Mister Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to recognise the achievements of Virgin Islanders on the world stage.

On June 26, 2021 our very own Mrs. Sophia M. Rubaine aka ‘Sophie B’ was crowned Mrs. Curve Globe 2021.  Sophia competed against contestants from Russia, Australia, Canada, the United States, among other places and captured the BVI’s first international crown.  This is a source of great pride for the Virgin Islands.

Good day and God’s blessings.  This year’s emancipation holidays fall within a difficult period of BVI history.  Still reeling from the most devastating hurricanes in our history, we are in the midst of the worst pandemic in 100 years, which has now claimed more than 30 lives.  We extend sincere condolences to the people of the Virgin Islands who have lost loved ones.

Emancipation Service 2021 will be held virtually this year to ensure that people continue to remain safe during COVID-19.

Good day and God’s blessings to the people of the Virgin Islands.  On Monday, July 5^th 2020, we will be celebrating for the very first time Virgin Islands Day. 

Local author, Mrs. Andria Flax is featured following the launch of her new book, “A Walk through the Valley” last evening.

Local author, Mrs. Andria Flax has said that her new book titled “A Walk through the Valley” tells stories of the Virgin Islands’ golden population.

Mister Speaker, for some years now, the Department of Culture has celebrated International Museum Day whilst placing a focus on our Territory’s museums. Mr. Speaker, if you recall, last year, the celebrations for International Museum Day were completely virtual and were highlighted through the release of a virtual exhibition in a two-part series entitled, “From Perreen Georges to Noel Lloyd: Heroes and Freedom Fighters.”

Ms. Lenia Smith of Anegada took home the prize for best fish soup in the highly anticipated Farmers and Fishers week 2021 Fish Soup Competition. 

Persons ages 15 to 18 are invited to enter the World Book & Copyright Day Flash Fiction Writing Competition.

Local Educator, Ms. Khalilah Callwood will be launching her first book titled, Math Made Easy: Consumer Arithmetic Series - Book 1 on March 31.