PHILIPSBURG:--- The influence of colonial structures on environmental governance in the Caribbean was the focus of a presentation by Sint Maarten environmentalist Tadzio Bervoets at the recent Caribbean Studies Association Conference.

Presenting on “Conservation Colonialism and the Persistence of Fortress Management in the Dutch and French Caribbean,” Bervoets argued that many conservation systems operating in the Dutch and French Caribbean remain shaped by governance models that concentrate authority outside the region. According to the presentation, these arrangements often limit local decision-making, restrict community participation, and reduce opportunities for Caribbean leadership within environmental institutions.

The presentation examined how environmental policies, technical expertise, and management frameworks continue to be influenced by metropolitan governments and external institutions. While acknowledging the significant contributions that conservation organizations have made to biodiversity protection, marine management, and ecosystem restoration throughout the Caribbean, Bervoets raised concerns that some conservation initiatives continue to reflect historical patterns of authority that marginalize local communities and institutions from decision-making processes.

Central to the discussion was the concept of “conservation colonialism,” describing the persistence of colonial relationships within modern environmental management systems. The presentation also explored the concept of “fortress conservation,” a model that emphasizes environmental protection through exclusionary approaches, enforcement mechanisms, and externally determined priorities rather than through collaboration with local communities.

Drawing on examples from across the Dutch and French Caribbean, Bervoets noted that many environmental institutions continue to rely heavily on external leadership, donor-driven priorities, and governance structures originating outside the region. He argued that these factors can weaken local stewardship, limit professional advancement opportunities for Caribbean conservation practitioners, and reduce the integration of traditional and community-based knowledge into environmental planning and management.

The presentation further highlighted that concerns regarding local capacity are often linked to structural barriers rather than any inherent limitations within Caribbean societies. According to Bervoets, leadership opportunities, institutional authority, and long-term investment in local expertise are essential for building stronger conservation institutions that are responsive to local realities and priorities.

Alternative approaches emerging elsewhere in the Caribbean were also discussed. Examples from fisheries co-management initiatives in Jamaica, collaborative marine protected area governance in Belize, and Indigenous stewardship systems practiced by communities throughout the region were highlighted as evidence that locally led conservation can achieve positive environmental outcomes while strengthening community participation and accountability.

Bervoets called for greater investment in Caribbean leadership, increased institutional autonomy, expanded community co-management frameworks, and stronger recognition of Indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and local ecological knowledge within environmental decision-making processes. He argued that conservation efforts are most effective when the people most closely connected to natural resources play a meaningful role in determining how those resources are managed and protected.

The session formed part of a broader panel examining the afterlives of empire and their influence on contemporary Caribbean governance and development. Fellow presenter Gabrielle Hemmings of the University of Birmingham explored the impact of reparatory justice initiatives undertaken by United Kingdom higher education institutions and their implications for the Caribbean. The discussion was chaired by Dr. Roana Williams, who facilitated an exchange on governance, justice, and self-determination in the Caribbean.

The session highlighted growing interest among Caribbean scholars and practitioners in examining how historical power structures continue to shape environmental and development challenges. Participants emphasized that achieving long-term resilience in the Caribbean will require governance models that place greater authority, expertise, and decision-making responsibility within the region while ensuring that conservation remains both effective and locally legitimate.

~Experienced Caribbean tourism marketing professional to lead strategic destination visibility and growth initiatives~

ROSEAU, Dominica:---  The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) has announced the appointment of Wendy Lake as Destination Marketing Manager, effective June 1, 2026. In this key leadership role, Wendy will oversee strategic marketing systems designed to elevate the Nature Island’s global presence and drive sustainable visitor growth.
Wendy brings 16 years of extensive experience within the Caribbean travel and tourism sector. Her professional expertise spans destination brand management, market research, stakeholder engagement, and targeted promotional campaigns. Throughout her career, she has successfully built private- and public-sector partnerships to execute high-impact tourism initiatives.
An alumnus of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad, Wendy holds a Master of Science in International Strategic Marketing, completed with Distinction, alongside a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies with a minor in Economics. Her academic foundation is further strengthened by a professional certification as an Administrative Professional Secretary from the same institution.
This multidisciplinary background across operations, project management and destination positioning provides her with a comprehensive understanding of evolving marketplace demands and consumer travel trends.
As Destination Marketing Manager, Wendy will lead the DDA’s core marketing team, focusing on innovative branding campaigns, collaborative trade partnerships and data-driven initiatives across primary source markets. Her role will center on maximizing Dominica’s unique market appeal and streamlining international and regional promotional strategies.
The appointment comes at a strategic time for the destination, as demand continues to grow for authentic nature, wellness and adventure tourism experiences, alongside sustained international marketing campaigns.
Chief Executive Officer and Director of Tourism at the Discover Dominica Authority, Marva Williams, welcomed the appointment, noting that Wendy’s leadership will reinforce the organization’s ongoing strategic initiatives.
“Wendy’s appointment brings valuable marketing leadership to our team as we continue to sharpen Dominica’s competitive edge,” said Williams. “Her deep industry insight and collaborative approach will be instrumental in building impactful partnerships, enhancing our brand presence and positioning the destination effectively in a dynamic global market.”
Wendy expressed her enthusiasm about joining the Authority and contributing to the forward momentum of the island's tourism development.
“I am excited and truly honoured to begin a new chapter as Destination Marketing Manager with Discover Dominica Authority. I look forward to contributing to the promotion and marketing of beautiful Dominica, showcasing its rich culture, breathtaking natural beauty, authentic experience, and warm people to the world,” said Wendy. “I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to work alongside the team and stakeholders to strengthen the destination’s visibility, foster meaningful partnerships and support the continued growth of tourism in Dominica.”
The Discover Dominica Authority remains committed to strategic promotional frameworks that maximize destination competitiveness, optimize visitor arrivals and build long-term value for the local hospitality sector.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Judicial & Institutional Services Foundation (J&IS), through its Foster Families Central unit, has successfully concluded Foster Care Awareness Month following a month-long campaign dedicated to raising awareness, promoting foster care, strengthening community partnerships, and encouraging greater support for children in need of safe, stable, and nurturing homes.
Held under the theme “Foster the Future” and guided by the message “Be the Village, Foster a Child,” the month brought together government officials, foster families, family guardians, child protection workers, social workers, educators, volunteers, community leaders, artists, businesses, and members of the public in a collective effort to highlight the importance of foster care and the role the community plays in supporting vulnerable children.
The campaign officially launched at the Belair Community Center, allowing the voices of those with lived foster care experience to take center stage. Former foster youth, former foster parent Sharlien Espoza, and current foster parent Natasha Oliver shared powerful personal testimonies about the impact of foster care and the importance of providing children with safe and loving environments. Their stories offered insight into both the challenges and rewards of the foster care journey and served as a call to action for the wider community.
Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the need for a renewed village approach to child protection and reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting foster families. During her remarks, the Minister announced proposed adjustments within the 2026 draft budget that would more than double the current financial support available to foster families, recognizing that financial barriers often discourage families from opening their homes to children in need.
Throughout the month, J&IS conducted outreach and awareness activities in collaboration with SXM Doet, including outreach activities like the “Foster The Future Food Drive” & “A Table That Brings Us Together”. These initiatives were designed to increase the number of foster families, promote volunteerism and mentorship, strengthen partnerships, and educate the public about the needs of children within the foster care system.
One of the highlights of the campaign was a collaborative mural created by foster youth during a workshop funded by Art Saves Lives and facilitated by teaching artist Zillah Duzon. The mural became a symbol of hope, resilience, and community support and was featured in a silent auction alongside donated artwork and other items to raise funds for programs that directly benefit children in care.
Foster Care Awareness Month culminated with the “Taking Steps to Foster the Future” Walk-A-Thon, which attracted a record-breaking turnout of more than 60 participants. The community walk began and ended at the Government Administration Building in Philipsburg and brought together residents of all ages in a public demonstration of support for children in foster care.
Participants showed their enthusiasm and commitment throughout the event, with prizes awarded to the first three adult finishers, the first youth finisher, and the two youngest participants. The event not only promoted foster care awareness but also encouraged healthy community engagement and family participation.
J&IS expresses heartfelt gratitude to the many organizations, businesses, volunteers, and community partners whose support made Foster Care Awareness Month possible. Special thanks are extended to the Sunshine Children Center of Physical Development, the National Institute of Arts, MAC Primary School, Dow’s Musical Foundation, and Shamarr Hodge, whose contributions helped create an atmosphere centered on healing, inclusion, and community responsibility.
Moreover, we would also like to express a heartfelt gratitude to Windward Islands Bank, Ocean Lounge, Amsterdam Cheese Store, CLEAN, All in One Place, Poppin’ Sushi, Kid’s Zone, Heavenly Water, FLOW Wellness Boutique, Chesterfield’s, Pineapple Pete’s, Cost U Less, Divico, Sunny Foods, Carrefour Market, Art Saves Lives, Holland House, The Cheese Factor, St. Maarten Yacht Club, the Ministry of Justice, Ecotech Solutions, the Court of Guardianship, the Court of First Instance, the J&IS Youth Residential Home, New Start for Children Home, and numerous other public and private sector partners.
J&IS also recognizes Director Steven Carty and the Point Blanche Prison, whose chefs and inmates prepared 100 snack boxes for the launch event, as well as the many volunteers and supporters who contributed their time, resources, and expertise throughout the month.
Foster Care Month would not have been the success it was without the support of media partners who helped amplify the message across the island. Special thanks are extended to radio hosts Tatiana Arrindell, Alston Laurens, and CD Rankin of MY88.3FM, as well as Ramona Riley of SOS Radio, for providing a platform to raise awareness about the need for foster parents and the realities faced by children in care.
At the same time, J&IS extends its sincere appreciation to all newspaper, online news, and social media platforms, including The Daily Herald, SMN News, Soualiga Newsday, and The People’s Tribune, for their continued support throughout the month. By publishing press releases, promoting events, sharing stories, and helping to educate the public about foster care, these media partners significantly expanded the reach of the campaign. Their support helped increase public awareness, encourage community participation, highlight the need for foster families, and keep the needs of vulnerable children visible within the wider St. Maarten community. As Foster Care Awareness Month has come to a close. The campaign concluded with the successful auction of a mural made by youths. J&IS extends its sincere appreciation to the Rise Foundation for submitting the winning bid and supporting initiatives that directly benefit children and families within the foster care system.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is currently investigating a shooting incident that took place in the South Reward area on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

At approximately 8:30 PM, Central Police Dispatch received several calls reporting a shooting in the South Reward area near Milton Peters College. In response, several police patrols and detectives were immediately dispatched to the location to investigate the report.

During the initial stages of the investigation, officers received information indicating that the suspects involved in the incident were on Burlap Drive in the Cul-De-Sac. Police officers proceeded to the area and encountered two individuals believed to have been involved in the shooting.

During the operation, officers also discovered a firearm that had been concealed inside a foam cooler located nearby. The firearm was confiscated as evidence. Both suspects were subsequently arrested and transported to the Philipsburg Police Station, where they remain in custody for questioning.

Later that evening, officers made contact with the victim involved in the incident. During the course of the investigation, detectives also gathered information suggesting that the victim may have been in possession of a firearm during the incident. This aspect of the case is also being actively investigated.

KPSM detectives are continuing their investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the involvement of all parties. At this time, no further details can be released in the interest of the ongoing investigation.

The Police Force of Sint Maarten urges anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have information relevant to this investigation to contact the Police Station at +1 (721) 542-2222, the anonymous tip line at 9300, or send a private message through the official KPSM Facebook page.