Outstanding farmers and fishers from across the Virgin Islands (VI) were honoured by the government during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market on April 10, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the opening ceremony of the 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market on April 10, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Farmers and fishers awarded during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market came from across the VI from Anegaga to Jost van Dyke, Tortola to Virgin Gorda. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Acting Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Dr Lavon Chalwell-Brewley, said these honours at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market were not only to celebrate produce, products, and progress but to celebrate people.

During the ceremony held at Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) in Paraquita Bay, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Dr Lavon Chalwell-Brewley, said the occasion was not only to celebrate produce, products, and progress but to celebrate people.

“This is an opportunity to recognise individuals whose dedication and hard work continue to strengthen agriculture and fisheries in the Virgin Islands.” 

These hardworking men and women, she said, are the heart of agriculture and fisheries, rising early, working tirelessly, and remaining committed to the work they do. 

Honourees 

The honourees came from across the VI from Anegaga to Jost van Dyke, Tortola to Virgin Gorda. 

The Food Producer Award was given to Ms Moviene F. Fahie, Mr Godwin Singh, Mr Wilbert Chinnery aka 'Isha', and Mrs Henrietta Wheatley. 

The Livestock Producer Award was presented to Mr Bryan Hodge, Mr Godwin Callwood, Mr Daniel Cline, and Mr Eldon Young. 

The Community Farming Hero Award was presented to Pleasant Valley Farm (Tortola) and Mr Jahnai L. Caul (Virgin Gorda). The Agri-Tech Innovator Award was presented to Agri-Paradise Virgin Gorda Ltd. 

The Fishers Entrepreneurship Award was presented to Mr Adam Turbe of Jost van Dyke. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Mr Dean Soares of Anegada. The Community Fishing Hero Award was presented to Mr Ishmael Michael Collins of Virgin Gorda.