman. Our laws also place a responsibility on persons who become aware of suspected sexual abuse of a child to report such matters to the appropriate authorities. We must take that responsibility seriously. If you know or suspect that a child is being abused or exploited, do not remain silent. Report it. Our girls and young women are not objects. They are not commodities. They are children and young people whose safety and wellbeing are the responsibility of the adults around them. The responsibility is on adults to protect them, respect their boundaries and never exploit their vulnerability. They are our daughters, sisters, students and young citizens, entitled to grow up in safety, dignity and freedom from violence. The Ministry responsible for Social Services will continue to strengthen its work with families, communities, schools, law enforcement and other partners to improve child safeguarding, early identification of children at risk, reporting and referral mechanisms, psychosocial support and interventions for vulnerable children and families. But Government action alone will never be enough. This moment demands collective responsibility and collective introspection. We must ask ourselves what more we can do—as families, communities and as a country—to recognize vulnerability earlier, to listen when children speak, to act when warning signs emerge, and to create an environment in which perpetrators cannot depend upon fear, stigma or silence to shield their actions. I urge the public to allow the police and other competent authorities the space necessary to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this matter. Speculation, the circulation of unverified information and commentary which may compromise the investigation or cause further distress to the family should be avoided. Where any person possesses information that may assist the authorities, I strongly encourage that information to be provided directly to the police. At the same time, let this tragedy strengthen our national resolve. Not one more girl should suffer because adults remained silent. Not one more child should be exploited because warning signs were ignored.​ Not one more young woman should believe that violence and abuse are simply things she must endure. We must speak. We must report. We must intervene. And above all, we must protect our girls and women. To every girl and young woman in Dominica: your life has value. Your body belongs to you. You deserve to be safe. You deserve to be heard. You deserve to grow, learn and pursue your dreams without fear of violence, exploitation or abuse. The Ministry of Social Services, through its counselling and psychosocial support services, remains available to support individuals, families and communities affected by this tragedy. Anyone who hasneed for support is encouraged to reach out to the Department of Social Services and access the expertiseof our qualified counsellors and psychologists. We will continue to work with the affected community and our partners to ensure that support is available during this difficult period. And to Jerbia's family, I extend, on behalf of the Government and people whom I serve, our deepest compassion during this period of unimaginable grief and pain. May god strengthen you and may you find strength in the support of your family, your community and a nation that has stood with you throughout this painful search. May these tragic developments awaken in all of us a deeper commitment to protecting our children and young women.

Education Consulting, Academic Advising and Mentoring (ECAAM) has completed the second year of its Summer Intensive Academic Support Programme (SIASP), an initiative designed to provide learners with individualized support, strengthen identified areas of need, and build the confidence and skills needed for a successful transition into the new school year. Launched in response to the needs of students who experience academic difficulties during the school year, SIASP provides targeted support during the summer through individualized learning plans based on each learner’s strengths, needs and pace of learning. The programme takes a whole-child approach, recognizing that readiness for school extends beyond academic skills. In addition to literacy and numeracy, students are supported in developing social-emotional, communication, functional and independence skills that contribute to their overall success as learners. SIASP is particularly beneficial to learners with special educational needs and identified learning gaps, who may benefit from specialized instruction, additional practice and individualized strategies to strengthen foundational skills and prepare for the next academic year. Growing to Meet Learner Needs Now in its second year, the programme continues to demonstrate growth and relevance. During its inaugural year, ECAAM provided individualized summer support to two students. This year, the programme expanded to five students - four receiving face-to-face instruction and one participating virtually. This growth reflects the increasing importance of providing learners with targeted support before they return to the classroom. The programme has also evolved to address not only academic development, but also social-emotional growth, functional skills and transition readiness. Introducing Kindergarten Readiness Support This year, ECAAM expanded its summer offerings with the introduction of a Kindergarten Readiness and Academic Support Programme, designed to assist children transitioning from preschool into kindergarten. The programme places particular emphasis on transition skills for children with autism and other learners who may require additional preparation for the move into a more structured school environment. Children are supported in developing foundational academic, communication, social-emotional and functional skills that can help them navigate their new school setting with greater confidence and independence. ECAAM believes that school readiness is about more than knowing letters and numbers. It also involves helping children understand routines, communicate their needs, participate in learning, develop independence and feel secure in a new environment. Supporting the Whole Child SIASP focuses on three interconnected areas: �� Academic Readiness Strengthening literacy, numeracy and other foundational skills while addressing individual learning needs and gaps. �� Social-Emotional Development Building confidence, self-awareness, emotional regulation, motivation and positive attitudes toward learning. �� Functional and Transition Skills Developing communication, independence, organization, problem-solving, routines and other skills that support successful participation in school and everyday life. Every Child Deserves a Head Start Through SIASP, ECAAM is reaffirming its commitment to individualized, inclusive and responsive education. The programme is grounded in a simple belief: children should not have to wait until they are struggling significantly before receiving the support they need. Providing targeted support during the summer gives learners an opportunity to strengthen their skills, build confidence and approach the new school year with greater readiness. “ECAAM is investing in the whole child because academic success is strengthened when children are also supported socially, emotionally and functionally. Every child deserves a head start and an opportunity to enter the next stage of their education prepared to succeed.”

Consumer activations, media engagements and travel trade meetings to strengthen destination awareness and encourage regional travel – Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) will undertake its annual destination sales mission in Trinidad from August 12–18, 2026, continuing its strategic engagement in one of Dominica’s key regional source markets to increase destination awareness and encourage travel to the Nature Island. The mission will engage Trinidadian consumers, travel trade professionals, media representatives and the Dominican diaspora through mall activations, media interviews, business-to-business meetings and a destination networking event. DDA will be joined by Dominican tourism stakeholders and Contour Airlines, which is scheduled to begin direct service between Trinidad and Dominica on October 5, 2026. The upcoming direct service provides a timely opportunity to support increased travel from Trinidad, particularly ahead of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), scheduled for October 23–25, 2026, and Dominica’s Carnival, scheduled for February 8–9, 2027. Both events will be promoted during the mission alongside Dominica’s year-round tourism offerings in nature, adventure, wellness, culture, cuisine and accommodations. DDA undertakes the Trinidad sales mission annually as part of its continued efforts to maintain a strong presence in the market, engage potential visitors and strengthen relationships with travel agents, tour operators and other industry partners. This year will also mark DDA’s first engagement with Contour Airlines in the Trinidad market, providing an opportunity to increase consumer and travel trade awareness of the airline’s upcoming direct service to Dominica. Consumer activations will be held at West Mall on August 13, East Gates Mall on August 14 and C3 Centre on August 15. The activations will allow consumers to interact directly with destination representatives, explore Dominica’s tourism experiences and accommodations and receive information on air access and upcoming events. Interactive activities, including Spin the Wheel, will also form part of the engagements. The mission will be supported by radio, television and print media engagements aimed at extending Dominica’s reach across the Trinidad market and providing audiences with information to help plan travel to the destination. On August 17, the focus will shift to the travel trade, with business-to-business meetings and stakeholder presentations. Participating Dominican tourism partners will present their properties and services to Trinidad-based travel agents before engaging in one-on-one meetings aimed at strengthening partnerships and generating business opportunities for travel to Dominica. The trade engagement will be followed by a destination cocktail reception bringing together Dominican tourism stakeholders, Contour Airlines, travel agents, tour operators, media representatives and other industry partners. Through its annual presence in Trinidad, DDA continues to build destination awareness, strengthen market relationships and position Dominica as an accessible and compelling Caribbean destination for Trinidadian travelers.