Children darted across the field chasing after pigs, slipping and laughing as spectators cheered, while others pressed against wooden pens to get a closer look at rabbits, chickens and turtle doves at the Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market at the Festival Grounds.

The second day of the event unfolded as a community gathering, with families moving between animal displays, food stalls and activities designed to bring the Territory’s agriculture and fisheries sector to life. Nearby, pigs rolled in the mud, while cages of parakeets and small animals drew steady attention from younger visitors.

Bouncy castles, games and competitions kept children occupied throughout the day, including a greased pig contest and other scheduled activities. Market vendors displayed baskets of locally grown produce — from eggplant to seasoning crops — alongside handmade crafts, while the scent of roasted corn and traditional dishes filled the air.

Live performances, including steel pan music, dance and cultural showcases, continued into the afternoon, alongside demonstrations and competitions such as watermelon and hot dog eating contests, reflecting both the agricultural focus and cultural character of the event.

The public activities followed the official opening ceremony held a day earlier on Friday, April 10, at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, where farmers and fishers from across the Virgin Islands were formally recognized for their contributions to the sector.

Awards were presented by Premier and Minister responsible for Agriculture and Fisheries, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, to recipients including Moviene Fahie, Ghansam Singh, Wilbert “Isha” Chinnery, Henrietta Wheatley, Bryan Hodge, Godwin Callwood, Daniel Cline, Eldon Young, Jahnai Caul, Adam Turbe, Kareem Rivera, Elton Gordon, Dean Soares and Ishmael Michael Collins.

In remarks at the ceremony, Dr. Wheatley said the exhibition reflects both the Territory’s heritage and its future direction.

“This year’s theme, ‘Farming the Land, Fishing the Seas, Nourishing Lives and Legacies,’ speaks directly to who we are as Virgin Islanders,” he said. “It reminds us that the work of producing food is not only an economic activity — it is a cultural inheritance, a source of pride, and a foundation for our resilience as a people.”

He said the displays throughout the exhibition demonstrate the Territory’s capacity to strengthen local food production.

“These displays are more than exhibits; they are evidence of our capability, our creativity, and our potential to feed ourselves,” the Premier said.

Dr. Wheatley also outlined government initiatives aimed at expanding the sector, including land allocation at Paraquita Bay, development of an agriculture and fisheries complex, and a fisheries landing site at the Omar Wallace Hodge Fishermen’s Wharf. He further announced that 35 farmers and fishers were approved in the first round of the Agriculture and Fisheries Grant Programme, receiving a combined $388,826.66 from 143 applications.

“I encourage families, restaurants, and businesses across the Territory to buy local and eat local,” he said.

Acting Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Dr. Lavon Chalwell-Brewley, said the event highlights the people behind the sector.

“Today, we pause to not only celebrate produce, products, and progress — but most importantly, to celebrate people,” she said.

The Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market continues through April 12, combining public engagement with efforts to strengthen awareness of agriculture and fisheries across the Virgin Islands.

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Mystiq Flax-Charles and Kegan Brookes of the British Virgin Islands were crowned winners at the 13th annual Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition held on April 11,  at the Sidney Lee Events Center.

Flax-Charles secured the coveted 2026–2027 VI Model of the Year title, while Brookes was named VI Child Model of the Year. Jeniqua Weekes of St. Croix won the VI Commercial Model of the Year title.

The competition, part of St. Croix Style Fashion Week organised by JG Management under Jason Gardener, brought together contestants from across the Virgin Islands for runway presentations, judging and professional exposure.

In the VI Model of the Year category, Shakira Patricia Hendrickson of the British Virgin Islands was named runner-up to Flax-Charles. Malacoy Levons of the British Virgin Islands placed behind Weekes in the Commercial Model category, while Gianna Gugger was runner-up in the Child Model category.

Organisers said the competition is intended to provide a platform for emerging talent while preparing participants for professional opportunities in the fashion industry.

The event featured a series of activities, including a Style and Beauty Expo, black carpet arrivals and a live competition segment.

Designer showcases formed a central part of the programme, with full collections presented by Morgan Creque of M Organic VI in the British Virgin Islands, Lorna Spogoo Roberts of Black Pine Vintage Alabama, and Pamela Leverett-Love of Amour Magique VI in St. John.

A special segment also highlighted couture denim and jewellery looks from Kids Rock Fashion Weekend 2026.

Participants underwent training sessions ahead of the competition led by supermodel Jenna-Monét, who also introduced her platform, “I Represent Beauty,” aimed at promoting confidence and representation within the industry.

The Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition continues to serve as a regional platform for talent development, with organisers noting its role in preparing models for opportunities across the Caribbean and internationally.

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