Local News
Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (MALE) BVI Movement Bolstered by $5,000 Drakes Traders Donation
The Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (MALE) BVI initiative has received a significant boost this holiday season, thanks to a $5,000 donation from Drakes Traders Ltd.
The generous contribution was presented to Henderson Tittle, president of MALE BVI, on December 17 at the company’s Fish Bay location.
Drakes Traders’ donation shows the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting transformative community initiatives aimed at empowering Virgin Islands youth.
MALE BVI, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to mentorship, education and community engagement, focuses on nurturing young men to become responsible leaders in their families and communities. Through programs such as mentorship workshops, counseling sessions, and father-son bonding activities, MALE BVI provides critical guidance and resources to young men in the territory.
“This generous donation will enable us to continue empowering young men to rise above challenges in their personal lives,” said Mr. Tittle. “Right now, we have a serious need to support and guide the young men in our society who are lacking positive role models. With this contribution, we can strengthen our programs to help them realize their potential and become productive members of the community. We are deeply grateful for Drakes Traders Ltd.’s unwavering support.”
Drakes Traders’ Managing Director, Christian Esser, emphasised the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of the territory’s youth. “As a family and as a company, we believe in coming together to build a stronger community. As the saying goes, ‘it takes a village to raise a child,’ and we are proud to be part of that village. MALE BVI’s mission aligns perfectly with our values, and we are pleased to support their efforts,” said Mr. Esser.
The funds will help MALE BVI expand its offerings, including additional mentorship workshops and activities designed to instill values such as responsibility, respect, and resilience. These initiatives are critical in providing young men with a positive pathway and addressing the lack of role models many face.
MALE BVI is open to further support and donations to advance its mission. Individuals or organisations interested in contributing to this cause or seeking assistance can contact MALE BVI via email at mail.bvi@gmail.com or call/WhatsApp (284) 340-9140.
A new book highlighting the work of Virgin Islands writer Ruby A. Smith-Newberry has been released. Ruby’s Writings: Poetry | Drama | Stories, compiled by Arlene Smith-Thompson, Ed.D., presents a collection of poetry, dramatic works, and short stories reflecting on themes of family, education, and society.
Smith-Newberry’s writing captures historical and cultural perspectives from the Virgin Islands, offering insights into the experiences of past generations. Her works document personal and communal narratives, portraying the roles of educators, family members, and societal influences in shaping the region’s development.
The collection brings together various pieces that span different literary forms, preserving Smith-Newberry’s contributions to Caribbean literature. The book serves as a record of her storytelling and the impact of her words on Virgin Islands history and culture.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is warning the public against the illegal circulation of explicit material involving minors, following reports of a video featuring high school students being shared across digital platforms.
Law enforcement officials stress that the possession, transmission, or distribution of such content constitutes a serious criminal offense under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act of 2014. The law prohibits using a computer to “distribute, transmit, disseminate, circulate, exhibit, deliver [or] procure” material depicting child abuse, which includes child pornography.
Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis, who heads the Criminal Investigations Department, noted that recent amendments to the law have broadened the legal definition of a “computer” to include mobile phones, digital video recorders, and closed-circuit television systems. As a result, individuals who store or share such material via their smartphones are equally liable under the law.
Violators face severe penalties. Those convicted in the Magistrate’s Court could receive a fine of up to $200,000, up to seven years in prison, or both. More serious cases tried in the High Court could result in fines of up to $500,000, up to 14 years in prison, or both.
The RVIPF has adopted a strict zero-tolerance policy toward child exploitation materials and vows to take swift action against those involved in their creation, distribution, or possession.
“We urge the public to act responsibly and refrain from sharing or storing explicit content involving minors. Anyone caught engaging in this activity will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Davis said in a statement.
Authorities are also urging individuals who have received such material to delete it immediately and refrain from further circulation. Parents, educators, and guardians are encouraged to have open discussions with young people about the legal and personal consequences of engaging in or distributing explicit content.
For further information, individuals may contact the RVIPF Family and Juvenile Unit at 368-9401. Reports can be made confidentially through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or, for international callers, at (284) 800-8477. The RVIPF Intelligence Unit can also be reached at 368-9339.
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The stage is set for an exciting journey as three women step forward to compete for the title of Miss RVIPF 2025. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) announced the contestants on February 1, describing them as confident women ready to take on the challenge.
The competition isn’t just about elegance—it’s about strength, intelligence, and service. Each contestant brings her own unique qualities, making this year’s event one to watch.
Meet the contenders:
- Contestant #1: Mrs. Tishema Smith-Ramprashad
- Contestant #2: Delma Tavernier
- Contestant #3: Joentha Bolton
This annual event has become a meaningful tradition, offering participants an opportunity to develop leadership skills while engaging with the community. More than just a title, the winner will represent the RVIPF in outreach programs, bridging the gap between law enforcement and the public.
The contestants will take part in various activities designed to test their poise, confidence and ability to inspire others.
Details on upcoming events and judging criteria will be shared soon.
Ruby’s Writings Brings Virgin Islands Literature to the Forefront
Harsh Penalties Await Those Caught Distributing Child Pornography
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