The future of Antigua and Barbuda celebrated at New York Independence Gala & Awards
NEW YORK, 20th November, 2023…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, Sports, and the Creative Industries the Hon. 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 an important and necessary one in building a nation for which they all can be proud.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations His Excellency 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 a number of 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 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.
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