Local News
HMS Dauntless Visits BVI to Strengthen Security and Disaster Preparedness
HMS Dauntless, the Royal Navy’s most advanced destroyer, arrived in Road Town this morning for a routine visit to the British Virgin Islands (BVI). During its time in the BVI’s waters this week, the crew of HMS Dauntless will engage in various activities, including meetings with members of the National Security Council, hosting a disaster exercise, and conducting an on-water search and rescue exercise.
The deployment of HMS Dauntless to the Caribbean serves two primary purposes. Firstly, it supports the British Overseas Territories during the hurricane season, providing assistance and aid in the event of natural disasters. Secondly, the ship plays a vital role in countering drugs trafficking in the region.
Notably, HMS Dauntless recently made a significant seizure of 1.2 tonnes of cocaine, valued at approximately $175 million, while patrolling the Caribbean Sea. The ship’s Wildcat helicopter, Royal Marines, and the US Coast Guard collaborated to intercept the suspect boat, successfully thwarting drug trafficking activities.
On the first day of the visit, Governor John Rankin CMG attended a lunch with members of the BVI National Security Council, the ship’s Commanding Officer, and other key individuals. The gathering included the Premier, Junior Minister Dr. The Hon Karl Dawson Dawson, Acting Commissioner of Police, Acting Attorney General, and the Director of Disaster Management.
Later in the week, HMS Dauntless will host a Disaster Relief Exercise in partnership with local agencies. This exercise aims to enhance the crew’s understanding of the BVI’s disaster response strategies and demonstrate the support that the ship can provide during such events. Additionally, the ship will conduct an exercise with the Police Marine Unit and Virgin Islands Search and Rescue, further strengthening coordination and readiness in search and rescue operations.
Governor John Rankin CMG emphasized the significance of the visit, stating, “The team aboard HMS Dauntless will meet with key partners to ensure that they are ready to respond effectively should their support be required.” He further highlighted the top priority of ensuring the safety and security of the people of the Virgin Islands, particularly during the ongoing hurricane season. The Governor expressed gratitude for the visit of HMS Dauntless, as it serves as a tangible demonstration of the assistance and support the ship can provide to the BVI.
Education
Friendly Competition Sparks Unity Between Francis Lettsome and Willard Wheatley Primary Schools
As the new school year began, Francis Lettsome Primary School and Willard Wheatley Primary School were officially zoned together, marking the start of what promises to be a powerful collaboration between the two institutions. In celebration of Teacher’s Week, both schools came together for a friendly bowling match between the Wolves and the Wildcats.
The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as students, staff, and teachers embraced their competitive spirits. Beyond the fun, the event symbolised the beginning of a new chapter, with both schools set on working together to foster academic and social improvement.
“This is just the beginning,” said one teacher. “We’re excited about the opportunities ahead as we collaborate to support the success of our pupils.”
With more joint activities planned, the newly dubbed East Coast “Wolfcats” are poised to make great strides in building a united and dynamic learning environment. Stay tuned for further developments as these schools continue to strengthen their partnership.
International
UN Resident Coordinator Simon Springette Visits Virgin Islands to Strengthen Development Efforts
Business
Flow BVI Appoints Maria De Grads as First Female General Manager
Flow British Virgin Islands has welcomed Maria De Grads as its new General Manager, the first woman to hold this position in the company’s 58-year history, effective October 1. The announcement was made by C&W Communications, the parent company of Flow, Flow Business, C&W Business, and BTC, which operates throughout the Caribbean.
Maria De Grads, a telecommunications veteran from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, brings over 21 years of experience in the industry. Her appointment has been hailed as a pivotal moment for Flow BVI. Susana O’Sullivan, Vice President for the North Caribbean at C&W Communications, expressed confidence in De Grads’ leadership: “Her extensive experience, vision, and commitment to empowering teams will be instrumental in driving Flow BVI forward as we continue to innovate and deepen our connection to the BVI community.”
De Grads has held a variety of roles within C&W Communications since joining Flow St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2004. Her previous positions include Commercial Lead for the Southern Caribbean markets, which covered St. Lucia, Dominica, Grenada, and Barbados. She has also served as Commercial Manager and Product Executive, gaining expertise in growth strategy, customer care, and human resource management. In her most recent role as Senior Manager for Commercial Operations in the South Caribbean, she was responsible for spearheading plans that drove customer acquisition and revenue growth.
“I am deeply honored to become the General Manager of Flow BVI, and being the first woman to step into this role makes it even more meaningful,” said De Grads. “I look forward to leading our talented team as we continue to deliver innovative services, enhance customer experiences, and contribute to the development of the BVI. Together, we’ll build on Flow’s strong legacy and ensure we remain at the forefront of connectivity in the Territory.”
De Grads holds an associate degree in business management from the University of the West Indies and an MBA in Marketing and Sales Management from the University of Edinburgh.
This new leadership is expected to further strengthen Flow BVI’s position as a leading provider of telecommunication services in the British Virgin Islands, offering cutting-edge solutions to both consumers and businesses.
About C&W Communications:
C&W Communications, part of Liberty Latin America, is a comprehensive communications and entertainment provider serving over 20 markets in the Caribbean. It offers video, broadband, mobile, and telephony services, along with IT solutions for business and government clients through its business division.
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