Large crowds looking for employment at the Third District Job Fair at Nanny Cay on November 14, 2023 hosted by Julian Willock and Kishma P. Forbes in collaboration with Nanny Cay Resort and Marina. Photo: Nanny Cay Resort

From left: Miles Sutherland-Pilch, General Manager of Nanny Cay & Resort and Marina; Julian Willock of Advance Marketing and Professional Services; and Kishma P. Forbes of Virgin Islands School and Office Supplies were the organisers of the November 14, 2023 Third District Job Fair. Photo: Nanny Cay

Left: Ted Reshetiloff of B & G Marine Services, who received many resumes and was able to hire a young man on the spot. Photo: Nanny Cay Resort

Labour Workforce Development Manager, Mrs Roxanne Dewindth-Toussaint, left, and representatives of H Lavity Stoutt Community College at the Third District job Fair on November 14, 2023. Photo: Nanny Cay Resort

The job fair took place at Nanny Cay, adjacent to Peg Legs Restaurant, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

According to a press release on the job fair, almost 13 companies were represented, including H. L. Stoutt Community College and the Department of Labour and Workforce Development.

Many attendees were reportedly pleased with their job prospects and some have even secured employment.

One hired on the spot

One company, B & G Marine Services, which operates out of Nanny Cay, hired a young man on the spot. Many other companies, like Nanny Cay Resort, and public sector organisation BVI Electricity Corporation are waiting on follow-up interviews and resumes in keeping with their procedures to hire prospective employees.

There were over fifty residents of all ages who showed up seeking employment and general information and filled out applications, while others registered with the Department of Labour and Workforce Development.

One of the organisers of the event, Third District resident Julian Willock, noted that a main criterion for all companies to be at the job fair “was for them to have immediate job vacancies, and all of them did”.

Mega Yacht proposal for Sea Cows Bay Habour

Mr Willock also proposed that Nanny Cay Hotel and Marina should consider the Sea Cows Bay Habour to build a Mega Yacht Facility, which will be another avenue, “to provide jobs and economic development for the residents of District Three,” in a public-private partnership.

He opined that the Government would play a role in the “land negotiations, sea bed issues and ensuring that the environment is not compromised.” The community-minded resident said, “Next year, we can flesh out more details of this proposal”.

Mrs Roxanne Dewindth-Toussaint, Manager of the Labour Department Workforce Development Unit, who was standing in for the Labour Commissioner, praised the job fair and said: "They play a crucial role in connecting talent with employment opportunities and serves as a bridge between employers seeking skilled individuals and job seekers seeking fulfilling careers". She noted that job fairs still also play a role in reducing unemployment.

The Labour Workforce Development Manager, Mrs Dewindth-Toussaint, warned that once there is a job available and Virgin Islanders and Belongers are trained, they should be given first preference, according to Section 117 of the Virgin Islands Labour Code.

Organisers enthusiastic

General Manager of Nanny Cay, Mr Miles Sutherland-Pilch, noted that he was delighted to team up with Mr. Willock and Ms. Forbes to host the job fair. He stated that “this aspect of my job is very much enjoyed, and I am looking forward to making the job fair an annual event”.

Meanwhile, Ms Forbes encouraged the young people “never to give up, and keep reaching for your career goals and dreams.” She thanked all companies who participated and noted that she was happy being part of organising the job fair and “helping young people find meaningful employment.”

The companies on-site at the November 14, 2023 job fair included B & G Marine Services, MarineMax Vacations, Navigare Yachting, Waypoints Yachting, BVI Electricity Corporation, Nanny Cay Resort & Marina, Tradewinds Luxury Vacations, Omar’s Café and Fusion, Island Roots, BVI Painters, The Department of Labour and Workforce Development and the H. L. Stoutt Community College. The College was there to promote its popular Marine programme.

Job fair follows back-to-school giveaway in D3

This is the third collaboration between Forbes and Willock, aimed at benefitting the people of the Third District.

The two teamed up for a back-to-school giveaway in August 2023, when more than one hundred and thirty (130) students from the Third District were equipped with a variety of school supplies.

In September 2023, the two business persons collaborated to donate over a thousand dollars ($1000.00) worth of items to Ebenezer Thomas Primary School in Sea Cows Bay.

The duo is also looking to establish a food pantry to cater to vulnerable persons in the Third District.