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The Elias Nassief Foundation has expressed profound appreciation to the many supporters who turned out to celebrate its 30th Anniversary Celebration Gala, marking three decades of community service, empowerment, and social impact. In a statement issued following the event, the Foundation extended heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and contributed to the evening’s success. Organizers described the gala as a memorable occasion made possible by the collective generosity and goodwill of sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests. According to the Foundation, the wide-ranging support—through time, resources, talent, and financial contributions—continues to strengthen its mission and expand its reach across communities in need. The organisation emphasised that such partnerships remain essential to driving meaningful change and sustaining programs that uplift vulnerable groups. “Because of you, we can continue to expand our reach, strengthen our programs, and create meaningful opportunities for the communities we serve,” the statement noted. The Elias Nassief Foundation also reaffirmed its commitment to transformation, hope, and empowerment as it moves into its next chapter. With renewed support and a growing network of partners, the Foundation says it is poised to build an even brighter future for the communities it serves.

Contestant cites unforeseen personal matters requiring her full attention The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), through the Dominica Festivals Committee (DFC), announces that Miss Ardel Laurent has withdrawn from participation in the upcoming Miss Dominica Queen Pageant. Ms. Laurent’s withdrawal arises from the need to address personal matters that require her full attention and care. In her statement, she expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate and gratitude for the support received throughout the pageant journey. “This was not an easy decision to make, as I truly value and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of such a prestigious event. I am grateful for the experience, the support and the kindness shown to me throughout the process,” said Laurent. The DDA and DFC express their full understanding and extend best wishes to Ms. Laurent and her family during this time. “We respect Ms. Laurent’s decision and wish her continued success in her future endeavors. She has shown great promise and professionalism throughout the competition,” said Monelle Alexis, Public Relations and Communications Specialist, Discover Dominica Authority. Preparations for the 2026 Miss Dominica Queen Pageant are proceeding as planned and the remaining contestants continue to prepare for the event scheduled for February 12, 2026, as part of Dominica’s Carnival celebrations.

This Friday, the Waitukubuli Artist Association in collaboration with The Prevo Cinemall is proud to announce the opening of the much-anticipated extension of its vibrant group exhibition, Paradise of Colours and Expressions, now delightfully transformed into a festive continuation titled Christmas in Paradise. Following an overwhelmingly positive public response, the artists were invited to extend the exhibition and reinterpret their work through a holiday lens. Infusing the warmth, rhythm, and spirit of Dominica's Christmas into an already celebrated showcase of colour and creativity. Christmas in Paradise features works by some of Dominica’s most respected and beloved artists, including Lennox Honychurch, Earl Etienne, Michael Lees, Edward Collins, Lowell “OMtNI” Royer, and many others. Together, their works capture the magic of the Christmas season, where tradition meets contemporary expression, and paradise glows with festive cheer. Along with the breathtaking artworks on display available for purchase, several fun and captivating events are scheduled to be held within the space such as Lyrics Under the Stars: music poetry and dance showcase and Christmas Face painting for the kids, along with art workshops hosted by our very own artists. Entrance to the exhibition is free (contributions welcome), special events are open to the public for a small contribution fee. • Calligraphy Workshop by Jenae Bell - Mon 15th Dec, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. • Meet the Artist and her work: Sandra Vivas – Short films and Animation Journey- Thurs 18th Dec, 6:30 p.m. • Lyrics Under the Stars- Tribute to Jimmy Cliff - Fri 19th Dec, 7p.m, 10 p.m. • Papiér Maché Workshop by Margaux LaRocque- Mon 22nd Dec, 5:30 p.m. • Christmas Face Painting in the Courtyard – Tues 23rd & Wed 24th Dec, 10am to 6pm • Portrait Sketching in the Courtyard - Tues 23rd & Wed 24th Dec, 2pm to 6pm Tourists & Visitors Welcome The exhibition remains on view in the Middle Passage of Prevo Cinemall, with opening hours from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Saturday from Saturday 13th December 2025 to Saturday 10th January 2026. This extended run invites both locals and visitors to experience Dominican culture in an engaging and family-friendly setting, complete with interactive art that encourages connection, curiosity, and celebration. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful holiday outing, a dose of creative inspiration, or auniquely Dominican way to celebrate the season, Christmas in Paradise offers an unforgettable cultural experience. Come on down to see Paradise, now dressed for the holiday season!

Briannys Sequera Wins at the EcoPark in Cúcuta, Colombia The Miss Frontera Internacional 2025 crown went to Miss Venezuela with Brianny Sequeda's victory. The new queen, who was sent by an organization from San Antonio del Táchira because the current Miss Frontera Venezuela was unable to travel due to issues with the franchisee in Caracas, received the crown from Camila Téllez, Miss Frontera Internacional 2024. The final gala of the beauty pageant, which featured 12 contestants, was held at the Ecoparque facilities in the city of Cúcuta. The first and second runners-up were Miss Colombia Valentina Ospino, who was awarded the title of Miss Sea Beauty International, and Diana Caicedo Lindarte, representing Salazar de las Palmas, who was crowned Miss City International. The top five finalists were completed by the delegates from Ecuador, Miss Marcia Intriago, selected as Miss Sun International, and Ana Belkis Ramon, representing the Dominican Republic, who won the title of Miss Tropical International. Briannys Sequera prevailed when asked, "Why should you be the new Miss Frontera International?" The event was filled with beauty, talent, and glamour, featuring several prominent local artists. Miss Dominican Republic, Miss Salazar de las Palmas, and Miss Arauca were previously selected to showcase their talent again on the final day of the competition, with Arauca winning the Miss Talent sash. The delegates paraded in their uniforms, then in the official swimsuits designed by Peter Ponce, the event director, and finally in evening gowns and answered questions. In the Little Miss Frontera International category, the three selected contestants were: Little Miss Norte de Santander, Laurent Mariana Contreras, who won the title and crown of Little Miss Frontera International 2025; Little Miss Pamplona, Antonella Chia Toro, who was crowned Little Miss International Sea Beauty (First Runner-Up). Little Miss Cucuta Border Zone, Dalimar Monsalve (Second Runner-Up), who won the title of Little Miss City International . Next year, the event will be held again in Cucuta, Norte de Santander, Colombia, on August 29th, expecting to welcome more than 25 queens from different countries and border cities.

Annual program brings holiday cheer to underprivileged children across the Caribbean Dominica continues to benefit from the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Christmas Gift Project, an initiative that brings holiday joy to underprivileged children across the Caribbean. The island has participated in the program for over 20 years. The FCCA Christmas Gift Project provides presents to children in foster homes and care institutions who may not otherwise receive gifts during the season. This year, the MV Celebrity Ascent will deliver the gifts on Monday, December 8, 2025. Crew members, together with the Ministry of Tourism, Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) and the West Dominica Children’s Federation, will distribute gifts to 200 children during a special ceremony that same day. Each year, DDA coordinates with the FCCA to ensure that the project runs smoothly and creates a meaningful experience for the children. The Authority remains committed to working with the FCCA to sustain this tradition and continue spreading joy to Dominican families. “The FCCA Christmas Gift Project continues to make a real difference in the lives of our children. Every year, it reminds us of the power of kindness and partnership. We are grateful to the FCCA and the crew of the Celebrity Ascent for bringing smiles to our young ones and helping to make the season a little brighter for families across Dominica. This is what true partnership in tourism looks like,” said Ms. Marva Williams, CEO of Discover Dominica Authority. The Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority express sincere appreciation to the FCCA for its continued generosity and dedication to improving the lives of children throughout the Caribbean. Dominica reaffirms its commitment to this program and to future initiatives that enrich lives and promote community well-being.

On 4 December 2025, a major milestone for disaster readiness in the Caribbean was achieved with the official inauguration of the Regional Humanitarian Warehouse — a vital facility designed to enhance rapid response and preparedness across the region. Construction of the warehouse began in 2023 as part of a strategic effort to improve the Caribbean territories’ capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies. Built to serve as a central hub for emergency supplies, logistics coordination, and deployment operations, the facility stands as a symbol of foresight, partnership, and resilience. The inauguration ceremony was led by Dr Caroline Cross, President of the French Red Cross, alongside senior French officials. They were joined by the presidents of several Caribbean Red Cross National Societies, including representatives from Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, and other regional partners whose presence underscored the importance of unity in humanitarian work. Together, these leaders celebrated not only the completion of a modern infrastructure project, but also the strengthening of regional and international cooperation. The Regional Humanitarian Warehouse represents a shared commitment to preparedness, collaboration, and the protection of vulnerable communities across the Caribbean. As the region continues to face evolving climate challenges, this new facility stands ready to support swift humanitarian action, serving as a cornerstone for improved disaster response and a powerful testament to what collective effort can achieve.

Though she has been a staple in the Calypso fraternity, popular Calypsonian Sandy Norde, who goes by the sobriquet Sandy, is making a comeback to competitive Calypso. Known for her courageous exploits of the Calypso stage at a time when it was uncommon for women to do so, Sandy rocketed her way into the male-dominated Dominica Calypso Fraternity in 1997/98, and her reputation has unceasingly spanned the last three decades. Sandy first stepped foot on the Calypso stage in 1995/96 as a harmony singer (Calypso Back-up vocalist), two years after capturing the Dominica Miss Wob Dwiyèt title. Sandy won best talent, best in wob and best spectacular wear at that competition. Turning her attention to Calypso, Sandy continued her winning ways. She placed 3rd runner in the Dominica Calypso Monarch competition of 2000 and she took 1st place 2007 Calypso Monarch Finals. Sandy won the Mass Camp Monarch title in 2008. With her timeless Calypsos: Respect Black Woman, Take Back, That’s Life, Respect Your Family, Colors, Take Back Control, I Come, Farmers Children, Agenda 21, Sandy reigns as a formidable Queen of Calypso. Sandy helped to usher in a new era of Calypso, when the Dominica Calypso Association (DCA) officially switched from naming its flagship event, the Dominica Calypso King, to the Dominica Calypso Monarch competition. The highest ranked woman in the Calypso Monarch Finals was then declared Queen of Calypso, so by that token, Sandy is the first Queen among Monarchs as the first female to place in the Calypso Monarch Finals Competition. This is why Sandy is Queen Sandy. Queen Sandy will release her 2026 song, Sue & Elleyne , on Friday, December 5, 2025. Queen Sandy has registered with the DCA for the 2026 Calypso season, marking three decades of involvement in Calypso (1996 – 2026).

Financed by the Green Climate Fund with co-financing from the Government of Saint Lucia, the workshop formally launched Saint Lucia’s largest climate-resilience investment for the fisheries sector   — Over 55stakeholders from several government departments in Saint Lucia, including the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and the Youth Economy, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development and the Department of Fisheries, representatives from the World Bank UBEC-project, fisherfolk organizations including the Saint Lucia Fisherfolk Co-operatives Society Ltd, cooperatives, NGOs, and development partners, such as Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) convened on 26 November at the Bel Jou Hotel for the official Inception Workshop of the USD 16.7 million FISH-ADAPT Project. The project, which was officially launched on July 4, 2025, is primarily funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) with a contribution of USD 14.75 million, the project also benefits from co-financing by the Ministry of Agriculture (USD 307,250) and the Ministry of Finance (USD 1.66 million), signaling the largest fisheries investment project in Saint Lucia.   The workshop hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries familiarized stakeholders with key aspects of the project’s objectives, implementation framework, and expected results; refined implementation approaches to ensure alignment with Saint Lucia’s Sectoral Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan for the Fisheries Sector and the country’s climate adaptation priorities; and identified synergies with ongoing national programmes and related initiatives to maximize complementarity and impact. It also served as a platform to validate baselines, review the first-year work plan, and clarify institutional roles to support coordinated implementation throughout the five-year project period.   Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development, Dr. Randel Esnard, Deputy Permanent Secretary, highlighted the project’s contribution to advancing national climate priorities. He noted, “This project is directly aligned with our National Adaptation Plan, the Managing Climate and Disaster Risks priority in our National Fisheries Policy, and the Fisheries Sectoral Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan. Policies only matter when they are lived and felt on the ground. FISH-ADAPT aims to do exactly that — strengthening livelihoods and ensuring that Saint Lucia’s fishing communities can continue to provide for themselves and the nation.”   Mrs. Yvette Diei Ouadi, Fisheries and Aquaculture Officer with FAO’s Subregional Office for the Caribbean and Lead Technical Officer for the project highlighted that, “Many of us have been mobilized in the development of this project, and for FAO, this is a game-changer: a project we see as groundbreaking in dealing with challenges in a changing climate Caribbean context. The project tackles artisanal fisheries, value chains, marketing systems, mangroves, corals, vessel design, safety at sea, landing site infrastructure, seamoss cultivation, and more”. She added that, “The project will bring together climate resilience, access to finance, and gender equality — it will span over 5 years and while this may seem far in the future, it is just around the corner. If we look backwards, it is five years ago we were in a global pandemic – and it feels like yesterday.”   Ms. Sarita Williams-Peter, Chief Fisheries Officer, who facilitated the workshop highlighted its transformative potential. “ FISH-ADAPT brings the largest climate investment ever directed to our fisheries sector,” she said. “But a project is only as strong as its stakeholders. Today is not just a launch. It is the start of co-creating solutions to safeguard our coastal communities.”   Following the workshop, FAO and the Government of Saint Lucia convened the Second Meeting of the Project Steering Committee(PSC), which endorsed the project’s first-year workplan and strategic plans, including key highlights on procurement and environmental and social safeguards. The PSC reaffirmed the importance of transparent governance and strong coordination as implementation begins.   The FISH-ADAPT Project will directly benefit 10,000 people across Saint Lucia, including the 5,000 fishers, fish workers and aquaculture producers who make up the core of the sector and their households, while indirectly benefitting 62,000 people whose livelihoods are linked to fisheries and coastal ecosystems. This impact will be delivered through concrete, on-the-ground measures that strengthen safety at sea, advance climate-smart aquaculture, improve fisheries infrastructure, restore coastal ecosystems, and support value-chain diversification.   Additionally, the project will introduce targeted interventions that reduce climate risks at 15 landing sites across 600 fishing vessels, and in 25 hectares of mangroves and 7 hectares of coral reef—helping communities better anticipate, monitor and respond to climate impacts. The 62,000 indirect beneficiaries include family members dependent on fishers and fish workers, suppliers of fishing gear and vessel services, and actors in the tourism sector who rely on healthy marine environments and a stable supply of local fish. Farmers and communities in coastal areas will also gain from improved water quality and ecosystem services, supporting more resilient local food systems.   By strengthening natural defenses and critical infrastructure through nature-based solutions, the project will lower climate-related losses and support the long-term stability of local businesses and communities, contributing to more resilient livelihoods for an estimated 62,000 people—equivalent to roughly 39% of Saint Lucia’s population.   FISH-ADAPT also has an interim project Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) in place. The GRM aims to address stakeholder grievances and complaints in a timely and transparent manner. For any grievances, please contact FAO-STL@fao.org .

Theme: “Safeguarding Health and Lives against Dust and Climate Impacts” Today, Dominica brought together experts, policymakers, and sector leaders for the 5th National Climate Outlook Forum, held at the Prevost Cinemall. Guided by this year’s theme, “Safeguarding Health and Lives against Dust and Climate Impacts,”  the forum placed strong emphasis on the rising challenges posed by Saharan dust, climate variability, and their implications for public health and national resilience. The event highlighted several key areas of focus, including the health impacts of Saharan dust and other airborne pollutants, a comprehensive review of the 2025 Wet/Hurricane Season , and the official presentation of the 2025–2026 Dry Season Forecast , aimed at supporting informed decision-making for preparedness and planning across all sectors. Participants also explored opportunities to collaborate on new strategies to reduce health vulnerabilities linked to climate-related hazards. The forum served as a unique platform for sharing insights, discussing best practices, and strengthening multi-agency cooperation in the face of evolving climate challenges. Through technical presentations, open discussions, and coordinated planning sessions, the forum equipped stakeholders with practical tools and recommendations to help minimize health risks and enhance Dominica’s resilience against Saharan dust, pollutants, and wider climate impacts. The opening ceremony featured remarks from key officials, including: Mrs. Vernie Marcellin Honoroe , Dominica Meteorological Services (Welcome) Mr. Adrian Thomas , Chief of Applied Meteorology and Climatology, Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH Barbados) Mr. Samuel Carrette , National Resilience Coordinator, Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security Hon. Kent Edwards , Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services Permanent Secretary Jo-Anne Commodore , Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs The 5th National Climate Outlook Forum underscores Dominica’s continued commitment to proactive climate planning, public health protection, and national resilience-building in the face of a changing environment.

The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has formally presented its 2026 Global Marketing Strategy to public and private sector partners, unveiling a strengthened, future-focused plan designed to enhance destination competitiveness and encourage deeper community participation across the tri-island state. The stakeholder sessions brought together representatives from government ministries, tourism businesses, community groups, and service providers. The presentations reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to transparency and alignment, ensuring that stakeholders understand and contribute to the strategic direction for the year ahead. The 2026 strategy places key emphasis on innovation, market diversification, high-value niche development, and deeper digital integration, positioning the tri-island to compete effectively as global traveller preferences evolve. The GTA highlighted that Grenada’s authentic cultural richness, wellness-driven experiences, environmental sustainability, and genuine community connection remain among the island’s strongest differentiators. Throughout the presentations, the GTA underscored that collaboration and community buy-in are essential to national tourism success. The Authority noted that tourism benefits every Grenadian directly and indirectly and that a unified, informed approach strengthens the destination’s standing in an increasingly competitive global landscape. As part of its focus on inclusivity, the GTA will roll out a series of informational video messages in the coming weeks. These will help inform communities, businesses and service providers about the strategy’s priorities and highlight opportunities for them to expand or enhance their offerings in alignment with the national agenda. “The unveiling of our 2026 Global Marketing Strategy represents a collective step forward" said Stacey Liburd, Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority. "Tourism thrives when communities understand their role in shaping it and see themselves reflected in its success. This strategy provides a platform to communicate directly with our stakeholders, enabling service providers to identify areas for growth, enhance their offerings and position themselves to benefit more fully from an evolving global marketplace. When our industry moves with shared purpose, Grenada becomes even more compelling on the world stage.” The GTA is reaffirming its commitment to continuous dialogue and partnership as it executes the 2026 strategy, designed to strengthen Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique’s presence on the global stage while driving sustainable and inclusive growth across the tri-island state.

People with disabilities are transforming societies — leading innovation, influencing policy, and mobilizing for justice. Yet too often, they are denied a seat at the decision-making table. The Doha Political Declaration, adopted at last month’s World Summit for Social Development, reaffirms a critical truth: there can be no sustainable development without the inclusion of people with disabilities. People with disabilities drive progress that benefits us all. Their leadership has improved disaster preparedness, expanded inclusive education and employment, and ensured humanitarian responses reach those most at risk. Many innovations that shape our daily lives — from text messaging to voice- activated technology — began as solutions developed by and for people with disabilities. Yet systemic barriers persist: discrimination, poverty, and inaccessible services continue to limit the participation of the over one billion people with disabilities worldwide. On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us commit to working side-by-side with persons with disabilities in all their diversity, as equal partners. When inclusion is real, everyone benefits. Together, we can build more accessible, resilient societies where all of us thrive.

The RayAsta Foundation will complete yet another of it’s certified Caregiver Training Course conducted in collaboration with The Dominica State College. This marks an important milestone in the Foundation’s mission to strengthen Dominica’s caregiving capacity for caring for Stroke Patients and the elderly. On this occasion, ten individuals will complete twelve weeks of specialized training, and practical skill-building sessions designed to prepare them for real-world caregiving support. “This completion represents meaningful progress for these participants and for Dominica’s caregiving landscape generally,” says Cecilia St. Hilaire, CEO of the RayAsta Foundation. “Each student has shown commitment, discipline, and heart throughout the program, and we are confident they will go on to make a positive difference in the lives of those they care for.” The RayAsta Caregiver Training Course is Dominica’s only organized training for caregivers. This initiative is the Foundation’s most impactful, equipping individuals with essential caregiving skills while promoting professionalism and compassion within the sector. Our past graduates have already begun contributing to improved home care, stronger family support, and enhanced service in various communities and care settings. We reaffirm our commitment to elevating the standard of caregiving in Dominica and empowering individuals to serve their communities with confidence, dignity, and compassion.