Twin-island federation unveils groundbreaking initiative to reconnect diaspora communities with their Caribbean roots
St. Kitts and Nevis marked its 42nd Independence with a weekend of celebration and innovation in New York, blending tradition, culture, and a bold step forward in diaspora engagement.
On Friday, September 26, the twin-island federation hosted its annual Independence Gala at Villa Barone in the Bronx, under the distinguished patronage of Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Terrance M. Drew and Mrs. Diani Prince Drew. The elegant evening, a collaboration between St. Peter’s Alumni and Friends, the Kittitian and Nevisian Association (KANA), the St. Kitts and Nevis Embassy to the USA, and the Consulate in New York, brought together nationals and friends in a vibrant display of national pride.
- Advertisement -
The gala drew several dignitaries, including Senior Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Hon. Senator Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Her Excellency Dr. Mutryce Williams, and Deputy Counsel General, Kressell Daniel.
Her Excellency Jacinth Henry-Martin, Ambassador of St. Kitts and Nevis to the United States and Permanent Representative to the OAS, delivered the keynote address with a stirring poem that paid homage to the nation’s resilience and independence journey.
Minister of Tourism Marsha T. Henderson underscored the importance of the diaspora in her remarks. She reminded: “You carry a piece of St. Kitts and Nevis wherever you go.”
Adding to the evening’s significance, Melnecia Marshall, Deputy CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, and Pheon Jones, Marketing Director of the Nevis Tourism Authority, unveiled the “We Limin” Diaspora Campaign alongside the innovative St. Kitts and Nevis Jet Home Challenge.
The gala’s program, guided by host Alphonso Henry, blended elegance and cultural expression. Entertainment featured DJ Chico, UpFront Band; steelpan champions EBJ Harmonics; a diaspora fashion showcase from designers Kerese Elliott, Judith Rawlins, and Caribelle Batik; and a dramatic monologue by Ilana Warner, capturing the breadth of Kittitian and Nevisian creativity.
The gala was part of a larger weekend of celebrations, which also included a commemorative church service on Sunday, September 28. Together, these events marked not only the nation’s independence but also the formal launch of the We Limin campaign—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at deepening ties with diaspora communities.
Reimagining Diaspora Engagement
The campaign represents a revolutionary approach to tourism marketing, positioning diaspora members as authentic ambassadors. With exclusive perks like hotel discounts, community resources, a dedicated Facebook page, a specialized landing site (visitsttkitts.com/diaspora-page), webinars, and newsletters, We Limin offers meaningful opportunities for connection.
Its crown jewel, the Jet Home Challenge, running from October 13 to November 30, will encourage diaspora groups to rally family and friends for holiday travel to St. Kitts and Nevis. The group with the largest homecoming on a single flight will win a VIP welcome and unforgettable island experience.
“This campaign is about more than tourism; it’s about family, heritage, and pride,” said tourism officials during the launch.
Strengthening the Visitor Experience
The campaign arrives alongside other innovations, including the new Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system at knatravelform.kn, making travel to the islands more efficient. Marketing initiatives like Do Not Disturb, Your New Love Language, and Summer Unscripted continue to broaden the federation’s appeal, while the upcoming Four Islands One Escape campaign will connect St. Kitts and Nevis with nearby destinations via Makana Ferry.
On Nevis, developments include a new CEO appointment, renovations to the historic Hot Springs, and a comprehensive rebranding completed in June 2025. These complement St. Kitts’ expanding portfolio of unique experiences and luxury accommodations.
A Cultural Bridge for the Future
By launching We Limin during the independence celebrations, St. Kitts and Nevis have signaled that diaspora engagement is central to the nation’s future. Beyond tourism, it’s a cultural bridge linking nationals abroad with their roots, reinforcing the enduring truth that no matter where Kittitians and Nevisians live, their heritage travels with them.
For more information, visit visitsttkitts.com/diaspora-page or follow the St. Kitts and Nevis We Limin Facebook community., visit visitsttkitts.com/diaspora-page or follow the St. Kitts and Nevis “We Limin” Facebook page.
