Local News
Dr. Robert Mathavious, Architect of BVI’s Financial Services Industry, Dies
Dr. Robert Mathavious, OBE, who played a central role in building the British Virgin Islands into a recognized international financial center, has died, officials announced Saturday, Sept. 14.
Dr. Mathavious served in key leadership roles in the Territory’s financial system for decades, including Deputy Financial Secretary and later as the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Services Commission. Under his leadership, the BVI established regulatory frameworks and structures that expanded the Territory’s global reach in financial services while maintaining local oversight.
In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire. He also founded the Robert Mathavious Institute of Financial Services, which continues to train professionals in the Territory.
Leaders across the Territory described his death as a significant loss. “The British Virgin Islands owe Dr. Mathavious a debt of gratitude for the quality of life that we have been able to enjoy,” the Alliance said in a statement. “Our society is poorer for his loss but richer for his legacy.”
The government said his work earned the trust of international partners as well as the respect of the local community. His efforts, officials noted, positioned the BVI as a financial services hub and safeguarded the Territory’s economic independence.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
