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Neria Griffith Champions Mental Health as She Steps Into Spotlight for Miss BVI 2024

Neria Griffith, a dedicated advocate and emerging leader hailing from Johnson’s Ghut, Tortola, is gearing up for a new endeavour: vying to represent the British Virgin Islands (BVI) as a contestant in the Miss BVI 2024 pageant. At just 18 years old, Neria brings with her a wealth of experiences and a deep-rooted commitment to making a positive impact on her homeland.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Neria moved to the BVI and completed her education at Cedar International School, excelling in the rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. Now, with aspirations to further her studies at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, Neria has already begun making waves in the professional world. From her role as a Data Processor and Regulatory Administrator at Trident Trust BVI Limited to her current position as a Legal Assistant at TBVI Legal Services, Neria exemplifies dedication and drive.
Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Neria has been deeply involved in extracurricular activities that have shaped her into a well-rounded individual. As President and Treasurer of Girl Up, a leadership initiative focused on equity and equality for girls and women, Neria has championed causes close to her heart. Her involvement in Interact and Steel Pan bands reflects her commitment to community service and cultural enrichment.
“I believe that the impact you make in the world matters more than material wealth,” she asserts, highlighting her philosophy on life and community engagement.
For Neria, competing in the Miss BVI 2024 pageant is not just about glamour; it’s a platform to raise awareness about mental health issues, particularly anxiety, which has touched her own life deeply. “Mental health awareness are issues close to my heart. I’ve seen firsthand how these challenges affect individuals and families,” she shares.
Her motivation stems from personal experiences, including the loss of a loved one who battled anxiety. “Watching the impact on those around me drove me to use my voice for advocacy,” Neria explains. Her goal is to dismantle stigmas surrounding mental health and promote understanding and support.
Neria plans to initiate a series of ‘Anxiety Awareness’ events, including seminars and support group meetings, to provide education and foster a sense of community among those affected by anxiety in the BVI. Collaborating with local organisations and healthcare providers, she aims to advocate for improved mental health services and policies.
In her bid for Miss BVI 2024, Neria Griffith embodies resilience, compassion, and a determination to create meaningful change. Through her platform and personal dedication, she hopes to inspire others to take action and address pressing social issues. As she prepares for the pageant, Neria remains steadfast in her commitment to making a lasting impact on the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
Photo: Kelvin Titley

Photo: Kelvin Titley

Photo: Kelvin Titley
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Premier Wheatley: Hospital Funding Crisis Must Be Fixed—Calls for Urgent NHI Reform

Premier Natalio D. Wheatley has defended his administration’s handling of the financial and operational challenges facing the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA), insisting that issues with the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme and hospital funding were inherited and are being actively addressed.
During an interview on JTV’s The Big Story with Cathy Richards on March 11, Premier Wheatley pushed back against claims that his government has not invested adequately in the territory’s healthcare system. He pointed out that the government’s subvention to the hospital has nearly tripled since the construction of the new facility, increasing from approximately $15 million to $42 million annually.
“To make it seem as though we’re not putting money into the hospital is ridiculous,” Wheatley stated. “Healthcare can make any country go broke, and you cannot fund the hospital outside of having a proper national hea

Premier Wheatley
lth insurance scheme.”
The Premier emphasized the need to reform NHI to better serve the public healthcare system. He noted that while the NHI has largely benefited private sector providers, the hospital receives a fixed amount annually, regardless of the services it provides. He described this funding model as unsustainable and in need of urgent restructuring.
“Part of the problem we have with the hospital is that they get a global figure. That $42 million is not in exchange for any services or goods they provide,” he explained. “When private sector providers charge NHI, they do so per service provided. The hospital, on the other hand, gets the same figure no matter how much service it provides. That just doesn’t make any sense, and that’s something we have to fix.”
Wheatley assured the public that efforts are underway to address these structural deficiencies. He cited the reactivation of the contract committee, as well as legislative amendments being prepared to modify the NHI framework in a way that allows the public hospital to benefit more equitably. He stressed that these issues have existed for years and did not originate under his administration.
“Persons think the challenges at the hospital just started, but think again,” he said. “They’ve been happening for some time, and it’s our responsibility to fix them. We don’t run away from that responsibility.”
Responding to concerns about transparency and accountability, Premier Wheatley urged the public to stay engaged with the government’s efforts. He encouraged residents to attend public meetings and contribute to ongoing discussions about the future of healthcare in the BVI.
“The Minister of Health gives updates all the time, but the question is, do we listen when he gives them?” he asked. “We can always do more to address these challenges, but we need all hands on deck.”
As the government moves forward with its healthcare reform initiatives, the Premier called on the community to take an active role in supporting improvements, citing the contributions of civic organizations such as Rotary and the Lions Club as examples of meaningful engagement.
“We want to see things done, and we are telling the entire territory that we need to work together to make it happen,” he concluded.
The Premier’s remarks come amid growing public concern about the state of the territory’s healthcare system, with many residents calling for immediate action to resolve long-standing issues at the hospital and within the NHI scheme.
The government’s proposed reforms are expected to be debated in the House of Assembly in the coming months.
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Premier Defends Intended Appointment of Hon. Karl Dawson as Deputy Speaker

Premier Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley has defended his intended move to appoint Hon. Karl Dawson as Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, stating that the decision is necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of government.
During an interview on The Big Story with Cathy Richards on March 11, Premier Wheatley dismissed speculation about why Dawson was chosen over Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, insisting that the role is of critical importance.
“I don’t think it’s important why one or the other, because the role that Hon. Dawson will be playing is an extremely important one,” Premier Wheatley said. “We are seeking to move a resolution in the House of Assembly for him to become Deputy Speaker, and I certainly think he would be excellent in the role.”
The Premier explained that the intended appointment is needed to correct an imbalance, as previous deputy speakers have traditionally come from the government’s side. The current administration, however, has only seven members, comprising five Cabinet members and two Junior Ministers, neither of whom could take on the Deputy Speaker role.
“We had somewhat of an anomaly… so it’s important for us to be able to have a Deputy Speaker who can help us to move the agenda of the government along,” he said. “I want to thank Hon. Karl Dawson for putting country above self.”
Premier Wheatley also addressed concerns about the slow progress in the agriculture sector, acknowledging public frustration. He reaffirmed his commitment to revitalising the industry, listing ongoing initiatives such as the construction of a reservoir in Paraquita Bay, the design of an agriculture and fisheries complex, grant programmes, and training through the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
“We’ve breathed some life into agriculture in recent times,” he said. “We are moving to break ground on the reservoir… We’ve allocated lands, we’re surveying those lands in Anegada and Virgin Gorda. So things are happening, but I would agree with you, it has been slow, and I’m not pleased about it.”
The Premier highlighted the urgency of accelerating agricultural development, given the volatility in the global economic landscape. He pointed to trade tensions between the United States, Canada, China, and Mexico, as well as ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, which could disrupt food supply chains and drive up prices.
“My exact message [at the recent Agriculture Fair] was to recognise the urgency of this moment,” he said. “We have tariffs and trade wars… food could get more expensive.”
To mitigate these risks, the government is pursuing strategic partnerships, including negotiations with the Dominican Republic to enhance food security.
“We should be travelling to the Dominican Republic soon to cement an agreement that will give us food security,” Premier Wheatley stated. “But we on the ground here have to do our part as well… We need all hands on deck.”
The Premier urged farmers, fishers, and government officials to align with the government’s vision, emphasising that now is the time to act decisively.
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Hon. Lorna G. Smith Accepts New Role Amid Economic Challenges in the Virgin Islands

With the territory facing economic uncertainty, Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, is stepping into her new role with a clear message: unity and decisive action are needed now more than ever.
Speaking during a special announcement on Tuesday, March 3, Smith acknowledged the challenges ahead but made it clear that she’s committed to strengthening the Virgin Islands’ economy and ensuring key industries—especially financial services—remain competitive.
“As the Premier has rightly said, we face turbulent times. We must rise above personal and political differences and stand together for the good of our people and the future of the Virgin Islands,” she said.
Hon. Smith, a seasoned leader with years of experience in international relations and economic development, recently returned from a BVI delegation trip to Asia, where discussions centered around investment opportunities. She sees promise for the territory but cautioned that global economic pressures require smart, strategic planning to keep the Virgin Islands on solid ground.
“How we respond in this critical moment will determine our continued positive standing—not only in Asia but on the global stage,” she said.
One of Smith’s key priorities is making the financial services sector more accessible to Virgin Islanders. She pointed to initiatives like the Financial Services Bootcamp, which provides training and career pathways, as steps in the right direction.
“More Virgin Islanders need to see themselves in this industry—not just as bystanders, but as active participants and beneficiaries,” she emphasized, pushing for workforce development and innovation, especially in emerging areas like FinTech.
Beyond financial services, Smith is also focused on diversifying the economy and creating new investment opportunities. She highlighted programs like Roots to Resilience, which she founded to promote community engagement and economic growth, as examples of the forward-thinking approach needed to build a stronger Virgin Islands.
“Our future success depends on innovation, strong regulation, workforce development, and a commitment to diversification,” she said. “The more we invest in making our communities vibrant and economically strong, the more we attract those who wish to invest in us.”
Smith expressed gratitude to Premier Natalio Wheatley for entrusting her with this role, making it clear that for her, this is about service—not personal ambition.
“Now is the time for leadership, unity, and service above self. Together, let us secure the future of the Virgin Islands,” she concluded.
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