The team at 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 afternoon 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.
MC Diaspora attaché Betty Lewis introduced the High Commissioner, who touched on a range of topics, including key themes such as human development and social welfare, Barbados’ economic position and debt reduction, the effects of historical debt, philanthropy, and education.
HC Hinkson hopes to foster a culture of educational giving in the local community, focusing on educational establishments that are personal to individuals and groups, with an emphasis on youth engagement and mentorship. Support for persons with disabilities, government spending and financial management, the risks of government bond investments, investment opportunities and economic development, and the protection of citizens’ interests were also discussed.
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 now, and another asked about the historical archive of the UK Barbadian community.
Among those present were members of selected Barbadian groups, including old scholars of the Coleridge and Parry, Combermere, and Harrison Schools. These also included senior Cheshire Coroner Jacqueline Devonish, Karen Blackett, CBE, Shelley Collins, Businesswoman Jeniffer Lapompe and many members of the legal fraternity and varied professions.
While opinions differ, there is broad agreement that initiatives like this need a wider audience to make a meaningful impact, especially in London, where the Bajan community is larger. Saying that the HC needs to be reminded that Philanthropy has long been central to Barbadian organisations, reflected in repeated donations to Challenor School, the Hope Foundation, Drax Hall Community, and St Peter the Less. etc
