Teams from Belize, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, St Kitts & Nevis, and Haiti were featured at the 5th Annual Emancipation Day Basketball Tournament, hosted by the CARICOM Embassies to the Republic of China (Taiwan) at Ming Chuan University on Sunday, August 2, 2026. Photo: BVIHKO

The British Virgin Islands Hong Kong Office (BVIHKO), in a show of solidarity, attended the 5th Annual Emancipation Day Basketball Tournament, hosted by the CARICOM Embassies to the Republic of China (Taiwan) at Ming Chuan University on Sunday, August 2, 2026. Photo: BVIHKO

Representing the Virgin Islands (VI), according to a press release from BVIHKO, were Analyst/Political Economy Officer of the BVI Hong Kong Office Ms Kyla K. Forbes and Student Representative Ms Shamorie Glasgow, who joined fellow Caribbean nationals in strengthening regional ties. Photo: BVIHKO

This annual tournament commemorates the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean, showcasing the diaspora's athletic talent and sportsmanship, while serving as a poignant reminder of historical struggles for freedom.

Beyond the basketball competition, the event featured cultural activities celebrating Caribbean heritage, creating a vibrant atmosphere of resilience, unity, and pride.

Representing the Virgin Islands (VI), according to a press release from BVIHKO, were Analyst/Political Economy Officer of the BVI Hong Kong Office Ms Kyla K. Forbes and Student Representative Ms Shamorie Glasgow, who joined fellow Caribbean nationals in strengthening regional ties. Their attendance, BVIHKO said, underscored the VI’s dedication to fostering meaningful connections with the Caribbean community across Asia.

'Spirit of camaraderie & shared heritage'

Teams from Belize, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, St Kitts & Nevis, and Haiti were featured throughout the day. The competition embodied the spirit of camaraderie and shared heritage, bringing together athletes and representatives in the celebration.

BVIHKO thanked the CARICOM Embassies in Taiwan for inviting it to celebrate Emancipation Day, a true reminder of Caribbean unity and friendship abroad.

Reflecting on the event, Ms Forbes noted, “I truly enjoyed celebrating this Emancipation period with our Caribbean family. It was heartwarming to be surrounded by so many fellow Caribbean people here in Taiwan, and I look forward to the day when the BVI diaspora grows large enough to proudly field a team of our own.”