Local News
Territory’s Centenarians Honoured for Resilience and Wisdom on National Centenarian Day
The Social Development Department of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) paid tribute to the Territory’s remarkable centenarians for their resilience, wisdom, and resourcefulness in celebrating National Centenarian Day on Friday, September 22.
Among those honoured were Mrs. Enelle Smith and Mrs. Emogene A. Creque, both 104 years old, and Mr. Evelyn Hodge, aged 100, residing on Tortola. Additionally, Mrs. Betty Yates, aged 101, Mrs. Floresa George, and Mrs. Iris L. Harrigan, both aged 100, from Virgin Gorda were recognized by the department.
Chief Social Development Officer, Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett, expressed admiration and respect for the centenarians, stating that the gifts presented to them were carefully selected to reflect their favorite items and acknowledge their longevity and ability to navigate the ups and downs of life.
“This is but a small token intended to celebrate their collective resilience, wisdom, and resourcefulness having experienced life’s joys and sorrows for a century and beyond,” Mrs. Malone-Frett said. “As a Territory, we extend heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering faith and contributions to the socio-economic and political developments of the Territory through their differing roles.”
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, accompanied the team to the homes of the six honorees as part of the day’s activities. Honourable Wheatley distributed gift baskets and conveyed well wishes, love, hope, and blessings.
“It was an honour and privilege to be in the presence of these centenarians, three of whom I know personally and who live on Virgin Gorda,” Honourable Wheatley said. He emphasized the importance of respecting and caring for the elders, recognizing their role as the foundation on which society stands.
National Centenarian Day serves as a celebration of the remarkable lives and contributions of individuals who have reached the incredible milestone of living for a century and beyond. It also provides an opportunity for society to express collective gratitude and respect for their wisdom, experience, and cultural legacy.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to strengthening social protection policies and programs aimed at reducing poverty and inequality while improving economic security in the Virgin Islands.
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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