Education
Governor’s Office Launches Future Fund to Empower Virgin Islands Youth and Promote Good Governance
The Governor’s Office in the British Virgin Islands has opened applications for the Future Fund, a new initiative aimed at fostering youth empowerment and good governance across the territory. Backed by $50,000 from the UK government, the program offers grants of up to $10,000 for projects that promote sustainable development and civic engagement.
The Future Fund invites applications from registered Virgin Islands non-profit organisations, schools, community groups, or partnerships looking to support local youth and improve governance practices. The program targets initiatives that help young people, aged 13 to 21, develop valuable skills and explore potential careers in sectors like tourism, agriculture, sports, and environmental management. It also aims to foster community engagement, transparency, and political accountability through activities such as citizen journalism, media code of conduct development, and projects that highlight how public funds are utilised.
Governor Daniel Pruce expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “I’m proud to announce this important investment in the future growth of the Virgin Islands. As I outlined in my swearing-in speech, I am committed to supporting efforts to build a better future for the youth of the Virgin Islands. I encourage all those who are eligible to apply to please take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.”
The initiative is part of a broader effort to advance the Virgin Islands’ National Sustainable Development Plan, which aims to empower islanders for a sustainable future in an inclusive and vibrant society.
Applications must be submitted to andrea.blumire2@fcdo.gov.uk by September 20, 2024. A review committee, consisting of three representatives from the Governor’s Office and the BVI government, will evaluate the proposals based on set criteria. Successful applicants will be announced on October 25, 2024, and projects must be completed by March 31, 2025.
With the clock ticking, eligible organisations and groups are encouraged to act quickly to secure funding for initiatives that can make a meaningful difference in the Virgin Islands community.
BVIslander J’Sally O’Niel was officially called to practice as a member of the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in the Territory of the Virgin Islands on Monday, January 13. The ceremony, held before the Honourable Justice Stanley John K.C., saw J’Sally presented to the court by Associate Aaron Mayers.
J’Sally, who began her pupillage at Conyers’ BVI office in September 2024, has quickly gained recognition for her professionalism. Mark Forte, Partner and Head of BVI Litigation & Restructuring at Conyers, commended her work ethic, noting, “J’Sally has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic, and we look forward to seeing her thrive in her legal career.”
J’Sally earned her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom and was called to the Bar of England and Wales by the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn in October 2024.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation has enriched the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School with a collection of books spotlighting the Virgin Islands’ rich history, heritage, and culture.
The donation, presented by Abigail O’Neal, Executive Director of the Foundation, comes as part of the organization’s commitment to preserving the region’s cultural legacy while fostering a love for reading.
“Every school year, my father would donate books by local and other authors to schools throughout the Territory,” said O’Neal. “It’s my humble pleasure to carry on this tradition as part of the Foundation’s work.”
During her visit to the school, O’Neal found herself inspired by the students’ palpable enthusiasm for learning. One student proudly shared that he was juggling three books at once, a testament to the school’s nurturing environment and the students’ thirst for knowledge.
“It is so important that our children develop a love for the written word in all forms. Reading not only educates but expands one’s vision and transports readers to different worlds,” O’Neal emphasized.
The donation includes several rare and out-of-print titles, aligning with the Foundation’s mission to reintroduce pivotal historical works to the Virgin Islands community. These books, O’Neal explained, are vital for preserving the wisdom and lessons of the past.
Engaging with the students, she encouraged discussions about the significance of history. The students’ collective response — “Because those lessons can help us inform the future” — underscored the lasting impact of such initiatives.
O’Neal also commended the efforts of Ms. Powell and her teaching staff for creating an environment that fosters academic curiosity and excellence. She extended her gratitude to Victor International and the Johnson Family for their continued support of education in Virgin Gorda.
For more information, please contact: Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation
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