Antiguans and Barbudans turned out in large numbers to the annual Independence
Gala held at the Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle, NY this past
weekend; on a night that was dedicated to celebrating the country’s bright and
promising future, represented by young minds who will continue the nurturing of
its development.
In attendance was Minister of Education, Daryll Matthew, who brought greetings
on behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, to the packed ballroom of
nationals and friends from all walks of life, who came out to enjoy the celebration
of 42 years of Independence.
Minister Matthew’s remarks aligned with this year’s Independence theme,
Embracing the Legacy, Shaping the Future. He encouraged nationals to join the
country in creating a legacy for future generations, noting that their role, despite
being miles away, is important and necessary in building a nation for which they
all can be proud.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr.
Walton Webson took advantage of the attention of a captive audience to share
details about next year’s International SIDS Conference, a major event, in which
Antigua and Barbuda will establish a new legacy for the pivotal role it will play in
the future of island nations.
One of the major highlights of the evening was a presentation to the Antigua and
Barbuda Students Association for its unstinting service, in ensuring the best
possible transition for students who travel to the United States to further their
studies.
The association was represented by Dr. Noel Howell, who urged Antiguans and
Barbudans to reach out to the organization and show their support, even by way of
mentoring the students so they can make the best choices in achieving their
academic and career goals.
Dr. Howell was joined by Minister Matthew and Ambassador Webson to present
an award of excellence to Kenijah Brown, who is majoring in Business
Administration at William Patterson University. Since matriculating Kenijah has
attained the Dean’s List every semester.
Also cited as future leaders were tech and business specialist Keanu Carbon and
medical professional Yumani Nedd, both of whom have benefitted from the
association and continue to support its endeavours.
The evening also celebrated a group of young Antiguan students, who together
authored a book – Love, Friendship, & Betrayal – An Anthology of Lessons Learnt.
Five of the students Joel Lewis, Destiny Simon, Noah Yeboah, Delicia Howell and
Sheneilla Somerset, are currently enrolled at Bergen Community College, while
another Shenika Bentick, still attends high school in Antigua.
Present at this year’s gala were several esteemed guests, members of the
diplomatic community and outstanding Antiguans and Barbudans.
Bringing the curtain down on another amazing night was the pride of Antigua and
Barbuda, the Original Burning Flames, with a selection of their many hits that have
taken them to unsurpassable fame.
The Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda has expressed gratitude to several
entities who helped to make this year’s event a phenomenal success. On this list of
major sponsors are the American University of Antigua (AUA), Antigua and
Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva His
Excellency Boris Latour; South Point Development, Arton Capital, the Citizenship
by Investment Unit, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, World Insurance
Associates, Monroe College, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and ABS
Radio and Television.
