Barbados House in London continues to engage with the local community, hosting another event on Saturday, May 9th, 2026.
Hosted by High Commissioner H.E. Edmund G. Hinkson, the event brought together associations and individuals in the Diaspora to discuss how they can support the advancement of Barbados — economically, socially, commercially, and philanthropically — in both Barbados and the United Kingdom.
Introduced by Diaspora attaché Betty Lewis, , the High Commissioner touched on a range of topics that included Key themes such as human development and social welfare, Barbados’ economic position and debt reduction, the effects of historical debt, philanthropy and education, fostering a culture of educational giving, community support for education, youth engagement and mentorship, Barbados’ political and social landscape, early moral development, support for persons with disabilities, government spending and financial management, the risks of government bond investment, investment opportunities and economic development, and the protection of citizens’ interests.
Having retired from active politics over a year ago, Hinckson spoke about his passion for engaging with the disability sector and his own philanthropic efforts whilst in office. He implored Barbadian groups and individuals to support Barbados in their endeavours, utilising the “pay it forward” maxim: do good today, and what good you do today will be returned to you. What we do matters, even the little things. Kindness begets kindness. You don’t have to be able to move a mountain to make a difference.
In the questions and answers that followed, various questioners supported the HC initiative, but some had misgivings about the lack of official structure, whilst others said the database has been ongoing for a long while and asked about the historical archive of the UK Barbadian community.
Among those present were members of Barbadian groups, including the old scholars of the Coleridge Party and the Harrison Schools. These also included Cheshire Coroner Jacqueline Devonish, Karen Blackett, CBE, Shelley Collins, and many members of the legal fraternity.
