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The pulse of Dominica’s vibrant culture is back! Creole Heartbeat Magazine proudly announces the return of its January – March 2025 Edition, featuring none other than SHELLY on the cover. This issue is packed with exclusive features covering some of the biggest cultural and tourism events of the season:  Carnival 2025 Recap – A look back at Dominica’s most electrifying Carnival celebrations, featuring highlights from the road, interviews with performers, breathtaking costume designs, and reflections on the festival’s cultural significance.  Yacht Festival in Portsmouth – In Full Swing! – A deep dive into this ongoing festival, showcasing Dominica’s maritime culture, the experiences of yacht enthusiasts, and the festival’s impact on tourism and local businesses.  Looking Ahead to the Dominica Music Awards – A preview of the biggest night in Dominican music, featuring artists to watch, award predictions, and insights into how this event is shaping the local and regional music industry.  Upcoming Jazz N Creole Festival – A first look at what’s in store for Jazz N Creole 2025, including must-see performances and the festival’s role in showcasing Dominica’s unique blend of music and culture.  Discover Dominica’s Natural Wonders – Stunning features on adventure tourism, breathtaking natural sites, and eco-friendly activities that make Dominica the ultimate nature island experience. Creole Heartbeat continues to be the leading voice in celebrating Dominica’s vibrant entertainment scene, cultural traditions, and tourism industry. This issue is packed with must-read stories and exciting insights into what makes our island unique.

The Housing Recovery Project (HRP), a flagship initiative under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, continues to transform lives and restore dignity by providing modern, safe, and secure homes to families across Dominica. More than just housing, the project provides a foundation for families to rebuild their lives with security and confidence, allowing them to focus on their livelihoods, education, and community well-being. Since its inception, the HRP has been a beacon of hope for families whose lives were upended by the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria in 2017. By prioritizing the most vulnerable, the project has not only rebuilt homes but also restored stability, security, and a sense of pride to hundreds of households. A New Chapter for Beneficiaries For many beneficiaries, receiving the keys to their new homes marks the beginning of a transformative journey. Ginette Toussaint of Good Hope admitted, “It marks a great significance in my life - receiving my beautiful house. Thanks to the Government of Dominica, the Housing Recovery Project and everyone who made it possible. What I have waited for has come to pass. See what the Lord has done! More Than Just Housing The HRP is about more than just construction. What happens after the homes are built? Families gain the security of knowing they can weather future storms—and the confidence to plan for tomorrow. Each home is designed to withstand a category 5 hurricane, ensuring long-term safety and security for beneficiaries. The project also facilitated land ownership documentation to families, giving them a permanent stake in their future and fostering a sense of pride and stability. As of February 20, 2025, the Housing Recovery Project (HRP) has practically completed the construction of 317 homes, handed over 283 completed homes, with 50 homes currently under construction. Additionally, 176 beneficiaries have received their land ownership documents — a critical step in securing their futures. A Commitment to Resilience and Dignity Honorable Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, emphasized the transformative impact of the HRP. “This project is about more than rebuilding homes—it’s about rebuilding lives. It’s about restoring dignity, providing security, and creating opportunities for families to thrive. Every key we hand over represents a new beginning, a fresh start, and a brighter future for our people.” The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development echoed this sentiment, stating, “By strengthening housing infrastructure, the HRP contributes to Dominica’s Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to building back better and protecting future generations.” Looking Ahead The HRP remains committed to its goal of contributing to the national goal of delivering 5000 resilient homes by 2030, ensuring that every deserving family in Dominica has access to safe, secure, and modern housing. With the support of the World Bank and other development partners, the project continues to set a standard for resilience and inclusivity in the region. As the HRP moves forward, it remains a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives, restoring dignity, and building a more resilient Dominica.

The largest global environmental movement Earth Hour returns for its 19th edition with the Biggest Hour for Earth as it unites millions around the world in celebration of our planet. The National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) will once again lead Dominica in the observance of Earth Hour this year. Last year, Earth Hour International formally recognized the NDFD for its significant contributions in organizing Earth Hour in the Commonwealth of Dominica since 2021. From 8:30 pm local time on Saturday, 22nd March, WWF’s Earth Hour, the world’s largest grassroots environmental movement, returns for its 19th edition with the ‘Biggest Hour for Earth’ in support and celebration of our planet. Earth Hour serves as a beacon of positivity, hope, and inspiration to rally as many people as possible in over 180 countries and territories. Since its creation in 2007, Earth Hour has been known for its “lights off” moment. As landmarks and homes across the world switch off, supporters are also invited to symbolically switch off and ;Give an hour for Earth’, spending 60 minutes doing something - anything - positive for our planet. In 2024, over 1.5 million hours were given to our planet by supporters around the world. Earth Hour is more than a moment; it's a movement that has continued to inspire and mobilise people globally, reminding us of our collective responsibility to create a more hopeful and resilient future for our planet. In Dominica, the National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) will once again take the lead in the observance of Earth Hour by organizing activities such as beach and river cleanups, educational outreach programs, sustainable cooking bonding activities, and a movie night featuring an environmentally relevant blockbuster. NDFD’s Business and Entrepreneurial Development Manager (BEDM) Donald Bercasio invites everyone and all organizations to participate by engaging in an activity of their choice that benefits our planet for one hour at any time on March 22. Bercasio also encourages all participants to share their videos or photos with the NDFD for these hours to be accounted for or to tag the Foundation’s social media handles when posting these activities online. Kirsten Schuijt, Director General, WWF International: “The stakes have never been higher. The past year was the hottest on record—capping off the hottest decade, with the hottest seas ever recorded. We’ve witnessed historic wildfires, storms, and droughts as well. Our world is in peril and we are rapidly approaching dangerous climate tipping points beyond which key ecosystems may never be able to recover. Earth Hour is a powerful reminder of the urgency to act while we still can. It is not just about switching off lights; it’s about switching on a global movement for change. By engaging individuals, communities, and businesses, we can create a collective force that drives real impact and inspires hope for a sustainable future.” Through the Hour Bank, Earth Hour invites everyone, everywhere to find the most enjoyable ways to give an hour for Earth. Whether it is cooking a sustainable meal at home, catching a nature documentary, taking a mindful walk through the woods to bask in nature and feel the earth, or engaging in a home scavenger hunt to identify and swap out unsustainable products with eco-friendly alternatives, there are myriad options to choose from. The Hour Bank provides a list of activities and events based on participants' lifestyle interests and preferences, from food and fitness to art and entertainment. The 'Give an hour for Earth'; call-to-action makes participation even easier and fun, encouraging individuals not only to switch off lights symbolically but also to take 60 minutes to do good for the planet by doing something they love. Yves Calmette, Senior Director, Brand and Network Communications, Earth Hour Global: “Earth Hour is all about making environmental action accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful. By aligning our actions with people’s passions and interests, we can inspire even more individuals to join the movement. The Hour Bank is designed to show that everyone can contribute to protecting our planet, no matter where they are or what they love to do. Building on the incredible momentum of 2024, when we reach a milestone of 1.5 million hours, we aim to surpass that number to 2 million hours this year. Together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future.”

Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty proudly present the 2nd Annual Afro-Caribbean 2025 Edition – Fashion Time-Travel Event! Get ready for an electrifying night where history, culture, and fashion collide in a spectacular celebration of Dominica’s heritage. Set for Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 5:30 PM at the Anchorage Hotel, this year’s event promises to be bigger, bolder, and more unforgettable than ever. Following last year’s incredible success, “Dominica’s Story Comes to Life” returns with a brand-new theme: “The First Settlers”—a captivating journey through the trials, triumphs, and resilience of Dominica’s earliest inhabitants. This year’s edition will take guests on an immersive experience through runway time-travel, from the roots of the Kalinago people to the vibrant, contemporary expressions of Afro-Caribbean culture today. Expect a jaw-dropping fusion of fashion, storytelling, spoken word, and high-energy performances that bring the island’s history to life. The night’s highlight includes a special guest performance by renowned Dominican artist Michele Henderson. Other featured segments include an evolution of Dominican fashion, from traditional Kalinago attire to modern adaptations inspired by the colors of the Dominican flag, alongside spoken word poetry, an open-mic session, and a runway showcase of national wear both traditional and contemporary. Speaking on the evolution of the event, Kimara Matthew, CEO and Founder of Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty, expressed her excitement for this year's expanded edition. “This second edition is not just a show—it’s a cultural movement. We are diving deeper into our roots, honoring our heritage, and creating a space where storytelling, music, and fashion unite. It’s a moment for Dominicans, both at home and abroad, to embrace and celebrate who we are.” This event is proudly supported by The Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce , Optishop, My kitchen By Anna WindtiThe Progressive Mind. Look out for giveaways, prizes, andspecial surprises as we count down to the runway and join us as we bring Dominica’s Story to Life—again!

IsraAID Dominica donated a drone equipped with a thermal camera to the Office of Disaster Management (ODM), marking a significant step forward in Dominica’s disaster preparedness and response efforts. The handover reinforces the country’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve search and rescue operations in challenging environments. This drone will provide ODM with enhanced aerial surveillance capabilities, particularly in disaster situations where rapid assessments and real-time data are crucial. The thermal imaging function will allow for improved detection in low-visibility conditions, increasing the efficiency of search and rescue missions. Following the handover, key stakeholders, including members of district disaster committees and the fire and ambulance services, participated in a specialized two-day training aimed at expanding their technical knowledge of drone technology. The training covered critical topics such as: • Basics of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) • UAV Safety Protocols • UAV Legislation and Legal Regulations • General Operating Procedures • Hands-on Flight Maneuvers • Drone as a First Responder • UAV Fleet Maintenance and Management By equipping ODM with advanced technology and providing hands-on training, IsraAID is strengthening the capacity of local disaster response teams, ensuring they can act swiftly and effectively in times of crisis. IsraAID remains committed to working with national agencies and local partners to enhance Dominica’s resilience against disasters, ensuring communities are better prepared and supported in emergency situations.

The Dominica Association of Professional Engineers (D.A.P.E) will host several activities in commemoration of Engineers’ Week. The celebration, which runs from March 23 to March 29, will begin with a mass at the St. Martin De Porres Roman Catholic Church in Canefield on Sunday, March 23 at 10:30am. The President of D.A.P.E, Nicole Laville, said it is important to the association to start the week off in thanksgiving. “On Sunday, March 23rd, we will kick off the week with Mass at the St Martin De Porres Chapel in Canefield. And we’re going to take this opportunity to give thanks and offer our organization, our profession and the work of our hands to the Almighty.” On Wednesday, March 26, the association will engage the youth with a debate featuring the Dominica State College and the AcademiX School of Learning. The topic of debate was especially selected to pique the interest of the young people. “The topic of this debate is particularly timely and in keeping with what is happening in 2025 and it is ‘The Rapid Advancement of AI is a Threat to Engineering Jobs and Will Soon Lead to a Lack of Innovation in the Field’. And we believe that this discussion will be crucial for the field of engineering....The debate is also an opportunity to encourage young people to do research about the field of engineering and this is one of the aims of our organization-to promote engineering and to gain ground for new engineers in Dominica,” Laville pointed out. Laville indicated that the debate will be held at the Amphitheatre of the Dominica China Friendship Hospital at 2:30pm and the public is encouraged to attend. To culminate the week of activities, an award ceremony and social will be held on Saturday, March 29. “To close out the week, we are going to be holding the Engineers’ Award Ceremony and during that ceremony we are going to honour three (3) exceptional engineers for their outstanding contribution and dedicated and long service to the field of engineering in Dominica. This is the first time that this is going to be done for engineers in Dominica so we are definitely looking forward to this event,” she informed. Laville said she hopes that the award ceremony will serve as encouragement for other engineers to offer dedicated service. ### END ### ABOUT D.A.P.E: The Dominica Association of Professional Engineers (D.A.P.E.) is a professional body committed to enhancing the skills and capabilities of Dominican engineers. D.A.P.E. focuses on maintaining high ethical standards, promoting continuous professional development, and ensuring that engineering practices meet local and international standards.

With just a little under three months before the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) must take urgent action to prepare for climate-related displacement and migration. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and partners are calling on media and stakeholders to share the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices cards available on Trello to enhance preparedness and response efforts. The Caribbean faces increasing threats from hurricanes, floods, coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts. These environmental shocks not only disrupt economies but also exacerbate socio-economic vulnerabilities, leading to internal and cross-border displacement. As SIDS work to enhance their disaster response mechanisms, it is essential to mainstream human mobility and human security into national climate and disaster risk reduction policies and planning. This call to action aligns with the upcoming regional workshop, Mainstreaming Human Mobility and Human Security in Caribbean Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Policies: Progress and Way Forward, to be held in Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 25-26, 2025. This workshop will bring together government officials, policymakers, and regional stakeholders to strengthen the integration of human mobility considerations into National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies. Why the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocols Matter? The Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards provide essential guidance for Caribbean nations to manage migration and displacement effectively in the face of climate-induced disasters. By ensuring that communities, policymakers, and responders are equipped with standardized protocols, SIDS can improve national and regional coordination, protect displaced populations, and build resilience. Key Workshop Objectives The workshop, organized by IOM with funding from the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS) and the French-funded project on Environmental Migration and Disaster Displacement, will focus on: • Assessing progress in incorporating human mobility into Caribbean climate policies. • Training stakeholders in the application of the Environmental Migration, Disaster Displacement, and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool. Identifying policy gaps and opportunities to enhance disaster and climate mobility strategies. • Sharing best practices to ensure the dignity, safety, and livelihoods of displaced populations. • Strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships for regional collaboration. • Discussing climate finance mechanisms to address funding gaps for displacement, migration, and planned relocation. Call to Action Media and stakeholders are urged to share and amplify the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards from Trello across platforms, ensuring that the Caribbean community is well-prepared for the upcoming hurricane season. By integrating human mobility considerations through the human security approach into climate and disaster risk reduction policies, we can collectively strengthen the region’s resilience and disaster response. For more information about the workshop and how to access the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices, please visit https://www.iom.int/countries/dominica where the complete protocol reports live.

The Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, Hon. Anthony Samora Charles, has declared his full support for the Government of Dominica’s Electoral Reform Bills, which were presented for their second and third readings in Parliament on Wednesday."I stand for this bill to be passed, because we have to start somewhere. We have to give and take and this is not about political parties showing how strong they are or the government flexing their muscles. This is about democracy,” he stated. “We need to work together, simple.” He added. The Government introduced three key pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral system: the Registration of Electors Bill & Regulations (2024), the House of Assembly (Elections) & Registration Bill (2024), and the Electoral Commission Bill (2024).These measures are designed to enhance electoral integrity, increase transparency and modernise voting procedures in line with international best practices. Among new measures, the Registration of Electors Act provides for the introduction of mandatory voter confirmation within a 12-month period, requiring individuals to present valid documentation for verification. Additionally, Voter Identification Cards will be issued, incorporating key identifying information such as a photograph and advanced security features.

The Roosevelt Skerrit Portsmouth Bombers FC have emerged victorious as the 2024/2025 DFA Women Premier League Champions, finishing at the top of the table with an impressive 38 points — edging out Goodwill Runners by a single point, who finished with 37 points. The Bombers completed an outstanding season, playing 16 games, winning 12, drawing 2, and losing 2. They showcased a powerful attack, scoring a league-best 67 goals, while also boasting the strongest defense by conceding only 11 goals — finishing with an impressive +54 goal difference. In their final match against Harlem United FC, Le'Myah Forde and Ciara Lee delivered decisive performances, scoring one goal each to secure the Bombers' place at the summit of Dominican women’s football. “We are incredibly proud of our players' dedication and heart throughout this season,” said Henrich Anselm, Head Coach of the Portsmouth Bombers FC. “This victory reflects their hard work, teamwork, and passion for the game. It’s a win for Portsmouth, our fans, and all young girls inspired to play football.” The Bombers’ victory not only marks a major achievement for the club but also highlights the continued rise and success of women’s football in Dominica.

The Government of Dominica wishes to clarify that it has not received any official communication from the United States regarding a draft list of 43 countries recommended for visa restrictions. Following media reports indicating that Dominica is on a "Yellow" list and will be given 60 days to address certain concerns, the Government has instructed its Ambassador to the United States, based in Washington, D.C., to make the necessary inquiries seeking clarification. Dominica values its longstanding and cordial relationship with the United States and is committed to strengthening this partnership. The Government of Dominica will remain actively engaged in this matter and provide more information as it becomes available.

The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) announces the winners of Mas Domnik 2025, Dominica’s premier carnival celebration, which took place on March 3 and 4. This year’s festivities were a resounding success, showcasing the island’s authentic culture, stunning costumes, and infectious rhythms. The event captivated audiences with its dynamic parades and performances, solidifying Dominica’s position as a leading destination for exciting and engaging experiences. Highlights of Mas Domnik 2025 Winners Opening Parade: ● Best Carnival Business Float: ● 1 st Place: AID Bank ● 2 nd Place: Do It Centre ● 3 rd Place: Fine Foods Inc. ● 4 th Place: DASPA ● Special Flag Wavers Group Award: NBD Flag Wavers Carnival Monday-Jou Ouvè: ● First Lapo Kabwit Band: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Lapo Kabwit with the Largest Following: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Best Male: Plague Doctor- Shepherd Fregiste ● Best Female: Adasa Davis- Malificent ● Best Sennsé: Dennison ‘Dice’ Joseph- Gold Devil ● Largest Ole Mas Group: Chou Poul ● Best Jou ouvè Costume Group: Disco Bachanal ● Lapo Kabwit with Most Lavwé: New Town Lapo Kabwit ● Best Ole Mas Band: Chou Poul ● Longest Lapo Kabwit: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Largest Lapo Kabwit: Police Lapo Kabwit ● Best Jou ouvè Group: Lumination- The Rebirth- Signal Band ● Best Theatrical Group: Jean Bois- Victims of Dengue ● Best Pappy Show Wedding: Chou Poul ● Best Jou ouvè Gang (less than 6): Headless Horse Man- Marvin Carbon Carnival Monday Ole Mas Parade: ● Best Ole Mas Band ● 1 st Place: Good Hope Darkies ● 2 nd Place: Creole Sensay ● 3 rd Place: Thunderbirds- Faces of Sennsé ● Best Creative Individual Male: Dennison ‘Dice’ Joseph- Gold Devil ● Best Creative Individual Female: Nathalia Paul- Floral Sennsé Carnival Monday Youth Mas Parade: ● Children Band of The Year  1 st Place: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group  2 nd Place: Ballon Blast ● Children King of the Band: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group ● Children Queen of the Band: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group ● Best Children Float  ● 1st Place: Ballon Blast ● 2nd Place: Sailors of the OECS- Lucia Lander Dance Group Carnival Monday T-Shirt Plus Bands: ● Carnival Monday T-shirt Plus Band: ●  1 st Place: Signal Band-Luminites ●  2 nd Place: TK Mega Monday ●  3 rd Place: Klubirds ● Special Award for Carnival Spirit: Grand Bay Sennsé Carnival Tuesday Parade Costume Bands: ● Contemporary Band of the Year ● 1st Place: Pulse Experience ● 2nd Place: Fantacy Tribe ● 3rd Place: Hysteria Mas ● Traditional Band of the Year  ●  1st Place: Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●  2nd Place: Thunderbirds- Face of Sen ●  3rd Place: Chou Poul ● Traditional King of the Band: Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●        Traditional King of the Band : Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●        Traditional Queen of the Band : Afrikulture Stilt Walkers ●        Contemporary King of the Band : Hysteria Mas ●        Contemporary Queen of the Band : Hysteria Mas ●        People’s Choice Contemporary Band of the Year ( online voting ) : Fantacy Tribe   Band of the Year 2025 : Afrikulture Stilt Walkers- Brick by Beat   Charlene White-Christian, Road Parade Coordinator, expressed her pride in the event, stating: “This year’s road parade was a true celebration of creativity and dedication. From the stunning costumes to the rhythmic beats, every moment reflected the hard work of our masqueraders and organizers. It’s inspiring to see how carnival brings people together, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. Congratulations to everyone who made this possible—your efforts have set a high standard for the future of Mas Domnik,” said Charlene White-Christian, Chairperson, Carnival Road Parade Committee. Ayodele Andrew, Festivals and Events Manager at DDA, added: “ Mas Domnik 2025 truly represented Dominica—safe, authentic, inclusive, and accessible to all.  This year, we saw families, friends, and visitors come together to enjoy our culture in a welcoming and secure environment. The success of this event is a result of the collective effort of our sponsors, partners, and the entire community. Together, we’ve created something special, and I’m excited to see what we’ll achieve next year,” said Ayodele Andrew, Festivals and Events Manager, Discover Dominica Authority. The Discover Dominica Authority extends its gratitude to the sponsors whose support made Mas Domnik 2025 possible. Special thanks to the Government of Dominica, the presenting sponsor, as well as Flow Dominica, Belfast Estate, Josephine Gabriel & Co Ltd, Rubis Dominica, Central Cooperative Credit Union, National Bank of Dominica, Dominica National Lottery, Roseau South Constituency, Whitchurch Insurance & Travel, Big Edge Financial, Shammah Laurent, Tres Chic, Ngaska, Jaydees Natural, Alliance Francaise, Lovelee Things, Nature Blends, HHV Whitchurch, Eklat Novelties, Alliance Francaise, OECS Pearl, Kairi, Vibes, Q95 FM, Emo News, DBS, GIS, and Plant Scape. Mas Domnik 2025 was a celebration of Dominica’s rich traditions and creativity. The DDA congratulates all winners, participants, and organizers for their contributions to this year’s event.

The Independent Regulatory Commission (IRC) is making significant progress toward completing the electricity rate review as it prepares for a final stakeholder consultation. The Commission held its first press conference of 2025 on Wednesday, March 12, providing a status update on the ongoing rate review for Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC). Executive Director of IRC, Justinn Kase informed the media that DOMLEC has submitted its Cost-of-Service Study and Rate Proposal for the Commission’s review. “So far, the IRC has completed a detailed evaluation of DOMLEC’s depreciation of fixed assets, rate of return for investors, revenue requirement, and investment plan. As part of this review, we hosted three stakeholder consultations to ensure consumer voices were heard. From these consultations, we have finalized decisions on four critical tariff submissions by DOMLEC. "In addition, DOMLEC has submitted its two final documents for review—the Cost-of-Service Study and the Rate Proposal. Further public consultations will be required before any approval of new rates,” Mr. Kase explained. Key considerations during the tariff review include fuel costs, renewable energy integration, operational efficiencies, and the impact of inflation. Mr. Kase also emphasized that the IRC remains committed to protecting consumers from unnecessary rate increases, while ensuring DOMLEC can maintain and improve service reliability. The rate review process will conclude with the IRC’s final decisions on DOMLEC’s Cost-of- Service Study and Rate Proposal. Before that, the Commission will invite stakeholders to provide feedback. The dates for the consultation period will be announced later. …ENDS…