Caribbean
“Although there have been serious management failings, steps have been taken to support the licensing objectives through the appointment of a new operations manager and security company.”
It’s a testament to the group’s reputation that over fifteen community groups were represented at this annual event.
Born in Bridgetown, Barbados, in 1932, Blenman moved to the UK after the Second World War. He was part of the wave of Caribbean recruits who joined London Transport in the late 1950s
Earlier in the afternoon, Manchester’s Mack Clarke asked the crowd to observe a one-minute silence in honour of Winston Pinder, a Barbadian pioneer, former NCBA executive officer, and a significant contributor to the Caribbean community in the UK.
His Barbadian heritage, through parents John and Janice Stevenson, forms part of the cultural foundation.
“Cheryl was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother whose warmth, strength and unwavering love were the foundation of her family.”
High Commissioner Hinkson, who has “hit the ground running” since his arrival, is said to be looking forward to engaging with Bajans outside London at this lively Midlands event
The charismatic Karen, who was born in Reading to Barbadian parents, has always drawn strength from her Bajan heritage, which shapes both her identity and perspective. Growing up in a diaspora family, Karen inherited values of diligence, perseverance, and the drive to overcome obstacles.
As Barbados marks 60 years of Independence in 2026, and just a few years after becoming a Republic in 2021, a quiet cultural revolution is unfolding in the voices of ordinary Barbadians.
Business Envoy Tony Sealey OBE, patron of the local Barbadian Group, chaired the meeting. He was joined on the platform by Deputy High Commissioner Mackie Holder, newly appointed High Commissioner to the UK Edmund Hinkson SC, and Diaspora Attache Betty Lewis.