Entertainment

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

Published

2 years 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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Strong Turnout as Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition Moves to Festival Grounds

Published

2 weeks ago

April 12, 2026

Editor

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.

Entertainment

BVI’s Mystiq Flax-Charles and Kegan Brookes Crowned at VI Model of the Year Competition

Published

2 weeks ago

April 12, 2026

Editor

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.

Entertainment

Mystiq Flax Charles Wins Best Look of the Night at Style Week Event

Published

2 weeks ago

April 11, 2026

Editor

Mystiq Flax Charles won the Best Look of the Night award and the impromptu model competition during the 13th Virgin Islands Model of the Year event held at the Sidney Lee Events Center on April 10, 2026, organisers said. He wore a red tailored suit with black embellished detailing by Kymasia.

The contest formed part of the Style Week Exclusive Meet and Greet “Red, Black and Silver” party, where contestants for the annual Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition introduced themselves ahead of the main event.

The impromptu segment allowed both audience members and participating models to compete in a brief showcase focused on presentation and style. Organisers said approximately eight individuals took part.

Charles received a gift certificate from Crucian Gold. Event organiser Jason Gardener also confirmed that he will purchase an additional fashion look for Charles during an upcoming trip to New York this summer.

“I felt amazing. It’s just all about being natural and being myself,” Charles said following the event.

The segment is not an official component of the Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition but is included as an interactive feature of the evening’s programme.

The meet-and-greet also included red carpet arrivals, live entertainment and a fashion showcase, serving as a preview of the 13th annual competition and part of broader Style Week activities.