Entertainment

Kristin Frazer’s Designs to Debut at the 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony

Published

7 months ago

June 27, 2024

Editor

As the 2024 Summer Olympics prepare to make history with the first-ever opening ceremony on the Seine River, a vibrant splash of Caribbean creativity will be centre stage.

Kristin Frazer, a celebrated designer from the British Virgin Islands (BVI), has crafted the uniforms that will represent her homeland on this global platform. Her journey to this prestigious moment is as dynamic and inspiring as her designs.

Frazer’s vision for the 2024 BVI Olympic Team uniforms is deeply rooted in her love for her homeland’s natural beauty. “As this is the first for the Olympics to have the opening ceremony on the Seine River, the thought of this concept sparked my idea to create movement of our BVI waters,” Frazer explained. “I played with our national colours, beach waves and an overall sporty chic style that worked for both the men and women.”

Initially, Frazer’s concept revolved around tye-dye. However, as the design process evolved, so did her vision. “My initial thoughts were more-so using the concept of tye-dye initially but as time passed, it evolved into something more beautiful, an exclusive print/colourway called Paradise Blue that would ensure a ‘stand-out’ moment for our delegation,” she shared.

The designs are a blend of symbolic simplicity and functionality. “There were no specific key elements outside of the standard design elements of a sporty jumper for the females with bell sleeves and sail-type mini cape at the back and the wave concept in a classic button down mandarin collar shirt,” Frazer noted. Despite certain restrictions on what could be incorporated into the uniforms, she ensured that the flags of both the British Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom were prominently displayed, alongside the word “Tortola, BVI”.

Creating a design that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing was no small feat. “I considered the climate, the location and the overall delegation representing through conversation with Chef de Mission Tahesia Harrigan-Scott and simply put, magic was formed!” Frazer said.

Frazer’s designs subtly reflect the BVI’s culture and heritage through the use of national colours and local manufacturing. “The use of our national colours was very important to me along with having the designs being ‘locally made’ were two key factors in the success of these designs. Trèfle is a BVI based brand and naturally, I infused all three with simplicity, print and clean finishes of my designs.”

Collaboration was key in the creation of these uniforms. “During any opening ceremonial games, whether it’s the Olympics, Gold Coast Games or Commonwealth Games, the key is the Chef de Mission and all correspondents went through Mrs. Tahesia Harrigan-Scott,” Frazer explained. “We went through a few designs, concepts, colours and more and narrowed it all down to the final two designs. It was certainly a great experience!”

While sustainability was a consideration, practical constraints shaped the final material choices. “With any opportunity such as this, there will always be a budget. Within the budget, I was able to mix textiles and worked with woven’s and knits along with natural fibres and man-made fibres as well,” said Frazer. “There is room and hope for bigger and better opportunity to be more diverse with being more sustainable and eco-friendly.”

One of the biggest challenges was ensuring the perfect fit for athletes who were not always on-site for measurements. “Most of the athletes are not in the BVI so once their measurements are collected, sometimes when a sample is made, it has to be done a few times to get it right,” Frazer admitted. “Constant and consistent communication allows the time to pass smoothly and before you know it, all challenges become nil.”

For Frazer, designing the Olympic uniforms is a pinnacle achievement. “If you asked me 16 years ago if I ever thought that I would design the opening ceremonial wear for our BVI delegation for the Olympics, I would have probably said ‘I can see it happening in the future’…..and that it did,” she reflected. “I am beyond proud that the BVIOC has recognised the opportunities that this can potentially give for designers that are currently working and operating in the BVI but it’s a testament and a hope for future creatives.”

As the BVI Olympic Team steps onto the Seine River in Frazer’s designs, they will convey a powerful message of unity and national pride. “The BVI Olympic Team has already done my heart glad. They embraced a local designer and gave me an international platform to show my wears,” Frazer said. “When they step out in style on the Seine River, with a smile, adorned in Trèfle, the world would’ve known and I will proudly stand with them from the stands to cheer them on as they pass by. The team would convey that we truly are One BVI!”

As the world watches the opening ceremony, Frazer’s designs will not only represent the athletes but also the vibrant culture and resilient spirit of the British Virgin Islands.

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Entertainment

The International Morning Braff Show Returns to the Airwaves

Published

1 week ago

January 14, 2025

Editor

The International Morning Braff Show is back, reenergised and ready to reclaim its spot as the must-listen program for Virgin Islanders and audiences worldwide.

The show returns this Wednesday at 9 a.m. on Tola Radio VI (100.5 FM), kicking off the station’s 10th-anniversary celebrations with a lineup that promises excitement, insight, and surprises.

Legendary host HBH Da Don will reunite with Ras Rubio and the show’s dynamic panel to deliver the energy, laughter, and engaging discussions fans have come to love. The opening broadcast will feature a star-studded guest list of over 20 government officials, artists, bands, and public figures from the Virgin Islands and beyond.

This milestone year is more than a celebration of the show’s return—it’s a tribute to Tola Radio’s decade of service to the community. Over the years, the station has become a cornerstone of Virgin Islands culture, fostering community spirit through music, entertainment, and charitable initiatives.

Highlights of Tola Radio’s contributions include:
Annual Christmas Dollar Mania: Benefiting over 500 winners each year.
Support for Local Music: Over $47,000 in contributions to advance the industry.
Major Giveaways: Including four automobiles, 50+ televisions, and countless prizes.
10th-Anniversary Giveaway

To mark this special occasion, Tola Radio has announced its 10th Anniversary Giveaway, an eight-week promotion culminating in a grand prize drawing during the YOLO Promotions Black on Black Show featuring Vybz Kartel on March 15, 2025.

Listeners can look forward to exclusive guest appearances, exciting events, and unforgettable moments as Tola Radio continues its legacy of delivering Virgin Islands culture to a global audience. Whether tuning in locally on 100.5 FM, streaming online, or joining the conversation via Facebook Live, fans are in for a treat.

“The International Morning Braff Show is more than just a radio program—it’s a movement that unites our community and celebrates the essence of the Virgin Islands,” said a statement from Tola Radio.

The management and staff of Tola Radio extend their gratitude to sponsors, partners, and loyal listeners who have supported their journey. “This milestone wouldn’t be possible without you,” they said, promising more laughter, music, and opportunities to connect in the year ahead.

Entertainment

Vybz Kartel’s Return: Freedom Street Concert Marks Historic Comeback After 13 Years

Published

3 weeks ago

January 2, 2025

Editor

Vybz Kartel’s highly anticipated return to the stage after his release from prison was met with global excitement, both from his loyal fans online and those attending the historic Freedom Street Concert in Kingston, Jamaica.

The Grammy-nominated artist, who spent 13 years in prison on a murder charge that was overturned in March 2024, took to the stage in front of more than 30,000 fans just after 11 p.m. on New Year’s Eve at the National Stadium, with an additional 150,000 tuning in online.

He performed a mix of classic hits and fresh material that energised the fans, who were thrilled to see the “World Boss” enjoying his historic return with support from a star-studded cast, including Popcaan, Bounty, Spice, Shawn Storm, Lisa Hype, Gaza Indu, and American rapper Busta Rhymes.

While many celebrated his long-awaited comeback, others were left wanting more, with some missing the high-energy performance and signature vocal delivery that made him popular early in his career.

But Kartel, who is living with Graves’ disease and a heart condition, proved his popularity is still intact when thousands of viewers watching the free live stream were unable to access a steady feed due to the overwhelming online traffic.

Economically, the event proved to be a significant boon for the local community, with estimates suggesting it generated over US$10 million.

The surrounding area saw a temporary surge in employment, and local businesses benefited from an increased demand for hotels, restaurants, and transportation services.

Looking ahead, the Jamaican artist’s international comeback continues with a show in the British Virgin Islands on March 15 in front of an audience that is expected to include guests from neighbouring territories, such as the United States Virgin Islands and St Maarten.

Entertainment

FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer in the British Virgin Islands with Christmas Gift Donation

Published

1 month ago

December 18, 2024

Editor

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) brought smiles to the faces of over 100 children in the British Virgin Islands with a generous donation of Christmas gifts. The initiative, held on December 16, was a collaborative effort between the FCCA, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP).

The festivities took place at YEP Headquarters in East End, where children were treated to a festive celebration. Staff from the MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship donned Santa Claus and other character costumes, adding to the magic of the occasion. The event also received sponsorship from Diamond International.

Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley expressed his gratitude for the FCCA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands community. “The leadership of the FCCA is a thoughtful group of individuals. For more than two decades, their gift-giving has brought smiles and filled hearts with joy and hope during this special time of year,” said Premier Wheatley. “On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere thanks to the FCCA and their co-sponsors for their generosity.”

Minister for Ports Hon. Kye M. Rymer highlighted the FCCA’s enduring partnership with the territory. “Their commitment to gift-giving for over 20 years deserves our acknowledgment,” said Rymer. He also commended the BVI Ports Authority for its collaboration with the FCCA in supporting such initiatives.

Director of YEP Hon. Stacy Mather shared his appreciation for the FCCA’s efforts. “This marks our second time receiving gifts from this initiative. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful for this generosity,” he said. “Thanks to the kindness of FCCA, Diamond International, and others, our Christmas celebrations begin a little earlier.”

The event was moderated by Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Ms. Haley Trott, and attended by Junior Minister for Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Deputy Director of YEP Ms. Bianca Dougan, and other community leaders.