In a recent interview with Sunkissed TV, His Excellency Brereton Horne, High Commissioner of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the United Kingdom, delivered a passionate call for unity, cultural preservation, and economic investment among the Vincentian diaspora.
Emphasizing that the diaspora represents the very spirit and identity of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Horne outlined a proactive strategy to connect with Vincy communities across the UK, with a particular focus on engaging the next generation.
For High Commissioner Horne, diplomatic work is not confined to the halls of the High Commission’s office in London. Over the past several weeks, Horne has embarked on a series of regional engagements, traveling directly to where Vincentians live and work.
“Vincentians want to be connected,” Horne noted, citing a strong desire for unity and active representation across the country.
The High Commissioner recently visited Coventry to mark Emancipation celebrations, where he was greeted by a vibrant community turnout. He also visited High Wycombe, a town he is scheduled to return to on Wednesday, August 26, for a dedicated “Meet the High Commissioner” event.
These town-hall style meetings are branded to allow community members to directly hear the High Commission’s plans, ask questions, and actively participate in shaping the future of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the UK.
A central pillar of Horne’s vision is the active involvement of young Vincentians. During his recent travels, Hann expressed deep encouragement at seeing a significant number of youth attending diaspora events.
“Without the young Vincentians, the legacy would not necessarily go on,” Hann warned. He emphasized that energizing and involving young people is one of the key projects he is actively working to facilitate, ensuring that the legacy of their ancestral home is successfully carried forward.
The High Commissioner also highlighted the immense talent within the global Vincy diaspora across business, technology, culture, and entertainment. He cited international soca artist Kevin Little as a prime example of how Vincentian culture bridges international gaps. Hann recalled recently witnessing a predominantly European crowd in the UK “go wild” when Little’s hit song “Turn Me On” played, demonstrating the universal reach of the island’s music.
Importantly, Horne pointed out that diaspora contributions extend far beyond cultural pride. Artists and professionals like Kevin Little are also driving economic development; Little, for instance, has invested back home by launching a local delivery service application.
Horne strongly encouraged all Vincentians, whether born in the UK or St. Vincent, to maintain a strong connection to their heritage and consider investing in the island nation. Describing the country as “a natural place to be,” he celebrated St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ natural riches, from its beaches and waterfalls to the volcanic heights of La Soufrière.
Reflecting on the deeper historical roots of the Vincentian identity, Horne shared a poignant experience attending a Garifuna event in Honduras. He described witnessing Garifuna descendants celebrating their arrival day with a powerful fervor that has survived for over two centuries. He urged all Vincentians to carry that same passion and pride for their country.
“Always remember that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is home,” Horne stated.
