The BVI National Culinary Team are the recipients of a $5,000 check from the Lions Club of Tortola following a successful Taste and Serve BVI fundraising event that raised $18,000 in proceeds.
The fundraising evening was hosted by His Excellency the Governor, John J. Rankin, CMG, at Government House on World Food Day, observed in October. It was comprised of gourmet canapés, perfectly paired with fine wines, and a silent auction featuring a range of gifts from the hospitality, arts and business sector.
Platinum Event Sponsor for Taste and Serve BVI was Caribbean Cellars. Contributing sponsors were the BVI National Culinary Team, Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Scrub Island Resort, Wyndham Lambert Beach Resort, Saba Rock Resort, DJ Push Pop, Supa-Valu, OneMart Supermarket, Travel Wize Limited, Bobby’s Marketplace, Cleave Farrington, Driftwood Spa, Eco Adventures, Gumption Learning Adventures, House of Luxury, Khaptured Photography, Ocean Spa, Sekani, The Pottery Garden and Rae Vaughn Callwood.
1st Vice President of the Lions Club, Kamika A. Forbes, expressed her appreciation to the BVI “This event was the first of its kind for the Club, and we are extremely grateful for the partnerships of His Excellency, the Governor, the BVI National Culinary Team, and our numerous contributing sponsors in helping the Lions Club of Tortola to achieve our goal. We especially thank our patrons who attended and supported this cause.”
1st Vice President Forbes added, “The proceeds raised will assist with community service projects organised by the Club, and we are proud to be able to present a $5,000 check to the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA), to invest in the development needs of the BVI National Culinary Team as they prepare for the 2022 Taste of the Caribbean Competition in the USA.”
Speaking on behalf of the Governor at the check handover on November 2, 2022 was Deputy Governor, David Archer Jr., who expressed that Governor Rankin spoke quite highly of the event and the pairings and believed that it was critical for the Governor’s Office to help raise funds for such an amazing programme.
The Deputy Governor added, “We happen to be in Cultural and Tourism Month and what more represents BVI culture than our food. We know that the BVI National Culinary Team is quite successful and has been a part of a long tradition where we have always done well.” He also commended the partnership between the Lions Club and the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) on the work done, and wished the BVI National Culinary Team success.
Executive Director of the BVI CCHA, Keiyia Jackson-George stated, “I’m immensely proud of this team. This was the first time I’ve seen them in action since becoming the Executive Director. They’ve had many events planned and made several attempts to implement plans, only to see events cancelled due to the current state of the world. They didn’t lose focus. They stayed connected and forged ahead.”
She added, “Having their inaugural event since winning silver at competition with the Lions Club was a great way to showcase their talents to residents who may not have experienced the team and a great opportunity to serve the community of the Virgin Islands. You have not seen the last of the BVI National Culinary Team and you have not seen the last of the partnerships between the BVICCHA and the Lions Club.”
As a result of the overwhelming response received, the Lions Club of Tortola will be adding Taste and Serve BVI to its list of signature fundraising events held annually.