–The value of music
Draádon Ackie forged a match between his music and his ‘school work’ and came out on top of the 2026 CPEA.
DRAÁDON ACKIE attributed his top performance in this year’s Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) examination to his love and involvement in music.
The 12-yearold student of the Richland Park Seventh Day Adventist Primary School was this year’s top performer.
Of a maximum of 75 in each subject area, Ackie scored 72 for Mathematics, 72 for Language, 74 for Science and 73 for Social Studies.
He has been playing the violin and piano since he was 8-yearsand attributed his involvement in music as helping him to relax as he prepared for the examination.
“When you play music, it helps you to cool off so that you can focus on your subject and not be flustered,” Ackie told THE VINCENTIAN.
Ackie said that he was forced to give up a lot of things that he
enjoyed doing during the period leading up to the CPEA exams.
Giving up the use of his mobile phone and other devices, playing football and riding his bicycle were few of the sacrifices he said he had to make.
That in addition to the developing healthy study habits and working on past papers are what he said worked for him.
He credited his parents, Donnet and Darryl Ackie for their support and assistance while preparing for the big day.
He also credited the staff at the Richland Park Seventh Day Adventist School for the effort put in to prepare him.
His love for music is something he intends to pursue saying that it could potentially be an additional income earner in the future.
But Ackie said that he is thinking about pursuing a career as a civil engineer having been inspired by his dad.
He will be attending the St Vincent Boys’ Grammar School, but first he offered some advice to the Class of 2027.
“Put down the devices (phones etc.) now because when you finish the exam and do exceptionally well, you’ll be very proud and you’ll still get time to have a device,” he said. (DD)
Naailah Stevenson conquers adversity
DESPITE FALLING ILL on the second day (May 14) of the 2026 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) and having to be attended by a nurse, included being given medication -Naailah Stevenson of the Kingstown Preparatory School was able to persevere through the exam.
Recounting the ordeal, Naailah said, “I don’t know what it was, but when I came out to the exam after the Language, I just felt like I freeze up. I didn’t know what I was feeling, but I was not feeling well.”
Amidst her health concerns, Naailah emerged second overall and first for girls in the 2026 CPEA.
And, it was with mixed emotions that she accepted the results made known to her, on Friday June 19.
“I was happy, but I was just a little disappointed, because I thought I could have placed first, but it was a really joyful moment for my family, because I put in a lot of work,” Naaliah said.
Acknowledging divine help, Naailah said, “I want to thank
Naailah Stevenson soaked up all the adversity, clicked in her resilience and made outstanding headway in this year’s CPEA.
Almighty God, because I couldn’t have done this without Him. He really helped me through all my struggles on the day.”
Continuing her praise for those who were instrumental in her success, Naailah added, “I want to thank my parents for all the support that they gave me, the late nights we stayed up studying. My class teachers, they helped me a lot, and my school teachers, and how they all really helped me in my preparation for this.”
the occasion, but the 11-year-old already has a career goal
“I would like to become a pilot. I like to travel, and to see the world from different perspective,” Naaliah posited.
Amiah delighted with top ten place
PLACING SECOND FOR FEMALES and third overall in the 2026 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA), eleven- year-old Amiah Anderson admitted she did better than she expected.
One of four students from the Kingstown Preparatory School, who finished in the top ten, Anderson said she was elated with her position.
“I feel overjoyed because all the hard work I put in has finally paid off”, she commented.
That hard work saw her gaining 100% in Mathematics and Social Studies.
Anderson related that last July and August, with the help and guidance of her parents, she commenced preparing for her stint in Grade Six, and more so CPEA.
“During the Summer of 2025, I had home classes from my mother (Keisha Roberts) and father (Terry Anderson). They had me prepared for the exams”, she recalled.
With all the preparations, however, still her final placing came as a surprise.
“I expected to place in the top ten but not very high”, a beaming Anderson confessed.
This she said made her third place even more rewarding.
Savouring her achievements, and heading to the Girls High School, Anderson has her eyes fixed on keeping the same focus and moment.
“At secondary school, I expect to place high in all my subjects”, Anderson projected.
In response, Naailah’s parents — Marlon and Nicole Stevensonpraised her for the resilience shown whenever adversities arose. And ith humility Soaking up
Her long- term goals though will not come in her way as she continues to do track with the ITDAT Academy, whilst following the steps of her mother in Netball.
Amiah Anderson’s CPEA story could well be a case of the ‘early bird catching the worm’, i.e. reaping success after an early start.
V
Juliano Ozarie Ryan: “Put away the games”
JULIANO OZARIE RYAN has turned the spotlight on the Dickson Methodist School. The young man’s combined grades from his School-Based Assessment (SBA) and External Assessment (EA) placed him second for boys and third overall, in the 2026 Caribbean primary Exit Assessment (CPEA). He in fact shared the overall third position with Amiah Anderson of the Kingstown Preparatory School, and Michael February of the Richland Park S.D.A Primary School.
When THE VINCENTIAN caught up with Juliano earlier this week, he was a bundle of smiles. This we understood to be a trait
of his; according to his peers “he is always happy.”
And happy he was to have achieved what he did at the CPEA, news of which he received first from his brother.
Yes, he found the exams easy but he was the first to admit that he “studied hard’ and even “gave up the games,” so he could focus on his exams.
His mother described him as a “tablet-worm”, who was always downloading something to do with his studies.
His success was no surprise to his teachers who reported that he worked consistently through the year and gave indications that he would do well.
His principal, Ms. Matalia QuashieWilliams said he not only did himself and his family proud, but also his school and the community.
“His success reminded that we have outstanding students especially in the countryside,” she added.
And Juliano has a “big dream” and why not! He wants to become “a scientist.”
Juliano Ozarie Ryan is rarely without a smile - an endearing trait if ever there is one.
And the next step toward realizing that dream begins when he enters the St. Vincent Grammar School to pursue his secondary education.
Of course Juliano thanked God, his immediate family (especially his mother)
and teachers for guiding him this far.
And as for those students who will come after him, he urged them to “work hard, study hard, put away the games, take time on the exams and always check over.” (GN)
Michael Febuary- giving up ‘free time’
FEBRUARYcredits his brother Eric for being instrumental in his success in the 2026 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) examinations.
Eric was among the top 10 performers in the 2011 CPEA; he was also a product of the Richland Park Seventh Day Adventist School.
Michael February placed 3rd overall, one spot below big brother who placed 2nd some fifteen years ago. Michael was second among the Boys.
Michael recorded scores of 72 — Mathematics; 67 — Language; 74 — Science and a maximum 75 for Social Studies.
“I feel pretty good, I did not expect to come this high, I expected to do well, but I did not expect to come this high,” February told THE VINCENTIAN.
He credits his good showing to his work on past papers, but he singled out his elder brother Eric who also played an instrumental role in preparing him for the CPEA.
“He was the one who stayed home with me to do the past papers,” he said.
But he also mentioned the support of his parents, saying that they encouraged him, especially when he was a bit reluctant to study.
Of course there were sacrifices that had to be made, and he soon realized that he did not have as
much ‘free’ time as he would usually have.
“Because to give you an idea of how many past papers I did during the two weeks before CPEA, excluding the ones I did at school, I did about twenty-something past papers in just the week before CPEA, so I lost a lot of free time that I would have had before,” February said.
He will be attending the Mountain View Academy: “If I went to an Adventist primary school, why shouldn’t I go to an Adventist secondary school?” he quipped.
Michael February was glad to have his brother ‘coach’ him for the exam in which he –brother – had excelled.
February advised candidates of the CPEA in 2027 to always do their best.
“I know you may have a lot of pressure to do well, especially if you’re a high performing student, but do your best and even if you do not come at the top, just know that you did your best.” (DD)
Philan Lewis: Making the sacrifice
YES,he is yet to fully explore all that there is in the area of information/technology (IT), but Philan Lewis says that he would like to own a technology based business.
The 11-year-old male student of the Richland Park Seventh Day Adventist Primary School placed 6th overall and 4th in his gender) in the 2026 Caribbean Exit Primary Assessment examinations. And already showing signs that he is a good Mathematics student having scored 74 of a
maximum 75, he is off to a good start.
He also scored 70 for Language, 73 for Science and 71 for Social Studies.
Looking back at his performance, Lewis said that he feels proud, adding that he did not expect to do as well saying that he had heard how well he had performed, but could not fully believe it.
He is thankful for the guidance of his mom, Nodette Lewis, many other close relatives, staff and online teacher.
“Since I started Grade 5,
I studied late nights — it was very hectic,” Lewis told THE VINCENTIAN. He, like others, had to give up some activities that he liked to focus on preparing for the CPEA. The occasional game of football and the use of his phone were reduced.
Lewis is looking forward to attending the St Vincent Boys Grammar School, and knowing that he was on his way out, encouraged the current crop of Grade 5 students to study and work on past papers. (DD)
Akili Adekola Neverson–Reaching for the Stars
AKILI NEVERSON is no different from any eleven-year-old male… he has big ambitions. He spoke recently, with confidence and determination, of wanting to be a professional footballer and an astrophysicist.
Akili, of quiet disposition and who describes himself as “reserved”, shot to national prominence when, as a student of the Sugar Mill Academy, he placed 4th for males and 6th overall in the 2026 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA), positions he shared with Philan Lewis of the Richland Park S.D.A Primary School.
has dreams of two worlds so to speak… one grounded on earth the other about how the universe works.
His individual subject grades read as follows: Mathematics 74/75, Language 65/75, Social Studies 72/75 and Science 75/75.
His has been a special journey to date given that he had to shake off the successes of his father and his older brother, who had both excelled at the Common Entrance in their day, though he admitted that it served as motivation. He is pleased that he has been able to match their achievements.
He had no doubt about his readiness for the exam. In addition to the concentrated class prograame, Akili devoted extra time to preparing for the exams, - doing past papers and extra online lessons as well as adhering to an organized schedule supervised by his parents.
This was important since given his penchant for certain “other” activities, he could easily have become distracted.
He however, found the time to satisfy what his parents say is an insatiable appetite for reading and doing research — the latter in which he spends much time exploring his favourite subject - space. He did not hide the fact that he had to reorganize his daily programme but had no regrets.
He continued to play his favourite sportfootball, even though it meant having to cut back on the time he spent working out with the Blossom Unlimited FC and Academy of which he is a member . He represents both the Academy and his school in football competitions.
Philan Lewis has his eyes focused on finding an opportunity in technology.
Interestingly, while Akilii has a definite “calling” towards science and the world of exploration, he is careful about how he uses AI. He has used AI as a source of answers for questions related to his subjects and research projects but will not allow it to dictate his pace.
As for his secondary school sojourn, he will enter the St. Vincent Grammar School in September and looks forward to the change to a single sex school from the co-ed Sugar Mill Academy where, he said, he found it challenging having to “cope with the girls.”
Back to where this brief profile began.
“I intend to work towards becoming a professional footballer and when my playing days are over, say at 30-35 years, I will devote my time to studying astrophysics which I will be studying on the side during my professional football career.”
MICHAEL
Akili Neverson
CPEA Top Students
Damien Franklyn – Following in someone’s footsteps
DAMIEN FRANKLYNhas
every reason to be grateful, and expressed his feelings last Monday at the Windsor Primary School.
“I did my best,” he said, which placed him sixth for Boys and ninth overall in the 2026 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment.
Math was his favourite subject and he admitted that he enjoyed “doing calculations and solving problems.” Still he missed out on full marks with 74 out of 75 for Math on exam day. He shared the Social Studies maximum with three others. His Science figure was 72 while that
for English was 67. Damien is the son of Satish and Damian Franklyn. His mother is a Cytotechnologist attached to the Caribbean Reference Laboratory. His father Damian is a Coast Guard Officer.
The elder Franklyn operates a Woodwork
Damien Franklyn seemed to have had good mix of academics and extrascurricular activities.
enterprise and Damien (son) finds that a useful avenue for his inquisitive mind, to add to his involvement in extra-curricular activities like football and swimming.
Damien was the Most Outstanding student at his school’s graduation held last June 5, copping
four awards. He wants to be a marine Biologist. His mother is pleased with his accomplishment. She recognized that early preparation for the School Based Assessment, enabled students to be relaxed when the final tests were done. He applauds the
15-member staff there.
The school recorded 100 percent pass rate with the 15 entrants being successful. (WKA)
Brewster: Aiming to make a national statement
ORIJE ORANDO BREWSTERplaced seventh for males and tenth overall in the 2026 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA), but come 2031, he expects to set a national record.
Twelve -year-old Brewster, a student of the Kingstown Preparatory School, wants to go beyond the boundary at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC)
Orije Brewster, 12 years old, has already set quite an ambitious a plan for himself.
“Hopefully in secondary school I would like to set at least 26 subjects, I want to come top nationwide for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I want to do more subjects and hopefully get all at ones”, Brewster projected to the VINCENTIAN, Monday June 22, 2026.
Focussed on his ultimate profession, Brewster plans to follow in some way the footsteps of his father, who is a medical doctor.
“My future goal is to get into an Ivy League Med School and to be a Neurosurgeon”, he proffered.
Still revelling in the excitement of a top ten place, Brewster expressed delight that his hard work has paid off.
“I feel excited; I feel good. I am more relaxed now because I was stressed out”, Brewster underlined.
Brewster said he was uneasy until he saw his results for the Language Arts.
Relating some of his mental humps, Brewster disclosed, “For me it was difficult and I thought I made a lot of errors but I did well overall”.
Giving some insights about his preparations, Brewster related, “I was very prepared. I would do a lot of past papers. I would have classes regularly, and I would go and research topics that I didn’t really understand”, he recalled.
Orije is the son of Dr. Orando Brewster, who served as a government minister in this country’s Cabinet, 2020- 2025, and Latheisha Brewster, a teacher.
KGS stages FatherÊs Day activity
IT WAS AN ENCOURAGING
SIGNto see a classroom filled with fathers and an almost equal number outside paying careful attention to guest speaker Pastor Ezra Cumberbatch, as he outlined the role –spiritual and physicalthat fathers must play. She explained:
Spiritual in that it helps parents teach their
children about God Almighty and physical in that the father is the true head of the home, and who is the first role model for their children.
Pastor Cumberbatch’s exhortation to fathers and others was part of the activities that comprised a Father’s Day Fun Day organized by the management and
staff of the Kingstown Government School (KGS), and was held at the school in Stoney Grounds on Friday, June 19, 2026.
During the interactive discussion, fathers were able to share their experiences as well as ask questions in response to comments made by Pastor Cumberbatch. This was the opening activity.
Also present at the Father’s Day activity was Daniel Cummings, Parliamentary Representative for the West Kingstown constituency in which Stoney Ground is located.
In a brief address, he, among other sentiments, congratulated fathers for their commitment and responsibility shown to their children.
Before the fun activities began, each father present was given a number which would later qualify him for a surprise gift
The fun activities with fathers and their children included catching a biscuit with an open mouth when placed on the forehead; dads and children doing the traditional ‘egg and spoon” race using limes and guavas instead.
Hats off to the principal and staff for giving fathers the opportunity to interact with other fathers and their children in a fun
way.
It is hoped that based on the success of this year’s Father’s Day fun day, that it will be repeated next year.
Donald De Riggs
Father’s turned out to show support for their children.
Catch the biscuit game
“Egg and Spoon” race
Pastor Ezra Cumberbatch (left) receiving Father’s Day gift from parent.
No more NonPensionable Public Servants
THE POLICY FRAMEWORK
has been put in place to ensure that every individual who has given service as an employee of the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will become pensionable at the end of their tenure.
Deputy Prime Minister — St. Clair Leacock, in his address to the Public Service Retiree Cocktail at Sandals Resort, June 20, 2026, made this known.
Leacock, deputizing for Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday, assured: “The notion that a category of our workers in the Public Service is non-pensionable will become a thing of the past under this administration. The lives will be better for nonpensionable workers in the Public Service”.
At present, several categories of workers, inclusive of cleaners and watchmen, are among those who fall into the non- pensionable bracket.
Continuing the government’s promise, Leacock added, “You work for the government, you must be provided for and protected for in your latter years, and that will happen over the next four to five years”.
Recognising Retirees
Appreciation Day, Recognition of Public Servants, Public Service Speaking Competition and Public Service March and Street Exhibition.
This year’s observance of Public Service Week of Activities was held under
the United Nations theme: “Transforming Public Institutions: Advancing Innovation, Participation and Inclusion.” Public Service Day is observed annually on
June 23 in accordance with the United Nations General Assembly Resolution.
The event though, was for those persons who retired from active government service within the last year, with over seventy being present at the ceremony to accept their recognition.
Acknowledging the retirees’ contributions, Leacock commented, “Your service mattered and still matters. The development of this nation points with pride and bears your finger prints; you are not leaving an institution
you are leaving a legacy embedded in the lives of people whom you serve. We remember you, we salute you and we thank you for your service”.
Each retiree received a plaque and a certificate and were feted.
The Retiree Cocktail was one of the activities of Public Service Week 2026, that ran from June 16 to 23.
Other activities were: a Church Service, Public Service Digital Innovation Forum, a Public Servants
Just one of the category of workers that will join hundreads of other workers as eligible for pensions.
Deputy Prime Minister – St. Clair Leacock was the bearer of good news for workers in the Public Service who were categorized as non-pensionable.
According to Deputy Prime Minister St. Clair Leacock, all public servants are expected to become pensionable at the end of their tenure, with the new policy framework which has been put in place.
(Mar. 21- April 20)
You will have an inaccurate assessment of your status in society. Show what a dedicated person you can be. Pamper yourself for a change. Deception regarding joint finances or investments will cause upsets between family members.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
You may be emotional and quick to judge others. Residential moves will be hectic and may be unsatisfactory. Do not expect others to do your work. Get involved in the activities of children.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
You should be promoting your ideas. Your lover may cost you financially. If you have to deal with large institutions, be careful not to make waves. This is a great day for a family outing or just a drive.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Arguments with children or friends may leave you steaming. You will find that friends or relatives may not understand your needs. Don't blow situations out of proportion. You can make career moves that will bring you a much higher income.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
Your philanthropic contributions will bring you praise. Get some sound advice and help setting up a workable budget. Sit back. Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with, but try to do things by the book.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Changes involving your domestic scene may be unpleasant. You need a job with more responsibility and a higher wage. You are ahead of your time, and trying to stay in one spot could be asking too much. You will not impress others by being foolishly generous.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
You'll have great insight. Use some diplomacy to get your point across delicately. Don't consume more than necessary. Travel and communications will not run as smoothly as you had hoped.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Travel will be enjoyable but could be expensive. Be up front if you don't want to be embarrassed. Take that long overdue vacation if you can. You have a lot to offer.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
Older family members may try to put unreasonable demands on you. Purchases will be well worth it and they will last a long time. Your tendency to overreact could get you into trouble. Make sure that new mates live up to your high standards.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
You could be emotional if you didn't take care of problems with loved ones. Get involved in sports events that will benefit your physical appearance. You need to concentrate on the areas where you can make a difference. Set the ball in motion and be relentless until you complete the project.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)
Be careful not to take on other people's problems. You may find yourself in a financial bind. If possible, rely on coworkers to back your objectives, and talk to superiors in order to get approval. This is a great day for a trip. You can make progress professionally.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Do not travel unless absolutely necessary. Be careful. You may find that your quick wit and charm will help you in obtaining allies. You have to let go of your past if you wish to get out of any sentimental mood that might be hanging over your head. Stabilize your own position by locking up your savings.
ACROSS
1. One of the Channel Islands 4. Corpulent 9. Let it stand
13. Period of human life
14. Situated away from the axis
15. Fish eggs 16. Male swine
17. Penniless 18. Pointed end 20. Exploit 22. Rework
25. Financed
27. Monkey 28. 17th letter of the Greek Alphabet
29. Mark left by a healed wound
32. Pertaining to sound
Reproduction
mountain in Crete
47. Female deer
49. Member of the clerical order 51. scolding 54. Toward the stern
56. Young cow 58. Harsh squeaky sound
60. In bed
62. Belonging to him
63. Soft leather 64. Alkali
65. Skills 66. Pertaining to oats
67. Observed
DOWN
1.Cavalry sword
2. Gone by 3. Arrive at 4. Observation
35. Adriatic wind
39. Saltlike compounds
40. Affected by scabs
41. Paradise
42. Molten material
44. Public swimming pool
45. Highest
5. Capital of Azerbaijan 6. Lived 7. Trigonometric function
8. Consume 10. Large motor vehicle 11. Greek goddess of the dawn
12. Lukewarm 19. Viper 21. Exclamation of surprise 23. Pertaining to Aaron 24. Chief 25. Elaborate fabric 26. Person who mends shoes 29. Fem pronoun 30. Vulgar, ill-bred fellow
31. Malt beverage 33. North American nation
34. Doctrine 36. Japanese sash 37. Color
38. Fuss
Long conversation
Doctor
Idiot
Russian country house
City in central Belgium
52. Legend 53. Burdened 54. Extent of space 55. Grasp 57. Atmosphere 58. Dove sound
Relatives
Organ of sight
First Former wins two national titles
JADA DAVIS GAVE
ANOTHER GLIMPSE of what she promises for the future when she won both the Women’s 1500m and 3000m at the 2026 Wendell Hercules National Championships, held Saturday June 20 and Sunday June 21, at the Diamond Track Facility.
Davis, a Form One student of the Barrouallie Secondary School, representing High Performance, won her titles on Saturday, clocking 5:12.04 in the 1500m and 11:25.37 in the 3000m.
Yet, in terms of individual kudos, Jada was topped by X- Ceed Sports Club’s Amaia Davis with three titles: the Long Jump in 5.52m, the Triple Jump — 11.70, and the High Jump1.57m.
Other multiple champions were: Romaul James, Zekisha Kelly and Kyle Lawrence.
James of High Performance, took the Men’s Long Jump in 7.02m and the Triple Jump in 14.45m.
Kelly of Team Mustangs won the Women’s 200m with a 24.71s clocking and the 400m in 57.20s.
Lawrence of Chatoyer copped the Men’s 100m
in 10.48s and the 200m in 22.21s.
Other Men’s titles
Other Men’s champions included IT DAT Academy’s Leemore Olliverre who won the 400m in 48.05; High Performance’s Simon James claiming the 800m in 1:59.02; Malakye Nero of X- Ceed Sports Club securing the 1500m in 4: 10.74.
Team Mustangs’ Zichri Hepburn led the 5000m in 17:04.05, with X- Cel’s Serani Robantaking the 400m Hurdles in 57.22s clocking.
IT DAT Academy won both relays, the 4 x 100m in 41.55s and the 4 x 400m in 3:20.5
In the field events, XCeed’s Trevel Sylvan won the High Jump with a jump of 2.03m, and Tarrrik Compton also of X- Ceed, the Javelin with a distance of 42.79m.
IT DAT Academy’s Andre Spencer won the Discus throw when he flung 46.05 and High Performance’s Kirk Hamblett took the Shot Putt, flinging 14.46m.
Other Women’s Titles
Taking the 100m was
Team Mustangs’ Teia Laborde whose 12.07s landed her another 100m title. Laborde was also part of her team’s quartet that won the 4 x 100m.
Also pouched by Mustangs was the Shot Putt, with Denella Creese winning with a distance of 10.84m.
The IT DAT Academy’s duo of Reine Browne and Jaden Edwards-Barry won the Hurdles events. Browne topped the 100m in 14.56s and EdwardsBarry, the 400m in 1:06. 19.
Maintaining her hold
on the Discus title was XCeed’s Tocarra Barbour, who threw 32.21m.
And, High Performance’s Kesiann John and Alison Antoine took the 800m and Javelin with a time of 2: 19.96, and a throw of 29.84m, respectively.
High Performance took the 4 x 400m relay in 4:10.45.
The 2026 National Championships were held in honour of Wendell Hercules, a
former national distance athlete. Hercules’ widow and two daughters were on hand to witness the two days of the championships.
Out Ah Trouble, Kombat Warriors in F15 Finals
Saturday
Kombat Warriors will be looking for their fifth consecutive title.
June 27th at the Richmond Hill Playing Field. Defending championsKombat Warriors secured their place in the final after defeating Fairbairn United by 19 runs in Semi-Final 1.
Country Meet Town Out Ah Trouble advanced to their fourth consecutive finals with a 4-
wicket victory over BOSVG All Stars in Semi-Final 2.
In Semi-Final 1, Kombat Warriors won the toss, batted first, and posted an impressive 116 runs for 5 wickets in their allotted 15 overs. Roderick John, led the batting with an unbeaten 62 runs.
Chasing a target of 117 for victory, Fairbairn United was dismissed for 97 runs in 13.5 overs. Dillon Douglas top scored with 40. Konbat’s Kamal Jackson took 3 for 11, Donaldson Harry 2 for 6 and Ian Gonsalves 2 for 7.
Country Meet Town Out Ah Trouble produced a disciplined
bowling performance to restrict BOSVG All Stars to 103 runs for 5 wickets in their 15 overs. Asquith Mapp led the BOSVG batting with 34 runs from 27 balls. Captain Asif Hooper was the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets for 23 runs.
In reply, Country Meet Town Out Ah Trouble raced to 104 runs for 6 wickets in 13.5 overs. Hooper led with a match-winning 29, earning him the Man of the Match award. Orlando Lavia claimed 2 for 7 and Kody Horne took 2 for 22.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Right: Jada Davis –1500m and 3000m champ.
Zekisha Kelly – impressed as winner of the 200m and 400m.
Kyle Lawrence – ran away with the 100m and 200m.
Amaia Edwards – triple titles champion – Long, High and triple Jumps.
Romaul James – etched his names against the Long and Triple Jumps.
SVG BÊball team ready for battle
A 12-MEMBER National Basketball squad will represent St Vincent and the Grenadines at the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers qualification tournament which will take place from July 8-12, 2026, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, Guyana. The tournament will feature ten Caribbean nations competing for two qualification spots in the next stage of the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 qualification process.
In a press conference hosted by the SVG Basketball Federation at the New Montrose Hard Courts, Randolph ‘Sticky’ Williams, the assistance coach, said, “We went through a six weeks process in selecting the roster of players, and we came up with nine overseas players and three locally.”
With a resume that includes playing in this level of tournament on five occasions, Williams is looking to bring his experience to bear on the team.
The squad will assemble in Trinidad for a three days training camp ahead of the tournament, and Williams highlighted he importance of the camp as an opportunity to see
the members of the team playing together.
“I am confident the local and the overseas based players will mesh and believes the team has a good chance of qualifying,” he said.
Suzette Jackson, President of the SVG Basketball Federation said the team has one objective for the tournament. “We are going to the tournament to compete and to be one of the two teams to advance to the next round. …. our preparation, conditioning and our focus are dialed into capturing the number one spot so we are ready to represent our nation on the big stage.”
Sabrina Mitchell, manager of the team,
Local trio ready to show off
LOCALLY BASED PLAYERS -
Hosea Martindale-DeFreitas, Jermaine John, and Steveon Taylor form part of the 12member national men’s basketball team, which will represent SVG at the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers qualification tournament, from July 8-12, 2026, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, Guyana. The trio spoke with THE VINCENTIAN at the conclusion of a SVG Basketball Federation press conference at the New Montrose Basketball Facility, Wednesday June, 24, 2026.
Hosea Martindale DeFreitas
Hosea Martindale DeFreitas, who is also a basketball coach, said, “It’s been an honor and a dream to part of the national team. I have always been a bench warmer…. never really had an athletics foundation since I was so big and tall, but I worked for years for this moment where we are now, so I want to thank God.” As for the trio, he referred to the group as being rare and precious like diamonds. “So we want to show the three diamonds like those on our flag…. as we work towards our goal beating every team.”
Jermaine John
Jermaine John from Bequia, started playing basketball at the age of 6 and is looking forward to the challenge.
“This was my dream to play basketball for SVG and even in the NBA, and it’s still my dream. I just want to do my best.
“I would like to give credit to Sabrina Mitchell who assisted me along the way from a young age, and my coach Randolph ‘Sticky’ Williams who assisted me for the past six weeks.”
Steven Taylor
Steveon Tayler from Union and Bequia, has been to this
tournament multiple times and is looking to helping his team in every way.
“This tournament is a very prestigious tournament. … It’s an honour… wearing the colours of your country it’s a great honour, and I am very appreciative of the opportunity to represent SVG.
“I also want to be around to help improve basketball. Basketball kept me off the streets kept me focused, so I want to be able to give back and contribute to the younger ones coming up.”
Randolph ‘Sticky’ WilliamsAssistant Coach
extended appreciation to Wayne Williams who was instrumental in recruiting the overseas based players, and for his input of sound advice and knowledge in the team’s selection.
SVG will compete in Group B alongside, Barbados, Grenada, Haiti, and the Cayman Islands.
The squad reads: Sean Baptiste, Opong Bramble, Shamore
Charles, Tyler Fraser, Darreo Glasgow, Jermaine John, Elton Joseph, Phillip Lawrence-Ricks, Hosea Martindale-DeFreitas, Brendon Smart, Steveon Taylor, Chrisford Telesford, and Shad Thomas.
Stories by I.B.A. ALLEN
Spencer completes PAISAC Programme
ROMANO SPENCER,one of this country’s leading table tennis coaches, has completed an online Advanced Level Programme, conducted as part of the 46th Edition of Training in applied Sports Science, under the auspices of PAISAC - The International Scholarship Program for African and Caribbean Sports Coaches.
The online programme, which started in the Fall of 2025, covered topics like: Advance Concepts, Ethics & Leadership, C7 Performance Planning, C8 Advanced Workout Planning, Sports Management, Performance Psychology, Nutrition and Mindfulness.
Romano Spencer feels even more ready and equipped to pass on his knowledge towards enhancing the skills, etc., of sports persons here.
The programme was aimed at increasing and/or updating the knowledge and skills of coaches who have already gone through the Classical Level of the programme; and those who were active or have been involved in their country’s development through sports, over a number of years.
Spencer was grateful for the opportunity to enhance his knowledge of the sports.
“With my knowledge, the whole idea is to give back to the national sports system, especially table tennis. The qualification allows me to be in a variety of sports as it was sports general course, so the idea is to position myself so as to bring benefit to St Vincent and the Grenadines in terms of sports, mainly table tennis”
Spencer committed to “continue working closely with the SVG Table Tennis Foundation and the SVG Table Tennis Association, as well as my club.
“My primary focus is to teach the players, among other things, about technique, skills ethics and values, in order help them to reach the top in table tennis,” Spencer said.
The trio “rare, precious diamond” is committed to give their all to ensure SVG qualifies for the AmeriCup 2026.
Sabrina Mitchell –Manager Suzette Jackson –President SVGBF
Thirty-two nations knockin it
BY TOMORROW
JUNE 27,the countries in the round of 32 will be complete. Unlike previous World Cups, 32 teams will be in the higher bracket.
That comprises the two top teams in each of the twelve groups along with the best eight third placed teams.
The Round of thirty-two is the last chance teams have at going for the title. One miss and you are gone. Perhaps the extent of interference may heighten as the tournament progresses. But the world seems to have gotten used to the false doctrine long before the quests for absolute honesty ebbs and flows.
Those advancing so far are: Argentina, Switzerland, USA, Mexico, Morocco, Germany, Brazil, France, Norway, Colombia.
Quarter finals begin Thursday July 9, leading to the semis fixed for July 14. Then it is serious reflection and introspection. The final will be July 19.
Intrigue, subtleness, and side shows would have surfaced and rehashed. The world will realise what it takes to be a winner. Some teams who have not advanced to the Round of 32, will still be spoken of with pride and satisfaction.
The fact that the gap has narrowed between countries will be plain.
Cape Verde in two games justified their presence. They will grab attention again when they play Saudi Arabia.
Football matches are determined on the field over the ninety plus minutes. Some persons will tell you that in the age of uncertainty and this era of indifference and cold heartedness, decisions made on the field or in some instances carried out by officials alter the natural chain of events.
There are sayings about honesty. And that it has to do with loneliness.
People distance themselves for whatever reason and operate within the ambits of their jurisdiction.
Curacao showed they have the capacity and rebounded from a mauling at the hands of Germany to earn a draw against Ecuador. That was a remarkable transition. They could cause more tongues to wag against Ivory Coast.
But speculation is not the order of the day. Conspiracy theory is real and may have become real especially at the international level. How is it dealt is revealed in the course of time.
No one enters another’s mind. That is a guarded secret.
Patterns that accommodate world trends are associated with all types of sports. Many times, money is the determining factor. Sometimes the motive is subtle and surface when they the perpetrators are caught.
That’s a different area. How many times have we heard, “people like you are not supposed to be here.” That’s when one strays from their comfort zone and lands into the lion’s mouth.
There may be some sort of negotiations, but life goes on. That’s the way it will be.
Exciting end to National Netball Tournament
A NAIL- BITING DIVISION ONE Knock Out Final last Wednesday evening, June 24, at the Kingstown Netball Centre, brought a fitting end to the 2026 Bank of SVG National Netball Tournament.
The teams throwing up the excitement were DHL Mitres and National Properties Netters, with Mitres prevailing 5150, in extra time, with the last shot landing them the title.
The extended play became necessary after a dingdong tussle ended 40-40 in regulation time.
The win crowned off Mitres’ season as double champions after they had earlier retained the League title.
Mitres joined Valley Bakers North Leeward Stars, the Division Four double winners, and Maca Crushers, who did the same in the Male Division.
The other Knock Out winners were Sion Hill- Division Three and Prime Consulting 3J’s Valley Strikers- Division Two.
During the Presentation several players and teams were on the honours roll.
The Most Accurate Shooters were: Jurnee Charles of Bishop’s College Kingstown — Division Four; Britney John of Dutch Lady Clinchers - Division Three; Cherise Toney of Prime Consulting 3J’s Valley Strikers — Division Skiddy Francis- Cricket
of Oscar Machine Center Maple, for the umpteenth time,Division One.
In the Male Division, that accolade was copped by Akeil Bute of AM Shottas.
Named the Best Defending Player in Division Four was Jafeisha Ackie of Bargain Auto Center PYC Rising Stars One, with Sion Hill’s Shanice Warren, the candidate in Division Three.
Zoe Frederick of Bagga United took the Division Two and Kaywanna Charles of DHL Mitres the Division One title.
Moeth Gaymes of AM Shottas copped that award in the Male Division.
The Best Midcourt Player awards went to: Savilyah Phillips of Country Meet Town Maple - Division Four; Azumi Quow of Dutch Lady ClinchersDivision Three; Tahalia James of Prime Consulting 3J’s Valley Strikers — Division Two; Kimesha Antoine of Oscar Machine Center Maple - Division One; and Sean Frederick of Maca Crushers —
Having won the hearts of many who saw her in action, it was no surprise when Jah-Queen Gurley of Country Meet Town Maple was adjudged the Most Promising Player. She collected the Eddie Peters trophy.
Meanwhile, Stephen Billy was adjudged the Most Improved Umpire.
There were also awards for the MVP of each Division as follows: Shaneil Raime of S & D Success Netters — Division Four; Azumi Quow — Division Three; Zoe Frederick - Division Two; Kylia Miller- National Properties Netters- Division One; and Akeil Bute- Male Division.
Each MVP received a Savings Account and other items compliments Bank of SVG. Also recognized was Most Valuable Player of each of the twenty- nine teams that completed the Tournament.
The 2026 National Netball Tournament was held under the theme: Honouring Netball’s Proud Legacy.
Male Division.
Double Division champions- DHL Mitres.
Jah-Queen Gurley (left) accepts her award from Eddie Peters.
Durable Skiddy Francis –Crick (left) accepts her most recent award from Mya Douglas- Senior Marketing Officer at Bank of SVG.
Sion Hill – Division Three Knock Out Champions.
Mark: Setting the record straight
Continued from backpage.
And in further rebuttal of what the Minister claimed, Mark’s statement disclosed that her intention was to “transition from the authority by August 2026,” but the discussion with the Minister turned to the possibility of her remaining in the position while a replacement was identified.
Without directly naming him, Mark chided the minister for initiating public discourse not grounded on fact, and urged that
anyone holding “honourable” office should not distancing themselves from the truth.
Mark went on in her public statement to detail her contributions as Executive Director of Invest SVG and subsequently as
FOR RENT
2 Bedroom Apartment Fully Furnished Location: Queen’s Drive Tel: 494-2209
the CEO of the SVGTA. (Source: Statement by Annette Mark)
SHAFIA WAS BYPASSED, SAYS DR. SHALLOW
Left: Dr. Kishore Shallow, Minister of Tourism, retraced the process that led to Annette Mark’s appointment and CEO/SVGTA and Shafia London’s being side-stepped.
SHAFIA LONDONcould well have been in the seat of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) officer of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA) two or so years ago.
This is the conclusion that could easily be drawn from what was disclosed by Dr. Kishore Shallow, Minister of Tourism, during his address at a Press Conference, Monday, June 22, 2026 at the Beachcombers Hotel.
Speaking in the interest of what he said was “public transparency,” Dr. Shallow revealed that London was preferred for the job and was duly recommended some two years ago, following a recruitment process.
According to Dr. Shallow, “London participated in a very robust, comprehensive
recruitment process, which was spearheaded by an agency that included Trinidadian representatives. During this intensive search, London emerged and was officially identified as the leading candidate.”
However, the Minister added, just before an agreement could be finalised with London, the process was derailed, “the process was, should I say, circumvent[ed] –was circumvent[ed] – and someone else was hand-picked. That’s the reality. I say it as is,” Shallow stated, as he also referenced that he had had a very lengthy discussion with the agency who conducted the interviews two year ago, and who confirmed that they did not support the selection that was preferred to London at the time.
The agency, however, had no ground and/or authority to change the decision of the SVGTA and the government.
The person for whom
London was bypassed was Annette Mark who, on being appointed, replaced Glen Beache as CEO of the SVGTA, who in turn replaced her as Executive Director of invest SVG.
Interestingly, Beache resigned from Invest SVG and has since been replaced by Anna C. Young.
As it panned out following the general election of November 2025, the post of CEO of the SVGTA became vacant after Mark had resigned and attempted to have her resignation rescinded.
Her attempt failed and Dr. Shallow said he reached out to London who renewed her interest in filling the position.
In confirming her appointment, Dr. Shallow said, “….her leadership is expected to be an invaluable asset in accelerating growth and elevating the nation’s tourism product in an increasingly competitive global market.”
MARK: SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT
ANNETTE MARK has taken umbrage with how the matter of her appointment and replacement as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA) was represented by Tourism Minister Dr. Kishore Shallow, at a press conference on Monday, June 26, 2016.
And towards presenting her side of the story, she issued a public statement.
The issue at hand stemmed from the appointment of Shafia London as the CEO of the SVGTA, a post last and effectively held by Mark.
The Minister had included in his announcement of London’s appointment, that she had in fact been selected for the job some two years ago, following a rigorous recruitment and interview process conducted and managed by an agency with Trinidadian connections. She was not offered the position. He described the situation as London being bypassed, with the selection set aside in favour of Mark, who had also been interviewed for the position. Mark, in her statement, while not addressing the issue of London being “bypassed”,
sought instead to detail her being involved in a recruitment process conducted by a local company, and being interviewed by a panel “comprised of local persons, with one consultant from Barbados.”
According to Mark, “several months passed …….. before I was contacted and asked whether I remained interested in the position…… just about when I was preparing to leave St. Vincent and the Grenadines to pursue opportunities elsewhere.”
Mark accepted the job offer abut resigned on Dec. 29, 2025, with an effective date of Feb. 28,
Right: Annette Mark did not take long to refute Minister Shallow’s announcement and its reference.
2026.
“Following the change in administration, the new minister and I met approximately one week after he was sworn into office. The discussion was cordial and professional, and I provided a comprehensive briefing on the operations, priorities, and challenges facing the Tourism Authority,” Mark said in her statement.
Continued on Page 23.
