Minister de Castro Praised for Sports Funding
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Sharie de Castro has received commendation from Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley for her advocacy in securing vital sports funding. The praise was delivered during a celebration honoring Commonwealth champion Adaejah Hodge. Government officials underscored the vital role of the Elite Athletes Programme in supporting local talent.
Natalio Wheatley has publicly commended Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Sharie de Castro for her continuous advocacy and dedication to securing critical funding for the Territory's sporting sector. The Premier delivered his remarks during a special celebration ceremony held in honor of Virgin Islands sprint sensation and Commonwealth champion Adaejah Hodge.
The event brought together officials and community members to recognize Hodge's remarkable achievements on the global stage, while also spotlighting the administrative and institutional support necessary to nurture homegrown talent. Speaking at the gathering, Premier Wheatley highlighted de Castro's tireless efforts to secure necessary budgetary allocations for athletes across the Virgin Islands.
He emphasized that her dedication extends well beyond individual standouts, positively impacting sports development throughout the entire territory. "I know the passion that the Minister has, not just for Adaejah, but all our athletes," Premier Wheatley stated. "I know how she fights for funding.
I know about the elevation of the funding into sports because of what she has fought for." A cornerstone of the ministry's recent success has been the Elite Athletes Programme, an initiative developed under de Castro's leadership. The programme is specifically tailored to provide financial and logistical assistance to high-performing athletes as they prepare for competitive regional and international events, helping to alleviate the substantial financial burdens often associated with elite training, equipment, and travel.
The Premier's accolades follow wider public recognition of the minister's performance. Political commentator Claude Skelton Cline also recently offered praise for de Castro's leadership within both the sports and education sectors. As the British Virgin Islands continues to gain international recognition through stellar athletic performances, territory leaders maintain that sustained financial backing and structured developmental programmes will remain key priorities for empowering the next generation of Virgin Islands competitors.
Primary source: BVI Platinum