The 2025 Virgin Islands Icon Awards was held on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Road Town. Photo: Facebook/VIcons

Kareem-Nelson Hull, Executive Producer of the Vicon Awards, said it was disappointing that the company entrusted to provide memorabilia for the 2025 edition of the awards show had allegedly misappropriated the funds. Photo: Facebook

The supplier is accused of unlawfully diverting funds intended for the prestigious awards ceremony. A full investigation has been launched by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), according to a press release from the event producers.

This investigation was initiated after a routine review of deliverables for the awards show, which took place on Sunday, July 6, uncovered potential misappropriation of funds. 

Misappropriation of funds found days before the awards show

The misconduct was discovered just days after the annual ceremony celebrating excellence in the Virgin Islands.

The supplier in question was contracted to provide various services, including procuring branded items—such as swag bags, 4-in-1 tumblers, and backpacks—for distribution to VIconic Training Academy students, as well as shipping event-related goods and educational materials. However, event organisers found that the funds allocated for these purposes were misused. 

Items believed to be intended for the awards were discovered in a California warehouse for over 27 days and were found to have no connection to the show. 

Despite this, the supplier reportedly billed the full amount for the shipment. 

This discrepancy was confirmed through direct verification with the shipping company in California. In response, the matter has been escalated to local authorities, and the VIcons team has engaged legal counsel.

‘We take these matters seriously’- Executive Producer

Kareem-Nelson Hull, Executive Producer of the awards, stated, “It is incredibly disappointing to be placed in a position where we must publicly address this situation. As a nonprofit organisation, we take these matters seriously and are committed to pursuing justice and accountability.” 

The supplier has been removed from any further involvement with the event. Organisers are reviewing and tightening internal controls to prevent similar breaches in the future. 

The Virgin Islands Icon Awards team expressed gratitude to its sponsors, judges, nominees, winners, and the broader community for their continued support and patience.