The Marine Workshop held by Mr Julian Willock and the Third District Committee in Sec Cows Bay on July 30, 2026, has been hailed for its effectiveness. Photo: Team of Reporters

From left: Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change and Third District Representative, Honourable Julian Fraser, RA; Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, (R9); and Junior Minister for Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL) attended the Marine Workshop organised by Mr Julian Willock and his Third District Committee on July 30, 2026. Photo: Team of Reporters

The one-day workshop, held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the Valerie O. Thomas Community Centre, attracted more than 45 residents of all ages. Photo: Team of Reporters

Acting Labour Commissioner Mervin D. Hastings addresses the participants at the Marine Workshop in Sea Cows Bay on July 30, 2026. Photo: Team of Reporters

The well-received event covered a range of topics, including careers in the marine sector, the requirements for becoming a boat captain, courses and scholarships available at the college, opportunities to enter the multi-billion-dollar industry, dressing for success, effective résumé writing, and work ethic. Photo: Team of Reporters

The one-day workshop, held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the Valerie O. Thomas Community Centre, attracted more than 45 residents of all ages. Photo: Team of Reporters

The one-day workshop, held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the Valerie O. Thomas Community Centre, attracted more than 45 residents of all ages. Photo: Team of Reporters

In response, the Third District Committee and Mr Willock partnered with private charter companies, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, the VI Shipping Registry, industry owners and professionals, the Labour Department, Umi Fashion, and Mrs Michelle A. V. McLean to host a comprehensive one-day workshop.

The one-day workshop, held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the Valerie O. Thomas Community Centre, attracted more than 45 residents of all ages.

The well-received event covered a range of topics, including careers in the marine sector, the requirements for becoming a boat captain, courses and scholarships available at the college, opportunities to enter the multi-billion-dollar industry, dressing for success, effective résumé writing, and work ethic.

Mr Willock said the Labour Department was also present to inform both employees and employers of their rights and responsibilities under the Labour Code.

Who supported & what was achieved

The event drew support from several elected officials, including Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change and Third District Representative, Honourable Julian Fraser, RA; Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9); and Junior Minister for Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL). Hon Smith congratulated Mr Willock on the workshop and said she would also be meeting with members of the marine sector in the coming weeks.

Also in attendance was Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4), Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, who endorsed the initiative and described it as timely.

Participants left the workshop with a better understanding of marine sector careers, the qualifications needed to begin a career in the industry, pathways to ownership and investment, résumé writing, labour rights, and how to dress professionally.

The Third District Marine Workshop was sponsored by Long Bay Beach Resort, Dr Richard W. Georges of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, BCQS, Mr Julien N. Johnson of Island Time, Nanny Cay Resort, Biras Creek Resort, Steve from My Caribbean Charters, Navigare Yachting, and Ms Patsy C. Lake of One Stop Mall.