The Virgin Islands Icon Awards has announced 64 nominees across 13 categories for its 2026 ceremony, recognizing individuals and organizations for contributions in fields including sports, entrepreneurship, media, music, agriculture and public service, founder and executive producer Kareem Nelson Hull said.

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The second day of the event unfolded as a community gathering, with families moving between animal displays, food stalls and activities designed to bring the Territory’s agriculture and fisheries sector to life. Nearby, pigs rolled in the mud, while cages of parakeets and small animals drew steady attention from younger visitors.

Bouncy castles, games and competitions kept children occupied throughout the day, including a greased pig contest and other scheduled activities. Market vendors displayed baskets of locally grown produce — from eggplant to seasoning crops — alongside handmade crafts, while the scent of roasted corn and traditional dishes filled the air.

Live performances, including steel pan music, dance and cultural showcases, continued into the afternoon, alongside demonstrations and competitions such as watermelon and hot dog eating contests, reflecting both the agricultural focus and cultural character of the event.

The public activities followed the official opening ceremony held a day earlier on Friday, April 10, at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, where farmers and fishers from across the Virgin Islands were formally recognized for their contributions to the sector.

Awards were presented by Premier and Minister responsible for Agriculture and Fisheries, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, to recipients including Moviene Fahie, Ghansam Singh, Wilbert “Isha” Chinnery, Henrietta Wheatley, Bryan Hodge, Godwin Callwood, Daniel Cline, Eldon Young, Jahnai Caul, Adam Turbe, Kareem Rivera, Elton Gordon, Dean Soares and Ishmael Michael Collins.

In remarks at the ceremony, Dr. Wheatley said the exhibition reflects both the Territory’s heritage and its future direction.

“This year’s theme, ‘Farming the Land, Fishing the Seas, Nourishing Lives and Legacies,’ speaks directly to who we are as Virgin Islanders,” he said. “It reminds us that the work of producing food is not only an economic activity — it is a cultural inheritance, a source of pride, and a foundation for our resilience as a people.”

He said the displays throughout the exhibition demonstrate the Territory’s capacity to strengthen local food production.

“These displays are more than exhibits; they are evidence of our capability, our creativity, and our potential to feed ourselves,” the Premier said.

Dr. Wheatley also outlined government initiatives aimed at expanding the sector, including land allocation at Paraquita Bay, development of an agriculture and fisheries complex, and a fisheries landing site at the Omar Wallace Hodge Fishermen’s Wharf. He further announced that 35 farmers and fishers were approved in the first round of the Agriculture and Fisheries Grant Programme, receiving a combined $388,826.66 from 143 applications.

“I encourage families, restaurants, and businesses across the Territory to buy local and eat local,” he said.

Acting Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Dr. Lavon Chalwell-Brewley, said the event highlights the people behind the sector.

“Today, we pause to not only celebrate produce, products, and progress — but most importantly, to celebrate people,” she said.

The Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market continues through April 12, combining public engagement with efforts to strengthen awareness of agriculture and fisheries across the Virgin Islands.

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Flax-Charles secured the coveted 2026–2027 VI Model of the Year title, while Brookes was named VI Child Model of the Year. Jeniqua Weekes of St. Croix won the VI Commercial Model of the Year title.

The competition, part of St. Croix Style Fashion Week organised by JG Management under Jason Gardener, brought together contestants from across the Virgin Islands for runway presentations, judging and professional exposure.

In the VI Model of the Year category, Shakira Patricia Hendrickson of the British Virgin Islands was named runner-up to Flax-Charles. Malacoy Levons of the British Virgin Islands placed behind Weekes in the Commercial Model category, while Gianna Gugger was runner-up in the Child Model category.

Organisers said the competition is intended to provide a platform for emerging talent while preparing participants for professional opportunities in the fashion industry.

The event featured a series of activities, including a Style and Beauty Expo, black carpet arrivals and a live competition segment.

Designer showcases formed a central part of the programme, with full collections presented by Morgan Creque of M Organic VI in the British Virgin Islands, Lorna Spogoo Roberts of Black Pine Vintage Alabama, and Pamela Leverett-Love of Amour Magique VI in St. John.

A special segment also highlighted couture denim and jewellery looks from Kids Rock Fashion Weekend 2026.

Participants underwent training sessions ahead of the competition led by supermodel Jenna-Monét, who also introduced her platform, “I Represent Beauty,” aimed at promoting confidence and representation within the industry.

The Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition continues to serve as a regional platform for talent development, with organisers noting its role in preparing models for opportunities across the Caribbean and internationally.

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The contest formed part of the Style Week Exclusive Meet and Greet “Red, Black and Silver” party, where contestants for the annual Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition introduced themselves ahead of the main event.

The impromptu segment allowed both audience members and participating models to compete in a brief showcase focused on presentation and style. Organisers said approximately eight individuals took part.

Charles received a gift certificate from Crucian Gold. Event organiser Jason Gardener also confirmed that he will purchase an additional fashion look for Charles during an upcoming trip to New York this summer.

“I felt amazing. It’s just all about being natural and being myself,” Charles said following the event.

The segment is not an official component of the Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition but is included as an interactive feature of the evening’s programme.

The meet-and-greet also included red carpet arrivals, live entertainment and a fashion showcase, serving as a preview of the 13th annual competition and part of broader Style Week activities.

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The event, scheduled to begin at 7:45 p.m., will feature performances highlighting traditional dance forms rooted in the Virgin Islands’ cultural heritage. Tickets will be available from group members and at the door, priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children.

Organisers said the showcase is intended to both celebrate cultural traditions and strengthen ties with community groups through collaborative performances.

“We are committed to connecting with various community groups to foster meaningful relationships and to share our rich dance heritage,” the group said in a statement. “These collaborations will help to strengthen the bonds within our community and ensure that our traditions continue to thrive.”

The production will include a range of performances by members of the BVI Heritage Dancers, emphasising the group’s focus on preserving and promoting local cultural expression.

The fundraiser supports ongoing efforts to complete a facility that will serve as a base for rehearsals, cultural programmes and community engagement initiatives.

The event forms part of the group’s broader mission to sustain traditional dance in the territory, reflected in its theme, “We Keep Culture Alive.”

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Frett, a native of Tortola, has joined the cast of “Master Harold”…and the Boys, currently being staged at the Geffen Playhouse from April 8 to May 10, 2026. The production is co-directed by Tony Award–nominated director Emily Mann and Academy Award winner Tarell Alvin McCraney.

Frett appears as understudy for the role of Willie, bringing years of training and performance experience to the production. His inclusion reflects a career that has been steadily gaining momentum across both theatre and screen.

A graduate of the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, Frett has appeared in classical productions such as Pericles, Henry VI, and Titus Andronicus. His screen work includes Get On Up, where he performed alongside Viola Davis and the late Chadwick Boseman, as well as roles in the television series Hitmen and Shots Fired.

Despite his growing international profile, Frett says he remains committed to representing the Virgin Islands.

“Being part of this production under the direction of Tarell Alvin McCraney is an incredible opportunity to grow as an artist. I am also proud to continue highlighting the British Virgin Islands on an international stage, showing the world the talent and stories that come from our home.”

The production, written by acclaimed playwright Athol Fugard, explores themes of race, power, and friendship in apartheid-era South Africa.

Frett’s latest achievement reflects not only his personal dedication to the craft, but also the continued rise of Virgin Islands talent on the global stage.

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In a public notice, the committee said the issue affected purchasers attempting to secure passes and acknowledged the disruption caused.

“The Virgin Islands Festivals and Fairs Committee (VIFFC) extends its sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused by a technical issue with Eventbrite, which resulted in season passes for the Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival being issued incorrectly,” the statement said.

The committee said full refunds are being issued to all affected purchasers and that it is working with Eventbrite to restore correct processing of season passes.

Tier 1 (Early Bird) season pass sales, originally scheduled earlier, will now resume on April 18, 2026. The committee said pricing for Tier 1 will remain at $150, excluding Eventbrite fees, while dates and pricing for additional tiers will be announced later.

As part of the response, the committee said each season pass purchaser will receive a branded “Freedom Tumbler,” sponsored by the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission.

The committee said refunds will be processed automatically but advised that it may take several business days for financial institutions to reflect the credit.

It also said further updates will be provided once confirmation is received from Eventbrite that the issue has been resolved.

The Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival is one of the territory’s largest annual cultural events, drawing residents and visitors to a series of activities marking emancipation.

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Krystle Maduro of the British Virgin Islands, Jah’Millia Maloney of the United States Virgin Islands, and Alliah Duke of Saint Lucia have been confirmed as contestants in the Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen Pageant, scheduled for July 11, in Tortola.

Maduro has introduced a platform centered on body positivity and self-confidence through her initiative, “Growing Confident Queens to Embrace All of Their Curves.” She said her goal is to support young women and pageant contestants in embracing their individuality.

A focus on inclusivity is being advanced by Maloney, who is advocating for autism awareness. She said her platform aims to ensure that “everyone feel included no matter their differences,” highlighting the importance of understanding and acceptance.

Duke, representing Saint Lucia, is promoting confidence among plus-sized women. She said she intends to use her influence to show that self-worth is not defined by size, emphasizing the importance of self-belief.

The Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen Pageant will mark its second staging in 2026. The inaugural event was held on March 14, 2025, at the Eileen L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College in Tortola.

Sylvanna L. Charles of the British Virgin Islands won the 2025 title, becoming the first Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen. She also secured several major awards, including Top Model, Best Evening Wear, Best Talent, Spokeswoman, Miss Photogenic, and Miss Popularity.

Organizers have indicated that additional contestants are expected to be announced ahead of the July event as the pageant continues to expand across the region.

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By midday, the Cruise Ship Dock behind the Administration Building is expected to fill with families, children and brightly colored kites as the Guyana Association and Friends hosts its Easter Monday Fun Day. The event, scheduled to begin at 12 p.m., continues a tradition associated with Easter observances across Guyana and the wider Caribbean, where kite flying remains a central activity.

Organizers have planned competitions for the highest-flying kite, the largest kite and the most creative design. Participants are being encouraged to bring their own kites, with the event structured as an open, family-focused gathering. Admission will be free, and no vendor booths are planned, according to promotional materials.

Beyond the kite competitions, the event will include bouncy castles and prize giveaways. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The setting, near the waterfront, is expected to accommodate both participants and spectators throughout the afternoon.

The Sanatan Hindu Mandir, BVI, will be hosting a Guyanese cuisine fundraiser at the parking lot adjacent to the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park, also beginning at 12 p.m. Easter Monday. The event is organized to support the mandir’s building project, with proceeds directed toward ongoing development efforts.

The menu will reflect a range of traditional Guyanese dishes, including potato and katahar roti, veggie fried rice, fried channa and sour, pholourie and sour, mithai, vermicelli cake and mixed sweets. Local juices will also be available.

The fundraiser is expected to draw attendees seeking both familiar foods and an opportunity to support the mandir’s work. Organizers indicated that additional items may be offered.

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The contribution forms part of ongoing efforts to sustain the annual Easter celebration, which brings together residents, businesses and visitors for a series of cultural and community activities on the island.

Wheatley said the festival continues to depend on the commitment of organizers and volunteers who coordinate the event each year.

“This festival is a cherished part of our culture and community spirit, and it continues to thrive because of the dedication, sacrifice, and hard work of the committee members and volunteers who keep it alive year after year,” Wheatley said.

He expressed appreciation to Stevens and the committee for their continued efforts in organizing the festival.

Wheatley also encouraged residents, businesses and supporters of Virgin Gorda to contribute to the event.

“Community support is what ensures this celebration remains strong for generations to come,” he said.

He invited the public to attend the Easter weekend activities on Virgin Gorda, noting the event’s focus on community engagement and cultural celebration.

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