Local News
Governor’s Office Allocates $30,000 in Grants for Youth Empowerment
The Governor’s Office, with the backing of UK Funding, has allocated three grants totaling $30,000 to support impactful projects for 13 to 21-year-olds in the British Virgin Islands.
Earlier this year, 12 applications from established non-profit organisations that aimed at achieving the goal of empowering BVI’s youth for a sustainable future, were meticulously assessed by a committee from the Governor’s Office and the BVI Government.
The grants have been awarded to three deserving organisations:
Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (MALE): This organization will conduct a series of intensive mental health workshops for young men, focusing on fostering better awareness, resolution conflict skills, decision-making and goal-setting skills, mindfulness and meditation, expressive therapy, outdoor activities, group support, coping skills, and self-care.
Road Town Boys and Girls Brigade: The funds will revitalize their programs, including replacing parade flags, drilling equipment, marching drums, and uniforms. The funds will also renew their websites and online store, among other essential elements.
H. Lavity Stoutt Community College: This institution will deliver media production development workshops to empower BVI youth. The workshops will focus on developing skills in characterization, media production, and musical expression through practical exercises and research.
Governor John Rankin CMG met with the successful applicants on December 7 to extend his congratulations. He expressed his delight, saying, “I am delighted to announce today funding for three youth empowerment projects. I know these projects will benefit the lives of young people in the BVI. I am grateful for the very high calibre of applications we received and thank everyone involved.”
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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