Local News
Winners Announced in BVI’s ‘Love Our Culture’ Competition
The Department of Culture in the British Virgin Islands recently held its inaugural competition, aiming to ignite the creativity of the Territory’s residents and encourage them to express their love and appreciation for BVI culture through poetry and photography.
In the adult poetry category, Toyer Fahie emerged as the winner with a captivating piece titled “Culture’s Flashback.” Fahie’s poem beautifully captured the essence of BVI culture, resonating with the judges and securing the top spot. Linette Rabsatt claimed the second position with her entry, “What I Love about BVI Culture,” while Alicia John’s composition, “BVI Culture,” earned her the third place.
In the children’s category, Tishauni Hall clinched the top spot in the poetry competition with her piece titled “The Way of Our People.” Hall’s work showcased an insightful understanding of the BVI culture and impressed the judges with its depth and creativity.
The photography competition saw Michael Winter Jr. emerge as the winner with his captivating entry, “Living Where You Vacation.” Winter’s photograph beautifully captured the natural beauty and allure of the British Virgin Islands, showcasing why it is a dream destination for many.
The “Love Our BVI Culture” competition not only provided a platform for individuals to showcase their artistic talents but also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the unique cultural heritage of the British Virgin Islands. The Department of Culture’s initiative successfully fostered a sense of pride and appreciation for BVI culture among participants and the wider community.
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Local News
British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission Welcomes New Leadership
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVIFSC) has announced new appointments to its governing board, with Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC stepping in as Chairman and Ms. Patlian Johnson as Commissioner. The appointments, confirmed by the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, mark a new chapter for the commission as it seeks to strengthen the territory’s financial services sector.
Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC has been appointed to a three-year term as Chairman, effective August 1, 2024. A seasoned legal expert with a distinguished career, Farara currently serves as a Commercial Court Judge for the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and leads the litigation team at the BVI office of COLLAS CRILL, formerly Farara Kerins. Farara’s prominence in the legal community is further highlighted by his appointment as Queen’s Counsel in 1996, cementing his standing as a leading figure in the Virgin Islands Bar and the broader Eastern Caribbean.
Ms. Patlian Johnson will serve a one-year term as Commissioner, also beginning on August 1, 2024. Johnson, a Strategy and Policy Advisor with extensive experience, currently holds the position of National Coordinator for the UNDP Project Office. She brings an impressive academic background, including a Master of Science in Economics and Finance from the University of Bristol and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Accounting with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.
The pair will replace outgoing Chairman Mr. Robin F. Gaul and Commissioner Mr. Melvin A. Turnbull, whose terms have concluded. Minister of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL), praised the new appointments, stating, “I am delighted to welcome Mr. Farara and Ms. Johnson to the BVIFSC Board of Commissioners. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing the financial services sector.”
Smith also expressed gratitude to the departing board members for their significant contributions to the growth and stability of the territory’s financial services industry. According to the Government Information Service (GIS), these appointments underscore the Virgin Islands’ commitment to maintaining a well-regulated and competitive financial services sector.
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