11 Individuals Registered as British Citizens

Eleven individuals transitioned from being British Overseas Territories Citizens to fully-fledged British Citizens during a ceremony at the Government House on Tuesday, 19th December.

They recited the Oath of Allegiance to His Majesty the King and the Pledge of Loyalty to the United Kingdom.

His Excellency the Governor, John J. Rankin CMG, and Registrar General, Mrs. Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro, extended warm congratulations to the new citizens, emphasizing the significance of their role as ambassadors for both the British Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom.

Governor Rankin expressed his hopes for the newly minted British Citizens, saying, “I hope you enjoy your new nationality, and as you travel outside these shores, remember that you are now ambassadors both for the British Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom. May you represent us well.”

Mrs. O’Flaherty-Maduro highlighted the cultural and historical contributions the new citizens bring to the United Kingdom, stating, “As you officially join the British family, remember that you contribute to the rich tapestry of the UK’s culture, history and values. This ceremony symbolizes not just the acquisition of legal status but the embrace of a shared identity. A British identity that is inclusive, respectful, and celebrates the strength found in our differences.”

The British Nationality Act stipulates that individuals who were naturalized as British Overseas Territory Citizens after 21st May 2002 have the option to apply to the United Kingdom Government for registration as British Citizens.

The eleven individuals who now proudly bear the title of British Citizens are:

Rosalind Veronica Adams
Ronald Clifford Ambrose
Kendolph Adolphus Bobb
Lesroy Sylvanous Connor
Shevon Sera-Lee Joanna Gumbs
Kamala Hawke
Tagore Hawke
Francis Hiliarius Maximin
Patricia Leavene Prince Pierre
Magdaline Shillingford
Marlon Dixon Thomas