The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 5, 2024, at the BVIOC Office, Road Reef Plaza, Tortola. Representatives from National Federations (NFs) and the Athletes’ Commission gathered to reflect on achievements, elect new officers, and outline the path forward for the next quadrennial.
Elected Officers for 2024-2028
Key positions on the BVIOC Executive Committee were filled during the elections, including:
• President: Mr. Ephraim Penn (returning)
• 1st Vice President: Ms. Sabinah Clement (returning)
• Secretary General: Mr. Lloyd Black (returning)
• Treasurer: Mr. Mark Chapman (returning)
• 2nd Vice President: Ms. Ashley Kelly (newly elected, previously Athletes’ Commission Representative)
• Member At Large: Mr. Zebalon McLean
The Athletes’ Commission Representative on the Executive Committee will now be elected by the Athletes’ Commission.
Outgoing members, Mr. Ralston Henry (2nd Vice President) and Ms. Gloria Leola Fahie (Member At Large), were recognized for their significant contributions to the BVIOC.
The independent Election Commission overseeing the democratic process comprised Mr. Wayne Robinson, Mr. Rhennie Phipps, and Ms. Makalia Smith.
Federation and AGM Highlights
Representatives from Archery, Athletics, Basketball, Cycling, Football, Netball, Rugby, Sailing, Skiing, Squash, Softball-Baseball, Swimming, Tennis, Taekwondo, and Volleyball presented their 2024 achievements and highlights. Two new National Federations, Cricket and Surfing, were officially accepted as Members of the BVIOC, reflecting the growing diversity of sports in the BVI[SC1] .
President Ephraim Penn’s Vision for 2025-2028
President Ephraim Penn unveiled the BVIOC’s strategic focus for the upcoming quadrennial:
- Establishing a National Sports Structure to unify and strengthen sports governance in the BVI. This will involve one-on-one meetings with each NF to assess current status and provide a pathway framework.
- Completing the 25m Competition Swimming Pool, enhancing aquatic sports infrastructure.
- Introducing a Safeguarding Commission to ensure athlete safety and well-being.
- Launching the BVI Olympic Academy to educate and inspire through Olympic values.
- Partnering with DYAS and the Ministry of Health to advance the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) programme.
- Working towards sustainability in sports
The LTAD programme will include collaborations like the ongoing 3×3 Basketball initiative with Sea Cow’s Bay Baseball and Basketball Club.
“Our guiding principles will continue to align with the International Olympic Charter: to inspire through sports performance and education; excel by empowering everyone to achieve their best; and foster collaboration through impactful and effective partnerships,” said President Penn. ”Our open door policy remains in place for all National Federations and we encourage you to make an appointment to meet with us on Fridays to discuss matters in which we can assist. We look forward to working together for great successes in all sports in the next quadrennial.”
Looking Ahead
The AGM marked a commitment to leveraging sports as a vehicle for growth, empowerment, and national pride. With the strategic initiatives in place, the BVIOC is poised to further enhance its support for athletes and federations in the British Virgin Islands.
