Barbados
In 1991, Ivan was elected Vice President of the Methodist Conference, the governing body of the Methodist Church that meets annually to discuss matters affecting the life of the Church, the nation and the world.
His story is chronicled in the late Dr Elizabeth Watson’s recent book, *Jackie Opel: Caribbean Musical Visionary*, which captures his brief but influential life. The work is based on her doctoral thesis, “Uncovering and Recovering Caribbean Popular Music: Jackie Opel as a Case Study”. The book offers a definitive discography and new insights into Opel’s creative development and enduring cultural legacy.
Fast forward to 2025. A notable aspect of Holder’s current tenure has been the implementation of the ‘We Gathering’ initiative. The WeGathering events, along with a long list of other events, began in Reading, Berk, where he has family connections and lived for a short time.
Birmingham is deemed the UK second city and nestled there are many Barbadians who have their representative group entitled 2nd Generation of Barbadian and Friends Associations. One of the oldest members of the NCBA its Chair Aaron has held many executive post during his long Association. Like most groups the objective is to celebrate Barbados through their many projects whilst raising much needed funds for charitable projects. Tickets £60
Dr Donna Marie Holder, who has Barbadian and St Vincentian heritage, is an esteemed Autism Specialist supporting autistic children, their families, and related professionals across a major London Borough. With more than thirteen years of experience working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in both special and mainstream school environments, Dr Holder possesses substantial expertise in her field.
Among seven million pupils, 119,821 have been diagnosed with autism. Boys continue to be diagnosed at significantly higher rates than girls, which, according to the team, may indicate limitations in gender-based diagnostic approaches. Data also show that autism prevalence is highest among pupils of Black ethnicity at 2.1%, whereas the lowest rate is observed within the Roma community at 0.85%.
So pupils are 60% more likely to be socially disadvantaged, if they also have a record of autism.
This event is designed to be inclusive for all age groups, with particular emphasis on honouring elders and families. It presents a valuable opportunity for networking within the Caribbean community. The programme features line and ballroom dancing, karaoke, various exhibitors, arts and crafts, product showcases, face painting, and informative presentations. Attendees can enjoy authentic Bajan cuisine provided by our primary caterers in both halls, while an additional, though limited, selection of menu options will be available outdoors
BOCFA is the original Barbadian Association in the UK and was founded in 1966, since its inception it represented Barbadians all over before the onset of the NCBA, where individual organisations started to form groups in their areas. Calling all Barbadians and friends of Barbados to celebrate the 599th Anniversary of independence and four years as a Republic. Enjoy the music of McCallum Connell and his band, Enjoy the Special menu created for the evening by our bajan Chefs. Dance all evening to the best of UK Bajan DJs.
Her remarkable prowess became evident early in her education when she received recognition for “best diary” during a primary school trip.
Top Boy series dangerously portrays Black youth as gang-affiliated caricatures, and if Bajan youth are inexorably drifting toward violent crime and mindless consumer culture, where does the blame lie?