HARBOUR VIEW:--- The Governor of Sint Maarten, His Excellency A.G. Baly, LL.M., today announced the speakers for the 11th Annual Governor’s symposium. The notable experts that will address the June 28, 2024, event are:
- David Comissiong – a veteran Attorney-at-Law - is a former Senator in the government of Barbados and is currently Barbados’ Ambassador to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and to the Association of Caribbean States (ACS). Since the year 2012, Mr. Comissiong has served as a member of Barbados’ National Task Force on Reparations and is currently the deputy Chair of the Task Force.
- Dr. Nilda Arduin is a versatile professional whose experience and knowledge span several areas with specific focus on law, community advancement, mentoring, institutional strengthening and training. She served as St. Maarten’s first National Ombudsman from 2010 to 2018. A published author with a Doctorate in Science of Law from Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, she now focuses on educating others via books and trainings.
- Dr. Napolina Richardson is a historian, librarian, author, and theologian. She holds Master's degrees in Library and Information Science and History and Research and a PhD in biblical studies. She is also an experienced educator with over thirty years of experience teaching history and social studies at multiple secondary schools.
- Ms. Amaris Richardson is the epitome of a true and proud St. Maartener/Antillean. Her love of St. Maarten, the Caribbean, and its Diaspora has been the driving force behind her passion for service and culture. She is now the Manager of the Sint Maarten National Heritage Foundation & Museum with the purpose of promoting, embracing, and enhancing the awareness of the Culture, History, Heritage, Healing & Traditions of St. Maarten.
- Mr. Raimie Richardson is a heritage inspector with the Public Entity St. Eustatius, responsible for the preservation and promotion of cultural and historical heritage on the island. With a Bachelors of Education in History and a Masters degree in History, he has a strong background in education and heritage interpretation having developed and delivered various educational programs.
Following the presentations from the esteemed speakers, the Symposium will continue into a panel discussion, which will be moderated by Ms. Makhicia Brooks to further explore the deep intricacies of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, its long-term impact, and ways forward while acknowledging our shared history.
As a friendly reminder, due to the limited space, the Governor’s Symposium is by invite only. The symposium, which is scheduled to take place on Friday, June 28, 2024, kicks off promptly at 8:30 a.m., and registration commences at 8:00 a.m. at the auditorium of the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in Cupecoy.
The public can watch the Symposium via a livestream. The livestream will be available to the public from 08:30 AM, on Friday June 28, 2024, and can be accessed via the Governor’s Facebook page or Youtube channel using these links: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Governor-of-Sint-Maarten/570166756411901 or //youtube.com/@thegovernorofsintmaarten8632">https://youtube.com/@thegovernorofsintmaarten8632. Furthermore, virtual attendees can be part of the conversation via www.slido.com. On the slido website, simply enter event code Gov2024 and click join.
