Local News
Marcus Solomon Appointed as Director of Waste Management
In an effort to enhance and develop waste management solutions in the Territory, Mr. Marcus Solomon has been appointed as the Director of the Department of Waste Management. This appointment comes as the Ministry of Health and Social Development recognizes the need for improved waste management strategies.
Mr. Solomon brings with him a wealth of experience in public utility management. In his previous role as Senior Planning Specialist at the Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Public Utilities, he conducted a comprehensive assessment of the Public Utilities Sector, including water and wastewater, solid waste management, postal services, and electricity.
Honourable Vincent Wheatley, the Minister for Health and Social Development, expressed confidence in Mr. Solomon’s ability to address the challenges faced by the waste management system. He emphasized the importance of reducing waste through recycling and other means, and believes that Mr. Solomon’s expertise will greatly contribute to the betterment of the Territory.
As the Director of Waste Management, Mr. Solomon will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the department. His vision and strategic actions will guide the department in finding effective solutions to the waste management issues that plague the Territory.
Mr. Solomon’s appointment aligns with the Public Service Transformation initiative, championed by Acting Governor Mr. David Archer Jr., which aims to create a public service that meets and exceeds the needs of the Territory. The Acting Governor expressed excitement about Mr. Solomon joining the Ministry and highlighted his experience in policy development and innovative waste management solutions.
Speaking about his appointment, Mr. Solomon shared his passion for the environment, which was sparked during his studies in environmental and social economics. Over the past seven years, he has been dedicated to developing policies and strategies to transform waste management practices and expand the waste management industry.
Mr. Solomon expressed his enthusiasm for working closely with the citizens and government of the Virgin Islands to make the Department of Waste Management a global standard in waste management. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of the West Indies, a Master of Business Administration from Heriot-Watt University, and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Project Planning, Appraisal, and Management.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to ensuring a cleaner and safer territory for all residents by establishing an excellent waste management system. With Mr. Solomon at the helm, the Department of Waste Management is poised to achieve new heights and set a global example in waste management practices.

Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.

Entertainment
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.

Entertainment
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut














