Bringing the spirit of Grenada to Britain

LONDON, July 15, 2012 - Despite the heavy downpour and a rainy week in London, the 4^th Annual Grenadian Heritage Day was convened at the Old Lyonian Sports and Social Club in Pinner, Harrow, London on Saturday July 14^th 2012, with scores of Grenadians and friends sampling tasty Grenadian cuisine, fruits, vegetables, arts, craft, culture, entertainment, on display, as Grenada’s Heritage was showcased for the fourth year running.

The idea, conceived in 2009, is aimed at educating second and succeeding generation Grenadians about their Heritage, and showcasing Grenadian Culture, Expertise and Cuisine.

Since the first event proved to be a tremendous success, the High Commissioner for Grenada and the Grenadian Community Groups in the United Kingdom, decided to make it an annual event.

The Event was Officially Opened by The Worshipful The Mayor of Harrow, Councillor Nizam Ismail accompanied by the Lady Mayoress, who warmly welcomed the culture of Grenada to Harrow.

The event was also graced by the presence of L/Cpl Dr Johnson Beharry VC, Mr Anthony C George, Designer of the Grenada Flag and the Grenada Olympic Team, led by Mr Conrad Francis, Chef de Mission.

The gathering took the opportunity to wish the team success at the games.

Several Grenadian Community Groups, individuals and supporters showcased their artistic talent with a variety of dishes, artistic creations and a wide range of performers in a variety of disciplines.

The Diaspora Youth Forum (DYF) UK took the opportunity to increase the awareness of Grenada’s Heritage among the 2^nd and succeeding generation Grenadians, with a corn-roasting stall and Grenadian-style snow ice, whilst the Diaspora Consultative Committee (DCC) UK also participated to raise funds for Educational Development in Grenada and raise awareness about the Homecoming Events August 5^th – 18^th 2012.

The Grenada Co-operative Bank (a.k.a. the Diaspora Bank), for the second time, participated in the Heritage Day and sensitized visitors on the facilities the Bank had in place for persons in the Diaspora.
Grenadians came from various parts of the United Kingdom including Manchester, Reading, Huddersfield, Birmingham, Wales and from several communities in and around London.

The High Commissioner for Grenada, HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse, was high in praise for the Chair of the Heritage Day Committee, Mr. Claude Sylvester and his team, for their dedicated service to Grenada, in planning and executing the event.

Special thanks also went out to the stall-holders, sponsors in the UK and Grenada, including the Grenada Co-operative Bank Ltd., The Grenada Board of Tourism (UK), The Grenada Marketing and National Importing Board, Noelville Ltd., Grenada Distillers Ltd., and all others who took time out to support the event and raffle, which included a trip to Grenada.

The proceeds of the event will go towards a chosen Heritage-related Project in Grenada.

The 5^th Annual Grenadian Heritage Day will be convened in London on Saturday July 13^th 2013.

High Commission for Grenada

London

July 15^th 2012 

UK-sponsored walk for Grenada's Olympic Team

LONDON, UK - Grenadians descended on London in a “blaze of colour” in support of the Grenada Team to the London 2012 Olympics.

The Grenada Olympic Welcoming Committee UK which was launched on November 17^th 2011, primarily to provide support to the Grenada Olympic Team and to Grenadians from around the world visiting the UK for the games, hosted a five-mile Thames Walk on Saturday 26^th May 2012, with over 23 supporters in attendance.

The walk covered five miles from Vauxhall to St. Katherine Docks near Tower Bridge in London.

Sponsors were eligible to enter a special prize draw (Trip to Grenada-Compliments British Airways)

The proceeds of the walk will assist with arrangements for the Guest Appearance of the Grenada Olympic Team at the 4^th Annual Grenadian Heritage Day (Saturday, 14^th July 2012), as part of an extensive programme of events (including the “Grenada House”) to raise awareness of Grenada, promote tourism and encourage investment.

High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse was high in praise for those who participated, as well as supported with their sponsorship, and extended special thanks to Deborah Bryant, a member of the Olympic Welcoming Committee, who laboured tirelessly to ensure a well-planned and executed Walk, and the Grenada Board of Tourism (UK) for their support.

Grenada is among the 200 plus countries expected to participate in the London 2012 Olympics (Games of the XXX Olympiad) from July 27 to August 12, 2012.

ShortKnee art workshop at Pepper Pot Centre in London

LONDON, UK, April 11, 2012 – At the invitation of the High Commission for Grenada in the United Kingdom, Grenadian artist Suelin Low Chew Tung, currently in the UK to attend a conference in Leeds, met with residents at the Pepper Pot Day Centre in Ladbroke Grove.

Fourteen residents took part in an art workshop - creating collaged art masks from paper and cardstock. They also learned about the Grenada ShortKnee, and the history behind this indigenous masquerade that Suelin is researching from a visual art point of view. The Pepper Pot Centre 'provides a wide range of drop-in activities, a hot Caribbean lunch and full day care for older people, part of a comprehensive service to older people from the African Caribbean community in Kensington and Chelsea, to enable them to live more independently in their own homes.' The High Commissioner for Grenada is a Patron of the Centre.

 Suelin also left a small piece of artwork created as a momento of her visit to the centre.

 The High Commissioner congratulated Suelin on this initiative and the Centre also expressed its appreciation to the Grenadian Artist.

Foreign Minister Hood hosted by Jason Roberts

READING, Berkshire, March 24, 2012 – Foreign Affairs Minister Karl Hood was hosted by Grenadian international Jason Roberts at an English Championship game at the Madejski Stadium here on Saturday.

The occasion was a game between Roberts’ team and title chaser Reading FC and Blackpool. Reading won the game 3-1 in front of 21,000 spectators.

The Guest Party included Jason’s close relatives including his father and Otis Roberts, CEO of the Jason Roberts Foundation, as well as High Commissioner Ruth Rouse.

Roberts missed Saturday’s game through injury but Reading’s manager Brian McDermott said that he may be back for the next week’s game against West Ham.

"He could be back for next week, we'll have to wait and see. It's a slight hamstring, he could well be back but we don't know yet. If he's right he could be back. He's much better, it's not as bad as first feared which is great news."

Roberts has been credited for the surge in Readings’ Premiership bid as he made the best start of any player in the history of Reading football club when he signed from Blackburn Rovers in January, winning eight straight games.

He scored three goals in his first four matches and his arrival added new impetus to a team that had already cast aside their mediocre early-season form and started to charge up the Championship table, according to BBC Sports.

Official start of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

LONDON, UK, February 6, 2012 - The High Commissioner for Grenada to the Court of St. James’s HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse, today attended ceremonies to mark the Official start of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Year. HC Rouse was present at Hyde Park London for the Kings troop Royal Horse Artillery Gun Salute and later attended a Service on the Sixtieth Anniversary of the Accession of Her Majesty at St Mary’s Abbots Church in Kensington, in the presence of Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. This was followed by a Reception at the Kensington Town Hall hosted by The Worshipful the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Councillor Julie Mills (Trinidadian-born).

Following is the Diamond Jubilee Message from Her Majesty The Queen:

Diamond Jubilee Message:

To mark the beginning of a year of celebration and reflection, Her Majesty released a message thanking those who had sent messages of support and looking forward to 2012:

'Today, as I mark 60 years as your Queen, I am writing to thank you for the wonderful support and encouragement that you have given to me and Prince Philip over these years and to tell you how deeply moved we have been to receive so many kind messages about the Diamond Jubilee.

In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign and which my family and I look forward to seeing in many forms as we travel throughout the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth.

I hope also that this Jubilee year will be a time to give thanks for the great advances that have been made since 1952 and to look forward to the future with clear head and warm heart as we join together in our celebrations.

I send my sincere good wishes to you all.

ELIZABETH R'

The Diamond Jubilee Website http://www.thediamondjubilee.org was also officially launched today February 6^th 2012, with a rich history of the Sovereign’s reign as Queen of Grenada and Head of the Commonwealth.

The Grenada Diamond Jubilee Website http://www.diamondjubileegrenada.com is also linked to the Official Diamond Jubilee Website and members of the public may log in to follow the activities taking place in the United Kingdom and in Grenada, as well as prepare to nominate persons for a Diamond Jubilee Medal, to be given during the Jubilee Weekend Celebrations in June 2012. Messages from the Governor-General and Prime Minister are included on the website and the visit of the Earl and Countess of Wessex late February 2012 will be made available. You are also able to send messages directly to the Queen via this website.

The general public may also wish to enter the Jubilee Time Capsule http://www.jubileetimecapsule.org  where it is possible to record a significant day in your life and also win exciting prizes.

From the Royal Commonwealth Society:

Today the Royal Commonwealth Society is marking Accession Day, 6 February 1952, by announcing the launch of the new Royal (re)Collection within the Jubilee Time Capsule (JTC), to be presented to the Queen later in 2012.

With over 23,000 pieces already contributed to the Jubilee Time Capsule, the project is set to be the most ambitious digital legacy of the Diamond Jubilee , and a unique People’s History of the last 60 years.

New Galleries and other Collections are also coming soon!

We are pleased to be featured on Buckingham Palace ’s official Diamond Jubilee website. If you would like to explore this new site which launched today, please see here: http://www.thediamondjubilee.org/commonwealth-time-capsule

On Friday we also announced the top entries from schools across the UK which have won tickets to the Commonwealth Day Observance in Westminster Abbey as their prize. See here for details of those schools.

Thank you for your support and involvement in the Jubilee Time Capsule to date. We are very excited about the next four months and would appreciate your help in spreading the word about this unique project between now and it closing on the 6^th June 2012. We look forward to continuing to work with you over 2012!

Photos:

Gun Salute Hyde Park

High Commissioner Rouse at the Knightsbridge Barracks following the Gun Salute at Hyde Park

High Commission for Grenada

London, United Kingdom

Grenadians in the UK celebrate Independence 2012

LONDON, UK, Saturday 4^th February: Grenadians and friends in the United Kingdom braved the first snowfall of the winter season of up to 16cm to attend celebrations marking Grenada’s 38^th Anniversary of Independence, at the Grand Gala Banquet and Ball held at The Novotel London West Hammersmith International Centre, in London.

The event was hosted by four Grenadian Community Groups in the United Kingdom: namely – The Grenada Benevolent Society; The Grenada Support Group; The Grenada Voluntary Hospital Committee and the St. John’s (Grenada) Educational Trust.

In his 2012 Independence Message, which was delivered by the High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse, the Grenadian Prime Minister Honourable Tillman Thomas, encouraged Grenadians both at home and in the Diaspora, to “share the vision of our founding fathers, who looked beyond their present circumstances to the potential of a people to fulfil any aspiration and navigate any hurdle, if together we harness our talents and skills.

The baton has been passed and this generation, our generation, must now successfully run its leg of the race and contribute to the success of our homeland.  It is for this cause that our administration has developed the mechanisms, aimed at deepening the relations with the Diaspora, allowing Grenadians everywhere to play a role in the enhancement of our homeland.

We must, therefore, change the view of ourselves as being small and insignificant. We must indeed reflect pride in our uniqueness, espousing those virtues that make us who we are. We must use our differences as building blocks rather than stumbling blocks.

As we celebrate, I urge you to reflect on your own contribution to our country. Our patriotism must not only be reflected at Independence, it must drive our productivity, our respect for each other and our determination to strive for greater achievements, as one people under one flag”.

The evening’s proceedings were momentarily interrupted to laud Kirani James’ success at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix in Boston, Massachusetts.

The High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse, under whose patronage the event was held, took the opportunity to thank the groups and dedicated individuals who supported the celebration and those who contributed to raffle prizes, including the Grenada Board of Tourism UK, British Airways and the Grenadian- by- Rex Resorts who sponsored a prize trip and accommodation, respectively, won by Ms Hazel George.

The celebrations will conclude on Thursday February 9^th with Evensong at Westminster Abbey in London, when intercessory prayers will be said for the Government and people of Grenada, and the High Commissioner will read the second lesson.

Photos:

1.  Guests enjoying

2.  High Commissioner with Head Table Guests

3. High Commissioner with Host Committee

Photo Credit: Erran Stewart Photography

High Commission for Grenada, London - February 5^th 2012

Grenada's Maternal Mortality Ratio highlighted at Commonwealth Seminar

LONDON, UK, October 19, 2011 – The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that Grenada is among the three countries with the lowest Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in the world, followed by Japan and Mauritius.

There are 0 deaths to every 100,000 live births in the country, according to the WHO.

The information was highlighted at seminar in London which was attended by the High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse.

The High Commissioner was at the time giving the Commonwealth’s response to an address by Lord Nigel Crisp entitled “Can the MDGs be achieved without Women’s Health Taking Centre Stage?”, on Monday at the Commonwealth Secretariat Seminar: MDGs, Women’s Health and the Care Economy.

The Seminar was one in a series of strategic activities on the 2011 Commonwealth theme: Women as Agents of Change to highlight the role and contribution of women as change agents in the Health Sector. The seminar also placed emphasis on the importance of women’s health being critical for their empowerment as effective change agents.

The WHO statistics went on to elaborate that the contributing factors to low MMR include:

·         Improved access to health facilities and maternal care

·         Early risk detection

·         Multi-sector approach involving all Departments, Sectors and Ministries of health, education, public services, etc.

·         Midwives are extensively trained in record keeping, communication skills, monitoring and evaluation systems, and networking beyond nursing skills

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma delivered opening remarks and the event was chaired by Dr Sylvia Aine, Director, Social Transformation Programmes Division.

The High Commissioner for Grenada said that though Commonwealth member countries were striving to enhance women’s health with competing priorities, low budgets, migration as real challenges, she was indeed proud to share some good practices and the progress Grenada had made towards MDG -5.

In commenting on Grenada’s placement, Minister for Health, Senator The Honourable Ann Peters, praised the strong Community Programme which is undertaken in Grenada,   managed by trained midwives and health personnel.

High Commission for Grenada

London

October 18^th 2011

Photo: Lord Nigel Crisp; SG Kamalesh Sharma; HC Rouse

Credit: Commonwealth Secretariat

Diaspora Youth Forum showcases Grenada through Art

Congratulations to The Diaspora Youth Forum (DYF) UK on the convening of their first Art Exhibition

“WE ARE GRENADIANS”

Held on Sunday 9th October 2011,

From 3pm – 7pm,

At The Gallery On The Corner, 155 Battersea Park Road, London, SW8 4BU

The Event was advertised as:

‘‘A show to celebrate the creativity of our wonderful island.’’

The beautiful Spice Isle of Grenada is a jewel in the Caribbean that has inspired many who have been fortunate to visit and experience this paradise.

Perhaps the only thing that matches the beauty of this great nation is the rich history and proud heritage that Grenadians have been fortunate to inherit and share with the world. One of the most enduring expressions of Grenadian history, society, culture and heritage is through art.

Art through portraits, photography, sculpture and performances has captured history, changed society and inspired a culture.

This art exhibition seeks to share, educate, enlighten, entertain and celebrate what it means to be Grenadian and promote Grenadian culture.

The Exhibition was supported by a medley of Drums presented by members who hail primarily from the sister Isle of Carriacou. The variety of talent on display was indeed “feast to the eyes” and the young artists (some teenagers) were highly commended for their talent and effort.

The High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse, was high in praise for the Diaspora Youth Forum (DYF) UK chaired by Ms Raedonna Griffiths, and thanked those who participated as well as the guests who supported the Exhibition.

Photos/video can be viewed at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ghclonuk

High Commission for Grenada

London

9^th October 2011

Photo: Artists with Chair of the DYF Raedonna Griffiths (Middle in Red) 

Grenada strengthen ties with South Africa

PRETORIA, South Africa, July 12, 2011 - President Jacob Zuma has welcomed eight new Heads of Mission, who will represent their countries in South Africa.

Zuma received letters of credence from ambassadors and high commissioners representing the Republic of Korea, Ethiopia, Iraq, Jamaica, Myanmar, Grenada, Brazil and Belgium, on Tuesday.

Korea's ambassador to South Africa, Y Lee, said his country had particular fondness for South Africa and Durban.

"To the people of Korea, South Africa and the City of Durban is a land of hope, promise and blessing because Durban was the place for Pyeongchang's Olympic dreams to come true."

Just last week, the Korean city of Pyeongchang was named as the host city for the 2018 Winters Olympics at the 123rd International Olympic Committee Session held in Durban.

Zuma in turn congratulated Korea on winning the bid saying the bid was "absolutely wonderful".

Both the President and Lee also acknowledged the cordial relations that exist between the countries since diplomatic relations were established almost 20 years ago.

Zuma said he was very happy to deepen relations with Korea.

Belgium's ambassador to South Africa, J Maricou, noted that his country and South Africa enjoyed excellent bilateral relations.

"We share like-minded views on a number of regional and international matters," he said.

While Zuma agreed that relations between Belgium and South Africa were very good, he said more could be done to enhance them further.

South Africa would also look to increase its trade with Belgium, the President said.

Grenada's High Commissioner to South Africa, Ruth Rouse, said she would look to build on the strong bonds of friendship that exist between the two countries.

She also congratulated Zuma and the country on the great strides that South Africa has made both economically and politically over the years.

Zuma noted that the support the country received from Grenada during the struggle against apartheid, saying many cadres used Grenadian passports during that time.

The President also received letters of credence from ambassadors Dr YM Kassa of Ethiopia, Dr H Al-Alawi of Iraq, M Naung of Myanmar, PL Carneiro de Mendonca of Brazil and Jamaica's High Commissioner to South Africa N Taylor-Roberts. 

SOURCE: South African Government News Service

Grenada wins Chelsea Gold again

LONDON, UK, May 24, 2011 - Grenada has won its 9^th Gold Medal at the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show taking place in London, UK at the Grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Castaway, the name of the exhibit, depicts the changes in climate that behind the tropical idyll a potential threat is posed to the tiny Caribbean Island.

“Grenada chairs the Association of Small Island States (AOSIS) made up of more than 40 small islands from round the world”, says Suzanne Gaywood, Team Leader.  “We want to send a clear message about the importance of preserving the natural riches of islands like Grenada for future generations.  Action now to embrace sustainability can help to ensure Grenada survives as a paradise for the castaways of today and tomorrow, and RHS Chelsea provides an opportunity to raise environmental awareness.’’

A feature of the 2011 exhibit is a bamboo shack topped with a traditional straw roof and just the suggestion of a nearby jetty on the deserted beach.  The main focus is the flamboyant array of flowers foliage and spices which adorn the scene and weave a magic which ensures no castaway would wish to leave such a beautiful, tranquil spot.

The exhibit is sponsored by The Grenada Board of Tourism; Peter & Lana De Savary for Mt Cinnamon & Port Louis; The Calabash Hotel; The Coyaba Beach Resort; Lanwades Stud;  Seafreight Line; John & Joan Buckenham; Hyde Park Tropical Garden; The Hort. Soc. of Grenada; Petite Anse Hotel; Reg & Trish Scarlett; British Airways (Grenada);  Virgin Atlantic; & La Grenade Gardens.

The High Commissioner was high in praise for the efforts of the Grenada-at-Chelsea Team who worked tirelessly for months in preparing the plant material and during the past week with the build-up of the exhibit. “This year is again a great boost for Grenada’s Tourism product thanks to your dedicated efforts, we thank you”, the High Commissioner said.

Team Grenada was joined on Press day, Monday 23^rd May, by Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes OBE, High Commissioner for Grenada, HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse and Sharon Bernstein, Grenada Board of Tourism (UK).

For further information contact:-

Suzanne Gaywood, Exhibitor/ Designer

Email: Suzanne@gaywood.dialstart.net

www.grenada-at-chelsea.org.uk  

Grenada's HC Rouse receives award on behalf of Women in Diplomacy

LONDON, UK, May 17, 2011 - Heads of Mission from over 85 countries attended Diplomat magazine’s 2011 annual Awards Ceremony at the Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill in Portman Square on Monday 16 May. Diplomat presented 12 awards to some of the most influential diplomats based in the UK. Guests were treated to a champagne reception and delicious canapés prepared by the chefs at the hotel.

Host of the event, Diplomat’s Publisher Hugo de Blocq van Kuffeler, stated in his introductory speech: ‘Despite the conveniences of modern technology, the tact, persuasiveness, influence and guile of a great diplomat is far more powerful and effective than an e-mail or a letter. Diplomacy is the brain of a nation. It has been said that the quality of a nation’s diplomacy gives it direction and weight. And so it is important that we appreciate the great conductors of diplomacy this evening.’

The popular award of the evening was the winner for ‘Diplomat of the Year from the Americas’ (Canada, USA, Central America & Caribbean), which went to High Commissioner for Belize, Her Excellency Ms Kamela Palma. The Japanese Ambassador accepted his award for ‘Diplomat of the Year from Asia’ on behalf of the people of Japan in the wake of one of the world’s worst natural disasters since the end of World War II. Winners thanked Diplomat magazine for recognizing the achievements of overseas Heads of Mission based in London.

The evening was sponsored by Jaguar Landrover who had the new Jaguar XJ and Range Rover greeting all guests as they arrived outside the hotel, BMG Foundation, BUPA and Worley Parsons. Cleave and Co produced the unique awards for the winners and International Diplomatic Supplies provided the drinks for the evening. Mr de Blocq van Kuffeler thanked all the sponsors for their continued support of the magazine. 

Winners from the evening are as follows:

Distinguished Contribution to Diplomacy in London

Wilton Park

This forum for democracy building, post-conflict reconciliation and international dialogue is crucial for progress on global issues. Wilton Park offers a unique opportunity for opinion-formers and policy-makers from across the world to calmly address issues of dispute and conflict.

Diplomat of the Year from the Middle East

Dr Afnan Al-Shuaiby

Secretary-General and Chief Executive Arab-British Chamber of Commerce

Dr Al-Shuaiby has tirelessly worked to create a forum to protect and develop the interests of the Middle East in the UK. She is also the leading voice in championing the advancement of women in business and government in the region, which has resulted in Arab women participating at the highest levels of international business and policymaking forums.

Diplomat of the Year from Africa

HRH Prince Seeiso Bereng Seeiso

High Commissioner for Lesotho

For such a small country Prince Seeiso has achieved extraordinary success in gaining recognition from the world media and raising funds for his charity Sentebale. The organisation has transformed the lives of his country’s orphans and vulnerable children - the forgotten victims of poverty and of the HIV/AIDS epidemic ravaging his country and the region.

Diplomat of the Year from Asia

His Excellency Mr Keiichi Hayashi

Ambassador of Japan

This award is not simply demonstrating solidarity for and support of this nation but it is recognition that this diplomat has conveyed the message of a country that has immediately got back on its feet following one of the most traumatic natural disasters in modern history.

Diplomat of the Year from Eurasia

His Excellency Mr Otabek Akbarov

Ambassador of Uzbekistan

Mr Akbarov has made enormous strides to increase the understanding of his country in the UK and EU by working tirelessly to promote some transparency of the workings of his government and the offerings of his country while promoting the respect and care of women in Central Asia.

Diplomat of the Year from Europe

His Excellency Mr Johan Verbeke

Ambassador of Belgium

Mr Verbeke has gone beyond the responsibility of bilateral agreements and into predicting the future of diplomacy. He is the leading voice and considered a visionary on the future of modern diplomacy.

Diplomat of the Year from the Americas

(Canada, USA, Mexico, Central America & Caribbean)

Her Excellency Ms Kamela Palma

High Commissioner for Belize

Despite representing a small country Ms Palma reflects her country’s efforts to modernise internally and engage globally through constantly promoting the issues of her country as well as the region.

Diplomat of the Year from South America

Mr Roberto Jaguaribe

Ambassador of Brazil

Promoting his country as one of the new economic leaders and superpowers of the future, Mr Jaguaribe represents a nation that has emerged as a confident and mature leader on the world stage, driving the creation of a union of South American nations.

Deputy Head of Mission of the Year

Ms Klára Breuer-Rudas

Embassy of Hungary

Ms Rudas has demonstrated exceptional leadership at a time when her Embassy most needed it. She stepped into the role of Chargé d’Affaires, admirably running the embassy at a time while her country presided over the EU.

Outstanding Contribution to Women in Diplomacy

Her Excellency Ms Ruth Elizabeth Rouse

High Commissioner for Grenada

Ms Rouse’s ‘no nonsense’ attitude commands great respect among her fellow male counterparts as the driving force behind Women in Diplomatic Service (WDS), a vibrant group within the diplomatic corps which has established a scholarship to bring talented young female diplomats to London, encouraging women to enter into the diplomatic profession.

Outstanding Contribution to the Consular Corps

Mr Bogdan Kolarov

Embassy of Bulgaria

Mr Kolarov has been the driving force behind the revival of the Consular Corps of London and for establishing vital partnerships for the future of the organisation which has affected a positive change in their development and the future of their home countries.

Young Diplomat of the Year

Mr Marwan Francis

Embassy of Lebanon

As one of the most active and visible members of the diplomatic community, Mr Francis is the welcoming figure for new younger diplomats arriving in London, whose confidence and exceptional presentation is reflected in this award.

Photo:

George Hassell LVO, Director, Royal  and Diplomatic Affairs for Jaguar/Landrover

Presents Award (Contribution to Women in Diplomatic Service) to High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse

at Diplomat of the Year Awards Ceremony on Monday May 16th 2011 in London.

In Photo - Publisher of Diplomat Magazine, Hugo de Blocq van Kuffeler

Diaspora Consultative Committee (DCC,UK) outreach to Cardiff, Wales

LONDON, UK, April 17, 2011 - The Diaspora Consultative Committee (DCC) UK took its Outreach to Cardiff, Wales on Saturday April 16^th 2011.

The event was attended by members of the DCC who journeyed by Coach from London and over 35 Grenadians in the Diaspora who supported the Outreach Programme.

The Luncheon meeting received the views of the Diaspora as it related to Education and Skills, in particular, as well as Health and other areas supported by the Diaspora for many years.

It was evident from the discussions, that there was a wealth of knowledge available from Grenadians in the Diaspora, and who were willing to share, once the necessary avenues were provided for them to do so.

The idea for this outreach programme stemmed from the mandate given at the Diaspora Preparatory Conference held in Grenada in August of 2010, aimed at developing an integrated policy and framework for the involvement of the Diaspora in Grenada’s Development.

The aim of the (DCC) UK is to reach as many Grenadians as possible, throughout the UK, and to bring their ideas to the Diaspora Founding Conference scheduled for August 2-3 2011 in Grenada. The Thematic Platform given to the UK to participate in the Conference is Education and Skills.

The Outreach Programme continues on April 30^th in Milton Keynes; May 15^th in Bedford and June 26^th in Luton.

The High Commissioner for Grenada, HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse, took the opportunity at the conclusion of the meeting, to express appreciation to Dalton and Phyllis McGuire, who coordinated the event in Cardiff, the Grenadians resident there, for their attendance and those who travelled from London to support the Outreach.

DCC, UK continues outreach programme

LONDON, UK, March 28, 2011 - “Engaging The Diaspora” -  following the mandate given at the conclusion of the Diaspora Preparatory Conference held in Grenada August 2010, the Diaspora Consultative Committee (DCC) UK, which was established as a result, held its first fundraising event, a “Taste of Spice” Spring Brunch, on Sunday March 27^th 2011 at the Pepperpot Day Centre in Ladbroke Grove, London.

Grenadians and friends spent quality time together, over a home-cooked meal of bakes, fishcakes, salt fish souse, cocoa tea, souse, smoke-herring, oil down, coo coo & Fish, provision, potato pudding, ginger beer, mauby, and a spread of delicacies, reminiscing about growing up in Grenada and their passion for the continued development of their homeland, as well as those of the second and third generations, who also considered Grenada as home and paid regular visits. Several of those in attendance heeded the call to share their skills and expertise whenever they visited on vacation and only wanted the best for Grenada and its people.

The High Commissioner was indeed pleased with the interest shown in the new Diaspora Initiative of the Government of Grenada. The Diaspora Consultative Committee (DCC) UK, continues hard at work to reach as many Grenadians as possible throughout the UK, to gather their views and to seek their participation.

The DCC Team will continue its outreach programme with a visit to Cardiff, Wales on April 16 2011, to engage with Grenadians there.

Appreciation was extended by the High Commissioner to the DCC members, the catering committee, staff and all those who supported the fundraising brunch, in support of the Diaspora Founding Conference scheduled for August 2-3, 2011, in Grenada.

Photos: Bruch in action!

High Commission for Grenada

London, UK

Diasporans in the UK seeking innovative ways to contribute to the economy

LONDON, UK, February 24, 2011 - Grenadians in the United Kingdom are forging ahead with plans to find new and innovative ways to contribute to Grenada’s economic growth and social welfare.

The Diaspora Consultative Committee (DCC) UK, which was constituted on July 22 2010 and formally launched on September 15^th 2010, held its first meeting for the year 2011 at the Offices of the High Commission for Grenada in London, UK, on Wednesday.

Following the mandate given by the Diaspora Preparatory Conference held in Grenada August 5 and 6 2010, the members of the (DCC) UK, shared their preliminary findings on the Thematic Platforms of Education, Health, Youth, Trade, Investment, Tourism, Youth, Culture, Skills & Technical Assistance, as guided by the conclusions of the 2010 Conference.

The Committee has lined up a number of consultations during the period March – July 2011, in various cities of the UK to:

• Gather the views of the UK Diaspora
• Support and encourage participation in the 2011 Diaspora International Conference to be held in Grenada August 2-3 2011

The timeline set by the Committee at its launch in September of 2010 to produce a document based on consultations, with the aim of shaping the agenda for the conference is well within schedule.

The High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse, was high in praise for the work of the (DCC) UK and for their dedication and commitment to the invitation by the Government of Grenada to engage the Diaspora in nation-building.

A full schedule of “Road Shows” and Fundraising Events will be announced shortly.

Photos: DCC (UK)

Photo Credit: Shirley Anstis