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The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) officially launched the 2025 Regional Human Development Report for Latin America and the Caribbean, titled “Under Pressure: Recalibrating the Future of Human Development,” at a high-level event held in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. The event was hosted by the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, with participation from members of Cabinet, civil society, academia, and international partners. In a context where the Caribbean and Latin America region faces an era of mounting pressures such as the lingering effects of the pandemic, stronger and more frequent climate-related events, growing debt, economic instability, polarization, and persistent inequalities, the report places resilience at the heart of development policy and practice. It emphasizes that in a time of rising crises, human development can only advance if nations and communities are equipped to anticipate, absorb, and adapt to shocks. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar said: “Why should geography determine dignity? The Caribbean knows vulnerability—but we also know resilience. We know how to rise, and we must rise together. Not just for ourselves but for the generations to come. These times of global uncertainty demand proactive strategies. They demand quick action with long-term vision. And that is the kind of leadership I am committed to delivering” and added “This report shines a light on the path forward. It challenges us to recalibrate our development model—to make it more inclusive, more just, and more future-proof. In a region marked by both vulnerability and resilience, it is a timely call to action for leaders, institutions, and communities across the Caribbean.” While the report acknowledges the Caribbean’s position on the frontlines of these overlapping crises—from hurricanes and rising seas to external economic shocks and fragile institutions, it also presents a message of hope and opportunity, spotlighting the courage and innovation of the region’s people. It emphasizes that development without resilience is no longer viable, and calls for a new development playbook, centered on what it terms the three I’s of resilience:  Instruments – Smarter policies and financial tools that protect people and anticipate risks.  Institutions – Transparent, inclusive systems capable of responding to crises and rebuilding trust.  Infrastructure – Both physical and digital, built to withstand shocks and expand access to opportunity. Mischelle Muschett, UNDP Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean emphasized that “Building resilience is not optional—it is a necessity in the world we live in today. And it is a shared responsibility: individuals should not be left to shoulder risks alone; governments cannot manage them in isolation; the private sector cannot innovate in a vacuum; and international partners cannot just borrow solutions from outside”. “Nor does resilience emerge automatically as a byproduct of growth or poverty reduction. It must be built—through concrete action, through innovation, through dialogue, through trust. It requires investing in people, strengthening institutions, and re-imagining the social contract for a new era of uncertainty,” she added.  The Human Development Index (HDI) in the Caribbean has increased steadily over the past decades, albeit with temporary setbacks after the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the pandemic. As seen in LAC, its pre-pandemic growth rates were higher: the Caribbean's HDI grew at an average annual rate of 0.3% in the five years before 2020 but has slowed to 0.1% afterwards. The report also underscores the transformative role of digital technologies in building resilience noting that true digital resilience is not just about cables and code—but about ensuring that technology strengthens governance, expands opportunity, and protects rights. Yet the report warns that the benefits of digitalization remain unevenly distributed across the Caribbean. In a region where fewer than 4 in 10 households have access to a computer, the report calls for a shift from basic connectivity to inclusive digital ecosystems that empower all people to thrive in a digital age. It highlights the importance of investing in digital public infrastructure, such as secure digital IDs and interoperable platforms, while building digital skills and ensuring access to affordable devices, especially for rural and marginalized communities. The report highlights the importance of a renewed social contract—one that reduces inequality, strengthens civic trust, and protects the freedoms central to the human development approach: the freedom to live healthy lives, to learn, to earn a living, and to participate fully in society. As the region confronts an increasingly unpredictable future, the 2025 Regional Human Development Report offers a roadmap for navigating uncertainty—and a bold invitation to reimagine development—not as a linear path, but as a resilient journey shared across generations, sectors, and borders. The digital version of the report also offers interactive resources, including country-level data, animated graphics, practical policy inputs, and a Chatbot with AI-powered tools for quick consultations on the report’s content.

Dominica’s senior women’s team faced a difficult challenge at Victoria Park in St. Vincent, where Barbados delivered an admirable performance to claim a 7–0 win in the WIFA Women’s Championship. Despite moments of grit and resistance from the Nature Isle Ladies, Barbados capitalized on their chances and controlled the tempo of the match from start to finish, leaving Dominica with an 0-3 record in the tournament at the end of the preliminary round. Coach Ronnie Gustave says a lack of chemistry and cohesion played a critical role in the outcome of the matches but notes there was marked improvement and obvious potential. Well, I still have to say, I can't put too much pressure on the girls. Because in a very short space of time, bringing a team together that does not have chemistry. And you know in football, chemistry is a lot. So try to find the girls and put them in position where we can get that kind of togetherness on the pitch. You know, the knocking of the ball, getting in position. This thing is going to take a while. I mean, it's a relatively new team, a young team. And what that is against us is, and I've said it in previous interviews, the basics. Which is letting us down. And we all know that in football, for you to play at a higher level, you have to have the basics. So there's a lot of work, a lot of improvement to be done in our game.” “And I have to say, this evening, that game there, although we get a lot of goals, but you could see it was one of our better games in the sense of, we had some nice moments in the game. Stringing the pass and trying to find the gates to go forward and take a few shots. Compared to the two previous games we played. We took it from the creative phase to the finishing and took a few shots on the keeper.” Barbados, however, took early control of the match, striking twice in quick succession with goals in the 21st and 22nd minutes. Dominica struggled to regain footing, and frustrations showed with two yellow cards in the first half—Kiyanna Phillip in the 31st minute and Britney Dennis in the 43rd. Several players were highlighted by Coach Gustave for their effort including Rosalina Paul, Dymond Daniel, Jessica Pierre Louis, Jahricia Paul, and Anessa (Breanelle) Laurent. Gustave says that the players will need to do a lot more work to live up to their potential. “Well, the thing I would say is the fitness level. The aggression we met in our game. The physicality in our game. When you are in the hospital, all that we could have done was insufficient. Because it's just a month after a few days that we have been training. But nevertheless, I think the girls gave their all in each element. And I know they are very much excited to be here. Excited to be called up. But that is not all. They have to apply themselves more. They have to push. I'm not going to wait only when we have training. The clubs have to work with them as well. You don't just have to call the national team to do the same. You have to call the clubs to prepare the players before they are called up for nationality. I know the girls have it in them. I know they have it in them. I have been with the girls for a month. I have seen some of them play in the league. But they have to apply themselves more.” “Because our players are, to be honest, our players are weak. Yeah, you cannot be having possession of the ball, and the player cannot push you off the ball. You know, so that's one of the things that we have to work on, strength. Strength in your ass, you have to have. It's just a... How do you say? It's a total package of building, and building is going to take a while,” he reflected. The second half brought more pressure from the Barbadian side, particularly following some key substitutions. They extended their lead with goals in the 51st and 56th minutes, before capitalizing on a free kick in the 58th. Despite receiving a yellow card themselves, Barbados remained relentless, adding another in the 72nd minute. Tensions boiled over on the Dominican bench when Goalkeeper Coach Melvin Angol received a yellow card in the 81st minute. Barbados then sealed their dominance with a final goal in the 89th, closing the game at 7–0. Coach Gustave admonished that there needs to be some concentrated investment and support for the young team in order to see results. “You know, so if we work with them and continue working with them as our arm of the program, they are the artists here in the U.S. They spend on their... But if you want results, you have to spend. There's no way you're going to get results and you're not spending. So you spend on the girls to put them in a program, to go in the gym, you know, aerobics, training, and so forth. There's no doubt that we can produce a very good team, because, I mean, the other clubs, the other teams, I mean, all the teams they have overseas players. You know, it's not... I don't want to look like I'm making excuses for the girls, but, I mean, you could see the level of the other countries. You could see those teams there are teams that have been together for a while. “You can't just get up and just pick up a team and go and play. You can see Barbados is well- organized. St. Lucia is well-organized. And the two of the teams we were watching in the tournament is Barbados and St. Lucia. You could see their structure. They are well-organized teams. They fought hard, you know, especially in a short space of time. And we have to see, I think, we have to have enough time to train, you know. We have to have enough time to prepare a team for a tournament. You know, too many times we went to a tournament, a month, two weeks, a month or six weeks.” Dominica will likely face St Vincent in the fight for third place on Saturday at 6:30pm.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, selecting the best payment options is crucial for seamless transactions. Whether you’re a business owner aiming to expand your reach or an individual seeking convenience, understanding the landscape of payment solutions empowers you to make informed decisions. The right payment method not only enhances user experience but also boosts trust and efficiency in financial exchanges. Understanding the Best Payment Options Available Today Choosing the best payment options involves more than just picking what’s popular. It requires a deep dive into security, speed, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. Traditional methods like cash and checks are rapidly giving way to digital wallets, credit cards, and bank transfers. Each option has its strengths and weaknesses. Credit and Debit Cards : Widely accepted and familiar, these cards offer convenience and fraud protection. However, fees can add up for merchants. Digital Wallets : Services like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal provide quick, contactless payments. They are secure and user-friendly but depend on smartphone availability. Bank Transfers and ACH Payments : Ideal for large transactions, these are reliable but slower compared to instant payment systems. Cryptocurrency : Emerging as an alternative, cryptocurrencies offer decentralization and privacy but face volatility and limited acceptance. Understanding these options helps tailor your payment strategy to your audience’s preferences and your business needs. How to Choose the Best Payment Options for Your Needs Selecting the best payment options requires balancing multiple factors. Start by analyzing your target audience’s preferences and geographic location. For example, mobile payments dominate in Asia, while credit cards remain king in North America. Consider transaction fees, security protocols, and ease of integration with your existing systems. Here are some actionable tips: Evaluate Security Features : Opt for payment solutions with robust encryption and fraud detection. Consider Transaction Speed : Faster payments improve cash flow and customer satisfaction. Check Compatibility : Ensure the payment method integrates smoothly with your website or point-of-sale system. Assess Costs : Look beyond upfront fees to include hidden charges like currency conversion or chargebacks. Offer Multiple Options : Providing a variety of payment methods caters to diverse customer preferences and increases conversion rates. By carefully weighing these factors, you can create a payment ecosystem that supports growth and customer loyalty. How to Set Payment Method on Phone? Setting up a payment method on your phone is straightforward and enhances your ability to transact anytime, anywhere. Most smartphones support digital wallets that store your credit, debit, or prepaid cards securely. Here’s a step-by-step guide: For iPhone (Apple Pay) : 1. Open the Wallet app. 2. Tap the "+" icon to add a new card. 3. Follow the prompts to scan your card or enter details manually. 4. Verify your card with your bank if required. 5. Once added, you can use Apple Pay for contactless payments. For Android (Google Pay) : 1. Download and open the Google Pay app. 2. Tap "Add a payment method." 3. Enter your card information or link your bank account. 4. Complete verification steps. 5. Use Google Pay at supported merchants or online. Setting up these payment methods on your phone not only speeds up checkout but also adds a layer of security through biometric authentication or passcodes. The Role of Payment Methods in Business Growth and Customer Experience Integrating the right payment methods is a strategic move that directly impacts business growth. Customers expect smooth, secure, and flexible payment options. When businesses meet these expectations, they build trust and encourage repeat purchases. Consider these benefits: Increased Sales : Offering multiple payment options reduces cart abandonment. Global Reach : Accepting international payment methods opens doors to new markets. Improved Cash Flow : Instant payment options accelerate revenue collection. Enhanced Security : Modern payment solutions protect against fraud and data breaches. For advertisers and industry professionals, understanding these dynamics is essential. It allows crafting campaigns that highlight payment convenience, a key decision factor for consumers. Future Trends in Payment Options to Watch The payment landscape is evolving rapidly. Staying ahead means anticipating trends that will shape how transactions occur. Biometric Payments : Fingerprint and facial recognition will become standard for authentication. Voice-Activated Payments : Smart assistants will enable hands-free transactions. Cryptocurrency Adoption : More businesses will accept digital currencies as they stabilize. AI and Machine Learning : These technologies will enhance fraud detection and personalize payment experiences. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) : This financing option is gaining popularity, especially among younger consumers. Adapting to these trends ensures your payment strategy remains relevant and competitive. Choosing the right payment methods is more than a technical decision - it’s a critical business strategy. By understanding the best payment options, setting them up efficiently, and anticipating future trends, you position yourself for success in a dynamic global market. Whether you’re connecting with advertisers, industry professionals, or entertainment enthusiasts, seamless payment experiences build lasting relationships and drive growth.

Dominica’s senior women’s team endured a difficult outing on Tuesday, suffering a 5–0 defeat to St. Lucia in the WIFA Women’s Championship. The match was shaped early on when St. Lucia scored twice in quick succession in the 20th and 21st minutes. The swift double strike left Dominica unsettled and chasing the game from the start. Coach Ronnie Gustave highlighted differences in how the two teams approached the match. “Well, you could see St. Lucia were much more organized than us. And you could see the level of their players were way above the level of our players. You could see their entire team had the basics. And seeing that they had a few foreign players as well made a big difference in the game.” “Nevertheless, we are in a competition and we are supposed to do a good account of ourselves. But as I have said early on in previous interviews, we are trying to build a team. And you cannot build a team just in a month. It's going to take a while,” he added. After regrouping, Dominica showed moments of determination but struggled to convert possession into attacking chances. Coach Gustave noted that there were some players who stood out in tonight’s match and have shown great improvement. “Well, Dymond is one of the people who has always been coming up big for us. I saw a few new players like Anessa (Lean) Laurent. It's her first time playing on that level. And she did a good account of herself as well this evening.” “I have to say Dymond has come a very long way. Two years ago, she made her debut on the senior national team. And she was in Suriname with us. And she got her opportunity in that game there…And then she has not given up. She has been working on her own. And you could see that she has come so far as well. She has elevated. And that's what we need from each player.” St. Lucia, however, remained relentless, adding a third goal in the 61st minute to tighten their grip on the match. Seeking to change momentum, Dominica made substitutions in the 81st minute. But before the adjustments could take effect, St. Lucia struck again just a minute later, stretching the lead to 4–0. The final blow came deep into stoppage time, as St. Lucia scored once more in the 90+1 minute to seal a commanding 5–0 victory. Dominica will look to regroup quickly as they continue their campaign and face Barbados, who will have the momentum coming into the match after having defeated hosts, St Vincent, 2-0. “From watching Barbados, if I have to analyze the two teams in this tournament, it has to be Barbados and St. Lucia. Because both of them, you could see their players are very confident on the ball. And they are well- structured as a team. In offense, you see them move down in offense as one team. And in transition, they also get back together. So you could see that as a team that has been training together for quite a while,” Coach Gustave observed. “But I know the girls and I know once we continue training and doing the basics, that's what we're lacking. And if you don't have the basics, you will not have confidence. So once you get that basics going, then the confidence will come into it.” Thursday’s matchup against Barbados will be Dominica’s final game in the round- robin.

October 11 event at Jungle Bay Resort & Spa continues a proud tradition of island-wide giving — The President’s Charities Foundation Inc. will host its Annual Fundraising Dinner on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the award-winning Jungle Bay Resort & Spa in Morne Acouma, Soufrière. The formal evening, graced by Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of the Commonwealth of Dominica and her husband, Mr. Burton, will feature a three-course dinner and entertainment, with all proceeds going directly to charitable organizations serving children, the elderly, persons with disabilities and vulnerable communities across Dominica. Tickets are priced at EC$240 and can be purchased from members of the Foundation or by calling (767) 266-3333 / 266-4267. Formal attire is required and seating is limited. “In recent years, the generosity shown at this annual dinner has touched lives in every corner of our island — from supporting children’s education to caring for our elderly and persons with disabilities. This year, we continue that proud tradition, ensuring that no one in Dominica is left behind,” said Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of the Commonwealth of Dominica. This year’s dinner is made possible through the generosity of its sponsors: The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, Archipelago Trading, Jungle Bay Resort & Spa, Morne Acouma, Dominica, Digicel, DOMLEC, Tranquility Beach, InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, Print Express, AID Bank, Flow, HHV Whitchurch & Co. Ltd, Dominica Social Security, Do It Center, NAGICO Insurances, National Bank of Dominica, Rudolph F. Thomas Enterprises, Zhu’s Windows, Vital Developers, National Co-operative Credit Union, West Coast Cooperative Credit Union, Secret Bay Resort, Springfield Trading (1979) Ltd., Belfast Estate, M & R Trading Ltd, Stowe & Co., Dragon Windows, Chinese Association of Dominica and FRS Express des Îles. Since its inception, the Annual Fundraising Dinner has raised substantial funds for organizations providing education, care, and support services to communities throughout Dominica.

The wait is over! Creole Heartbeat, in collaboration with the Alliance Française de la Dominique, officially launches Pillar One of the Creole 4 Business program today, Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., with the start of a Six-Week Kwéyòl Language Course. The opening session will feature a welcome by Ambassador Leroy “Wadix” Charles, Culture and Creole Ambassador, followed by the official introduction to the course facilitated by Ms. Milia Joseph. In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Charles will highlight that this course is “not just about learning a language, but about embracing an identity, a culture, and a tool for commerce.” He notes that Kwéyòl is central to tourism, trade, and cultural exchange across the Caribbean and the world, making this initiative timely and transformative. The Creole 4 Business program is anchored on four pillars: 1. Language & Cultural Training (this course). 2. Export Solutions for Agro-Processors. 3. Creative & Performing Arts Exchange. 4. Business Certification & Visibility. Through these pillars, Creole Heartbeat aims to strengthen Dominica’s identity as the Creole Capital of the World, while equipping individuals and businesses with the tools to connect across borders, cultures, and markets. Facilitator Milia Joseph will guide participants through conversational Kwéyòl, sector-specific phrases, and cultural context over the six weeks, with a focus on building confidence and practical application in real-world settings. Today’s launch is more than the start of a course — it is the beginning of a movement to preserve, promote, and modernize Kwéyòl as a living language of identity and enterprise.

Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) advanced its regional marketing efforts this week with a promotional activation in Guadeloupe, highlighting both the island’s tourism offerings and the upcoming World Creole Music Festival (WCMF). The initiative is part of a September 8–13 mission to Guadeloupe and Martinique. On September 9, the delegation hosted a media cocktail at Hotel La Creole Beach in Gosier. The event attracted more than 50 stakeholders, including representatives from the Regional Council, top media professionals, and French Consul Clayton Shillingford. Guests were treated to a special performance by Shelly of Signal Band, offering a preview of the bouyon rhythms that will be featured at the festival. The delegation included Sobers Esprit, Deputy Chairman of the DDA Board of Directors; Leroy Charles, Cultural Ambassador; Ayodele Andrew, Festival and Events Manager, DDA; and Marva Williams, CEO of the DDA and Director of Tourism. Presentations showcased Dominica’s eco-adventure experiences, culinary offerings, historic landmarks and Kalinago cultural heritage. The team also introduced the 25th edition of the WCMF, set for October 24–26, 2025, at Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Roseau. “Guadeloupe is an important neighbor and partner for Dominica,” said Marva Williams, CEO of the DDA and Director of Tourism. “Our presence here allows us to deepen cultural and tourism linkages, while sharing the unique attractions of Dominica and building excitement for the World Creole Music Festival.” In addition to the cocktail event, the delegation engaged in broadcast and print interviews with Canal 10, Guadeloupe Première, France-Antilles, RCI and other major outlets. These appearances ensured wide coverage across Guadeloupe’s media landscape. The promotional campaign continues in Martinique with a media cocktail at Hotel Simon in Fort-de-France. The World Creole Music Festival, first staged in 1997, is one of the Caribbean’s leading cultural celebrations. The 2025 silver anniversary edition will feature regional icons and international stars across three nights of performances. For more information on Destination Dominica , visit www.discoverdominica.com . For details on the World Creole Music Festival , including lineup, tickets and festival updates, visit www.dominicafestivals.com .

The Investment Migration Agency of Grenada (IMA Grenada) has formally approved and adopted its Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Policy and Procedure, aligning with European Union requirements and other leading international standards. This milestone underscores IMA Grenada’s commitment to preserving the integrity of Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Programme and protecting stakeholders from the risks associated with money laundering and terrorist financing. By embedding rigorous AML/CFT measures, the Agency strengthens its compliance framework, aligning with international best practices for transparency, accountability and good governance. Chief Executive Officer Thomas Anthony stated, “Implementing this policy is a clear demonstration of our proactive approach to governance and risk management. It strengthens our credibility with international partners and assures investors that Grenada’s Programme operates to the highest levels of accountability. IMA Grenada remains fully committed to protecting Grenada’s reputation, safeguarding our international partners and contributing to the global fight against financial crime.” The AML/CFT Policy and Procedure will take immediate effect and be fully integrated into the Agency’s operations. Next steps include: - Dissemination across all levels of the Agency and incorporation into compliance procedures. - Training and awareness sessions to ensure staff understand and apply the requirements. - Establishing robust systems for monitoring, reporting, and review. - Annual reviews and updates to remain aligned with evolving best practices and regulatory expectations. With these steps, IMA Grenada reaffirms its role as a responsible steward of Grenada’s investment migration sector, ensuring that opportunity is balanced with vigilance and the nation’s financial security and reputation remain protected.

After a six-year pause in the WIFA regional women’s football competition, the Dominica Senior Women’s National Team took the field in St. Vincent on Sunday in a highly anticipated return of tournament play. Despite moments of resilience, the Dominican side fell 2-0 to the hosts. St. Vincent opened the scoring in the 27th minute, capitalizing on Dominica’s unforced errors and maintaining a more aggressive attacking presence. The first half closed 1-0, with Dominica still within striking distance. Early in the second half, goalkeeper Dyamond Daniel kept Dominica alive with two spectacular saves that denied St. Vincent what looked like certain goals. Her performance gave the team a fighting chance, but in the 81st minute the Vincentians doubled their lead to secure the win. Team Captain, Alianne George, commended the goalie but stressed there is more work to be done. “I think we need to work on our communication. That is one of our main issues. We played hard but I really think our first touch as well, communication, we need to work on it. We were fighting, but I think the fight could be harder. And to be honest, my keeper stood out a lot. I'm really proud of her.” Meanwhile Coach Ronnie Gustave said his side did not deliver as expected. “Yeah, I'm not pleased with the way we performed today. I expected better, but it's just the first game. We were too slow to the ball and our passes weren't precise to our players. We were not playing, when we grabbed the ball, moving in space for the ball. We were too stagnant within the game. And then our vision going forward, we were too slow at it as well.” “I think it's not that St. Vincent played exceptional football against us. It's just that they got the opportunity and they score the goals, because our reaction was too slow, especially in defence… When we have the ball, we have time and space to move with it. And we were trying to get rid of it too fast. And then certain players were holding the ball a bit too long. So, as a result of that, in transition from offense to defence, we were a bit too slow,” he added. Coach Gustave also noted that the team has great potential to do well in the competition. “Well, I think I saw a glimpse of, especially in defence, the knocking from side to side. And also the goalkeeper, Dyamond, had a terrific outcome this evening in the goal. She saved us quite a bit, saving those goals again too. I think it was two soft goals because of our reaction, because we were not positioned properly in defence. But that's a game, one to win, one to lose. But I still have to give it to the girls, while they haven't played at that level. And I'm still proud of them. As I say, we're looking to go forward in a positive way and we will build on that.” In preparation for the next match, he said the team will be working on a few strategies. “Well, actually, tomorrow (Monday) is a day off, but we'll be training tomorrow. So, tomorrow we're going to work on some of our tactical aspects of the game. In movements, we have to run those and see how we take it from there.” Dominica will face St Lucia on Tuesday at 5pm.

The United Nations Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean congratulate the Windward Islands Football Association (WIFA), hosts of the 2025 Regional Women’s Football Tournament slated to take place September 14 – 20, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter, we reaffirm the UN’s founding principles of peace, dignity, and equality, anchored in a vision of inclusive development and empowerment. This is exemplified in women's active participation in sports, where every woman and girl has the right to lead, compete, and thrive. “The Caribbean is a collection of communities, of which sport is a vital component. This is critical as sport can drive social change through promoting fairness, respect, and equal opportunities for everyone,” said Simon Springett, UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. One year after Hurricane Beryl, Caribbean islands have shown extraordinary strength. Sports, and football in particular, have remained a cornerstone of the Caribbean community, bringing people together, lifting spirits, and helping communities heal. The United Nations is pleased to partner with the WIFA Women’s Tournament, which will also serve as a powerful platform for women and girls to lead, inspire, and play ball! “This event is more than a competition; it is a symbol of resilience, unity, and recover", said Isiuwa Iyahen, Head of Office a.i. UN Women Multi-Country Office - Caribbean. “As weapproach Beijing+30, your dedication on this field reflects how far we have come and reminds us of the journey ahead to secure equal opportunities for women and girls in all arenas, including sports. To each athlete here, your strength and skill are not only breaking barriers in football but also inspiring a new generation of women leaders, proving that true progress happens when women are visible, valued, and victorious—on and off the pitch." As we commemorate the 30 th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, the most comprehensive and transformative global agenda for the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, we are encouraged in the fact that this tournament exemplifies its key priorities. These include, creating a space where women lead on and off the field, amplifying women’s voices in decision-making, and creating access to equal opportunities for growth, education, and visibility. The UN team remains committed to supporting member states to further accelerate efforts towards achieving gender equality. UNESCO’s International Charter of Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport, also recognizes a fundamental right to physical education, physical activity and sport, including at all supervision and decision-making levels. It further specifies that “equal opportunity to participate … is the right of every girl and every woman that must be actively enforced.” Global evidence shows that sport has the capacity to propel gender equality, mobilize the global community, and bridge national barriers and cultural differences. It is also a powerful advocacy tool to convey important messages to mass audiences. To every woman, girl, and supporter involved in this important tournament, your participation goes beyond the scoreboard. It is a bold statement that equality, resilience, and unity will define our future. Every match played is not only for a trophy, but for a promise of a bright future for every girl in the Caribbean. As our region rebuilds, investing in women and girls in sports is an investment in stronger, fairer, and more resilient communities.

The Worshippers on the Frontline Committee (WOTFC) has announced the upcoming Worshippers on the Frontline Volume 3: Independence Edition , a major gospel celebration scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025 , at the Michael Bill Daniel Memorial Park in Goodwill. The concert will feature an evening of powerful worship music, uplifting performances, and a spirit-filled atmosphere, all in honor of Dominica’s Independence. Organizers say the event is designed to both celebrate national pride and inspire the community through gospel worship. “The Worshippers on the Frontline Committee invites all worshippers and gospel music lovers to join us for this meaningful Independence celebration,” said a WOTFC spokesperson. “It’s a night to honor our nation, uplift spirits, and glorify our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, through music. Importantly, 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the President’s Charity Foundation.” Now in its third edition, Worshippers on the Frontline  has become a staple in the local gospel music calendar, offering a platform that unites the faithful and showcases Dominican talent. This year’s Independence Edition  continues that tradition while emphasizing unity and community support. Key Details: Event Name:  Worshippers on the Frontline Volume 3: Independence Edition Date:  Friday, September 26, 2025 Time:  8:00 PM Venue:  Michael Bill Daniel Memorial Park, Goodwill Purpose:  Celebrate Independence through gospel worship and community giving The Worshippers on the Frontline Committee is led by President Richie Ferrol  and Vice President Beverly Leblanc , with executive members Tessa Prince, Sherlyn Xavier, Valarie Edwards, Veronique George, and Kishma Edwards .

Every year on September 10, the world comes together to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) — a day dedicated to raising awareness, breaking stigma, and promoting hope for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative”, emphasizes the power of open conversations, early intervention, and community support in preventing suicide. With nearly 800,000 people worldwide dying by suicide each year, the issue remains one of the leading public health concerns. For every life lost, many more attempt suicide or suffer silently with mental health challenges. Health experts stress that suicide is often preventable. By fostering supportive environments, recognizing warning signs, and ensuring access to professional help, communities can make a meaningful difference. Warning signs may include withdrawal from loved ones, drastic mood changes, feelings of hopelessness, or talking about wanting to die. Local organizations, schools, and health agencies are joining the global effort by hosting awareness walks, candlelight vigils, educational sessions, and social media campaigns aimed at encouraging people to “reach in” rather than waiting for someone to “reach out.” Speaking on the importance of the day, mental health advocates remind us: “A simple conversation can save a life. If you notice someone struggling, check in, listen without judgment, and encourage them to seek help.” If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. In Dominica and the wider Caribbean, mental health services can be accessed through local hospitals and crisis hotlines. Internationally, resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) and Samaritans (UK) are available 24/7. On this World Suicide Prevention Day, let us all commit to breaking the silence, spreading hope, and reminding each other that every life matters.