Wheatley, Minister Rymer to Speak at BVI
The BVI Ideas Fest, a revived successor to the BVI Business Outlook Conference, will be held at Peter Island Resort on November 11-12, 2025; Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley has accepted an invitation to speak. New information from Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) says Minister for Communications and Works Hon. Kye M. Rymer will also present at the festival on a proposed airport expansion, a plan that has drawn mixed responses locally.
The BVI Ideas Fest, a reimagined successor to the BVI Business Outlook Conference, will take place at Peter Island Resort from November 11-12, 2025. Once held at Scrub Island Resort from 2011 to 2017, the event returns after an eight-year hiatus with a new, festival-style format intended to position the Territory not only to imagine but to implement the next chapter of resilient and inclusive prosperity.
Organisers describe the festival as an intimate think tank that brings together thought leaders from around the globe alongside dynamic local speakers and presenters. "When people and ideas meet in the right atmosphere, something powerful happens," event organisers said, noting the program will include keynotes, panels, workshops and creative sessions.
A social media post from the organisers, as reported by Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), said participants will have the opportunity to hear the Premier's ideas for the upcoming year, particularly regarding tourism. Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has accepted an invitation to a seaside chat during the two-day gathering.
His appearance is expected to cover the Territory's tourism strategy and fiscal priorities for the coming year, and will be one of several high-profile sessions aimed at policymakers, business leaders and community stakeholders. Newly reported by VINO, the festival will also feature a presentation by Minister for Communications and Works Hon.
Rymer (R5) on a proposed airport expansion. The proposal would include extending the current runway to accommodate larger aircraft and more direct flights from the United States and farther afield. Organisers said the festival will explore whether such a move would make the BVI more competitive in the tourism market or whether the Territory should remain an "off the beaten path" destination.
The airport idea has provoked mixed reactions. VINO reports that government supporters appear determined to advance the project, citing regional examples such as new airport developments in Anguilla, Nevis and Dominica, and the tourism surge in St Vincent and the Grenadines after Argyle International Airport opened.
Skeptics, reported by VINO, argue the expansion could be a heavy financial burden on taxpayers and that the government should prioritise fixing roads and other existing infrastructure first. Others say runway improvements are necessary because large-aircraft landings can be challenging under certain weather conditions.
Speakers at the Ideas Fest will cover a wide range of topics relevant to island nations and local stakeholders, including Financial Services 2030; Entrepreneurship and Venture Building; Emerging Industries for Island Nations; Art, Culture, and Creative Economies; Events, Leisure, and Quality of Life; and Giving Green: Philanthropy.
Organisers emphasise the event's intimate format is designed to foster meaningful exchanges between policymakers, business leaders, and community members. They encourage Virgin Islanders to attend, take part in discussions and help shape policy and projects that affect daily life and long-term prosperity.
Further details on registration, ticketing and the full speaker line-up are expected from the event organisers in the coming months.
Primary source: VINO