Madam Speaker, I am delighted to address this Honourable House today regarding the visit of our innovative and dedicated team to the prestigious FIRST Global Robotics Challenge, which was held in Singapore from October 7^th – 10, 2023.  Our team’s participation in this event holds great significance, as this was our territory’s first opportunity to participate in a global competition that advances the technology of Robotics.

The Governor’s Office has a fund totalling $30,000 to fund youth empowerment projects in the BVI. The Governor’s Office welcomes applications from organisations, or partnerships across organisations, for projects up to the value of $10,000.

The public is notified that the closing date for receiving applications for the Registration Apprenticeship, Training, Employment and Development (RATED) programme is Friday, February, 17.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture was presented with playground equipment including swings and slides to be used at the Long Bush park.

His Excellency the Governor, John Rankin, CMG rang in the holiday season by hosting parties for children and young adults on December 2 and 3.

Secretary General for the BVI National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, (UNESCO), Dr. Allison Flax-Archer and local Author Anika Christopher visited several schools last week and read excerpts from the published book, ‘Planting Peace.’  

The Virgin Islands today welcomed 19-year-old pilot Zara Rutherford to the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport as she continues her mission to become the youngest woman to fly solo around the world.

Young persons from across the Virgin Islands will have a space to share, grow and create in a safe and innovative environment with the launch of a Be YOUth Centre on April 9.

Under the theme, "YOUth at the Centre of CARICOM's Energy Future", young people from across CARICOM member states will join energy experts, thought leaders and policymakers at the CARICOM Energy Month (#CEM2020) Virtual Youth Forum set to take place on Friday 13 November 2020 at 1 PM AST.

My dear neighbours of the Fifth District, together, we are in a pact. When I asked you to make me your representative about twenty (20) months ago, I made a solemn promise that I would work hard for you and I would work with you so that together we can bring District 5 Alive.