Sen. Angel Bolques Jr. Applauds Tart Wars as a Cultural and Economic Milestone for the Virgin Islands

Mat Probasco
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Sen. Angel Bolques Jr. Applauds Tart Wars as a Cultural and Economic Milestone for the Virgin Islands
Senator Angel L. Bolques Jr. congratulates the talented collective known as the West Gyul for their visionary leadership and cultural creativity, which were showcased during this year’s Tart Wars 2025. Their vibrant energy and artistic flair brought the community together to celebrate the Virgin Islands’ identity and flavor. The senator also highlighted the recent enactment of Act No. 8848 (formerly Bill No. 35-0078), sponsored by Senators Angel Bolques Jr. and Marvin Blyden, which amends Title 1, Chapter 7 of the Virgin Islands Code to  officially establish Fish and Fungi as the national dish and Tart as the national dessert of the Virgin Islands. “This act is both cultural and strategic,” said Senator Bolques. “It affirms our heritage while laying the groundwork for culinary tourism and economic development.” Tart Wars offered a compelling showcase of this potential, with over 8,000 tarts sold and a record-breaking turnout  of tart lovers, local vendors, and curious tourists—all in a single day, solidifying the Virgin Islands tart as both a  cultural treasure and a promising economic product. “Our tarts are the best in the Caribbean—bar none,” stated  Senator Bolques. “We should be preparing to export Virgin Islands tarts to the mainland and beyond. The demand is real, and our product is exceptional. He further emphasized that building a tart export industry could open doors for entrepreneurship, culinary training, agriculture, and small business growth, all rooted in authentic Virgin Islands traditions. “This isn’t just about desserts, it’s about economic empowerment,” Bolques said. “Tart production can be a job creator, a tourism booster, and a global ambassador of who we are as a people.”From honoring ancestral recipes to inspiring the next generation of culinary talent, Tart Wars proves that food is a powerful vessel for cultural pride and economic  opportunity. “My favorite Tart has always been Guavaberry—it’s originally traditional, deeply rooted, and might not be as trendy as some of the more popular varieties, but it holds a special place in our cultural heritage. That said, I had the honor of judging the specialty tart category this year, which featured exotic flavors like starfruit, soursop, tamarind, cherry, and Mango. I have to admit, Mango has won me over in the specialty section. I’d like to gently and respectfully encourage West Gyul and their team to ensure Mango gets a spot in next year’s line-up. Honestly, I think coconut has become a little too powerful at this point!” (laughs) I can’t wait for next year’s Tart Wars!”

Coconut Reigns Supreme at Second Annual Tart Wars

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Coconut Reigns Supreme at Second Annual Tart Wars
Tart Wars 2025 took place on Saturday in Frederiksted town. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

It was an afternoon filled with fun, laughter, and, of course, tarts — as thousands gathered at the Frederiksted waterfront on St. Croix for the highly anticipated Tart Wars 2025.

A Frederiksted block party that brought together friends, families, and supporters to represent their favorite tart. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

Now in its second year, the event brought out fierce tart pride from fans of guava, pineapple, and coconut. And for the second year in a row, coconut tart reigned supreme in the spirited showdown of flavors.

Vendors sold food, drinks, crafts, clothing, and more at Tart Wars. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

Hosted by West Gyul with the support of numerous sponsors, community groups, and local vendors, the event was a flavorful success. The results for the team competitions were as follows:

  • Trivia Champion: Team Pineapple
  • Games Winner: Team Coconut
  • Community Voting (pingpong Balls): Team Guava

With each team claiming victory in one category, a three-way tie led to a high-stakes tiebreaker: a foot race involving a wooden spoon and a delicately balanced tart on top. Each team selected a representative to carry their tart to the finish line. The challenge? Run without dropping the tart, then eat a mystery tart upon crossing the line.

Jr. Miss St. Croix placed her cultural wear on display, paying homage to the tarts on display. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

Guava took an early lead, with Coconut and Pineapple close behind. But just steps from victory, Team Guava’s tart toppled, resulting in an automatic disqualification. In the end, Team Coconut clinched the win, once again taking the Tart Wars crown.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was in charge of tallying the votes for the people’s vote on their favorite tart. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

Judges also awarded honors to local vendors for the best-tasting tarts in each flavor category:

Best Pineapple Tart 1st Place: Uniquely Yours 2nd Place: Vivian Mason and Aquaholics 3rd Place: Uniquely Yours

Best Guava Tart 1st Place: Sweet Bites and Vivian Mason 2nd Place: Uniquely Yours 3rd Place: CJ’s Lemonade

Best Coconut Tart 1st Place: Uniquely Yours 2nd Place: Trini Dreams 3rd Place: Sweet Bites and Crucian Cake Queens

Families enjoyed a dedicated “Kidsville” play area while adults sampled tarts, shopped local vendors, and cheered on their favorite teams. When the results were announced, the crowd erupted in support of their chosen champions.

Kidsville was a hit with the children, who enjoyed fun activities throughout the afternoon. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

The day concluded with live music from Vio International and a spectacular drone show lighting up the Frederiksted sky, bringing Tart Wars 2025 to a sweet and unforgettable close.

A quick smile for the camera at the CMCARTs booth at Kidsville. (CMCArts photo)

Op-Ed: The Lounge | A Column for Men: Built, But Not Whole

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Op-Ed: The Lounge | A Column for Men: Built, But Not Whole
In his biweekly column, Langley Shazor speaks to issues important to men within the territory. I take exception to the term “real men.” All men are real. We all exist. That phrase, for all its cultural traction, has become a flawed compass, often pointing us toward affluence, domination, violence, or emotional disconnection as if those are the markers of true masculinity. It’s macho nonsense dressed up as wisdom. This bootstrap ideology hasn’t advanced us; it’s fractured us. It hasn’t built men; it has built masks. We’ve grown up being told what “real men” do. Real men don’t cry. Real men provide. Real men take charge. Real men don’t need help. But what if we stopped parroting these slogans and asked a harder question: are we whole? Because I know too many men, good men, successful men, who are built, but not whole. They’ve achieved status. They’ve built businesses, bodies, reputations. They’re respected in public but suffering in private. They’ve nailed the exterior, but inside, something’s still undone. That’s the lie we inherited: that manhood is performance. That it’s grit without grace. That strength means silence. But what makes someone a high-caliber man is not how many burdens he carries, but whether he knows how to carry himself. It’s character. Emotional regulation. Introspection. Accountability. Leadership. Being a man of integrity, class, peace, patience, and humility. And more than that, it’s being consistent when no one’s looking, when there’s no praise or applause to chase. Not just in public, but behind closed doors. That’s where real strength lives. But we haven’t been taught that. We’ve been taught to build, just not within. So, we have men who can dominate a room but can’t sit still with their own thoughts. Men who protect everyone else but never protect their peace (“Chasing Peace”, 7/6/25 anyone?). Men who are loyal to the grind but strangers to their own hearts. You’ll find them everywhere: on job sites, in pulpits, in corner offices. They look solid. But if you ask them how they’re really doing, they’ll flinch or deflect or make a joke. Because no one ever gave them the tools or permission to be honest, especially with themselves. It’s not just individual men who pay the price for this. Our families do. Our communities do. Our children inherit these broken templates and build their own identities on top of them. Little boys who learn that being loud and angry is leadership. Little girls who learn that silence is strength. Relationships suffer. Brotherhoods die. Trust erodes. And all because we taught men to be functional but not full. Useful, but not rooted. It’s time we reframe what manhood could mean. I said it in the post, and I’ll say it again: if we want to redefine this term, let it be about trustworthiness. About being dependable, and not simply the dependability to show up, but that your word is impenetrable. That when you say, “I got you”, that can be taken to the bank and deposited. About being the kind of person people can believe and believe in. A man who will do the right thing because it’s the right thing, not because someone’s watching or the cameras are rolling. That’s the standard. That’s the measure. Anything less is just as artificial and misleading as the social media masculinity metrics that keep us chasing the wind. So, what does wholeness look like? It doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being complete. It means having the courage to ask for help when you need it. To apologize when you’re wrong. To sit with uncomfortable feelings instead of numbing them. It means building the emotional stamina to listen, reflect, and grow. It’s knowing who you are when no one’s validating you. It’s how you show up when there’s no incentive except self-respect. The work of becoming whole is not glamorous. It won’t get you likes. It won’t impress the loudest circles. But it will give you peace. And it will make you the kind of man whose presence doesn’t just dominate but heals. The kind of man who knows how to lead without lording over. The kind who doesn’t just survive pressure but rises from it with grace. Men like that don’t need to be told they’re “real.” They just are. And you can feel it. In how they speak. In how they handle correction. In how they protect their families and their principles without losing themselves. That’s not something you post. That’s something you prove — in the quiet, in the chaos, and in the commitment to grow, even when no one sees it but you. If you’re already built, but you know there’s more, more healing to do, more self to uncover, more truth to embrace, good. You’re on the right path. Stay on it. Let’s build men who are whole, not just hard. Complete, not just competent. Let’s put the phrase “real men” to rest and start living in a way that no phrase can fully capture, only our character can.   Langley “Casual-Word” Shazor is a poet, author, publisher, entrepreneur, public speaking coach, podcast host, and pastor who is an advocate for youth and men. His goal is to enlighten, empower, and liberate those who are silenced, marginalized, and enslaved to self-destructive thoughts and behaviors. Visit thecasualword.com.

Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com. 

NHC Tracks Atlantic Tropical Wave; PR and USVI May See Late-Week Impacts

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NHC Tracks Atlantic Tropical Wave; PR and USVI May See Late-Week Impacts
The NHC is monitoring a tropical wave moving across the Atlantic Ocean. While the wave has a low chance of development, the local islands may experience some impacts later this week. (Photo courtesy NHC)
The National Hurricane Center is tracking a tropical wave currently moving across the Central Tropical Atlantic. While development chances are low, the disturbance could bring unsettled weather to the USVI and Puerto Rico by Friday. The Source contacted Carlos Anselmi-Molina, a lead meteorologist at the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to obtain more information about this disturbance and any possible impacts to the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. “A tropical wave is currently located over the central tropical Atlantic and is being monitored by the NHC,” Anselmi-Molina said. “It is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms, and environmental conditions are marginally conducive for development, with a low 10% chance of formation noted over the next seven days as it moves west-northwestward at around 15 to 20 mph,” Anselmi-Molina explained. According to information from the NHC and the NWS, the tropical wave in the Atlantic has a relatively short period of opportunity for possible strengthening before moving into an area less conducive to cyclonic development. Adam Douty, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, shared the following information about the tropical wave in comments provided to the Source on Sunday. “The tropical wave in the central Atlantic has a very small window until Monday or Tuesday of this week to become better organized into a tropical depression before it encounters less favorable conditions for tropical development as it approaches the Lesser Antilles midweek,” Douty stated. “Even though it does have a brief window for development, the overall risk that this does form into a tropical depression remains low,” he added. “There is a little dry air and Saharan dust that the tropical wave will be battling against. However, the primary limiting factor for development beyond Tuesday will be an increase in wind shear,” Douty said. Regardless of development, the NWS in San Juan warned that the tropical disturbance may bring rainfall and thunderstorms to the local region toward the end of the week. “The wave is expected to arrive near the Virgin Islands around Friday, with its trailing moisture extending through at least Saturday,” according to Anselmi-Molina. “At this stage, as the wave is projected to arrive late this upcoming workweek, there is significant uncertainty in the forecast, and we must closely monitor its development,” Anselmi-Molina said. Additional Weather-Related Concerns For the next several days, the main weather-related threats that the USVI and Puerto Rico face include the continuation of gusty easterly winds, warm temperatures, and an elevated level of Saharan dust in the atmosphere. Periodic showers and thunderstorms will also be possible.
The forecast can change quickly, and residents and visitors across the USVI and Puerto Rico are urged to follow the NHC forecasts regularly. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
“We have moderate confidence that moderate to high concentrations of Saharan dust particles will move across the region between Monday and Tuesday, so we may see hazy skies and reduced air quality on those days,” Anselmi-Molina explained. “For Tuesday, a weak easterly disturbance is forecast to bring more frequent passing showers across the islands, although the dry air associated with Saharan dust is expected to weaken it,” he noted. Very warm temperatures are also anticipated, and visitors and residents across the local islands are advised to stay hydrated and cool to prevent heat-related illnesses. “The excessive heat trend is expected to persist throughout much of the forecast period, particularly between Tuesday and Thursday,” Anselmi-Molina said. Anselmi-Molina also reminded residents and visitors to be mindful of the possibility of wind-driven choppy seas and dangerous rip currents over the coming days. “Mariners can expect moderate to locally fresh easterly winds from Tuesday onward, creating choppy seas,” Anselmi-Molina cautioned. “Additionally, for the beachgoers, a moderate rip current risk will persist, particularly along the exposed beaches of St Croix’s eastern half, spreading to the north- and east-facing beaches of the northern Virgin Islands from the middle of the week onward,” he added. Stay Informed About Weather Events The Atlantic hurricane season lasts until Nov. 30, with the climatological peak of the season occurring in mid-September. USVI residents and visitors are encouraged to continue to be prepared. In addition to obtaining weather information from the NWS and NOAA, the local weather forecast for the U.S. Virgin Islands is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page and VI Source YouTube Channel. Individuals can also find helpful weather information and alerts from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.

Proven Program, Uncertain Future: My Brother’s Workshop Brings Light Budget Challenges

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Proven Program, Uncertain Future: My Brother’s Workshop Brings Light Budget Challenges
Graduates from My Brother’s Workshop celebrate a major milestone, tossing their caps high outside the facility where they developed skills, resilience, and hope for a brighter future. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
As My Brother’s Workshop faces a steep drop in government funding, leaders of the nonprofit say they’re working hard to keep programs running — and want the community to understand what’s at stake. Established in 2007, MBW began as a grassroots effort to provide at-risk youth in the Virgin Islands with alternatives to crime and gun violence. “Our vision is to end gun violence in the Virgin Islands, and we do that through a holistic approach of mentorship, education, and counseling,” said Chrystie Payne, the program and development director at MBW.
A young MBW trainee carefully measures wood, gaining hands-on skills that help steer Virgin Islands youth away from violence. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
The program currently serves 41 young people, both male and female, ages 16 to 24, by teaching valuable skills in construction, woodworking, agriculture, and culinary arts. The workshop focuses on building real-world experience that trainees can carry into the job market through the program’s job placement efforts. MBW doesn’t just focus on jobs, though. When the program first began, it focused on helping young people find employment and earn a living. However, as the organization expanded, it became evident that students required additional support. “We have to help each individual, meet them where they’re at,” said Jenny Hawkes, the executive director of MBW.
Chef Julius Jackson guides a trainee through the finer points of food prep at My Brother’s Workshop’s culinary arts program. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
The program also includes a licensed social worker, who plays a key role in identifying warning signs and connecting students with resources, such as the Family Resource Center or the Human Services Department, when needed. As the program grows to meet more of those needs, funding has become a concern for the organization.
Inside MBW Café and Bakery, a showcase of locally made treats with a deeper purpose: funding the life-changing programs at My Brother’s Workshop through every bite sold. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
“It’s this weird thing with the government grants … Even though they (the local government) asked us to add a program in St. Croix in 2015, it was like they reduced the (grant) amount in St. Thomas and transferred it over to St. Croix,” said Hawkes. “The grant used to be $100,000 per island. So $200,000 is now only $100,000 (total). And technically we’ve only received one quarter payment.” “We did get some government grants back in 2012, which are the same ones that we’re operating on now,” said Hawkes. “But we’ve been reduced slowly over time … One of the grants — this is from the general appropriation grant allotment — they reduced it by 50%.” “They’re a little hard on your budget because as you’re doing the forecasting, you don’t know exactly when the government’s going to release the funds, even though you’re still doing the services.” This decrease in funding hasn’t just made things financially uncomfortable — it’s threatening the very future of the organization’s work. MBW recently completed construction on a new $7 million workforce development facility, which Payne and Hawkes say will allow MBW to double or even triple the number of youth they serve each year. But without additional funding from grants to match that growth, the facility can’t operate at its full capacity.
The welcoming entrance of My Brother’s Workshop stands ready to greet future trainees. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
“To receive that kind of a reduction in our grant from the local government is kind of frustrating,” said Hawkes. “We’re about to be able to double and triple our number of students. So what would make sense is actually increasing the government allotment … By reducing, it just puts more pressure on us to either raise it through the products that we’re selling or through private donations,” said Hawkes. Funding is the top priority for My Brother’s Workshop, with Payne and Hawkes emphasizing that money is essential to keep their services running. Payne and Hawkes describe MBW as a proven system that works — but say it needs consistent funding to keep the doors open. They also stress the importance of community awareness and support, not just asking for donations, but spreading the word about the positive impact the institution has on local youth. “We’re so incredibly grateful to our supporters … There’s so many people already doing enough. We just want to spread awareness and try to cast as wide a net as we possibly can to make sure that we’re able to keep this program going,” said Payne. To help with the recent funding issues, MBW has launched a new fundraising campaign. One supporter has pledged to match all donations up to $25,000 through Aug. 30. The campaign aims to raise critical funds and awareness to keep programs running and expand support for local youth. If you are interested in donating, click here.

Virgin Islands Youth Advocacy Coalition Works To Empower Seniors Through Technology

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Virgin Islands Youth Advocacy Coalition Works To Empower Seniors Through Technology
The Virgin Islands Youth Advocacy Coalition announces the launch of its Digital Bridge Initiative, a program designed to advance the digital literacy of older adults in the Virgin Islands. Funded by the AARP Community Challenge Grant, this six-month initiative pairs tech-savvy high school and college students with seniors aged 50 and older. The program aims to foster meaningful intergenerational connections while equipping older residents with essential digital skills to navigate an increasingly technology-driven society. Detailed information and registration options are available on VIYAC’s program webpage. Selected from a competitive pool of 3,450 applicants, VIYAC’s proposal highlights the urgent need to close the digital divide within the territory. Genevieve Whitaker, VIYAC’s president and cofounder, describes the Digital Bridge Initiative as a powerful tool for community connection. “We’re honored that AARP recognizes the urgent need to empower our seniors with digital tools. This initiative reduces isolation, improves access to critical services, and strengthens bonds between generations,” Whitaker said. The core training component of the program will take place from mid-August to mid-November, delivered through three cohorts on both St. Croix and St. Thomas. Each cohort will participate in three Saturday sessions focused on practical digital skills. These hands-on, small-group workshops will cover topics such as smartphone and tablet use, online safety, cloud storage, telehealth services, and digital emergency preparedness. VIYAC recently extended the youth mentor application deadline to Monday, marking the conclusion of the youth recruitment phase. With youth selection now wrapping up, senior participant recruitment is set to launch this week. Seniors interested in gaining digital confidence are encouraged to apply — participation is free and accessible. Sessions will be hosted at community centers across St. Croix and St. Thomas to ensure island-wide access. VIYAC also welcomes support from local businesses and organizations, including device donations and volunteer space. Founded in 2009, VIYAC is a youth-led organization committed to increasing civic engagement among Virgin Islanders aged 14–30. Known for its voter literacy programs, climate justice advocacy, and other community initiatives, VIYAC continues to expand its impact across the territory.

Virtue of the Week – Moderation

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Virtue of the Week – Moderation
Virtue of the Week – Moderation Virtue of the Week focuses on building peaceful and caring communities through understanding and fostering the practice of virtues. The Source supports the Virtues Project and will publish one virtue developed by the project each week.   Moderation Moderation is being content with enough. It is using self-discipline to create a healthy balance between work, rest, reflection, and play. Moderation protects us from the pull of addictive desires. We do not try to be everything to everyone. We set healthy boundaries that value our time and energy. We protect ourselves from the stress of overdoing. We discern our own rhythm. It isn’t deprivation – it is loving ourselves enough to choose what is just right. Quote: “Moderation is the silken thread running through the pearl chain of all virtues.”—Joseph Hall The Practice of Moderation I spend my time and energy sustainably. I remember to reflect and to play. I am free of addictions. I carry responsibility wisely. I protect myself from the stress of excess. I live gently and gracefully. Questions for Discussion
  • What healthy boundaries do we need to set in order to support our social justice work?
  • How do we carry our responsibility in our community?
  • What excess do we need to release?
  • When do we play as a community?
Sign up to receive the Virtue of the Week by email! Visit https://cfvi.net/Virtues-Project, and scroll to the end of the page to fill out the form. Virtue of the Week is provided by the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) in partnership with the VI Source and Virtues Matter. About the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands Since 1990, CFVI has been a catalyst for positive change in the territory through initiatives committed to youth, learning, family support and the environment. With a professional staff and a volunteer Board of Directors composed of community leaders, CFVI is a trusted advocate and supporter of programs that ensure opportunity and sustainability for current and future generations. CFVI is a registered non-profit organization entirely supported by individual donors, grants, trusts, corporate donations and estate planning. For more information, visit cfvi.net. About Virtues Matter Virtues Matter was started by a passionate wife-husband team of social entrepreneurs seeking to positively uplift as many lives as possible. We aim to inspire and empower, to build capacity, strengthen relationships, and help everyone lead lives of passion and purpose. Virtues Matter believes in a world where people are committed to kindness and respect, strive to be their best, and live with hope, courage, and in unity. We built the Virtues Cards mobile app, an interactive personal and team development tool, to help people identify and develop key virtues skills. We also offer dynamic workshops, online training, and customized programs to help people cultivate these positive qualities of character. To learn more, visit virtuesmatter.com. To learn more about the Virtues Project, visit virtuesproject.com.

Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley

Marelise Beach
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Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley
Check out our weekly weather forecast with Jesse Daley, covering Sunday, July 20, through Saturday, July 26. Our YouTube playlist is updated every week, AND check out Jesse’s daily weather updates here.

Photo Focus:  Second Annual Women of Resilience Conference Highlights Connection and Leadership

Marelise Beach
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Photo Focus:  Second Annual Women of Resilience Conference Highlights Connection and Leadership
Attendees gather for the Women of Resilience Conference at the Elridge Wilburn Blake Sports and Fitness Center. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Professionals from across the territory gathered Friday at the University of the Virgin Islands for the second annual Women of Resilience Conference, a full-day program focused on personal development, leadership, and building meaningful professional networks.

The UVI Research and Technology Park shares opportunities for innovation and development with participants during the event. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
Janette Millin-Young leads the discussion on the value of networking and relationship building. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Hosted by Janette Millin-Young of Notable Events by Janette, the conference brought together presenters and attendees representing sectors including technology, tourism, law, entrepreneurship, and public service.

Attorney Marjorie “Jorie” Rawls Roberts discusses the power of negotiation in a session focused on strategic communication. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Held at the Elridge Wilburn Blake Sports and Fitness Center, the program featured panel discussions, breakout sessions, and curated networking activities designed to foster collaboration and mentorship.

WTJX staff members connect with attendees at their information booth, sharing details on programming and outreach. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
Angela Dingle presents on artificial intelligence in the workplace, offering insights on ethical use and productivity tools. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Sessions throughout the day addressed timely topics such as financial literacy, negotiation strategies, customer service leadership, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Presenters shared practical tools while emphasizing the importance of continued education, strategic empowerment of teams, and representation in industries that have historically lacked gender balance.

Jane DiCola guides attendees through a brief mindfulness meditation as part of the program’s wellness segment. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
RaeNiece Cosmetics features a selection of locally made beauty products during the conference’s vendor showcase. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

A key theme across sessions was the importance of visibility and mentorship. Participants spoke to the value of authentic leadership, supporting one another’s growth, and ensuring that younger generations can see themselves reflected in professional roles. Organizers also introduced a men’s panel for the first time, providing space for conversations on inclusion and allyship in both professional and personal spheres.

Attendees take part in a networking activity during the Women of Resilience Conference, engaging with fellow professionals from across the Virgin Islands. The event encouraged relationship-building as a key part of personal and professional growth. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
Samuel Rey presents on customer service, emphasizing the importance of empowering teams to lead with care and confidence. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Now in its second year, the Women of Resilience Conference continues to grow as a cornerstone event for business and leadership development in the Virgin Islands, offering attendees a platform for connection, collaboration, and collective advancement.

Participants network during a breakout session at the Women of Resilience Conference. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Breaking Barriers, Building Dreams: 340WSC and CAPA Empower USVI Women’s Soccer

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Breaking Barriers, Building Dreams: 340WSC and CAPA Empower USVI Women’s Soccer
St. Croix’s 340WSC women’s team stands strong and united, reshaping the landscape of women’s soccer in the Virgin Islands with every match. (Photo courtesy Izler Browne, 340WSC)

Two powerhouse clubs are rewriting the story of women’s soccer in the Virgin Islands, one match at a time. St. Croix’s 340 Women’s Soccer Club and Champion Performance Academy are not just competing—they’re transforming the landscape of soccer in the Caribbean.

At the helm of 340WSC stands Izler Browne, whose extraordinary soccer resume spans continents and generations. “Trinidad and Tobago is my homeland. I’ve played the game from 6 years old,” Browne reflected, her voice carrying the weight of decades of devotion.

Browne captained the Trinidad and Tobago national women’s team before acquiring her international coaching license to coach both the TT national U20 and senior teams. Her influence expanded when she became the director of women’s football and head coach of the USVI Women’s National Teams across all age groups—U15, U17, U20, and senior teams.

Now serving as co-owner, coach, director of football, and managing director of 340 Women’s Soccer Inc., Browne has created a soccer empire built on decades of elite-level experience and an unwavering commitment to developing the next generation of players.

340WSI revolutionized the USVI soccer landscape in 2017 as the territory’s only licensed soccer club owned and operated by women. The club’s evolution tells a story of strategic growth and unwavering vision. “We officially launched our women’s club in 2021. This was done for the next step in the pathway for our players in the 340GirlsSoccerAcademy. This season will actually make it our first playing season in the women’s league,” Browne explained. From grassroots academy to premier league competition, 340WSI has built a complete ecosystem for female soccer development.

Behind every successful venture stands a strong partnership. Browne credits her success to collaboration. “We are fortunate to have a president and co-owner, Ms. Theresa Calpano, who handles getting all our sponsorships and collaborations to assist with keeping us functioning yearly,” she said.

CAPA’s women’s squad brings raw power, resilience, and deep-rooted passion to the pitch. (Photo courtesy Harry Nelson, CAPA)

340WSC is in good company as CAPA’s women’s team represents the gritty determination that defines Virgin Islands soccer. Leading by example is Soemili Perez, whose current title as “recovering player” tells only part of her remarkable story. A seasoned national team fixture and collegiate athlete currently navigating recovery, Perez remains refreshingly balanced. “My healthy soccer/ life balance is created by stopping to smell the roses and still enjoy life,” she stated.

While CAPA may be newer to the women’s soccer scene, their commitment runs deep. “We have officially had a team for two years,” Perez noted. Their approach to preparation speaks volumes about their professionalism. “We practice several times a week while trying to be understanding of everyone’s schedules and times. We do pregame warm-ups and talks to keep the energy positive on and off the field.”

Both clubs understand their responsibility extends beyond wins and losses. Browne’s philosophy centers on accessibility and growth. “I believe all the teams share similar goals where women’s soccer is concerned. We all want the game to continue to grow, gain visibility, and have a viable and competitive league that will help improve the players and make the game accessible to all females.”

Browne’s approach to development is comprehensive. “It is necessary that players are exposed to highly qualified coaches from the youth level for a solid development base. The same is required as they get older to continue necessary growth in the game.”

Perez echoed this commitment to the future generation. “I advance the game by showing younger players a different level of physical and mental performance; being a hard worker—a machine—and not giving up too easily.”

Perhaps most powerfully, both women articulate how soccer transcends sport. “Soccer is a life sport,” Browne explained. “It prepares you to deal with a lot of life challenges.”

Perez echoed Browne’s sentiment, ” In the game, you have to make quick decisions—and make sure they are the right decisions—while also keeping in mind that mistakes happen and can be fixed. You just need to be disciplined and determined enough to fix them. The same is true in life.”

Browne’s extensive international experience informs her leadership philosophy. “I’m here to bring experience and a willingness to stay abreast of the changes in the game and what is required for players to succeed.” When asked what her ultimate goal is for women’s soccer, Browne responded, “Well-developed players who can succeed at a high level.”

As these two clubs compete in the USVISF Women’s Premier League, they’re doing more than playing soccer—they’re building a legacy. Every practice session, match, and mentorship moment helps build a Virgin Islands where women and girls see limitless possibilities on and off the pitch.

The public can support USVI women’s soccer by attending matches, spreading the word, and showing these incredible athletes that their community stands behind them. Follow USVISF to find an upcoming match near you!

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