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.
Education
`Stay in School’ Message Echoed at Willock’s D3 Back to School 2024
Former Speaker of the House of Assembly and Third District resident, Mr. Julian Willock, delivered on his annual promise of giving back to the community with his 2024 Back to School initiative. Under the theme “3 hours, 3 schools, District 3,” Willock and his team made donations to three schools in Sea Cows Bay, reinforcing the importance of education for the youth.
The event kicked off at the Seventh-day Adventist School, continued at St. George’s Secondary School and concluded at Ebenezer Thomas Primary School. During each stop, Willock and his District Three Committee handed over books, bags and essential school supplies to help students in the upcoming academic year.
Accompanying Willock were two prominent members of his 30-member committee: businessman Ricky E. Conner, owner of the local band OMG, and former firefighter Joseph A. Fahie, both from the Sea Cows Bay community. Speaking to the students, Conner emphasised the critical role education plays in shaping the future, urging them to stay in school and work toward becoming the next generation of legislators, entrepreneurs, and professionals. “You are the future leaders, and your education is the key to those dreams,” Conner told the students.
Fahie shared personal reflections, recalling his school days when supplies were scarce. He expressed his pride in being part of a committee that ensures today’s students have the resources needed to succeed. “I didn’t always have books or bags growing up, so I’m honored to help make a difference for students now,” Fahie remarked.
Willock explained that the donations were made directly to the schools, allowing teachers and administrators to distribute supplies to students facing challenges throughout the 2024/2025 academic year. The goal, he said, was to make sure no child is left behind due to lack of resources.
The principals and representatives of the participating schools were on hand to receive the donations. Representing the Seventh-day Adventist School was High School Supervisor Mr. Ron E. Hemerding, while St. George’s Principal Ms. Odalys Gonzalez accepted on behalf of her school. Ebenezer Thomas Primary School was represented by Zubida K. O’Neal, Instructional Leader of Mathematics, on behalf of Principal Ms. Ashkisha N. Maduro.
The event was made possible through sponsorship from local businesses, including Nanny Cay Resort, BDO Limited, Northam Construction, IAM Jet Centre, Gumption’s Experience BVI, and Nagico Insurance, with additional support from Willock’s Third District Committee and Ms. Kishma P. Forbes of Virgin Islands School and Office Supplies.
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