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In a simple yet moving ceremony held at the Auditorium of the University of the West Indies (UWI), eleven young Students from the Commonwealth of Dominica were awarded scholarships to pursue studies in Cuba. The event was presided over by the Ambassador of Cuba to Dominica, Miguel Fraga, and the Acting Minister of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence, Hon. Fenella Wenham-Sheppard, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Cuba for their permanent solidarity and constant support to education in Dominica. Also in attendance were the Ambassador of Venezuela, relatives of the selected students, representatives of the Cuban Medical Brigade, and members of the press. Among the scholarship recipients are nine undergraduate and two postgraduate students, who will study in key areas such as Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Dentistry. In his remarks, Ambassador Fraga highlighted that educational cooperation between Dominica and Cuba is historic, beginning in 1979—prior even to the formal establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations—demonstrating the depth and strength of the ties between the two nations. He also noted that more than 400 Dominican students have graduated from Cuban institutions, significantly contributing to the country’s development. For her part, Acting Minister Wenham-Sheppard encouraged the awardees to make the most of this opportunity for personal and professional growth, and to return home ready to contribute to the advancement of Dominica. The ceremony concluded with the official presentation of the scholarship documents to each student. The awardees, visibly moved, expressed their gratitude and commitment to their homeland. The event was broadcast live by several media outlets through social networks, allowing the public across Dominica to follow the proceedings in real time. Site: https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/scholarships-awarded-students-dominica-higher-education-cuba

Paraguay-Dominica is celebrating a historic moment as national shot put record holder Treneese Hamilton captured the nation’s first-ever medal at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games. Hamilton delivered a dominant performance in the Women’s Shot Put final last evening, securing the gold medal with a winning throw of 17.21 meters. From the start, Hamilton set the tone with a strong opener of 16.88m. Though her second attempt was a foul, she powered back with a third-round throw of 17.03m, which easily placed her in first heading into the finals. In the medal rounds, she threw 16.33m, fouled her fifth attempt, and sealed victory with her final, commanding throw of 17.21m. None of her competitors came close. Reflecting on her triumph, Hamilton described the victory as a “big win” and a clear step forward from her performance at the 2021 PanAm Junior Games. With this gold medal, she has not only ended her junior career on a high note but also secured automatic qualification for the 2027 Pan-American Games in Lima, Peru. Her ultimate ambition, however, is to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games. Hamilton encouraged Dominica’s young athletes to keep striving for greatness and urged them to believe in themselves in order to reap the benefits of their hard work. Out of the field of 9 competitors, Canada’s Liv Sands secured the silver medal with a throw of 16.46m and the bronze was won by Belsy Quinonez of Ecuador with a throw of 16.40m. Treneese will proudly serve as one of Dominica’s flag bearers alongside Addison James at the closing ceremony of the Games on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025. The athletics events are being staged at the Paraguayan Olympic Committee – Olympic Park in Asunción.

When the storms came on August 27, 2015, Starrette’s world shifted. His restaurant, shop, and buses, the livelihood he and his wife had built to send their child to school were taken away. But instead of leaving for good, he stayed. “I was born and raised here,” he says, gesturing to Petite Savanne, the hillside village in Dominica. “That is what our forefathers lived on. That is what they raised us with. So we stay and hold it to do our living.” After the storm, government orders and community fear prompted a mass evacuation. Many residents never returned. Starrette understands their decision; “some people are more traumatized than others” but for him, abandoning the village would mean abandoning the bay oil industry and the farmland that sustained his family for generations. “We decided we’re not leaving the bay oil down. That is what we have.” The International Organization for Migration’s Finding Safer Ground study notes that this is a common pattern in disaster-hit communities. Economic dependence on local industries, emotional ties to the land, and self-sufficiency often outweigh the risks. In some cases, relocation sites offer housing but not livelihoods, a deal-breaker for many. For Starrette, moving to Bellevue, the government resettlement site, wasn’t realistic. “If I resettle back to Bellevue, then what do I have, how do I feed in my family? I don’t have the education where I can go and get a job elsewhere. I am a handyman, full of skills on my own.” He compares the initial chaos to living “off-grid,” patching roads themselves, carrying fresh water down the hill, and salvaging materials to rebuild. Although he did not have the technical expertise, Starrette and a few men who also remained in the village, put together recycle materials and solar panels to build the distillery. His decision to remain was not political. It was about survival.“ It’s just putting things together, trying to make things happen and to survive.” Risk perception is another factor. While landslides destroyed some parts of the village, Starrette points out that his home sits on a safer section of the hill. “There are areas in the village that are good… and many houses still standing.” The Finding Safer Ground report stresses that successful relocation policies must recognize these differences, not all hazard zones are equally dangerous, and blanket bans can alienate residents. It also highlights the importance of giving people choices rather than imposing one-size-fits-all solutions. Starrette believes the answer lies in support for those who stay as well as those who leave. “You can please everybody if you give them a choice. Even if the population goes from 1,000 to 500, then deal with the 500 who decide they can live fine. Help them to survive after something like that has happened.” He believes that the 60 people who remained in Petite Savanne were ‘left behind’. Ten years on, he has resettled in his own way, not in a new village but in a rebuilt life on familiar ground. “We cannot abandon it,” he says. “At least if we plant a banana, even our fresh water we have to carry down there… I’m not seeing why we should abandon and then just leave everything and go live the life where we don’t want to live.”

National shot put record holder, Treneese Hamilton, has plans to dominate the field at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games. Treneese will compete in the Women’s Shot Put at 6:25 PYT/ 5:25 ECT today, Thursday, August 21st. This will be Hamilton’s last competition as a junior athlete, and she expressed that it is a bittersweet moment, but she looks forward to competing and ending her season on a good note. Treneese recently competed at her first senior meet, the NACAC Senior Championships in the Bahamas, and she felt that it was good preparation ahead of the PanAm Junior Games. Treneese enters the competition with one of the highest-seeded distances and is well placed for medal contention. Treneese is confident that her abilities, technique and spirit will enable her to execute well in tonight's competition. Treneese will be Dominica’s last competitor at the PanAm Junior Games. The games officially close on Saturday, 23rd August at 7 pm PYT/6 pm ECT. Treneese Hamilton and Addison James will serve as flag bearers for the closing ceremony. The athletics events are being held at The Paraguayan Olympic Committee-Olympic Park in the host city, Asuncion.

By Senator the Honorable Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, the Creative Economy, and Culture Grenada has once again proven that we are more than just the “Spice of the Caribbean”, we are the “Safe Spice of the Caribbean”. As we reflect on the recently concluded Carnival celebrations, we take great pride in the fact that the festivities were marked by vibrant cultural expression, unity and most importantly, safety. The successful hosting of Spicemas 2025 was not only a showcase of our music, artistry and creativity but also a powerful demonstration of our collective commitment to security, order and hospitality. Visitors and locals alike felt a sense of comfort and reassurance knowing that Grenada remains a destination where peace, harmony and respect prevails. This image is not to be taken lightly as it is one of our strongest assets as a nation. Safety lies at the heart of tourism. Today’s travelers are not only looking for rest, relaxation and adventure; they are also seeking assurance that they and their loved ones can enjoy their vacations and experiences without fear. By maintaining Grenada’s image as a safe and welcoming destination, we reinforce our competitive edge and safeguard the sustainability of our tourism sector, which is so vital to our economy and community’s development. As Minister for Tourism, I spent the last year promoting our tri-island state as a safe haven to visit, and visitors listened and responded. I urge all Grenadians to remain steadfast in protecting this image. I am proud that you continue to demonstrate the demeanor of a hospitable and proud people. Thank you for helping me deliver on the promises I made to the visitors and returning nationals as they too assisted us in making our carnival celebration a success. Every act of kindness, every respectful interaction and every effort to uphold law and order contributed to the trust and goodwill that defines our brand and tri-island state. Let us continue to stand united: government, law enforcement, businesses and citizens in ensuring that our visitors leave with memories not only of our spices, culture and natural beauty but also of a safe and secure destination. Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique are more than destinations, they are experiences of warmth, safety and a home away from home. Together, let us continue to nurture this priceless reputation as we proudly affirm our place as the Safe Spice of the Caribbean.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is proud to announce the launch of a new, high-impact destination magazine, to be created in partnership with international publishing house Greydoor Publishing. This publication marks a bold step in GTA’s ongoing mission to celebrate and share the unique stories, culture, and beauty of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique with the world. More than just a magazine, this publication will serve as a storytelling platform that captures the true essence of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. Through vivid imagery, inspiring features, and thoughtfully curated content, the magazine will showcase what makes Grenada more than a destination. With content ranging from eco-tourism and culinary trails to wellness retreats, historical heritage, island innovation, and cultural expression, the magazine will position Grenada not only as a world-class destination but as a place where travelers can connect deeply with the land, the people, and themselves. Making its official appearance in December 2025, the magazine will not be replacing the GTA’s existing brochure, but rather complement it, offering a richer, editorial approach to destination marketing. It is designed to elevate Grenada’s profile across international markets and will be strategically distributed at global media dinners, travel agent events, international expos, and high-level tourism engagements, ensuring the story of Grenada reaches the eyes and hearts of decision-makers and travelers alike. “This magazine is a tribute to Grenada’s enduring spirit, its people, and the experiences that await every visitor who sets foot on our shores,” said Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “It is a reflection of what we stand for as a nation; resilience, warmth, and authenticity. Having worked with Greydoor Publishing on two highly successful publications in the past, I am thrilled to collaborate with them once again. Their editorial vision and international reach make them the ideal partner to help us bring Grenada’s story to life on a global stage.” Ms. Tornia Charles, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Grenada Tourism Authority, also shared her thoughts on the initiative: “This publication extends beyond a marketing tool, it's a bold reimagining of how we present Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique to the world. We’re not only showcasing breathtaking landscapes, but also giving voice to the people and passions that make our islands truly unique. It’s about telling the story in a way that resonates, inspires, and drives travelers to choose Grenada, not just as a vacation destination, but as a meaningful experience.” The Grenada Tourism Authority is extending an open invitation to stakeholders across all sectors, both within and beyond tourism, to be featured in this landmark publication. From boutique hoteliers and tour operators, to agriculturists, artists, restaurateurs, and innovators, this magazine will tell the stories of those who shape Grenada's character, drive its economy, and enrich its culture.

The Dominica State College (DSC) is set to host Freshers’ Week 2025 — a series of Student Orientation and Registration activities taking place from August 26–29, 2025. This special week marks the official welcome for the college’s newly accepted students, with approximately 500 freshmen expected to join the DSC community. Freshers’ Week is designed to equip new students with the tools and resources they need for academic success, while also serving as a vibrant introduction to college life. It reflects DSC’s commitment to ensuring that every new student experiences a smooth and supportive transition into higher education. Officer-in-Charge, Miss Trudy Christian, encourages incoming students to embrace the new semester with optimism and enthusiasm. Schedule of Activities: • Tuesday, August 26, 2025 – New Student Orientation Freshmen will collect their exclusive Freshers’ packet, attend the Convocation Ceremony, explore the Academic Resources Fair, and receive training on navigating the student portal (Classe365). Activities begin at 9:00 a.m. In the afternoon, DSC will host a Parent & Guardian Orientation from 4:30 p.m., which includes a campus tour and an opportunity to engage with college leadership and faculty. • Wednesday, August 27, 2025 – Freshers’ Seminars Students will participate in informative sessions covering academic resources, departmental information, and faculty introductions. Sessions begin at 8:30 a.m. • Thursday, August 28, 2025 – Advising, Club Fair & Enrollment A day of dynamic engagement featuring Academic Advising, introductions to Clubs and Support Services, and enrollment in classes. Sessions begin at 9:00 a.m. • Friday, August 29, 2025 – Freshers’ Social Enrollment will continue on this day. Students will wrap up the week with an afternoon of entertainment and relaxation on campus, from 12:00–5:00 p.m. DSC eagerly looks forward to welcoming the incoming Freshers, and is committed to supporting their success, growth, and building of lasting memories throughout their journey at the College.

Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC) proudly reaffirmed its commitment to nation building through education on Monday, August 18, 2025, with the awarding of four scholarships to successful students of this year’s Grade Six National Assessment. The presentation ceremony was held at the Engineering, Transmission and Distribution Department Conference Room in Fond Colé.   Speaking at the ceremony, Acting Human Resources and Administration Manager, Janelle Junkere-Dalrymple, underscored the company’s deep sense of pride in the initiative. “The DOMLEC Scholarship Programme is one of our social initiatives that we are extremely proud of as it represents our commitment to building the future of our country, not just through the electricity we provide but by helping to shape the minds that will lead and shape tomorrow,” she said.   She further added, “At DOMLEC, we recognise that the growth of our country requires more than electricity to power homes and businesses; it requires the light of knowledge, the spark of creativity, and the energy of young minds prepared to transform challenges into opportunities. That is why we are proud to shape the future of Dominica with this scholarship initiative.”   Now in its 39th year, the DOMLEC Scholarship Programme has consistently supported the academic journeys of students across Dominica. Each scholarship covers the cost of textbooks (EC$400 annually), stationery (EC$100 annually), transportation assistance where necessary (EC$50 monthly), as well as CXC examination fees contingent on student performance. Typically, two of the four scholarships are awarded to children of DOMLEC employees, with the remaining two going to students from the wider community. This year, however, only one scholarship was awarded under the employee category, allowing an opportunity for another deserving community student.   DOMLEC’s Public Relations Officer, Ayeola George, in her address, highlighted the transformative legacy of the programme, “The DOMLEC Scholarship has proven to successfully impact the lives and welfare of individual families as well as our wider community. Over the past three decades, many of our scholars have gone on to excel in different fields, contributing to Dominica’s development in meaningful ways. This is a legacy we are extremely proud of, and one which underscores DOMLEC’s commitment to investing in education, empowering young people, and building stronger communities.”   The 2025 scholarship recipients are Nailah Bruno (daughter of DOMLEC  Messenger, Earl Bruno) and Jediah Sylvain both graduates of the Ebenezer SDA primary school who will be attending the Arthur Waldron Seventh Day Adventist Academy;  Kaydisha Esprit a former student of St. Martin’s Primary who will enter the Dominica Grammar School and Naomi John of who attended the Goodwill Primary School and will commence her high school journey at the Convent High School. Both Junkere-Dalyrmple and George encouraged the students to be steadfast in their discipline and commitment to excellence. Appreciation was also extended to the parents and teachers and all who provided a strong foundation of support along their educational journey.   DOMLEC, through initiatives such as this scholarship programme, commits to the to the development of Dominica’s youth, extending its role beyond powering homes and businesses to also empowering Dominica’s next generation of leaders. DOMLEC 2025 Scholarship Recipients (l-r)- Naila Bruno, Naomi John, Jediah Sylvain and Kaydisha Esprit DOMLEC 2025 Scholarship Recipients with DOMLEC PRO Ayeola George DOMLEC 2025 Scholarship Recipients with the company’s Acting Human Resources and Administration Manager, Janelle Junkere-Dalrymple

Campari’s Red Passion Carnival at Grenada’s Spicemas 2025 has been hailed a resounding success, delivering a vibrant, high-impact presence that left masqueraders and onlookers energized and inspired. From the electric atmosphere at PreeDay, to the revelry with Lavish, and the unmatched energy across Carnival Monday and Tuesday, Campari brought its signature style, bold flavour and unmistakable Red Passion to the heart of Grenada’s largest cultural celebration. The brand’s centre-piece for Carnival regional, Campari Boulevard, was activated on the Kirani James Boulevard, transforming the space into a pulsating hub of music, entertainment, cocktails, and culture. Designed as an immersive brand experience, the boulevard attracted revellers, spectators, and creators alike, capturing the historic, yet energetic social spirit of Spice Mas, while showcasing Campari’s ability to elevate cultural moments into unforgettable brand stories. “Spicemas gave us the opportunity to do more than show up, it allowed us to connect, to engage, and to truly celebrate what makes Grenada’s Carnival so powerful and unique regionally,” said Timothy Peters, Brand Manager for Campari at Bryden & Minors Ltd. “Campari Boulevard wasn’t just a physical space. It was a statement of intent that Campari is here, investing in culture, building community and creating experiences. We look forward to raising the bar even higher in 2026” Campari’s Carnival presence this year is part of a broader Red Passion campaign across the Caribbean, celebrating creativity, culture, and connection through a series of meaningful brand touchpoints. In Grenada, that mission came to life in vibrant colour, high energy and powerful consumer moments that will shape future engagements in the market.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with Industry 360, Mel&NMedia, Chambers Media, Sandals Grenada, and other valued partners, proudly hosted their third curated press trip themed “Respect The Tradition”, that welcomed top-tier influencers and journalists both regionally and internationally, including prominent voices from the United Kingdom and the United States. This immersive initiative was designed to showcase this year’s Spicemas celebration, Grenada’s signature cultural celebration, while offering a deeper experience of the nation’s rich heritage and traditions. The trip officially kicked off with a warm and festive welcome at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, with big drum performances, cultural dancing and many other showcases of Grenada’s culture, followed by an exclusive welcome event at Sandals Grenada, where guests were greeted with live entertainment, local cuisine, and remarks from tourism officials and partners. Highlighted on the itinerary, was a hands-on cultural workshop held at Paraclete, St. Andrew, that explored the origins of Mas, with a special focus on traditional characters such as Jab Jab, Shortknee, and Véyé Cou (Vieux Corps). The experience also included a culinary dive into Grenada’s national dish, oil down, not just as a meal, but as a story of community, flavor, and heritage. “This is about authentic Caribbean storytelling, ensuring that not only are people coming to the Caribbean shores, and particularly Grenada’s shores to experience Spicemas, but to also really understand its history, its impact, it’s the culture of Grenada.” Said Melissa Noel, Founder of Mel&NMedia, and Co-Producer of the trip. “This is cultural preservation, this is ensuring that not only are people coming here to experience and amplify, but understanding the importance ofkeeping traditions, and respecting traditions.” Tenille Clarke, Founder of Industry 360 also spoke on what this trip meant to Grenada. “This year’s theme is respect the tradition. It's meant to take a two pronged approach. Obviously to showcase Grenada as having one of the premier carnival experiences in the Caribbean, but also when you think about the etymology and generational history behind Spicemas, you think about tracing lineage.” By collaborating with creative agencies like Industry 360, Chambers Media, the GTA is amplifying Grenada’s voice across global markets, connecting with new audiences, and reinforcing the tri-island destination as a place where authenticity meets adventure. “This year’s trip was a vibrant celebration of Grenada’s rich culture and heritage,” said Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “Our goal was to passionately showcase the soul of our island from its traditions and people to its music and cuisine. We hope that the authenticity and spirit of Grenada resonated deeply through the lenses of the regional and international storytellers who experienced it firsthand.” The Grenada Tourism Authority extends heartfelt thanks to all partners and stakeholders who helped bring this experience to life and looks forward to the vibrant stories and connections it will generate.

National Record holder Addison James ended with a 9th-place finish in the Men’s Javelin at the 2025 PanAm Junior Games. Addison had a solid 1st round throw of 62.48 meters but could not better that mark, gaining 62.06m in his 2nd round. Unfortunately, Addison fouled his 3rd round effort, missing his place in the finals, as only the top 8 advanced and gained 3 more throws. Addison currently holds the national record with a mark of 67.48 meters, which he set at the 2025 CARIFTA Games. He hoped to better that mark at the PanAm Juniors; however, he stated that he did his best in the field. Addison currently attends the Edwin Allen High School in Jamaica and he plans to continue training in order to break that 70-meter barrier next season. The Men's Javelin was won by Lars Flaming of Paraguay, who set a new games record of 81.56 meters. Cuba’s Leikel Cabrera won silver with 75.82m, and Brazilian Thiago Lacerda won bronze with 69.77m. Dominica will return to the field, with Treneese Hamilton in the Women’s Shot Put at 6:25 PYT/ 5:25 ECT on Thursday, August 21st. The athletics events are being held at The Paraguayan Olympic Committee-Olympic Park in the host city, Asuncion.

The Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP) is proud to announce that the CAP 2025 Annual Conference will take place from August 18 to 24, 2025, at the State House Conference Room in Roseau, Dominica. The conference will be held under the theme “Pharmacy 2025 and Beyond: Achieving Optimal Outcomes and Healthcare Transformation through Accountability, Innovation, and Research,” It is anticipated that this year’s conference will serve as a pivotal platform for healthcare professionals, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders from across the Caribbean and beyond. Hon. Cassani Laville, Minister for Health, Wellness, and Social Services of the Commonwealth of Dominica, expressed his excitement about the upcoming conference. He said, “Hosting CAP 2025 in Dominica showcases our commitment to advancing regional pharmacy practice and healthcare transformation. We are delighted to welcome our Caribbean colleagues to the Nature Island, where innovation will meet collaboration.” Ms. Kalawattie Datt-Singh, President of the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists, added: “Our theme reflects the need for accountability, research, and innovation in shaping the future of healthcare across the region. Dominica provides the perfect setting for these vital conversations, and we are excited to create opportunities for growth, learning, and partnership.” Conference highlights will include:  Keynote sessions led by regional and international experts in pharmacy and healthcare systems.  Workshops and training focused on research, accountability frameworks, and emerging technologies in pharmacy practice.  Research paper presentations showcasing advances and findings from Caribbean professionals.  Exhibition zone featuring pharmaceutical companies, service providers, and innovations.  Cultural activities and networking highlighting Dominica’s rich heritage and hospitality. The conference is expected to bring over fifty delegates to Dominica, providing significant economic benefits through tourism and hospitality, while strengthening professional development and healthcare collaboration across the Caribbean. About CAP (Caribbean Association of Pharmacists) Founded in 1976, CAP is the leading professional body representing pharmacists across the Caribbean. The organization promotes professional excellence, healthcare advocacy, continuing education, and regional collaboration in the pharmaceutical sector.