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CIBC Caribbean Helps Restock Family Support Network Pantry in BVI
The Family Support Network (FSN), a vital nonprofit organisation assisting vulnerable families in the British Virgin Islands, has received a timely donation from CIBC Caribbean to replenish its food pantry.
On January 21, representatives from CIBC Caribbean—including Nelson Ramirez, Relationship Manager, Platinum Banking; Roschelle Smith, Compliance Manager; and Valissa Graham, Business Banking Manager—presented several cases of sardines, tuna, and soda crackers to FSN Pantry Coordinator Sandra Mills. The donation was part of an internal initiative in which bank staff contributed their 2024 hurricane provisions to support the pantry’s efforts.
FSN’s pantry provides non-perishable food and essential household items to families in need, particularly those facing financial hardship or domestic crises. Recently, the organisation had been experiencing shortages of protein-rich staples such as canned fish, making the bank’s contribution especially critical. Mills expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasising its importance in meeting the dietary needs of those the FSN serves.
The Family Support Network offers more than just food assistance. The nonprofit serves as a critical resource for individuals affected by domestic abuse, providing counseling, advocacy, and long-term support, including employment training and resumé writing services to help clients rebuild their lives.
“CIBC Caribbean has been a steadfast partner in our mission,” said FSN Interim Executive Director Prudence Charles. “Through monetary contributions, gift baskets, and pantry supplies, their generosity has made a real difference in our ability to serve the community. We deeply appreciate their continued support.”
The bank’s ongoing collaboration with FSN reflects its commitment to social responsibility and community resilience across the Virgin Islands.
FSN serves clients on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada. Those interested in supporting the organisation can contact the office via email at info@familysupportbvi.org. Donors and beneficiaries can drop off or collect items Monday through Friday at FSN’s office on Chalwell Street, Road Town, by appointment at (284) 542-2085. For emergencies, individuals can reach FSN at (284) 499-0999.
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Monéa Earns Caribbean Music Awards Nomination, Making History for the British Virgin Islands
Rising music star Monéa has just hit another major milestone—she’s been nominated for a Caribbean Music Award, officially placing her among the top breakout dancehall artists of the year. She joins a talented lineup of emerging acts, including Armanii, Malie Donn, and Lady Lava, further proving that her influence on the Caribbean music scene is only growing.
Monéa is up for Caribbean R&B Artist of the Year, competing against a strong roster of regional talent, including Barbados’ Amanda Reifer and Jamaican stars Tosh Alexander, D’yani, and Dexta Daps—whom she’s previously collaborated with. Her signature sound, which she calls “Tropikana”—a fusion of dancehall and pop—has been turning heads internationally, solidifying her status as a genre-bending force in the industry.
The Caribbean Music Awards, now in its third year, will take place over Labor Day weekend in New York. Hosted by the Caribbean Elite Group, the event honors artists, producers, and industry professionals across multiple Caribbean genres. This year’s awards feature over 150 nominees across 40+ categories, including standout artists from the U.S. Virgin Islands like Pressure, Pumpa, Th3rd, Star Martin, and Kruziano.
Fans can support Monéa by casting their votes on the Caribbean Music Awards website, with voting open until Friday, May 1.
This nomination is historic—not only for Monéa but for her home, the British Virgin Islands. She’s officially the first artist from the BVI to ever receive a nod from the Caribbean Music Awards. The recognition couldn’t come at a better time, as she gears up to drop her highly anticipated sophomore album, Tropikana Vol. 2: Mood Swings, later this summer.
“Being nominated is an incredible honor,” Monéa said. “To be recognized among such talented artists is humbling, and I’m grateful for the support of my fans and my home in the BVI.”
Two individuals were arrested in connection with a violent incident reported on November 8, 2024.
Melicia Bodkin, 30, of Huntums Ghut, was charged with wounding and damage to property on February 24, while Deschon Hodge, 31, was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, being armed with an offensive weapon, and damage to property on February 26. Both have been granted bail and will appear in court in April.
Two separate stabbing incidents on Virgin Gorda last month have resulted in serious charges, including manslaughter and assault, as police continue to investigate violent crime on the island.
On March 25, Drew Farrell, 42, of The Valley, was arrested and charged with manslaughter in connection with a fatal stabbing that took place on March 20. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed that the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Just days earlier, on March 16, a 17-year-old male—also from The Valley—was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm following a stabbing incident reported on March 15. Due to the suspect’s age, his identity has not been released.
The RVIPF has not indicated whether the two cases are related but has reiterated its commitment to addressing violent incidents across the territory.
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