Virgin Islands students and professionals living in the United Kingdom met with Premier Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley on Monday during the government’s annual Diaspora Gathering at BVI House in London.
The event — traditionally held ahead of the annual Joint Ministerial Council meetings — drew residents from across the UK for what officials described as an evening of discussion on issues ranging from education and economic opportunities to national identity and public service.
Mr. Wheatley led the gathering alongside senior public officers and Financial Services and Economic Development Junior Minister Lorna Smith.
Attendees were encouraged to share candid views about the territory’s development and the role of Virgin Islanders abroad, according to government.
“Our people abroad are an essential part of the Virgin Islands’ story,” the premier told attendees. “Your insights, skills and experiences continue to enrich our territory, and the government remains committed to ensuring you have pathways to contribute meaningfully to our collective future.”
Participants raised ideas including broader academic support networks, expanded career routes for returning graduates, and greater opportunities for remote collaboration in areas such as technology, health, public policy and culture, according to government.
Several attendees also discussed ways to maintain stronger ties between the diaspora and the VI, a topic that has surfaced frequently at previous gatherings.
The meeting came as the premier prepared to lead a delegation to the JMC meetings, where overseas territory leaders will meet with UK government ministers and other senior leaders.
Government said the feedback from the Diaspora Gathering would help shape the VI delegation’s contributions at the JMC sessions and inform ongoing policy work at home.
Mr. Wheatley currently serves as president of the UKOT Association, which represents the OTs collectively in discussions with the UK government.
British Caribbean News
