Local News
Empowering Girls and Ending Gender-Based Violence: Virgin Islands March for Change
Non-profit organisations and community members will unite on 9th December for a march dedicated to girl empowerment and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV), in a collective effort to build a just and equitable Virgin Islands.
The March is scheduled for Saturday, 9th December, at 1 pm, commencing at the Noel Lloyd Positive Movement Action Park. The route will take participants through Admin Drive, Round About, High School, Police, Sports Complex, highway, and back to Noel Lloyd Park, concluding with a short and impactful programme.
Recognising the pervasive global issue of GBV, the event aims to raise awareness and foster a community committed to championing the rights of girls and young women.
“Girl empowerment and the eradication of gender-based violence are not just goals; they are the cornerstones of creating a society that respects and values every individual,” states Jane Doe, a representative of Girl UP, one of the participating organisations.
GBV remains a pervasive global issue, with staggering statistics underscoring its disproportionate impact on girls and women.
“It’s alarming to note that one in three women worldwide has experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime,” remarks John Smith, a community activist. “This march is a collective call to address these challenges head-on.”
Girls are particularly vulnerable to sexual harassment and exploitation, leading to devastating consequences that extend beyond physical harm. “These acts of violence hinder girls’ education, employment opportunities, and overall well-being,” explains Dr. Emily Johnson, a psychologist specialising in trauma. “Empowering girls is not just a moral imperative; it is a critical step towards breaking the cycle of GBV.”
Recognising the need for a community-wide effort, various organisations, including FeMALE, WINBVI, Unite BVI, and Zonta, stress the importance of collaboration. “Creating a culture of respect and gender equality requires the active involvement of the entire community,” says Mark Anderson of Zonta. “We all have a role to play – governments, the private sector, non-profit organisations, and individuals.”
The keynote speaker at the march, Ms. Ronelle King, an award-winning Gender Justice activist from Barbados, adds a powerful voice to the cause. “I am honoured to be part of this movement that strives to make lasting change,” King expresses. “Addressing gender-based violence is not just about raising awareness; it’s about creating tangible solutions and safe spaces for survivors.”
Ms. King, founder of Life in Leggins, a Caribbean Alliance against gender-based violence, and Pink Parliament, an initiative encouraging women and girls to pursue careers in politics, will be in the territory from 7th to 10th December.
The community is encouraged to participate in various events, including school visits on 8th December, to collectively stand against GBV and promote girl empowerment.
A tragic accident in the early hours of Thursday, November 21, unfolded when a driver swerved to avoid a pedestrian crossing Blackburn Highway, leading to a fatal crash in the Major Bay area.
According to initial findings from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), the vehicle lost control during the sudden maneuver and crashed into a concrete wall topped with a steel fence. The collision occurred shortly after 6 a.m., leaving one man dead and two others injured.
Donovan Burton, a Jamaican national residing in Greenland, was pronounced dead at the scene. The two other passengers in the vehicle were transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where they are currently in stable condition.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the pedestrian involved in the incident.
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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