Antigua & Barbuda THE CITIZEN by Antigua & Barbuda

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

Entrepreneurship

Innovation spurring new business in the twin islands

AKON – artist, philanthropist and visionary Desmond Cooper – moving the goalposts in Antigua Using influence to do social good

Shabier Kirchner – homegrown award-winning cinematographer

welcome

The entire world economy has been severely impacted by the events of the past year. Nevertheless, the world’s leaders are seeking ways to strengthen economic performance in this post-pandemic recovery period. I myself am determined to ensure an environment in Antigua & Barbuda that is conducive for young entrepreneurs to thrive and engender new wealth and opportunities for all. The structure of the twin islands’ economy has been primarily based on tourism and services but is currently in a process of diversification. My government has determined that one way to grow employment in the private sector— while shrinking the relative size of the public sector—is to turn many able men and women into entrepreneurs. Every crisis has a silver lining of possibilities.

“I am determined to ensure an environment in Antigua & Barbuda that is conducive for young entrepreneurs to thrive and engender new wealth and opportunities for all.”

By creating a healthy ecosystem to foster entrepreneurship and start-ups, I encourage the youth of Antigua & Barbuda to spawn new businesses and thus employ their manifold talents. Moving forward, I welcome our new citizens and others to partner with up-and-coming, homegrown entrepreneurs and to explore investing in multiple areas which require capital injection. From regional air transport to environmental stewardship, the opportunities are numerous and varied. My administration stands ready to guide the reconstruction process and encourages you to embrace our national talent in order to construct synergy among the diverse citizens of an evolving Antigua & Barbuda.

Honourable Gaston Browne Prime Minister

ISSUE 9 • APRIL 2021

antigua Barbuda

THE CITIZEN

Antiguan homeowner, entrepreneur and media mogul, Oprah Winfrey, once said “The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” Living or visiting the twin-island nation of Antigua & Barbuda has all the components of that dream. It’s hard to imagine anything more alluring than its limpid waters teeming with multicoloured fish lapping against impossibly white beaches fringed with swaying palm trees. A warm welcome, balmy year-round temperatures, lush landscapes, world-renowned yachting and sailing conditions, a dining culture to satisfy any foodies out there, and a UNESCO-heritage site to boot, certainly completes the dream. But for others, the dream is to start their own business – to satisfy that entrepreneurial itch and bring that idea they have been nurturing to fruition. In unpredictable times, like the world finds itself in today, entrepreneurs are needed more than ever to ensure nations’ continued economic growth – indeed, history has shown time and time again that crises foster entrepreneurship. It is not surprising then to learn that in Antigua & Barbuda there is a growing wave of local, innovative entrepreneurs who are using the emerging start-up and incubator programmes to forge ahead with their business plans. And with its world-class educational system up to university level, a stable government and robust economy, there are a wealth of opportunities to be found in the tiny-but-powerful nation. Direct flights to major business centres in North America and Europe and the islands’ CARICOM membership means there is scope for any budding entrepreneur to look beyond Antigua’s shores to a regional or international level. Using the knowhow of experienced international entrepreneurs brought in by the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme, the Nomad Digital Residence visa, and the returning diaspora, could boost the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, paving the way to potentially becoming a regional hub for accelerators and incubators in a not-too-distant future. Antigua & Barbuda’s CBI programme is one of the best in the Caribbean and is in the top five of the Global Citizenship Programme Index in Henley & Partners’ Global Residence and Citizenship Programmes 20182019 report. Citizenship to the islands allows visafree travel to 165 jurisdictions including Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK and Schengen area.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

THE CITIZEN, the official publication of the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), is produced by Select Publishing with the full support of Charmaine Quinland-Donovan, CIU’s Chief Executive Officer and the Government of Antigua & Barbuda. Publisher: Danielle Jacobsen Managing Editor: Susan Brophy Creative & Art Director: Marta Conceição

For Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) related enquiries, contact CIU at: info@cip.gov.ag www.cip.gov.ag

Advertising Designer: Analu Pettinati/Naimal Haq

Antigua & Barbuda introduction photo (page 4): Andre Phillip Photo credits: Janie Conley-Johnson, Andre Phillip, Akon, ABTA, @AtlanticCampaigns/Penny Bird, Ed Gifford/RORC, Fer Ribes, Tom Archer, Crystal Cruises, Andreas Göllner, Nick Morales, Gordon Johnson, Danielle Jacobsen, Pixabay, Unsplash, Shutterstock, Depositphotos, Adobe.

For Investment Migration Council (IMC) membership enquiries, contact the Regional Representative Office at: caribbean@investmentmigration.org www.investmentmigration.org

Translations: BCB Soluciones Repro & printing: Lisgráfica – Impressão e Artes Gráficas Circulation: 2,000 For all editorial and advertising enquiries, or to order a free copy, contact:

CiviQuo is the World’s First Investment Migration Marketplace. For enquiries, contact us at: info@civiquo.com

select@select-publishing.com

www.civiquo.com

The views expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of the CIU or the publishers. The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information published herein, or be held accountable for any errors, omissions, or claims for any damages.

To access THE CITIZEN:

All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without prior permission in writing from the publishers. www.thecitizenantiguabarbuda.com thecitizenantiguabarbuda

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editor’s

letter Susan Brophy Editor

elcome to the tenth issue of Antigua & Barbuda The Citizen. 2021 has arrived, and although there is still a lot of uncertainty in this world, the new year has started with hope and optimism in the twin islands. Historically, opportunity has always knocked during uncertain times and the pandemic has been no exception. Our cover story this issue looks at entrepreneurship and how start-ups and innovation are being nurtured within a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in Antigua & Barbuda. Recent visitor to Antigua, Todd “Mr Charity” Krim, gave us his input for this month’s philanthropy article, which looks at how celebrities are using their influence and fame to do good. Another recent visitor to the islands’ shores is Grammy-winning music artist, Akon. The Senegalese American singer met up with us to talk about his multifaceted life as musician, philanthropist and entrepreneur. Desmond Cooper AKA Coach Coop is also no stranger to the twin islands, having visited family many times before. Now based in Antigua, he is bringing American football to the island for the first time. The ex-NFL player met up with The Citizen to talk about his exciting plans for the islands’ youth. Fresh on the heels of a BAFTA TV nomination, we caught up with Antiguan cinematographer, Shabier Kirchner, who told us about his work on the ground-breaking Small Axe films with director Steve McQueen, and about his next project, this time in the director’s chair. The new Nomad Digital visa is attracting professionals from around the globe who’d prefer to work from paradise rather than being penned in at home elsewhere. Ronald Mind is one of those who has brought his family to sample the delights of Antigua for a couple of years. He tells us about why Antigua has so many great opportunities and is the dream place to live and work. As a small island nation, there is no ignoring the ocean in Antigua. Unfortunately due to exploitation, the world’s oceans are at breaking point. In our conservation article this month, we look at the huge problems that our seas are facing, and what we can all do to preserve this vital lifeforce. Although for many photographers in Antigua, the Caribbean Sea is the star of the show, the photos of this issue’s featured photographer, Janey Conley-Johnson, show a side of Antigua’s green and verdant interior that many are unfamiliar with. Local artist, Ronald Silencieux, has shared some of his paintings with us, which demonstrate his dramatic and vibrant use of colour to depict the landscapes and colourful characters to be found on the island. As usual, industry experts and thought leaders have contributed with their vision about the citizenship by investment industry around the globe. We would like to thank all our readers and everyone who has contributed. Happy reading!

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

cont ribu to rs

Todd Krim

Kevin Bürchler

Head of key accounts at Swiss Insurance Partners, the world’s leading experts for international health insurance and founders of the SIP Medical Family Office - a unique and new concept for better health protection and management. He is driven by enthusiasm and eager to have an impact.

A lawyer-turned-charity matchmaker, known in Hollywood as “Mr. Charity”, Todd has become the entertainment industry’s go-to person for charities looking to connect with celebrities and vice versa. His company, The Krim Group, has fostered partnerships between countless non-profits and celebrities, advised for-profit companies on social impact campaigns, and produced widely publicised charity events.

Elijah James CEO of The LocaL App, business mentor and community organiser for Startup Huddle Antigua & Barbuda. He is a YLAI Alumnus, with over 15+ years of experience in the retail, marketing, finance, hospitality and civil society sectors. Elijah believes that education and entrepreneurship are key to sustainable development.

David Lesperance One of the world’s leading international tax and immigration advisors and a published author in the field. David’s experience spans decades and having first established his expertise in major law firms, today he operates his own law firm and works as a private consultant advising ultrahigh-net-worth individuals and their families.

THE CITIZEN

Richard Merriman Ronald Mind

“Entrepreneur in Residence” at London South Bank University, Ronald specialises in entrepreneurship, social justice and global responsibility. He recently relocated to Antigua & Barbuda and is the founder of WorkMango. Ronald is a serial entrepreneur and changemaker, having set up, run and successfully exited many enterprising ventures across the globe.

Nina Angelovska, PhD Nina is an entrepreneur who in 2011, at the age of 22, co-founded the leading e-commerce company in North Macedonia (Grouper.mk). She was listed in “Forbes 30 Under 30” and is UNCTAD’s “eTrade for Women” advocate. She is the former minister of finance of North Macedonia and is president of the Macedonian E-commerce Association.

Founder of R P Merriman British & International Education Services which creates global partnerships with schools and investors. He enjoyed a 34-year career in the UK’s independent school sector and has happy memories of playing cricket against the likes of Curtly Ambrose, Eldine Baptiste and of taking Viv Richards wicket in his days with Glamorgan.

tho l gu eade ught est rs wr hip ite rs :

) ) 32 (34 ( er an hl rim c r r Bü e n dM i v r Ke cha Ri

OPINION

COVER STORY

Not making a decision is making a decision

Innovation spurring new business in twin islands

48 52

INTERVIEW Akon Artist, philanthropist and visionary

INTERVIEW Shabier Kirchner Award-winning Antiguan cinematographer

PHOTOGRAPHY

INTERVIEW

Antigua through the lens of Janie Conley-Johnson

PHILANTHROPY Using influence to do social good

ed Fix

6 14 68 6 CIP 76 A Dig In 78 C rts ital fo W ons & C Nom or er u th va ltu ad N tio re ot n in g

tic l

Desmond Cooper Moving the goalposts in Antigua

Antigua & Barbuda

BARBUDA BELLE

FRIGATE BIRD SANCTUARY

BARBUDA

ANTIGUA

MARTELLO TOWER PALMETTO POINT

BLUE WATERS HODGES BAY JUMBY BAY

FORT JAMES

V.C. BIRD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

SPANISH POINT

REGENT’S BAY

PEARNS POINT BETTY’S HOPE JOLLY HARBOUR

NONSUCH BAY

SUGAR RIDGE TAMARIND HILLS HALF MOON BAY

CURTAIN BLUFF SOUTHPOINT

NELSON’S DOCKYARD ENGLISH HARBOUR

THE CITIZEN

ARE YOU ALL AT SEA?

WHAT IS YOUR Does your plan B let you decide where you live? Does your plan B allow you to easily access healthcare in another country? Does your plan B mean that you can travel to a business meeting on the other side of the world at a moment’s notice?

Does your plan B protect your children’s inheritance? Does your plan B give you wealth management options? Does your plan B allow you to relocate your family in the event of a national disaster?

www.cip.gov.ag

DOES YOUR PLAN B

include a second citizenship?

citizenship by

investment programme

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

Citizenship by Investment Programme

There are four types of investment which will qualify you for citizenship in the paradise islands of Antigua & Barbuda. As an applicant, you can choose between a contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF), to The University of the West Indies Fund, purchase property in a pre-approved real estate development, or invest in an approved business venture. As a candidate, you must be over 18 years of age, hold no criminal record and have excellent health. Upon successful application, you and your family will obtain a lifetime citizenship and enjoy travelling visa-free to 165 jurisdictions. CONTRIBUTION TO THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND The non-profit NDF was established to fund income-generating public sector projects, innovation in entrepreneurship and approved charitable investments. It is audited by an internationally recognised accounting firm and reports on its status are published each year. If this is your investment of choice, you are invited to contribute USD 100,000 to the NDF, which is a one-time contribution for a family of four. Processing fees will be applied as indicated below. For a single applicant, or a family of 4 or less: • US$ 100,000 contribution Processing fees: US$ 30,000.* For a family of 5 or more: • US$ 125,000 contribution Processing fees: US$ 45,000, US$ 15,000 for each additional dependent over five people. THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES (UWI) FUND This investment option serves as a mechanism to finance the new University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. This contribution will also entitle one member of the family to a one-year scholarship, tuition only, at the University of the West Indies. For a family of 6: • US$ 150,000 contribution • Processing fees: US$ 15,000 from the seventh additional dependent onwards.

INVESTMENT IN REAL ESTATE You and your family can obtain citizenship by purchasing a property in Antigua & Barbuda. You may also benefit from rental revenue with this investment. To qualify for citizenship under this option, you must invest in a designated, officially approved real estate development worth at least US$ 400,000, undertake a joint investment of US$ 200,000 between two (2) related parties/ applications, or minimum US$ 200,000 for a unit/share in an approved property. You must own the property for a minimum of five years before selling it. At this time, owners may resell their units or shares to subsequent applicants as eligible investments. Processing fees will be applied as indicated below. For a single applicant, or a family of 4 or less: • Processing fees: US$ 30,000.* For a family of 5 or more: • Processing fees: US$ 45,000, US$ 15,000 for each additional dependent over five people. BUSINESS INVESTMENT The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) after consulting with the Antigua & Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA) approves businesses, whether existing or proposed, for the purposes of investment in business under the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP). There are two business investment options: • Invest at least US$ 1,500,000 in a pre-approved business. •A lternatively, at least two applicants can propose to make a joint investment in an approved business with a total investment of at least US$ 5,000,000. Each investor must contribute at least US$ 400,000 to the joint investment. For a single applicant, or a family of 4 or less: • Processing fees: US$ 30,000.* For a family of 5 or more: •P rocessing fees: US$ 45,000, US$ 15,000 for each additional dependent over five people.

Please note that all four options also include a due diligence fee of US$ 7,500 for the main applicant and spouse, US$ 2,000 for any dependent child between 12-17 years of age and US$ 4,000 for any dependent child/parent between 18-30 and 55 plus years.

* Processing fees for additional dependents: US$ 10,000 for children under 5 years, US$ 20,000 for children aged 6-17 years, US$ 50,000 for adults over 18 years. For a future spouse of the principal applicant, a fee of US$ 50,000 is payable upon application.

THE CITIZEN

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

citizenship by

Citizenship by Investment Programme Frequently Asked Questions

investment programme

Why does Antigua & Barbuda have a citizenship by investment programme? The programme was introduced to promote economic growth, attract real estate development, increase foreign direct investment to the country, support the development of infrastructure and provide for a sustainable future.

What happens once my application has been accepted? A certificate of registration of citizenship will be issued and submitted to the passport office. Your authorised agent/representative will forward your passports and Citizenship Certificate to you.

How many visa-free countries can I travel to as a citizen of Antigua & Barbuda? You can travel to 165 jurisdictions without requiring a visa, including the EU and Schengen countries, Hong Kong and Singapore. What is the processing time? Processing your application should take from 3 to 6 months.

Do I need to travel to Antigua & Barbuda to complete the process? The application process can be made from your country of residence. Once your application is successful and you have received your passport, you must travel to Antigua & Barbuda to take your oath or affirmation of allegiance. You are entitled to take up full-time residence in Antigua & Barbuda at any time you wish.

Who can apply for citizenship? To apply for the citizenship programme in Antigua & Barbuda, you must be at least 18 years of age, be of a good character with no criminal record, and have good health.

Does Antigua & Barbuda recognise dual citizenship? There are no restrictions on dual citizenship in Antigua & Barbuda.

Do I need to speak English to apply for citizenship? You don’t need to speak English to be an applicant.

For how many years will my passport be valid for? The passport will be valid for a period of 5 years and is renewable for a period of 10 years thereafter, provided that the requirements are met, which includes spending a minimum of five days in the country during this period after becoming a citizen.

Who can be included on the application? Your dependent children under 28 and dependent parents over 58 can be included within the application. How do you conduct the due diligence and vetting of applicants? There are no interviews. However, all applicants undergo rigorous screening prior to consideration by the Citizenship by Investment Unit. Complete files will be forwarded to an international, unbiased thirdparty due diligence service provider who will conduct detailed background checks on all applicants before the application is approved.

Can I invest with my Bitcoins or other cryptocurrencies? This is in the pipeline but has not yet been established. In addition to the citizenship by investment programme does Antigua & Barbuda have a tax residency programme? Antigua & Barbuda does not currently offer a tax residency programme.

For any additional questions, please contact an authorized representative, licensed agent or the CIU directly.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

‫الحصول عىل جنسية أنتيغوا وباربودا عن طريق‬ ‫برنامج االستثامر‬ ‫هناك أربعة أنواع من االستثامرات التي ستجعلك مؤهالً للحصول عىل جنسية الجزر‬ ‫الفردوسية أنتيغوا وباربودا‪ .‬عند تقديم الطلب‪ ،‬ميكنك االختيار بني تقديم مساهمة‬ ‫لصالح الصندوق الوطني للتنمية أو صندوق جامعة الهند الغربية أو رشاء ملكية يف‬ ‫إحدى املجموعات العقارية املعتمدة مسبقاً أو االستثامر يف مرشوع تجاري معتمد‪.‬‬ ‫وكمرشح‪ ،‬يجب أن يتجاوز عمرك ‪ 18‬عاماً وأال يكون لديك سوابق جنائية وأن تتمتع‬ ‫بصحة ممتازة‪.‬‬ ‫عند نجاح طلبك‪ ،‬ستحصل أنت وأرستك عىل الجنسية مدى الحياة وستستمتعون بالسفر‬ ‫بدون تأشرية إىل أكرث من ‪ 165‬والية قضائية‪.‬‬ ‫تقديم مساهمة لصالح الصندوق الوطني للتنمية‬ ‫تم تأسيس الصندوق الوطني للتنمية‪ ،‬الذي ال يهدف للربح‪ ،‬لتمويل مشاريع القطاع العام‬ ‫املدرة للدخل واالبتكار يف ريادة األعامل واالستثامرات الخريية املعتمدة‪ .‬وتُرا َجع حساباته‬ ‫ُنش تقارير عن وضعه سنوياً‪.‬‬ ‫من ِقبل رشكة محاسبة معرتف بها دولياً وت َ‬ ‫تم تأسيس الصندوق الوطني للتنمية‪ ،‬الذي ال يهدف للربح‪ ،‬لتمويل مشاريع القطاع العام‬ ‫املدرة للدخل واالبتكار يف ريادة األعامل واالستثامرات الخريية املعتمدة‪ .‬وتُرا َجع حساباته‬ ‫ُنش تقارير عن وضعه سنوياً‪.‬‬ ‫من ِقبل رشكة محاسبة معرتف بها دولياً وت َ‬ ‫إذا وقع اختيارك عىل هذا النوع من االستثامرات‪ ،‬فيُطلب منك تقديم مساهمة قدرها‬ ‫‪ 100.000‬دوالر أمرييك للصندوق الوطني للتنمية‪ ،‬وهي عبارة عن مساهمة تُقدَّم مرة‬ ‫واحدة عن كل أرسة مك ّونة من أربعة أفراد‪ .‬وسيتم تطبيق رسوم املعالجة كام هو موضح‬ ‫أدناه‪.‬‬ ‫ملقدم طلب واحد أو أرسة مك ّونة من ‪ 4‬أفراد أو أقل‪:‬‬ ‫• مساهمة قدرها ‪ 100.000‬دوالر أمرييك‬ ‫رسوم املعالجة‪ 30.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك‪ .‬انظر الخيار لفرتة محددة*‬ ‫ألرسة مك ّونة من ‪ 5‬أفراد أو أكرث‪:‬‬ ‫• مساهمة قدرها ‪ 125.000‬دوالر أمرييك‬ ‫رسوم املعالجة‪ 45.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك‪ 15.000 ،‬دوالر أمرييك لكل شخص ُمعال إضايف‬ ‫عىل ‪ 5‬أشخاص‪.‬‬ ‫صندوق جامعة الهند الغربية‪:‬‬ ‫يعمل هذا الخيار كآلية لتمويل حرم الجزر الخمس الجديد لجامعة الهند الغربية‪.‬‬ ‫وستخول هذه املساهمة أيضاً حصول أحد أفراد األرسة عىل منحة دراسية مدتها سنة‬ ‫واحدة‪ ،‬تشمل رسوم التعليم فقط‪ ،‬يف جامعة الهند الغربية‪.‬‬ ‫ألرسة مك ّونة من ‪ 6‬أفراد‪:‬‬ ‫‪ .‬مساهمة قدرها ‪ 150.000‬دوالر أمرييك‬ ‫‪ .‬رسوم املعالجة‪ 15.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك من الشخص امل ُعال اإلضايف‬ ‫السابع فصاعدا ً‪.‬‬

‫‪citizenship by‬‬

‫‪investment‬‬ ‫‪programme‬‬

‫االستثامر يف العقارات‬ ‫ميكنك أنت وأرستك الحصول عىل الجنسية من خالل رشاء عقار يف أنتيغوا وباربودا‪.‬‬ ‫كام ميكنك أيضاً االستفادة من إيرادات اإليجار بفضل هذا االستثامر‪ .‬وليك تكون مؤهالً‬ ‫للحصول عىل الجنسية مبوجب هذا الخيار‪ ،‬يجب عليك االستثامر يف مجموعة عقارية‬ ‫مع ّينة ومعتمدة رسمياً ال ّ‬ ‫تقل قيمتها عن ‪ 400.000‬دوالر أمرييك‪ ،‬إجراء استثامر مشرتك‬ ‫بقيمة ‪ 200.000‬دوالر أمرييك لكل طرف‪/‬طلب من طرفني‪/‬طلبني (‪ )2‬مرتابطني‪ ،‬أو ما ال‬ ‫ّ‬ ‫يقل عن ‪ 200.000‬دوالر أمرييك لوحدة‪/‬حصة يف عقار معتمد‪.‬‬ ‫ويجب عليك امتالك العقار ملدة خمس سنوات عىل األقل قبل بيعه‪ .‬ويجوز حينئذ‬ ‫للاملكني إعادة بيع وحدتهم أو حصتهم ملقدمي طلبات الحقني كاستثامرات مؤهلة‪.‬‬ ‫وسيتم تطبيق رسوم املعالجة كام هو موضح أدناه‪.‬‬ ‫ملقدم طلب واحد أو أرسة مك ّونة من ‪ 4‬أفراد أو أقل‪:‬‬ ‫• رسوم املعالجة‪ 30.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك‪ .‬انظر الخيار لفرتة محددة*‬ ‫ألرسة مك ّونة من ‪ 5‬أفراد أو أكرث‪:‬‬ ‫• رسوم املعالجة‪ 45.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك‪ 15.000 ،‬دوالر أمرييك لكل شخص ُمعال إضايف‬ ‫عىل ‪ 5‬أشخاص‪.‬‬ ‫االستثامر التجاري‬ ‫تقوم وحدة الجنسية عن طريق االستثامر ‪ -‬بعد التشاور مع هيئة االستثامر يف أنتيغوا‬ ‫وباربودا ‪ -‬باملوافقة عىل املشاريع التجارية‪ ،‬سواء كانت قامئة أو مقرتحة‪ ،‬ألغراض‬ ‫االستثامر يف األعامل التجارية مبوجب برنامج الجنسية عن طريق االستثامر‪.‬‬ ‫هناك خياران لالستثامر التجاري‪:‬‬ ‫• استثمر ما ال يقل عن ‪ 1.500.000‬دوالر أمرييك يف مرشوع تجاري معتمدة مسبقاً‪.‬‬ ‫• كبديل لذلك‪ ،‬ميكن لطرفني عىل األقل اقرتاح إجراء استثامر مشرتك يف مرشوع تجاري‬ ‫معتمد مببلغ إجاميل ال يقل عن ‪ 5.000.000‬دوالر أمرييك‪ .‬ويجب عىل كل مستثمر‬ ‫املساهمة مببلغ ال يقل عن ‪ 400.000‬دوالر أمرييك يف االستثامر املشرتك‪.‬‬ ‫ملقدم طلب واحد أو أرسة مك ّونة من ‪ 4‬أفراد أو أقل‪:‬‬ ‫• رسوم املعالجة‪ 30.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك انظر‪ .‬الخيار لفرتة محددة*‬ ‫ألرسة مك ّونة من ‪ 5‬أفراد أو أكرث‪:‬‬ ‫• رسوم املعالجة‪ 45.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك‪ 15.000 ،‬دوالر أمرييك لكل شخص ُمعال إضايف‬ ‫عىل ‪ 5‬أشخاص‪.‬‬ ‫رسوم املعالجة لألشخاص امل ُعالني اإلضافيني‪ 10.000 :‬دوالر أمرييك لألطفال دون سن ‪5‬‬ ‫أعوام‪ 20.000 ،‬دوالر أمرييك لألطفال الذين ترتاوح أعامرهم بني ‪6‬و‪ 17‬عاما ً‪50.000 ،‬‬ ‫دوالر أمرييك للبالغني الذين تتجاوز أعامرهم ‪ 18‬عاماً‪.‬‬ ‫بالنسبة للزوج‪/‬ة املستبقيل‪/‬ة ملقدم‪/‬ة الطلب الرئييس‪/‬ة‪ُ ،‬يدفَع رسم قدره ‪ 50.000‬دوالر‬ ‫أمرييك عند تقديم الطلب‪.‬‬

‫‪THE CITIZEN‬‬

‫‪16‬‬

‫‪citizenship by‬‬

‫‪investment‬‬ ‫‪programme‬‬

‫الحصول عىل جنسية أنتيغوا وباربودا عن طريق‬ ‫برنامج االستثامر‬ ‫أسئلة متكررة‬

‫ملاذا متلك أنتيغوا وباربودا برنامج الجنسية عن طريق االستثامر؟‬ ‫تم اعتامد الربنامج لتعزيز النمو االقتصادي واستقطاب التنمية العقارية‬ ‫وزيادة االستثامر األجنبي املبارش يف البالد ودعم تطوير البنية التحتية وتأمني‬ ‫مستقبل مستدام‪.‬‬ ‫كم عدد البلدان التي ميكنني السفر إليها دون تأشرية كمواطن أنتيغوا‬ ‫وباربودا؟‬ ‫ميكنك السفر إىل أكرث من ‪ 165‬والية قضائية دون الحاجة إىل تأشرية‪ ،‬مبا يف‬ ‫ذلك بلدان االتحاد األورويب وشنغن وهونغ كونغ وسنغافورة‪.‬‬ ‫كم من الوقت تستغرق معالجة طلبك؟‬ ‫تستغرق معالجة طلبك ما بني ‪ 3‬و‪ 6‬أشهر‪.‬‬ ‫من ميكنه التقدم بطلب للحصول عىل الجنسية؟‬ ‫لتكون مؤهالً لربنامج الجنسية يف أنتيغوا وباربودا‪ ،‬يجب أن يتجاوز عمرك‬ ‫‪ 18‬عاماً وأن تتسم بحسن الخلق وأال يكون لديك سوابق جنائية وأن تتمتع‬ ‫بصحة جيدة‪.‬‬ ‫هل ينبغي أن أتحدث باللغة اإلنجليزية لطلب الحصول عىل الجنسية؟‬ ‫لست بحاجة إىل التحدث باللغة اإلنجليزية للتقدم بالطلب‪.‬‬

‫امللفات الكاملة إىل جهة دولية غري منحازة تق ّدم خدمات العناية الواجبة‬ ‫والتي ستجري تحريات مفصلة بشأن خلفيات املتقدمني بالطلب‪.‬‬ ‫ماذا يحدث بعد قبول طلبي؟‬ ‫سيتم إصدار شهادة تسجيل الجنسية وتقدميها إىل مكتب جوازات السفر‪.‬‬ ‫وسيقوم وكيلك‪/‬ممثلك املفوض بإرسال جوازات السفر وشهادة الجنسية‬ ‫الخاصة بك إليك‪.‬‬ ‫هل يجب أن أسافر إىل أنتيغوا وباربودا إلكامل العملية؟‬ ‫ميكن إجراء الطلب من بلد إقامتك‪ .‬بعد نجاح طلبك وتلقيك جواز سفرك‪،‬‬ ‫يجب عليك السفر إىل أنتيغوا وباربودا ألداء اليمني أو تأكيد الوالء‪ .‬ويحق لك‬ ‫اإلقامة بدوام كامل يف أنتيغوا وباربودا متى تشاء‪.‬‬ ‫هل تعرتف أنتيغوا وباربودا بالجنسية املزدوجة؟‬ ‫ال توجد قيود عىل الجنسية املزدوجة يف أنتيغوا وباربودا‪.‬‬ ‫كم من سنة سيبقى جواز سفري ساري املفعول؟‬ ‫سيبقى جواز سفرك ساري املفعول ملدة ‪ 5‬سنوات وهو قابل للتجديد ملدة‬ ‫‪10‬سنوات بعد ذلك‪ ،‬رشيطة تلبية املتطلبات التي تشمل قضاء خمسة أيام‬ ‫عىل األقل يف البلد خالل هذه الفرتة بعد الحصول عىل الجنسية‪.‬‬

‫من ميكن إدراجه يف الطلب؟‬ ‫ميكنك أن تدرج يف الطلب أطفالك املعالني الذين تقل أعامرهم عن ‪ 28‬عاماً‬ ‫ووالديك املعالني إذا كان عمرهام يتجاوز ‪ 58‬عاماً‪.‬‬

‫هل ميكنني االستثامر بعملة بيتكوين (‪ )Bitcoin‬أو غريها من العمالت‬ ‫املعامة؟‬ ‫هذا األمر ما زال قيد اإلعداد ومل يتم تنفيذه بعد‪.‬‬

‫كيف تُجرون العناية الواجبة وفحص الطلبات؟‬ ‫ال نجري مقابالت‪ .‬ومع ذلك‪ ،‬يخضع جميع املتقدمني بالطلب لفحص دقيق‬ ‫قبل دراسة ملفهم من قِبل وحدة الجنسية عن طريق االستثامر‪ .‬تُحال‬

‫باإلضافة إىل برنامج الجنسية عن طريق االستثامر‪ ،‬هل لدى أنتيغوا وباربودا‬ ‫برنامج لإلقامة الرضيبية؟‬ ‫ال تقدم أنتيغوا وباربودا حالياً برنامجاً لإلقامة الرضيبية‪.‬‬

‫ملزيد من األسئلة‪ ،‬يُرجى االتصال مبمثل مفوض أو وكيل مرخص له أو مبارشة بوحدة الجنسية عن طريق االستثامر‪.‬‬

‫‪17‬‬

‫‪ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021‬‬

If there’s one thing that 2020 has shown you, it’s that life can be unpredictable. Never has it been more important to have a robust Plan B in place for the unexpected – no matter what life throws at you. If your Plan B doesn’t already include a second citizenship, perhaps now is the time to think about it to protect those you care about the most. Investing in the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Programme means that whatever happens in life, you and your family can feel secure with the knowledge that you have options for where to live and where to go. With flexibility for your wealth management needs, no tax on your worldwide income nor inheritance tax, you can rest assured that your family’s best interest is served both now and in the future. Furthermore, not only is Antigua & Barbuda amongst the fastest-growing economies in the Caribbean region and an international financial centre whose legal system is based on British Common Law, but there are countless investment and business opportunities available in a variety of sectors. Visa-free access to over 150 countries across the globe allows you to jump on a plane to that business meeting or conference at a moment’s notice. The world is indeed your oyster. And should you wish to relocate to these safe, peaceful and beautiful twin islands, you will find yourself in a multicultural society with world-class education opportunities, a strong healthcare system and business-friendly environment. The country’s strategic geographic location in the Eastern Caribbean together with regular flights to major business hubs in North America and London means you will always be well connected, whether for business or leisure. THE IDEAL PLACE FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO DROP ANCHOR.

www.cip.gov.ag | info@cip.gov.ag

So, is second citizenship of Antigua & Barbuda part of

YOUR PLAN B?

citizenship by

investment programme

АНТИГУА И БАРБУДА

гражданство по инвестиционной программе

Существуют четыре вида инвестиций, благодаря которым вы можете стать кандидатом на получение гражданства на райских островах Антигуа и Барбуда. Вы можете выбрать один из вариантов: безвозмездный взнос в государственный фонд экономического развития (NDF) или в фонд Университета Вест-Индии, инвестиции в недвижимость в один из одобренных правительством проектов или инвестиции в бизнес в одно из утвержденных коммерческих предприятий. Заявитель должен быть старше 18 лет, не иметь судимостей и иметь отличное здоровье. При условии одобрения заявления, вы и ваша семья получите пожизненное гражданство и сможете наслаждаться безвизовым въездом в более чем 165 юрисдикционных территорий. БЕЗВОЗВРАТНЫЙ ВЗНОС В ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ ФОНД ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКОГО РАЗВИТИЯ Некоммерческий фонд NDF был учрежден с целью финансирования предпринимательских государственных проектов, инноваций в предпринимательстве и одобренных благотворительных проектов. Деятельность фонда проверяется международно признанной аудиторской фирмой, ежегодно публикуется доклад о состоянии дел. Если вы выбрали этот вариант инвестиций, то вам предлагается внести в государственный фонд экономического развития NDF сумму в 100 000 долларов США, это единовременный взнос для семьи из четырех человек. Ниже указана сумма сбора за обработку данных. Для одного заявителя или семьи из четырех или менее человек: • Взнос 100 000 долларов США Сбор за обработку данных: 30 000 долларов США. Для семьи из 5 и более человек: • Взнос 125 000 долларов США Сбор за обработку данных: 45 000 долларов США, 15 000 долларов США за каждого дополнительного иждивенца свыше пяти членов семьи. ФОНД УНИВЕРСИТЕТА ВЕСТ-ИНДИИ (UWI): Этот вариант инвестиции создан для финансирования кампуса Five Islands Университета Вест-Индии. Это денежное вложение дает право на получение стипендии сроком на один год (только плата за учебу) для одного члена семьи в Университете Вест-Индии. Для семьи из 6 человек: • Взнос 150 000 долларов США • Сбор за обработку данных: 15 000 долларов США за каждого дополнительного иждивенца. ИНВЕСТИЦИИ В НЕДВИЖИМОСТЬ Вы и члены вашей семьи можете получить гражданство купив недвижимость в Антигуа и Барбуда. Выбрав этот вариант

THE CITIZEN

инвестиции, вы также сможете получать доходы от аренды. Чтобы стать кандидатом на получение гражданства в случае выбора этого варианта, вы должны вложить в один из официально утвержденных объектов недвижимости не менее 400 000 долларов США, или два (2) ассоциированных лица/кандидата на гражданство могут сделать совместное вложение, минимальная сумма взноса каждого участника составляет 200 000 долларов США, также возможно минимальное вложение в 200 000 долларов США в долю официально утвержденного объекта недвижимости. Вы сможете продать недвижимость не ранее, чем через 5 лет. По истечении этого срока, собственники могут перепродать объекты недвижимости или их доли последующим кандидатам на гражданство, как один из утвержденных вариантов вложений. Ниже указана сумма сбора за обработку данных. Для одного заявителя или семьи из четырех или менее человек: • Сбор за обработку данных: 30 000 долларов США. Для семьи из 5 и более человек: • Сбор за обработку данных: 45 000 долларов США, 15 000 долларов США за каждого дополнительного иждивенца свыше пяти членов семьи. ИНВЕСТИЦИИ В БИЗНЕС Подразделение по вопросам инвестиционного гражданства (CIU) после согласования с Инвестиционным департаментом Антигуа и Барбуды (ABIA) официально одобряет коммерческие предприятия для программы инвестиционного гражданства (CIP). Это может быть как новый, так и уже существующий бизнес. Существуют два варианта инвестиций в бизнес: • Инвестировать как минимум 1 500 000 долларов США в одобренный бизнес. • Другой вариант - это инвестировать в бизнес нескольким заявителям, общая сумма вложений должна быть не менее 5 000 000 долларов США. При этом каждый заявитель обязан вложить в общий проект не менее 400 000 долларов США. Для одного заявителя или семьи из четырех или менее человек: • Сбор за обработку данных: 30 000 долларов США. Для семьи из 5 и более человек: • Сбор за обработку данных: 45 000 долларов США, 15 000 долларов США за каждого дополнительного иждивенца свыше пяти членов семьи. Сбор за обработку данных для дополнительных иждивенцев: 10 000 долларов США за детей младше 5 лет, 20 000 долларов США за детей от 6-17 лет, 50 000 долларов США за взрослых старше 18 лет. За будущего супруга/супругу основного заявителя сбор в 50 000 долларов США подлежит уплате по заявлению.

АНТИГУА И БАРБУДА

citizenship by

гражданство по инвестиционной программе

Часто задаваемые вопросы

Почему в Антигуа и Барбуда существует гражданство по инвестиционной программе? Программа была создана для содействия экономическому росту, развитию рынка недвижимости, увеличения объемов прямых иностранных инвестиций в страну, поддержки развития инфраструктур и обеспечения надежного будущего. Сколько стран я смогу посещать без визы как гражданин Антигуа и Барбуда? Вы сможете посещать без визы более 165 стран, включая страны Евросоюза и Шенгенского соглашения, Гонконг и Сингапур. Сколько составляет срок рассмотрения заявления? Срок рассмотрения заявления может занять от 3 до 6 месяцев. Кто может претендовать на получение гражданства? Для того, чтобы претендовать на получение гражданства Антигуа и Барбуда вы должны быть старше 18 лет , иметь хорошую репутацию, не иметь судимостей и обладать хорошим состоянием здоровья. Должен ли я владеть английским языком, чтобы претендовать на получение гражданства? Для того, чтобы претендовать на получение гражданства вы не обязаны владеть английским языком. Кто может быть включен в заявление? В заявление могут быть включены финансово зависимые дети до 28 лет и находящиеся на иждивении родители старше 58 лет. Как вы проводите проверку на благонадежность заявителей? Личные собеседования не проводятся. Однако, все заявители проходят строгую проверку Подразделением по вопросам инвестиционного гражданства. Полностью укомплектованное дело передается в международную, объективную, независимую службу проверки на

investment programme

благонадежность, которая проводит тщательную проверку личных данных всех заявителей. Что происходит после того, как мое заявление получает одобрение? Выдается справка о регистрации гражданства, которая передается в паспортную службу. Затем ваш уполномоченный агент / представитель отправляет вам ваши паспорта и свидетельство о гражданстве. Для окончательного оформления дела мне необходимо лично приезжать в Антигуа и Барбуда? Подача документов возможна из страны вашего проживания. После успешного разрешения вашего дела и получения паспорта, вы должны приехать в Антигуа и Барбуда, чтобы принять присягу или подтвердить подданство. Вы имеете право установить место постоянного проживания в Антигуа и Барбуда в любое время по вашему желанию. Признает ли Антигуа и Барбуда двойное гражданство? В Антигуа и Барбуда нет ограничений для двойного гражданства. Сколько лет будет действителен мой паспорт? Паспорт действителен 5 лет и он продлевается на 10 лет, при выполнении всех требований, таких как минимальный срок пребывания в стране после получения гражданства – пять дней. Могу я инвестировать в Биткойнах или других криптовалютах? Пока этот вопрос находится в работе, но пока ещё не разрешен. В дополнение к программе инвестиционного гражданства существует в Антигуа и Барбуда программа налогового резиденства? В данный момент в Антигуа и Барбуда не существует программы налогового резиденства.

Если у вас возникли любые другие вопросы, пожалуйста, свяжитесь с уполномоченным представителем, лицензированным агентом или напрямую с Подразделением по вопросам инвестиционного гражданства.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

citizenship by

investment programme

通过投资项目获取安提瓜和巴布达公民身份

有下列四种投资方式,可以让您有资格获得天堂般的安提瓜和巴布达岛国的公民身份。作为申请人,您可以选择向国家发展基金（NDF）捐款,向西印度群岛大学基金会捐款,在预先批准的房地产开发项目中购买房产,或投资于经批准的商业企业。作为候选人,您必须年龄超过18岁,无犯罪记录,身体健康。申请成功后,您和您的家人会获得终身公民身份,并享有在超过165个国家旅行免签的优势。

向国家发展基金捐款非盈利性质的国家发展基金的成立是为了为创收公共部门项目、创业创新和经批准的慈善投资提供资金。它由一家国际公认的会计师事务所审计,并且每年都会公布其财务状况报告。如果这是您的投资选择,您需要向国家发展基金捐款十万美金,这是四口之家一次性的捐款数额.办理费用如下所示。

适用于单个申请人,家庭成员四人及以下: •十万美金捐款办理费用: 三万美金请查阅限期价格*。

适用于家庭成员五人及以上: •十二万五千美金办理费用:四万五千美元，五人之外每增加一人需多缴一万五千美元。西印度群岛大学（UWI）基金会：这一投资选项用于为西印度群岛大学的五岛新校区提供融资。这一捐款将使捐款家庭的一员可以获得一项为期一年的奖学金,即免除在西印度群岛大学一年的学费。

对于六口之家: •十五万美金捐款

第七位起: •办理费用：每个增加成员需缴一万五千美金。

房地产投资您和您的家人可以通过在安提瓜和巴布达购买房产来获得公民身份。您也可以通过此投资从租金收入中受益。为通过此项投资获得公民身份，您需要投资一个指定的，经官方批准的价值至少为四十万美元的房地产开发项目，可两（2）个关联方或申请人共同投资，每人投资至少二十万美元，或在被批准的房

THE CITIZEN

产项目中每人至少投资二十万美元购买一个单元/份额。在出售房产前，您需要拥有它至少五年。在此期间，业主可以向后续的申请者转售房产单元或份额，作为后者的投资房产。办理费用如下所示。

适用于单个申请人,家庭成员四人及以下: • 办理费用: 三万美金请查阅限期价格*。

适用于家庭成员五人及以上: • 办理费用：四万五千美元，五人之外每增加一人需多缴一万五千美元。

商业投资在与安提瓜和巴布达投资局（ABIA）协商后,投资公民部门（CIU）批准现有或提议的商业项目,以便外国人在投资公民计划（CIP）下投资。有两个商业投资选项:

• 投资至少一百五十万美元给一项预先批准的商业活动。

• 或者,至少有两个申请人可以提议对经批准的企业进行联合投资,总投资至少为五百万美元。每个投资者至少支付四十万美金。适用于单个申请人,家庭成员四人及以下: • 办理费用: 三万美金请查阅限期价格*。

适用于家庭成员五人及以上: • 办理费用：四万五千美元，五人之外每增加一人需多缴一万五千美元。每增加一人的办理费用：5岁以下的孩子一万美元，6-17岁的孩子两万美元，18岁上成人五万美元。主申请人的未来配偶申请费为五万美元，需在申请时支付。

通过投资项目获得安提瓜和巴布达的公民身份问&答为什么安提瓜和巴布达推行通过投资获得公民身份项目? 这个项目旨在增进经济发展,促进房地产开发,增加外国对本国的直接投资,支持基础设施建设并提供可持续发展。作为安提瓜和巴布达公民,我可以免签到多少个国家旅行? 您可以去往超过165个司法管辖区,包括欧盟和申根国家,香港和新加坡。处理时间有多长? 处理您的申请通常需要三至六个月。

谁可以申请公民身份? 申请安提瓜和巴布达的公民身份,您至少需要18周岁, 无犯罪记录并且身体健康。申请公民身份需要我会说英语吗? 申请人不需要会讲英语。

谁可以被包括在申请中? 您抚养的年龄小于28岁的孩子和赡养的超过58岁的老人可以被包括在申请中。

如何进行尽职调查和审查申请人? 没有面试环节。但是,所有申请人在获得公民身份前都要经过公民投资部门严格的筛选。完整的文件将转发给国际上公正的第三方尽职调查服务提供商,该服务提供商将对所有申请人进行详细的背景调查。

citizenship by

investment programme

我的申请被接受后会发生什么? 将颁发公民身份登记证书并提交给护照办公室。您的授权代理人/代表将转发您的护照和公民身份证明给您。

我需要亲自到安提瓜和巴布达来完成手续吗? 申请环节可以在您的居住国完成。一旦您的申请成功并收到护照,您需要亲自到安提瓜和巴布达来宣誓或承认效忠。您随时可以定居在安提瓜和巴布达。安提瓜和巴布达承认双重国籍吗? 安提瓜和巴布达对于双重国籍没有限制。

我的护照有效期为几年? 护照有效期五年,此后可续期10年,续期的前提是符合要求,包括在成为公民后在护照有效期间在该国度过至少5天。我可以用我的比特币或其他虚拟货币投资吗? 这还在筹备中,但尚未实行。

除了投资计划获取公民身份外,安提瓜和巴布达还有税务定居计划吗? 安提瓜和巴布达目前不提供税务定居计划。

如有任何其他问题,请联系授权代表,许可代理或直接联系投资公民部门(CIU)。

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

licensed

agents • Eugene Abbott: eabbott@abifinancialgroup.com ABI Financial Group: www.abifinancialgroup.com • McAlister Abbott: mabbott@gcpantigua.com Global Citizenship Partners: www.gcpantigua.com • Leslie-Ann Brissett George: leslieann@lbrissettlegal.com Leslie-Ann Brissett Legal Services: www.lbrissettlegal.com • Sharon Cort-Thibou: legal@cortandcort.com Turnkey Antigua: www.turnkeyantigua.com • Verlyn L. Faustin: verlyn.faustin@civesmundiinc.com Cives Mundi Inc • Hollis E. Francis Jr.: info@heflawantigua.com HEF LAW: www.heflawantigua.com • Thomas Francis: tfrancis0483@gmail.com Caribbean Concierge • T.M. Rufus Gobat: rufus@cariblife.ag Caribbean Lifestyle Services: www.cariblife.ag

• Stuart Lockhart: clerks@lockhartlegalchambers.com Stuart Lockhart Legal Services: www.lockhartlegalchambers.com • Abire Mansoor: amansoor@citizensinternational.com Citizens International: www.citizensinternational.com • Kirthley Maginley: kmaginley@jamesandmaginley.com James & Maginley Ltd: www.jamesandmaginley.com • Elizabeth Makhoul: emakhoul@artoncapital.com Arton Capital: www.artoncapital.com • Maya Mansoor-Khouly: cip@khouly.com Atlantik Realty: www.khouly.com • Andrea Roberts-Nicholas: andrea.roberts@robertscolaw.com Roberts & Co: www.robertscolaw.com • Vanetta Rodgers: vcrodgers@avcocorp.com Avco Corporate Services Limited: www.avcocorp.com • Jermaine C. Rhudd: jermaine@rhuddlawfirm.com

• Nigel Gore: nigel@blueprint-development.com Blueprint Development: www.blueprint-development.com • Gaye Hechme: ghechme@ilis.ag Island Living Investment Services Ltd: www.ilis.ag

• Mei Tang: rmeitang@gcpantigua.com Global Citizenship Partners: www.gcpantigua.com • Romell Tiwari: rtiwariantigualocalagent@usa.net AIT Management Services Ltd: www.aitms.ag

• Julia Herbert: citizenshipsolutions@icloud.com • Marian-Barbara Hesse: hesse@bhesseandassociates.com B. Hesse & Associates: www.bhesseandassociates.com • Radford Hill: r.hill@lawhillandhill.com Hill & Hill Chambers: www.lawhillandhill.com • Alan Hosam: hosama@candw.ag AH Consultancy Services Ltd • Kevin Hosam: khosam@conciergeantiguabarbuda.com Exclusive Concierge Antigua Barbuda: www.conciergeantiguabarbuda.com • Kelvin John: johnk@candw.ag Thomas, John & Co: www.thomasjohn.com

THE CITIZEN

• Arthur Thomas: thomasa@candw.ag Thomas, John & Co: www.thomasjohn.com • Joseph Warner: info@jdwconsultingantigua.com JDW Consulting Ltd: www.jdwconsultingantigua.com • Kem Warner: kwarner@kawmanagement.com KAW Management Services Limited: www.kawmanagement.com • Robert Wilkinson: robert.wilkinson@ag.gt.com Grant Thornton: www.grantthornton.ag

opinion by David Lesperance JD Founder and Principal Lesperance & Associates

THE CITIZEN

NOT MAKING A DECISION...

IS MAKING A DECISION High-net-worth (HNW) individuals around the world live in very turbulent times and live their lives in the equivalent of a wildfire zone. This is why so many are looking for the “fire insurance” of a second passport. However, what few appreciate is the speed at which their worlds can change forever.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

EVENTS, DEAR BOY, EVENTS

WHAT ARE “TRIGGERING EVENTS”?

The late British prime minister, Harold Macmillan, when asked why most long-term plans went astray, famously replied, “Events, dear boy, events”. Now just imagine the impact of the following events on a HNW individual and their family in each of the following situations:

Triggering events are often negative and can range from pandemics to domestic political unrest to international geo-political conflicts. If they occur, financial and personal consequences can be significant and even life-altering. Consequently, as the possibility of a triggering event increases, attentive and proactive individuals will seek out tools which will give them the “optionality” to deal with a wide range of possible future strategies to deal with the fallout. If that possibility turns to a probability or even a reality, there may even be enough impetus for the individual to overcome the ‘life inertia’ necessary to actually relocate.

1) A wealthy American who is suddenly facing a significant tax burden as a result of an increase in capital gains rates to ordinary rates (i.e. 23.8 percent to 43.4 percent); and/or significant drops in the estate tax exemption (i.e. US$11.7 million to US$3 million) or a wealth tax. 2) A wealthy Gulf national whose current head of state passed away, triggering a confusing unstable succession and significant uncertainty as to whether the faction with which they are aligned will win out in the power struggle. 3) Wealthy nationals in dictatorships who have fallen out of favour with the powers that be and are worried that their passport could be cancelled or worse. Any one of these different trigger events can occur very quickly. No prudent person waits for confirmation from the fire marshal that their house is engulfed before securing fire insurance. Likewise, HNW individuals should not wait for circumstances to overrun them before seeking a second passport to protect their family’s wealth and well-being. Throughout history, those who migrated often did so because they began to feel unsettled about their eroding future in their current location. Sometimes the issues were obvious such as the outbreak of war, drought or famine. Other times, the signals of erosion were more subtle; societal breakdown, political tension, economic mismanagement. Though the sensation was only a low-grade simmer, continued vigilance eventually revealed the eroding future was there, only it had arrived in a more gradual manner. This same concern over erosion of the future holds true today, except the speed of “triggering events” is unmistakably accelerated.

THE CITIZEN

In my experience, proactive HNWI clients deal with two different types of triggering events: • Increased risk but no certainty as to timing; or • Increased risk with absolute certainty of timing The first type of triggering event is the result of an increasingly volatile political and societal situation. This volatility will severely impact clients and their families should certain events ever come to pass. Current examples include Hong Kong and Chinese businesspeople, Saudi and other GCC nationals, and Mexican, Brazilian and Israeli businesspeople. The key mistake that I observe with clients facing this type of triggering event is complacency. This occurs when the event date is unknown and unpredictable. It is similar to people who never get around to doing their will. Planning for this triggering event is important but not urgent. Unfortunately, when the negative event does occur, those who have not planned ahead experience a catastrophe that could easily have been avoided. The second type of triggering event has a specific deadline such as an election. The two most obvious current examples are the United Kingdom and the United States. Both have governing parties espousing populist ‘Tax the Rich’ policies. These administrations will almost certainly increase the family’s tax burden in the very near future.

FAILING TO PLAN IS PLANNING TO FAIL

The first common mistake that I see with these clients is that many do not accurately determine the cost of failure should certain triggering events become reality. For the triggering event of tax proposals becoming legislation, the “cost of damage” can be readily determined. Unfortunately, rather than get hard numbers from their accountants and other advisors, they mentally calculate the impact. This often means that they grossly underestimate it. The second mistake that is often made in looking at tax proposals is to underestimate the probability that those proposals such as a wealth tax will ever become law. Indeed, their “it-will-never-pass” attitude may very well come back to haunt them. Just as with fire insurance, you need to have your clients recognise that a fire is a possibility and that without insurance the impact would be financially devastating.

A comprehensive plan B includes a new residence and possibly citizenship, lifestyle planning, and the necessary tax and estate planning in the old and new countries. Designing an effective and efficient backup plan that meets a family’s goals and protects them from a myriad of potential future threats takes time and the effort of experienced experts. Once designed, it then takes some time to build. YOU SNOOZE, YOU LOSE (A BIG CHUNK OF YOUR ASSETS)

Clearly, it is paramount that those seeking a proper backup plan start early as there are several complex steps to the process. First, it is critical that they take a close look at their goals and fears. This will ensure that the path they select will lead them and their families to the right destination. Second, attempting to do it themselves – is a recipe for disaster. Properly protecting family wealth and wellbeing means engaging professional and experienced advisors.

A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN B INCLUDES A NEW RESIDENCE AND POSSIBLY CITIZENSHIP, LIFESTYLE PLANNING, AND THE NECESSARY TAX AND ESTATE PLANNING IN THE OLD AND NEW COUNTRIES.

The third mistake many wealthy individuals make is to underappreciate the time necessary to devise and construct a proper backup plan. A classic example that I constantly run across is when clients advise me that they are “entitled to a lineage citizenship” such as Ireland. They hold this naive belief that they can simply dial “1-800-I-AM-IRISH” and a Leprechaun will deliver the Shamrock passport to them. While they may be correct in law, the processing of such applications often takes one to three years. While Ireland traditionally took from six to twelve months to process such applications, the Irish government has been flooded with applications from UK nationals who want to preserve their EU mobility rights in a post-Brexit world.

They should be qualified to look at related matters such as taxation, status, the privacy of second citizenships, etc. With the right assistance, the client understands their fully loaded cost of failure and can then put together a proper backup plan that can be standing by, ready to trigger at the first sign of a negative triggering event. While many look at the cost of doing this right, I tell clients to focus more on the “cost of failure”; to have a bullet-proof backup plan in place if one or more triggering events should happen to their family. In closing, please remember these two things. A goal without a plan is just a wish and taking the time to do it right is always better – and a lot cheaper and less stressful – than doing it twice.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

THE CITIZEN

Second citizenship not only opens up global business opportunities, but also looks after your family’s future.

thought leadership by Kevin Bürchler Head of Key Accounts Swiss Insurance Partners AG

PRIVATE INVESTORS STRATEGICALLY SECURE LONG-TERM WELL-BEING BY COMBINING INVESTMENT MIGRATION WITH MEDICAL FAMILY OFFICE SERVICES

he recent pandemic has impressively illustrated how important it is for HNWIs not just to strategically manage their wealth, but also to strategically plan their well-being and health. During the past year, the world has observed a massive surge in requests from private investors who are looking to secure their long-term well-being and crossborder access to healthcare systems. The Swiss Insurance Partners (SIP) Medical Family Office has seen a 30 percent increase in applications from private investors that want to leverage and combine their second residence or citizenship with high-end international health insurance and medical family office services, such as access to privileged healthcare and preventive medicine. As the priorities of HNWIs change, governments and advisors involved in residence by investment must adapt and recognise health planning as a key element in every investor’s journey to alternative citizenship. MITIGATING HEALTH RISKS Investment in an alternative residence or citizenship is a very popular but also expensive tool to achieve increased health resilience. Easy cross-border access to healthcare systems that have been successful in their pandemic management mitigates the chances of being stuck in a place with severe resource constraints in hospitals. Besides investing in one’s health security with a second residence, adequate international private medical insurance allows for similar benefits – but at a much lower price tag. In today’s globalised world, international health insurance has become a must-have asset for globally mobile citizens who work and live in several places around the world. The right health insurance policy is a golden entry ticket to the best hospitals around the globe. During 2020, we observed a boost in enquiries from HNWIs to purchase or enhance

THE CITIZEN

“In today’s globalised world, international health insurance has become a must-have asset for globally mobile citizens who work and live in several places around the world.”

their international private medical insurance. It has become indisputable that you can no longer rely on access to only one healthcare system, no matter how well developed it is. Those looking for maximum long-term security and flexibility, apply for the most prestigious health insurance plans which can cost up to US$60,0000 per year and person, covering several annual check-ups, hospital suites, evacuation during epidemic situations and other unique perks. Others are mainly interested in covering the risk of outrageous hospital bills when accessing healthcare abroad. NOVEL MEDICAL FAMILY OFFICES GUIDE THE WAY INTO THE ERA OF GLOBAL HEALTH MANAGEMENT Mandating and employing professionals to protect and manage one’s financial assets or legal issues is selfevident and goes without saying. In contrast, professional management of one’s health is forgotten, while being at least equally important. Most clients tell me that they have mandated professionals to manage their financial assets by the time they are in their twenties. When I ask them at what age they started to plan their health and longevity, they usually need to start thinking - as most haven’t even done so yet. The concept of a medical family office is yet unknown in many parts of the world. In short, what a traditional family office does with a person’s wealth, a medical family office does with a person’s health. Financial assets which are lost can be regained, but it is very often a one-way path when it comes to health. Detecting a cancer too late, following a wrong diagnosis and treatment recommendation, or experiencing a case of medical malpractice mostly leads to irreversible health degradation with lifelong consequences. Achieving longevity requires constant personalised guidance and advice in every stage of life. This is why

HNWIs increasingly get onboard and invest in medical family offices. It is a question of defining the worth of a healthy future and how much an additional year of life is worth to someone. While it is never too late to start planning one’s health and longevity, doing so at the age of 70 will certainly lead to a different outcome than in your twenties. Settling in another part of the world is mostly accompanied by new risks, stress and uncertainties. When it comes to health, one often does not have the required knowledge and network in the new healthcare system. Which doctor shall I visit for my particular health issue? Who is reliable and trusted enough that I am willing to lay my life in his or her hands? While medical family offices have the structures, network and knowledge in place, governments offering residence and citizenship by investment may strengthen their proposition by following family offices’ health security models and structures to set up unique health safe havens. To further develop the investment migration industry, governments and investment migration advisers need to discuss strategic health and well-being planning with their consumers. Investors are increasingly aware that longevity and healthcare security require careful and continuous planning on many different levels: freedom of movement and travel, access to secondary healthcare systems, leveraging a second residence, or citizenship with high-end international health insurance. What can be said for sure, is that after having seen how a virus can impact everyone’s life, everyone’s ears are wide open to learn about how to ensure more sustainable health outcomes.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

thought leadership by Richard Merriman Managing Director RP Merriman British & International Education Ltd

HOW INVESTMENT MIGRATION FIRMS CAN CAPITALISE ON CLIENTS’ DEMAND FOR EDUCATION he history of pandemics tells us they bring change! Changes that bring opportunities. Anne Keeling, Communications Director for ISC Research has reported on a growing interest in investor/school brand partnerships and new investment within the international school sector from high-net-worth individuals with philanthropic motivations often related to their alumnus connections or to their own international education experience. As for the market itself, Anne sees current trends focusing on the use of technology, particularly within teaching and learning as well as ‘well-being provision’ for the entire school community, and alternative routes to recruiting and upskilling teaching staff to meet the specific needs of international schools. The market as a whole hasn’t suffered significantly from the pandemic; in fact, new demand has come from families who no longer want to send their young children abroad to board and families who have seen how international schools responded quickly and effectively to distance learning needs and education provision throughout the pandemic. It remains clear from my engagement with the investment migration industry that few RCBI businesses have anything more than a superficial knowledge of the landscape of international education. There appears to be a paucity of understanding from many across the whole age profile from kindergartens to universities. As all RCBI businesses know, one of the primary motivating factors for clients in seeking second citizenship is to open educational opportunities for their dependents particularly in prestigious markets and marquee destinations, including the world-class UK Independent Schools market. What can RCBI consultants and advisories do to help themselves capture a bigger part of the immigration value chain? Currently, many businesses offer no educational advice. Some may generate certain ideas and links from within their organisation and others may refer the client to an educational agent or consultant for a small fee or retainer.

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“Establishing a reputation as a top provider in educational service as an auxiliary advice service for clients will ensure those RCBI advisories which provide this service will distinguish themselves from the pack and reap the rewards of their investment and interest.” RCBI consultants need to recognise a detailed knowledge of the educational systems and possibilities not only within the jurisdiction of the new citizenship, but also within the territory of the desired educational provision or destination. This is key and requires in-depth sector knowledge. Local agents should be able to provide local knowledge and direct child-centred advice, but businesses should seek recommendations as the quality of educational agents can be very variable. The new residents or citizens who now have access to jurisdictions beyond the country of their citizenship will need specific advice from expert advisers, preferably resident in the country of educational choice, and who will be able to assist with appointments, travel arrangements and visits to appropriate choices based on the child’s current educational experiences, performance, interests and potential. High-networth individuals require a bespoke provision and service, specific to their needs, expectations and desires. There are a myriad of educational agents or consultants within most countries, so how do you select the right one? In my opinion, it is key to engage with agents and consultancies who have either a proven track record, have worked professionally as leaders or teachers within the required sector, or have been established for a considerable amount of time. There are many agents who appear and disappear very quickly. As with all consultancies, quality will out! Others may decide they wish to bring this essential service in-house. To attract the right individuals who are able to provide the expert knowledge will require a quality package. The business which can offer specific, dependent-focused, detailed expertise directly or indirectly will elevate itself above the competition.

The pandemic has truly shown that choosing the right education for our youngsters is the future. Clients like entrepreneurs know the educational world is changing dramatically; Artificial Intelligence, increased digitalisation and a focus on skills and personal growth, service and responsibility - both locally and globally - is the new ‘norm’. Knowledge will no longer be power. Anything for which an algorithm can be written will result in an app or non-human resource. The human condition and so-called ‘soft skills’ will be the defining criteria of the future. Informed internationalist parents seek these opportunities and possibilities for their children. The best of modern education worldwide is evolving with the new opportunities and challenges our global society is experiencing. By evolving, they remain relevant, they pioneer, and they succeed. The very best RCBI businesses are doing the same, and yes, the parents of the clients are actively seeking these new opportunities. An investment in market understanding, time and resources is required. My advice is a new three Rs: recognise, reflect and respond. Recognise and understand your market and clientele needs, reflect upon your current practice and your strengths and shortfalls, and respond by creating a quality, honed and specific educational service. By doing so, you will gain the rewards of your investment in time and resources, winning, keeping and developing more clients and your reputation. Establishing a reputation as a top provider in educational service as an auxiliary advice service for clients will ensure those RCBI advisories which provide this service will distinguish themselves from the pack and reap the rewards of their investment and interest.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

Explore, experience, live and invest in Antigua & Barbuda

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A person who sees a problem is a human being; A person who finds a solution is visionary; And the person who goes out and does something about it is an entrepreneur. – NAVEEN JAIN, INDIAN ENTREPRENEUR

From the shantytowns of New Delhi to the shiny offices in Silicon Valley, people around the globe are seeking solutions to the world’s problems and needs, be they large or small. Those that solve them through developing a product or service are what we call entrepreneurship and have built the world as we know it today. Without entrepreneurs, the world would be a bleak one, with little creativity, innovation, or even social and economic development. History has repeatedly demonstrated that crises and unpredictability are pivotal in shaping societies and bringing new entrepreneurs and innovation to the fore. As the saying goes, “necessity is the mother of invention”. And with the recent pandemic unearthing problems and needs that we never even imagined existed just a year ago, a consequent surge of new entrepreneurs has emerged.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

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But, while its undeniable that finding solutions to human needs is at the heart of starting a business, we cannot lose sight of the fact that entrepreneurship is a horse of a different colour depending on where in the world it’s happening. In some more developed nations, the overwhelming majority are the educated elite, in others, so-called necessity entrepreneurs abound, purely due to a lack of employment and human’s basic need for survival. Whatever the reason for starting a business, entrepreneurship is a driver of societal health and wealth. There is good reason why it is considered to play a key role in the attainment of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. However, for entrepreneurship to have a maximum positive impact, it can’t happen in a vacuum. A good ecosystem is increasingly necessary to allow ideas to flourish and dreams to become reality. A slew of incubators and accelerators have sprung up around the globe to support young businesses

regional “hackathons” and international incubator programmes have become potential launching pads for interesting start-ups. Additionally, public-private partnerships are enabling experts from the world’s leading technology, media and renewable-energy companies, together with local innovators and entrepreneurs, to develop real solutions for climate and environmental issues. Numerous new projects are materialising on the islands’ shores. Worth mentioning, are a few of the start-ups that are being incubated within the UNOPS GIC, including NADIS, an information system which will track and predict sargassum seaweed deposits and other natural disasters, and Dadli Yellow, which hopes to take the sargassum and convert it for sustainable use within the fashion industry. There is also Custom Corals, a coral-reef restoration start-up, and the LocalApp, a digital destination guide for residents and travellers which has global aspirations. Another interesting initiative is Simple

“All our dreams come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” Walt Disney

and help them avoid the small-business curse of 30 percent of new businesses failing during the first two years. Antigua & Barbuda also has an emerging start-up ecosystem, with entities like Antigua & Barbuda Science and Innovation Park, the StartUp Huddle, the Business Circle and the Prime Minister’s Entrepreneurial Development Programme, spurring a new generation of innovators with creative initiatives and ideas. Consequently, a wave of local entrepreneurs have set up new businesses and are seizing opportunities that have arisen from a change in the economic makeup of the twin islands. International collaboration with entities like the UNOPS Global Innovation Centre (GIC), the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), the GARD Center, the Caribbean Climate Innovation Center (CCIC), the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI), and Spark Niagara, a business incubator in Canada, also helps unlock regional and international opportunities. Local and

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Support, a charity app which helps to connect those who want to assist people in need. There is no doubt that Antigua & Barbuda has a myriad of local talent and inspiring ideas; some that will find their place in the island’s evolving economy, and others will be implemented internationally as solutions to environmental and social challenges around the globe. A thriving start-up ecosystem has multiple layers of impact and plays a significant role in economic growth. The increasing number of people brought to the shores of Antigua & Barbuda through the Citizenship by Investment Programme, the Nomad Digital Residence visa and the returning diaspora, who have come to realise that there is no place like home, can all do their part to help boost the ecosystem through mentoring, supporting and investing in local ventures. If everyone pulls together, the twin islands have every potential to become a new regional, ecosystem hub for entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneurial Development Programme (EDP) The Prime Minister’s EDP is for the creation of new business entities which generate revenues, employment and innovation and is essential for the development of a vibrant micro and small business sector. antiguabarbudaedp.com Antigua and Barbuda Science and Innovation Park (ABSIP) ABSIP is a business incubator that aims to improve the survival and growth prospects of new start-ups in Antigua. It is also one of the first UN Offices for Project Services Global Innovations Centres (UNOPS-GIC). absip.gov.ag

UNOPS Global Innovation Centre (GIC) UNOPS GIC’s community brings together corporations, institutions, and academia, as well as innovative start-ups, to solve global challenges with new insights and build the future. The goal of the community is to give everyone the power to contribute with their unique skillset, perspective, or opportunity to build real action towards achieving SDGs. unops.org/innovation StartUp Huddle Antigua & Barbuda A start-up programme of Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) that is designed to help one entrepreneur at a time, while strengthening the local ecosystem. It offers a unique programme designed to educate, engage and connect entrepreneurs. startuphuddle.app The GARD Center Provides entrepreneurship training programmes with special focus on agriculture as a business while advocating for an enabling environment that promotes a competitive edge. gardc.org GEN GLOBAL The Global Entrepreneurship Network fosters cross-border collaboration and initiatives between entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers and entrepreneurial support organisations to help start ecosystems that create jobs, educate individuals, accelerate innovation and strengthen economic growth. genglobal.org

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THE IMPORTANCE OF A SOLID ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM

Starting a business is no easy task and is definitely not for the faint of heart. However, can you imagine what the world would look like today without entrepreneurs? Entrepreneurship continues to drive innovative change that not only builds wealth for investors but has also significantly improved our standard of living, while creating economic opportunities for employment. Given the many risks involved with taking an idea and moulding it into a useful product or service, it’s no surprise that entrepreneurs consistently struggle with simply getting started. Unfortunately, most eventually fail in commercialising their start-up concepts to market within the first 18 months of operating. The reality is that there is no guarantee or one-size-fits-all approach to business success. Nonetheless, having a solid entrepreneurial ecosystem can have a tremendous impact on catapulting businesses onto a path of sustainability that can take them to the next level in their overall development. You may ask yourself, “What is an entrepreneurial ecosystem?” Well, in essence, it is an interdependent community of individuals, institutions and organisations whose interactions stimulate new ideas or support business growth. This is very much like the natural ecosystems found in our oceans and forests where organisms compete or collaborate with each other in order to survive and thrive. It’s also important to note that while entrepreneurial ecosystems can be established just about anywhere in the world today, their models do differ considerably in structure based on their location and the resources that are available to them. In spite of their differences, there are some common attributes that healthy entrepreneurial ecosystems all seem to share, which include: • Entrepreneurial spirit and culture: persons who are willing to take risk and want to develop a business idea. • Educational institutions: places where people learn about the benefits and opportunities of entrepreneurship. • Networking and training programmes: events to meet, exchange experiences, ideas, feedback and best practices. • Access to capital: financial products and services to support or stimulate business growth and development.

So, let us all play a role in nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystems wherever we live. Consider starting a business, mentoring a start-up or investing in one.

• Business grants: financial assistance in the form of free money to help develop new ideas or business models. • Business support institutions: providing advice, guidance and resources for both new or existing businesses. • Associations: a collective voice for businesses in the same sectors to advocate on issues that are affecting them. • Competitions and challenges: programmes geared at identifying problems or opportunities that need to be solved. • Accelerators and incubators: programmes that provide advice, guidance and a mix of resources to develop startups. • Mentors and coaches: experienced business people who can offer advice and guidance to improve a business. • Investors funding: persons or entities willing to provide finance to take a risk on an idea or with an entrepreneur. • Government policy: plans or systems established to help encourage and enhance the ease of doing business. • Infrastructure and technology: platforms that enhance easier access to target markets or facilitates more trade. • Target markets: group(s) of potential customers who may want to buy the products or services of a business. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have long been considered important engines of growth and the backbone of every thriving society. As such, now more than ever, establishing and maintaining entrepreneurial ecosystems have become a major priority for governments around the world. So, let us all play a role in nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystems wherever we live. Consider starting a business, mentoring a start-up or investing in one. Just imagine what supporting entrepreneurship can do to help transform the economy of your country. By Elijah James

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MENTORING AS A CATALYST FOR GROWTH “Learn from the mistakes of others. No-one can live long enough to make them all.” These wise words of Eleanor Roosevelt are the foundation upon which human progress has been predicated - our innate ability to learn through trial and error. And indeed, development is most swift when both negative and positive results are successfully handed from person to person, generation to generation. I am certain most people have some idea of what mentoring is and the power it possesses to ensure personal growth. Indeed, you have likely experienced, in one form or another, a successful mentoring relationship - even if you did not label it as such. If you think back, perhaps it was a wiser older sibling or friend or a teacher at school who helped guide you along a difficult path.

themselves benefit from community engagement and a broadening of perspectives. To top it off, giving back has been shown to improve mental wellness as well as overall happiness; dedicating time to help others bestows patience, greater understanding, kindness and resilience. Likewise, mentees learn from people with spades of experience and knowhow. A win-win situation for all. Research has shown time and time again that organisations who champion mentorship enjoy higher levels of employee engagement, retention and knowledge sharing. Consequently, employers and businesses need to embrace this as something beneficial for them and allow space for their employees to devote time in pursuit of personal growth. However, mentoring is certainly not just for individuals. Small businesses and their owners often lack the resources and tools they need to succeed or take their business to the next level - and mentoring may be just what they need to get them across the line. Business mentors provide guidance

“Learn from the mistakes of others. No-one can live long enough to make them all.” Eleanor Roosevelt And although there are many definitions of mentoring; in general terms, it can be described as a relationship-based process which provides guidance and passes on knowledge through communication while creating champions out of both participants. The saying, “iron sharpens iron” sums it up - the point is that it is essential to surround yourself with like-minded people who are already where you want to be, so you can learn from their mistakes. The key to good mentoring is the exchange of ideas, perspectives and experience. One of the principal benefits of mentorship is that it is not simply top down as you may expect. The best mentoring relationships are mutually beneficial whereby both the mentor and the mentee learn from each other through a sharing of energy, drive and ambition. After all, the best teachers have always been, and always will be, those who remain curious learners themselves. Seeing how beneficial mentoring can be, especially if applied as a tool to stimulate improvement and evolvement, it may seem like simple common sense to employ it. However, you may be surprised at just how underutilised it is. However, mentoring programmes instantly create a cultural and knowledge exchange and the mentors

to business owners and entrepreneurs, the process of which has been systematised and officially recognised through the creation of business incubators and accelerators. Across Europe and America, these have become prevalent for start-ups and early-stage companies with both public and privately-funded programmes offering incubation assistance. As well as providing a support network, they also offer a range of services from mentoring, consulting, management training to prototype creation, office space and other services such as access to sources of funding. While the benefits and statistics of mentoring are more than encouraging, it is important to remember that it is not a magic formula that automatically generates success. Effective mentoring takes commitment, drive and determination as well as specific skills, sensibilities, and structure from the programme itself and from both the mentor and the mentee. The relationship needs to be based on trust, confidentiality and mutual respect, whilst complying with ground rules that address the power, class, wealth, age, race, gender, and any other differentials between the subjects. Indeed, success happens when both parties take full responsibility for making it work and when best practices are in place. by Ronald Ndoro Mind

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

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THE 8 P’S OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

PERCEPTION PASSION

PEOPLE

PROACTIVENESS

PERSEVERANCE

PERMANENT CHANGE

POTENTIAL PERSISTENT LEARNING

Being a business owner doesn’t necessarily mean being an entrepreneur. If that were the case, we wouldn’t need a new and such complicated word. If you Google “entrepreneur”, it will tell you that an entrepreneur is a person who sets up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit. However, economists and some of the most successful entrepreneurs would disagree. According to economist Joseph Alois Schumpeter (1883-1950), entrepreneurs are not necessarily motivated by profit, but regard it as a standard for measuring achievement or success. Peter Drucker, who is well known as the father of modern management, enriches the definition by emphasising “change” and “opportunity”. He defines the entrepreneur as “someone who always searches for change, responds to it, and exploits it as an opportunity.” Having met thousands of entrepreneurs from many different countries and cultures - and being one myself - I came up with the Entrepreneurship Mix 8 P’s that I believe set successful entrepreneurs apart. The magic is formed by the intersection of most or even better all of the traits, so the order is irrelevant.

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TRUE ENTREPRENEURS CAN SEE OPPORTUNITIES WHERE OTHERS CAN’T OR DON’T. THE MIND IS WHAT THE MIND IS FED AND GOOD ENTREPRENEURS FEED AND TRAIN THEIR BRAINS WELL.

1. Passion Passion is the key source of energy, motivation and hard work. It is the driving force for every entrepreneur. If you are passionate about something, you thrive to succeed and you love what you do so much that you want to do more of it. And the more of it you do, the greater the chances for succeeding.

ABUNDANCE MINDSET VS SCARCITY MINDSET

2. Perception By the end of the 19th century, many shoe manufacturers sent their representatives to Africa to see if there were any business opportunities in this emerging market. Most of them returned home saying, “Nobody in Africa wears shoes so there isn’t any market for our shoes.” All except for Bata, whose sales team reported enthusiastically, “Nobody in Africa wears shoes! So, there is an enormous market for our shoes in Africa!” Today, Bata shops can be found all over Africa, even in its most remote parts.

What do nearly all successful entrepreneurs have in common? They embrace the abundance around them. An abundance mindset is the one thing that allows us to turn weaknesses into opportunities and transform negative experiences into positive ones.

3. People When talking about people in companies, I always like to quote Zig Ziglar; “You don’t build a business. You build people, and people build the business.” People make good or bad decisions. Every single business depends on people (regardless of industry). The success of a company, of a business unit, of a whole country, depends on the people. Every entrepreneur, leader or manager with a vision needs a team that supports this vision to make it a reality. It is up to entrepreneurs to find the right people, to communicate the vision, to attract talent, to invest in building and sustaining their skills set, energy, attitude, and positivity. 4. Proactiveness Most people only do what they are asked, meeting the very minimal requirements and expectations (or even worse, some underdeliver). They need to be delegated and even micromanaged. Successful entrepreneurs initiate - they see the bigger picture and foresee the circumstances. They are proactive instead of reactive, playing offence instead of defence. And this is what makes them hard to replace in any given environment. 5. Permanent Change Everybody wants change but nobody wants to change. The resistance to change is in our human nature, but the faster we train ourselves to accept and adapt to change, the faster we will improve. Successful entrepreneurs are flexible, they can adapt and change quickly. As Charles Darwin said, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.” 6. Persistent Learning Persistent learning means learning anytime, anywhere and from anyone. Outstanding entrepreneurs are able to absorb valuable information and knowledge like sponges. Being a fast learner is a must for entrepreneurs in today’s ever-changing world. 7. Potential The most successful entrepreneurs are willing to sacrifice hours of sleep and skip social activities with friends in order to invest in their potential. They don’t waste countless hours scrolling on social media or gossiping, they feed their brain with quality content, they surround themselves with successful people. They are always curious about new things. And while there are differences in the potential that each of us possesses, the good news is that our brains can be trained. 8. Perseverance During the past eight years of extensive hard work, overcoming barriers, removing rocks, dealing with all sorts of situations, making decisions, working with different characters and meeting people from all over the globe, I learned a lot. In fact, today I am grateful for all the struggles, for all those ‘rocks’ on my way, for every problem solved (that seemed unsolvable at that moment), because it made me more flexible, adaptable, resourceful and more knowledgeable.

As an entrepreneur, you have two predominant mindsets competing for your attention: scarcity and abundance. They are opposites of each other, and we all have the choice to adopt one mindset or the other. As entrepreneurs, it’s vital that we embrace an abundance mindset. This choice allows us to see the opportunities available to us and exponentially grow our businesses, while a scarcity mindset only holds us back. Just by substituting the following 12 abundance terms for their corresponding scarcity terms, you’ll see an immediate acceleration of entrepreneurial clarity, confidence, and capability in every area of your business life: • Costs become Investments • Incremental becomes Exponential • Transactions become Transformations • Industry/Profession becomes Market/ Network • Clients/Customers become Multipliers • Products/Services become your Value Creation Process • Employees become a Unique Ability Team • Security becomes Opportunity • Status becomes Contribution • Lifestyle becomes Freedom • Management becomes Leadership • Retirement becomes Purpose • Scarcity becomes Abundance! Original unabridged version by Strategic Coach™

By Nina Angelovska Unabridged version originally published in Forbes.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

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Thomas Edison is one of the most prominent entrepreneurs of his time. 60% of people who start small businesses are between 40-60 years old. 33% of entrepreneurs only have a high-school diploma. Problem solving, self-discipline, and flexibility are all critical components of successful entrepreneurs. Globally, there are 10 male entrepreneurs for every seven female entrepreneurs.

“Dream big. Start small.

Venture capital funding in 2020 increased by 14% from 2019.

But most of all, start.”

Business and food are the two most popular industries for entrepreneurship with 11% market share, followed by health/beauty with 10%, general retail (7%), and home services (6%).

88% of millionaires in the US are self-made entrepreneurs.

4.4 million new companies started operating in 2020. The word entrepreneur originates from the French word “entreprendre” meaning “to undertake”. Dropbox and Airbnb are amongst the famous corporate brands launched in a business incubator.

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Business incubators can help reduce the costs of launching and operating a start-up by 40-50%.

Owning a second home is your key to a world of travel

Interview

Akon

You have so many projects on your hands other than music. So, what inspires you? A lot of what drives me comes from being raised both in Senegal and in the West, which has allowed me to see both cultures and exposed me to how much we didn’t have. As I started to mature and got involved in business, I also started to see how much value Africa has and how valuable it is to the rest of the world. There has always been a crazy imbalance when you see how it is the richest continent in terms of natural resources, yet the most challenging continent at the same time because of those same resources.

Akon – artist, visionary and philanthropist. Having rose to fame in the mid-2000s with a string of Grammy-nominated records, his unique blend of hip-hop with West African vocals, fruit of his Senegalese and American upbringing, has led to collaborations with superstars like Gwen Stefani, Snoop Dogg, Eminem and Michael Jackson. Over the past few years, Akon’s name has been more often linked to his philanthropic work, including Akon Lighting Africa, which provides electricity across the African continent and his Konfidence Foundation. More recently, he has been hitting the headlines with his multibillion-dollar project to create Akon City, a futuristic and sustainable city in Senegal, and his cryptocurrency Akoin. The Citizen were lucky enough to meet up with Akon during one of his rare downtimes which he chose to spend at Antigua’s chic Hodges Bay Resort.

Why did you start Akon Lighting Africa? Although 25 percent of African cities are lighted, 75 percent of the rest of the continent is in complete darkness and that’s actually where most of the population resides. We started the Konfidence Foundation and began remodelling existing schools in Senegal before moving onto building new schools. In the process of construction, we realised that there were no lines to connect the electricity. It wasn’t such a huge problem as schools are open during the daytime, but during storms or rainy days was when the lack of electricity was noticeable. I used to visit my grandmother in Senegal who had no electricity or running water. I couldn’t not visit her, but I also didn’t want to go there and be uncomfortable either! I wanted to provide electricity for her – and that was where everything started really. I began researching solar energy, and upon discovering that the Chinese had built a huge solar infrastructure to gain US business that had never come to fruition, I realised it could be an opportunity for my African projects. The Chinese loved the idea and gave me a billiondollar credit line, consequently allowing me to meet with African governments and create competent plans to electrify rural areas. I was able to offer them five-year agreements to pay back the money. This highly successful system meant that we grew from one country to 16 countries in just three years. On the back of that, I started Akon Lighting America where our initiative is to transform

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

Interview

dirty energy into clean energy. We have a plan called Black Sunrise which was created to decommission coal plants in urban areas. The diversity inclusion programme has helped us since we are the only African American solar company that can play on that level in the whole of the US. How did the idea for Akon City come about? Now that we have the energy situation in Senegal under control, I’ve gone back to building the economy itself. And that’s where the concept of Akon City arose. The whole idea of Akon City is to build a sustainable, renewable and green city in Senegal but the idea can be copied and pasted to anywhere in Africa. Akon City is currently a four-to-six-billion-dollar project with a ten-year construction programme set out in three phases on 2,000 acres of waterfront. We’re halfway into stage one with financing from the UK, the Middle East and and some African NGOs. I wanted African entrepreneurs to be part of the process in order to empower the people and provide an incentive to invest back home. In which other countries are you planning to replicate Akon City? We are just finishing up the solar studies in Senegal and plan to be in the construction phase by April. We will then go to Rwanda followed by Uganda and the Congo. We chose these countries because they’ve already adapted to green energy programmes. They’ve also educated the population to understand our motive which makes it easier to move forward. How did your cryptocurrency Akoin come about? As we were planning the city, I realised that one of the biggest issues in Africa is that there are

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I ALWAYS FELT LIKE A GLOBAL CITIZEN BEFORE IT BECAME A THING. FOR ME, IT IS SOMEONE WHO BRINGS VALUE TO THE WORLD.

no stable currencies you can trade outside the continent. The idea of the cryptocurrency was to not only give the power back to the people from a financial standpoint, but also allow it to be used in their day-to-day lives. In Akon City it will be used for everything - electricity, phone bills, cable, food in the market you name it. Akoin was very successful in Kenya where we did our trial, and we’ve also been using Mwale Medical and Technology City in Senegal as a beta test, where all the payroll, prescriptions and food and snacks are being done through Akoin. As we franchise Akon City in Rwanda, the Congo and Uganda, the Akoin system will go alongside it. The whole idea is to have that same wallet on a global level. We have built a platform to allow you to go to any ATM and trade Akoins for any FIAT currency you want anywhere in the world. We’ve launched internationally on the Global Crypto Exchange where it’s currently 50 cents on the dollar, which is incredible considering it has only been trading for nearly five months. We know it’s going to be huge.

You dreamed big and became successful. What would you say to young entrepreneurs starting out? The first thing is that it can’t be about the money. This is a mistake that a lot of people make. I would let the younger generation know that passion is the way out. We are all gifted in something and we would do that something for free because we love it. Whatever that is, that is going to be the biggest asset that you have. You do it all the time because you love it and if you do it all the time, then you get good at it, the skillset and passion will be there, and you can build a business around that. Once you understand this, you can wake up every morning doing something you love and making good money doing it. Why is giving back so important for you? A lot of it comes from having been raised in Africa without very much, and then moving to the US and going from “not having” to “having” almost overnight. It has certainly given me better empathy for people with nothing. What does being a global citizen mean to you? It means that I belong to the globe; I’ve always believed that. Even when I was doing music, I would never box myself into a specific genre - I always wanted to do world music and travel the globe to share my music, share my philanthropy, share my businesses, share my relationships and share my experiences. I always felt like a global citizen before it became a thing. For me, it is someone who brings value to the world. What is so special about Antigua? I love the island – I’ve visited many times before. It’s so beautiful and a small paradise that a lot of people don’t know exists as it’s often overlooked by other islands.

What is 2021 bringing you? I am dropping another album in April. It’s called #1 because it’s my first official album that I’m releasing without being attached to a major label. I’m doing it completely independently. And of course, no matter what position in the chart it reaches, it is still going to be number 1! It’s a world music album containing hip hop, R&B, reggae and Afrobeat. There are some surprising collaborations on this album, but I’m going to keep them secret! My kids also all have albums that they are going to drop in May as well. I have created a brand called Foreign Billionaires and they are going to ride that wave into the future for me. This is the second generation of Akon in the family music legacy.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

Shabier Kirchner

Antiguan-born Shabier Kirchner is certainly no stranger to the film industry. Having grown up with his film producer and cameraman father, Bert, (also the owner of Antigua’s famed Papa Zouk Rum Shop), he has paved his own way in the world of cinematography. Working on the award-winning Small Axe series of films under the helm of Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen, he has already won best cinematography awards in both the New York Film Critics Circle Awards and the Los Angeles Film Critics Association. He has also received a nomination in this year’s prestigious BAFTA TV awards. His next major project will see him in the director’s chair for an adaptation of Kei Miller’s book, which takes place in the eponymous but fictional village Augustown in Jamaica during the 1980s. The Citizen caught up with Shabier during one of his visits back to the twin islands to find out more about his incredible journey and how his heritage is the engine that drives him.

Interview

You were surrounded by the film industry growing up. What made you choose cinematography? At school, I had undiagnosed dyslexia, ADD and was also bad with numbers, so I felt confused as to why it was difficult for me to grasp onto something and recommunicate it. Then I was introduced to the camera and images through my father and a Dutch commercials filmmaker who came and held a workshop about how to make a promo of our school. I remember being absolutely obsessed with it. Everyone else in my class had maths or literature and suddenly I had images. From then on, I just ran with it. I was extremely fortunate that my family was supportive of my dreams. At that time, I had no idea what a cinematographer or a director was, I just knew that the camera was the tool with which I could best communicate how I was feeling. Cinematographers are the second most important crew member in a movie but are often overlooked. Do you feel that they deserve as much recognition as the more visible actors and director? Some cinematographers believe - and I share this opinion - that the less a viewer is conscious of the camera when watching a film the better, so that they aren’t pulled out of whatever story or environment they’re in. For that reason, maybe it’s good that some cinematographers take a back seat. It is better to show not tell. The relationship between the director and the director of photography (DP) is incredibly important. It’s co-authorship at its best. But many other members of the crew are also the authors – the production design team, the wardrobe team and so on. The director is the Mozart of the film, but Mozart is nothing if there are no instrumentalists. When I talk about wanting to direct or being behind the camera as a cinematographer, I don’t see much difference between these tasks – they are both avenues in storytelling. That was how it was growing up in Antigua; some days I would shoot, some days I would edit, some days I would do sound and other days I would be running around painting walls and moving tables.

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Interview

How did working with Steve McQueen on Small Axe come about? His usual cinematographer, Sean Bobbitt, was unavailable to do the project and while they were looking for a new cinematographer, my name somehow came up, probably because they were looking for a West Indian cinematographer. Although there are many of us out there, I’m not sure how much light there is shined on us - but I was so grateful that somehow the light got shone on me. Sean said that he wanted to put me in contact with Steve McQueen for the project he was doing about the West Indian community in London in a certain timeframe. I thought,

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“Wow - someone is actually doing this – and it’s Steve McQueen!”. Being a young, black DP and upcoming artist, there aren’t many north stars out there. Steve is one of them and he is shining very brightly. I was in shock. And just a couple of weeks later, I found myself fully immersed in the project in London and getting to grips with the fact that I was working with such an important director, when up until this point the only films I had made were with my friends! Aside from the monumental size of the project to make five films in half a year on a very slim budget, we had to give each one a very specific identity. The homogenous thing about this project is the Black experience, but each film has its own

life and identity. It was difficult to wrap my head around the concept that this project was giving me a huge opportunity to chip off a large part of my creative soul and wave my national flag. It was scary as I realised what a firsttime opportunity this was for us not only as filmmakers but also for the West Indian community around the world to be recognised on this level. Steve took 11 years to get Small Axe off the ground. The year after we pulled it off, the whole world stopped. As everyone was at home when it came on television, a lot of people got to watch it. This happened right at the time of George Floyd’s death when so many people were forced to have uncomfortable conversations with their family, colleagues and peers. Small Axe has a very special place in 2020, Obviously, the universe had its plans. How does it feel winning such prestigious awards for your work on Small Axe? I’m happy that people are seeing the films. It is important because there are a lot of conversations that people need to have with themselves and with the institutions around them. It’s a crusade that needs to happen. I try not to think about the accolades too much, but if they shine a light on the films a bit more, it means another handful of people get to see them and for that I’m very grateful. Your new project as director, Augustown, also focuses on life in a Caribbean community – how important is it for you to talk about your culture and heritage in your work? It’s very important - my culture is all I have. I never really set out to be a director per se, I just like stories, especially those in which I see myself represented and where people from my community are underrepresented. I’m in a privileged enough position to bring these stories to the forefront with the help of producers and people like Steve. So, why would I waste that opportunity? I was never planning to do Augustown, but I saw so much of us as a universal people in that book, with the struggles that we have gone through and the joys that we share. I thought,” Wow - you can strip the name Augustown away and place it anywhere in the islands and the essence of it would be the same.” Globalisation is changing things and I would love to archive some of our stories and history. And Augustown seems like a great place to start. What do you miss about Antigua when you’re away? I live between London, New York and the Caribbean depending on where my work takes me, but I am finding myself increasingly drawn to being based out of Antigua. I’ve been here for a while now, so it is hard to remember what you miss when you’re here. That’s why going away is so great; you grow a longer lens of nostalgia. I start to miss home the most when I encounter West Indians around the world. I might be in the park and there are a bunch of West Indians cooking up in the corner and it’s beautiful to see. What is your favourite spot in Antigua? Papa Zouk’s for sure! It’s a little hole in the wall – good food, good drinks, good chats. I miss it the most. I grew up around Falmouth Harbour so that’s the area where I have very specific memories. The other day, I thought about how Antigua is changing, and it made me sad. But then as I walked down Galleon Beach and Pigeon Beach, I could see the same rocks that have been

WHEN I TALK ABOUT WANTING TO DIRECT OR BEING BEHIND THE CAMERA AS A CINEMATOGRAPHER, I DON’T SEE MUCH DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THESE TASKS – THEY ARE BOTH AVENUES IN STORYTELLING.

there since I was a kid. The rock isn’t changing, it’s me that is changing. It was a small but beautiful realisation. What would be your dream project? Augustown is certainly a dream project, but I don’t have a singular dream. I would love to do a Star Wars film – I’d love to be the first Caribbean person to go to a galaxy far far away! I don’t want to limit the reach on anything. I would also love to do something for MoMA or for the Tate. Hopefully, this life is long, and I can do it all and bring people along with me. Is there anything you want to add? Our industry needs to be more inclusive in the way we hire crews and to allow us to be able to tell our own stories. I know tons of people like me that are out there, and it needs to be easier to find us. There are a few platforms for people of colour behind the camera such as Sporas, a non-profit organisation aimed at uplifting and supporting Black, indigenous and people of colour who work as cinematographers or crew members around the world. There is also ARRAY, which is a film collective dedicated to the amplification of images by people of colour and women directors of all kinds. To find out more about these platforms: www.sporas.com and www.arraynow.com

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ANTIGUA THROUGH MY LENS by

Janie Conley-Johnson

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Born in the UK with Jamaican heritage, Janie Conley-Johnson arrived on the shores of her adopted home, Antigua, 17 years ago and hasn’t looked back since. Mainly recognised in the twin islands as a creative designer and food photographer, her culinary images have illustrated the popular dining listings and recipe features in the Food & Drink Guide and the award-winning “Tablemanners” coffee-table cookbook. Having extensively explored much of Antigua she has not only ventured into the culture through her camera lens, but her independent publishing career allowed her to delve deep below the surface and journey into the heart of this twin-island state.

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QA &

Most of your photos aren’t of the typical Antiguan idyllic beaches and turquoise waters. What inspires you on the island? Through my love of hiking, I’ve discovered an entirely uncommon side of Antigua. One that is off the beaten path and far from mass tourism. Over the last five years, this pastime has allowed me to more closely examine my surroundings at a slower pace. By viewing subjects from different angles, I try to record the aesthetics of the islands, which aren’t commonly seen, or subjects which are often ignored. Hitting the trail to explore Antigua & Barbuda by foot is energising on many levels. I’ve become inspired by capturing the mood of often overlooked aspects of the island’s abundant nature and charming scenery. I draw inspiration from everyday scenes in age-old villages, the beauty of sweeping farmlands, windswept coastlines and the intricate details of delicate plant life. When photographing in nature, I immerse myself in a completely different environment, removed from the usual flow of time and speed. I can exaggerate the act of looking, to pause and document what I see. Janie Conley-Johnson has an extensive collection of images of various aspects of Antigua & Barbuda. You can contact her through janie_bigtrip_conley@yahoo.com or instagram.com/janiedesigns

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When did photography become your passion? Photography has continuously been part of my adult life. I’m a photography graduate with a background in archival digitisation. My career began with me working as a researcher in visual arts archives, museums and libraries and photographically preserving unique and valuable artworks. The combination of my archival background and creative skills have taught me to use photography as a way to document and communicate visually as well as intuitively look for alternative ways of seeing, recording and understanding the environment that shapes life and the wonderments of living.

Shirley Heights Lookout (within a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Antigua and Barbuda

Artfully uniting extraordinary homes with extraordinary lives. Majestic Realty (Caribbean) Limited is pleased to announce it has joined Sotheby’s International Realty® network, representing distinctive properties in the paradise island of Antigua and Barbuda.

Antigua & Barbuda Sotheby’s International Realty Fitzgerald House 44 Church Street Saint John’s, Antigua t 1268.562.1531 antiguaandbarbudasothebysrealty.com

Interview

Desmond Cooper How long have you been in Antigua? I’ve been here since the end of January, learning all the ins and outs of the island. Although I’ve visited many times as my mother is Antiguan and I have family here, I’ve never fully lived here until now. I’ve been learning the culture and how sports are handled as I don’t want to arrive and immediately impose who I am on everyone. It’s important to be a part of the culture first and then slowly and progressively introduce your ideologies and your mindset on people who are willing to accept it. Why would you like to introduce American football on the island? The kids in Antigua play soccer and cricket, but they don’t have any other professional sports. Everyone complains about youth being on the streets or at home playing video games, but we have to think about what we are giving them as an outlet. How are we helping them to do better in society? What are we as adults doing to show them the correct way forward? From an early age, I realised that youth would run the world one day and if we want to leave the world a better place then we need to focus on them. Football has taken me all over the world and been such a huge impact in my life, I felt it was time to bring it to another country and give back to the young people. Can you tell us about your plans on the island? I have a 15 to 20 year-plan. The biggest part of it is to set up a facility with two artificial turf fields, a grass field, an indoor basketball court, an indoor swimming hall, a track and a gym. We will also have a hotel for professional athletes

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who come to train in addition to a dormitory-style place for youth tournaments. Caribbean people often need visas to go and play tournaments elsewhere, but if they go from island to island, then they don’t need a visa. It makes sense to have a central place where they can come and play without that hassle. It will also give young people an opportunity to leave the island if they wish, then, when they come back one day, they can give back. It’s a trickle-down effect that will help young people. It will also help tourism on the island. American football is a very tough sport so we’re starting with flag football where there is much less risk of injury and so safer for kids. We are starting at both primary and secondary school level to give them a feel of what it’s like to have competition and rivalry. By giving the schools team names and having mascots, they’ll feel like they’re part of something. Their classmates can come to games and cheer them on. We want them to have that full-on American feel of being part of a school. All you need for flag football are flags and footballs and you can use the school field. We currently have 12 schools signed up, both private and public. We haven’t started yet due to the pandemic, but it has allowed us time to plan everything so we can hit the ground running when it starts. We want an even playing field for all children no matter how much money they have. We’re working with sponsors, meaning that no matter which school a child attends, they don’t have to worry about affording it. We will take care of everything other than the cleats they will be wearing. I also plan to bring in my friends from both the NFL in the US and Europe to come and coach and run camps.

Born in Jacksonville, Florida to an Antiguan mother, the twin islands have always had a special place in Desmond’s heart. After playing college football in Charlotte, North Carolina, he joined the National Football League’s (NFL) Jacksonville Jaguars for preseason. He went on to play his first professional season in Denmark, as well as subsequent seasons in Poland and eventually returned to Denmark where he combined being a personal trainer for athletes and running training camps for young athletes. Now living in Antigua full time, The Citizen met up with “Coach Coop” to find out about his exciting plans to set up American football on the island and build a world-class sporting facility to provide a range of sports to the nation’s youths.

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Interview

FOOTBALL HAS TAKEN ME ALL OVER THE WORLD AND BEEN SUCH A HUGE IMPACT IN MY LIFE, I FELT IT WAS TIME TO BRING IT TO ANOTHER COUNTRY AND GIVE BACK TO THE YOUNG PEOPLE.

Who are the investors for this project? I am targeting other athletes as well as people with children who are interested in sport. They generally get more involved in the process and I want the investors to feel that they are giving to a growing process; not only for their kids but for generations to come. The investors will also have access to the gym with top-of-the-line professional workouts. You have plans to bring the 2023 World Games of Flag Football to Antigua. Can you tell us more? There are plans to bring the 2023 World Games of Flag Football here. Although Antigua probably won’t play in it, it would give us exposure and show that American football is happening on the island. It would also show the kids what they are working towards as they will see others of their own age playing. The NFL is televised here. That is the level everyone wants to achieve, but it seems so far out of reach. I need to find a way to bring in different levels of the sport to show kids that there is a process to getting to the NFL, but one that’s achievable. It all depends on how much they want to put into getting there. We are pushing very hard to get the World Games here but it will ultimately come down to whether we have enough

fields and places for them to stay on the island if the Federation chooses Antigua. Are there any other projects in the pipeline? I plan to run a camp on Antigua like I did last year in Denmark. Both American and European coaches went over there to train about 60 kids from various countries. I want to do the same thing here in Antigua, and now we’re closer to America, I can bring more of my American athlete friends to help coach them. I am longing to bring people to the island and show them why I love it so much here. What advice do you give the young athletes you train? I’ve had to teach a lot of young people to enjoy their youth, have fun with their friends, but to find a balance at the same time if they want to be a top athlete. Kids often have a lot going on with schoolwork and social life, but for the time they are at practice, they have to let everything that is happening in the outside world go. For me bringing football to the island is showing young people another way to work in a team and build up other people. It’s okay that you’re not always in the spotlight – it’s not always about you; sometimes you have to work with others and you will be hidden. But your time hasn’t come yet. Enjoy their fame, yours is coming.

Digital Nomad University College of London and College of Law graduate, Ronald Ndoro Mind, has an impressive resume of tech startup, membership subscription models, venue operation, event management, entrepreneurial expertise and enterprise. Currently living in Antigua as a digital nomad together with his Antiguan wife and three young children, Ronald’s experience ranges from setting up successful and lucrative websites in Europe, founding three successful members clubs in his hometown of London, as well as other collaborations with global luxury brands, musicians and celebrities. He also maintains a key role in Ndoro Children’s Charities which focuses on rebuilding and funding small communities in Africa as well as a Director of Ibex Earth which is committed to developing projects and raising awareness of threatened ecosystems and habitats. Since arriving in Antigua, Ronald has set up a company, WorkMango, which helps others relocate and work remotely from Antigua or Barbados. The Citizen met up with Ronald to talk about why Antigua is a great place for digital nomads like himself.

RONALD NDORO MIND You came to live in Antigua in March last year, what for you are the benefits of being a digital nomad? The best part about being a digital nomad is how much easier it is to attain a natural work–life balance especially when you are swapping city living for paradise. Relocating to Antigua & Barbuda has been revolutionary to my lifestyle and well-being. On work video calls everyone keeps commenting on how much happier I look. In paradise, the things that are good for you are often free, like sunshine, the beach, long walks and nature hikes. How important is it for you and other digital nomads that Antigua is so well connected to major travel hubs like New York and London? Extremely important – it made the decision so much easier. I consider myself a Global Citizen and as such, access to the rest of the world is vital. My new business, WorkMango, focuses specifically on UK and US markets and having direct flights into Antigua & Barbuda is essential. Antigua also has direct flights to other important hubs such as Miami, Atlanta, Barbados and Jamaica. You’ve started a company called WorkMango to help potential digital nomads set up in Antigua. Can you tell us more about the business and the services you offer? I came up with the idea to help anyone with an interest in relocating and working remotely. Through my other work commitments in London, New York and Africa, it became obvious and apparent that living in Antigua or Barbados while working in another city was more than possible. It was this very process of working in paradise that led to the realisation that many other people could benefit from such a transition. WorkMango was created to make everything about relocating for digital nomads simple, easy and cost effective whilst also having a dedicated team on hand for support whenever required. Members gain access to a 24-hour concierge service, hand-picked properties, access to networking and much more. Basically, we help transform your ‘working from home’ into ‘working from paradise’.

What advantages are you giving your children by living in Antigua? My boys, like most children, love being outdoors and having space to run around. At the extremely young age of two, my son can now swim fully unassisted and that is only possible because we live in a place surrounded by water with weather to match, compelling you to go swimming. There are other perks such as horse-riding, tennis and golf etc that are far more accessible in Antigua when compared to London or other major cities around the world. Antigua & Barbuda’s Nomad Digital Visa is bringing an international community to the twin islands’ shores. What benefits does this bring? Besides the obvious economic ones, the benefits are numerous. Bringing people with different skills into a community can only lift the overall standards of that community. It allows for the sharing of ideas and experiences while positioning the islands as beautiful and wonderful places to visit and live. There is no better marketing tool than first-hand experiences and word of mouth. Each digital nomad is a potential ambassador for Antigua & Barbuda. What message would you give to anyone thinking of coming to Antigua & Barbuda as a digital nomad? I could not think of a better place to be and that is why I am here. Across most, if not all, indices Antigua & Barbuda performs well – so I could not recommend it any higher than I do now and there is no greater evidence than the fact that my entire new business is geared to drive traffic to the islands. Do you have a secret spot on the island? We love to go to Weatherills for a picnic and a swim – it’s a hidden but absolutely stunning beach on the north of the island, close to where we live. It’s a bit of a rough ride getting there, but once you are there it more than makes up for it! Anything else you would like to mention? I think I’ve said it all! Come to Antigua & Barbuda and live your best life!

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Arts &cu ltu re

Ronald Silencieux was born in Haiti in 1990. Growing up on an island where art is such an intrinsic part of life, Ronald was fascinated and inspired by the colours and artists around him. After moving to Antigua with his father at the age of nine, his love for art certainly wasn’t dimmed and upon leaving school he became a full-time artist. Completely self-taught, Ronald was born with an innate gift. His intuitive style is characterised by the use of bold and vibrant colours which make his paintings come to life. He is inspired by the flamboyance of Caribbean life, whether he is painting the luscious and vibrant landscapes of his adopted island of Antigua, or portraits of the people and animals that surround him. Although his preference is to work in acrylic, he also indulges in oil and watercolours. Ronald combines his creative painting with being a commercial artist, producing an eclectic range of products including meticulously handpainted wraps, shirts, paintings, dresses, bottles and greeting cards. Describing painting as “therapy for my mind and soul”, Ronald’s love of visual arts provides a freedom that he can find nowhere else. Taking something that others may consider ugly and transforming it into something beautiful is his passion.

The journey to find peace

Ronald Silencieux

Provider

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Arts&culture A busy day in St John’s

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Vacation

The red princess

Sunset

Pelicans at dusk

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conservation

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NO WATER, NO LIFE. NO BLUE,

NO GREEN

As veteran oceanographer Sylvia Earle so succinctly put it; “With every drop of water you drink, every breath you take, you’re connected to the sea. No matter where on Earth you live.” Covering over two thirds of the planet, oceans are vital for all life on Earth. Supplying 70 percent of all the oxygen in the atmosphere, regulating the planet’s climate and providing the food and livelihood of over three billion people, to say that oceans are important is an understatement to say the least. So, why are we humans so careless and reckless with what is essentially the life source of us all? In a nutshell, humans have believed that the vast oceans are invincible and its resources simply there for the taking. But, unsurprisingly, this attitude has taken its toll with the most devasting consequences. Unfortunately, the threats are manifold. Horrifying images of turtles entangled in plastic bags or dead whales’ stomachs full of plastic waste have sadly flooded our screens and newspaper pages over the past few years. Scientists really don’t know exactly how much plastic is in the ocean, but according to Smithsonian Ocean, there may be some 244,000 metric tonnes already bobbing around on the surface and another 8.5 million sinking to the bottom of the ocean every year. This is one third of all the plastic produced and if present trends continue, by 2050 there will be more plastic by weight than fish in the oceans. A truly chilling fact. This projection is certainly not helped by the pandemic and the millions of items of personal protective equipment (PPE) which are unfortunately infiltrating the marine environment. Only about 20 percent of this waste originates from ships and other marine sources, whilst the rest – like most of the damage to our marine environment – comes from land-based activities. Although taking up to 500 years to biodegrade, constant exposure to UV light causes these plastics to photodegrade; breaking them down into increasingly tiny pieces which leach toxic chemicals into the oceans and deposit micro and nanoplastics into the food chain and thus into our bodies when we enjoy our fish supper. Indeed, a study carried out by the National University of Ireland in Galway produced the horrifying statistic that 73 percent of 233 deep-sea fish collected from the Northwest Atlantic Ocean contained plastic.

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conservation

“The greatest threat to the ocean, and thus to ourselves, is ignorance. But we can do something about that.” It is time that we use our knowledge to good use to protect the oceans. Without them, we are nothing.

As a small island nation, surrounded by water, Antigua & Barbuda has taken firm environmental measures by becoming the first country in Latin America and the Caribbean region to ban single-use plastics back in 2016 and introducing other actions to reduce the never-ending scourge of plastic pollution. On a global scale, Dutch nonprofit organisation, The Ocean Cleanup, has an ambitious target of cleaning up 90 percent of plastic pollution from the five ocean garbage patches, the largest of which is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch located between Hawaii and California. This humungous floating trash vortex covers a surface area three times the size of France or twice the size of Texas. Through the creation of advanced technologies, the company is collecting accumulated plastics from the patches themselves, as well as stopping the inflow at the mouths of rivers before they have the chance to escape out into the wider ocean. Producing desirable sunglasses made out of the gathered plastic to raise awareness as well as essential funds, will ensure the organisation can continue their invaluable and inexhaustible work. The most dramatic examples of ocean pollution are undoubtably oil spills. Their catastrophic nature hits the headlines and horrifies the world for very good reason. But less headline worthy, the constant dribs and drabs of chemicals from fertilisers used in farming or from sewage systems have an equally ruinous and accumulative effect on the oceans. Often seeping into local streams far upstream

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from coastlines, these chemicals eventually find their way to estuaries and bays where they enter the ocean ecosystem. Rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, they stimulate algal blooms, which upon dying, decompose and suck up oxygen on their journey to the sea floor, leaving the area an oceanic desert. There are now a reported 405 of these ocean “dead zones” across the globe, covering an area larger than the United Kingdom. With the majority of these zones being close to inhabited coastlines, it doesn’t take a genius to deduce that humans have had a hand in this. Thankfully, hypoxic areas can improve over time with better industrial and wastewater controls. But with only 13 coastal systems currently in recovery globally, it’s time for governments to take more action. And the punishment of our oceans doesn’t end there – not by a long way. Starting way back during the Industrial Revolution when fossil fuels began to be used in larger quantities, acidification of oceans has been increasing. The world is now pretty well acquainted with the fact that carbon dioxide from fossil fuels plays a major role in global warming. But what is perhaps less well known, is how this carbon dioxide reacts with seawater producing carbonic acid and changes the balance of the ocean chemistry. Just a tiny increase in acidity is putting ecosystems such as fragile coral reefs in danger and putting others off kilter by creating a species imbalance. The only way forward to mitigate both climate change and the acidification of the ocean is through

the adoption of carbon-neutral energy policies, such as that planned by the government of Antigua & Barbuda, to achieve 15 percent of its electricity through renewable energy sources by 2030 and become carbon-neutral by 2040. However, saying all this, most marine scientists agree that overfishing is the worst impact that we humans have on the oceans. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization has warned that over a third of fish stocks are being overfished. Instead of sustainable fishing by small-scale fishermen, destructive methods like bottom trawling are employed, which not only scoops up unwanted fish and animals that are simply tossed aside, but simultaneously decimates sea-floor habitats and ecosystems. And crucially, the overfishing of certain species doesn’t just damage the population of that species alone, but has a devastating knock-on effect all the way up the food chain. Although some governments around the globe have banned bottom trawling in certain key and sensitive areas, more needs to be done. One of the most effective methods for protecting ocean life is through the creation of marine protected areas (MPAs), which are designated sections of

the ocean within which there are limits on human activity. Unfortunately, with only ten percent of the world’s oceans currently designated as such and with evidence supporting a target of at least 30 percent to make a difference, there is obviously still a long way to go. Although the Caribbean region doesn’t currently have any large-scale MPAs (those of more than 100,000 km2), Antigua’s northern coast as well as some other specific spots have been designated as MPAs. In addition, a collaboration between the Barbuda Council and the Waitt Institute has created the Blue Halo Barbuda initiative which protects one third of the waters around the island by creating no fishing zones and closed seasons to ensure a sustainable use of ocean resources for both present and future generations. The list of damage us humans are doing to the oceans is relentless. It paints a rather bleak picture of the future of our oceans and in consequence the future of humankind. As Sylvia Earle says, “the greatest threat to the ocean, and thus to ourselves, is ignorance. But we can do something about that.” It is time that we use our knowledge to good use to protect the oceans. Without them, we are nothing.

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philanthropy USING INFLUENCE TO DO SOCIAL GOOD

Although “influencers” are a truly 21st century phenomenon, they were around long before Instagram was even a twinkle in its creator’s eye. People have always wanted to emulate the rich and famous. Indeed, one of the first recorded cases of influencer or celebrity collaborations was back in 1765 when English potter John Wedgwood produced a tea set for Queen Charlotte. Understanding that having an endorsement by the-then Queen would make his products desirable for those consumers with higher aspirations, he cunningly included “Queensware” into his product descriptions. His products consequently flew off the shelves and a new way of marketing was born. Since then, celebrities haven’t stopped influencing how we look, what we buy and where we travel. And with the advent of social media, a new breed of “celebrity” has been born. Not necessarily from the world of showbusiness, these influencers have established trust and loyalty with their followers and can genuinely change the perception of devotees. With over 3.6 billion people using social media around the globe, a nod to a brand or destination can reach millions of people in an instant – something that traditional forms of advertising could only dream of. Travel bucket lists are shaped by the envy-inducing images that influencers share to their accounts whilst jetsetting around the globe. But of course, by pivoting this power, celebrities and influencers can also do good. A lot of good. And with the younger generations’ increasing desire to exclusively engage with brands and influencers that share their values and beliefs, and with the scale of suffering caused by the pandemic all around them, it isn’t surprising that people of influence want to use their platform to give back. While many influencers already support causes close to their heart, there are equally those who are desperate to help but just don’t know where to turn. Likewise there are many charities, especially grassroot and smaller non-profits, who simply don’t have the resources or the know-how to find the right ambassador to become the window on their world. This is where a company like The Krim Group comes into

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It can be argued that everyone who is in a position of influence has a moral obligation to use that influence – at least in part – to do good.

its own. They are one of the first, and still one of the few, companies that help charities find the right advocate for their cause. Using their celebrity connections and over 20 years of industry know-how, whether a charity is looking for someone to host or attend an event, present an award, perform, or participate in social media campaigns, they know the right person for the job every time. It is necessary work. With a kaleidoscope of causes to choose from, consumers have been shown to be drawn to charities with a celebrity endorsement, especially if that personality enjoys a specific connection to the

cause. In other words, someone who walks the walk and not just talks the talk. And some collaborations go further than merely putting a “name” with a charity. One successful method of raising funds is to find celebrities and influencers with an existing business venture and who can tie in a product line to raise money for their cause. A perfect example is mega-influencer Kylie Jenner’s generous tie-in, which to date has raised nearly half a million dollars to provide new smiles for children born with clefts around the globe. Through her billion-dollar cosmetics company, she created a lip kit for the charity Smile Train and donated 100 percent of its proceeds. Not only do these collaborations bolster the profile of the celebrity and influencer, but more importantly they have the potential of raising monumental funds that would be virtually impossible for non-profits to achieve without this alliance. A win-win situation for all. But matching up a celebrity to a cause isn’t as simple as it might seem. Different causes may require vastly different demographics to represent them depending on the target audience. And with the “personal connection” being a priority for potential donors, the matchmaking process is vital. In-depth due diligence is also a crucial part of the process. Finding out the chosen celebrity was caught up in #MeToo or caught wearing fur when advocating for animal rights would mean an instant loss of credibility for all involved. Although donations to many non-profits have fallen dramatically over the past year, the causes behind them certainly haven’t disappeared. More than ever, these charities need someone to shine a spotlight on them while the world seems to have tunnel vision for everything pandemic related. Indeed, with lockdowns compelling the world to move online, charity fundraising has been forced to follow suit. Successful viral campaigns like that to raise money for the victims of the Beirut explosion have become a benchmark for others to follow. Through superstars like Celine Dion and Jennifer Lopez uploading a photo of themselves wearing a t-shirt adorned with “Rise from the Ashes” to their Instagram accounts, US$300,000 was raised in a matter of days. A simple but effective campaign with minimum effort required of the celebrities involved. Given global social restrictions, many smaller charities - who usually rely on in-person events to raise funds - are looking for help from companies like The Krim Group to take their first steps in the virtual world. Without this reinvention, they will be trailing in the wake of those non-profits who already enjoy a big online presence. Influencers are here to stay. It can be argued that everyone who is in a position of influence has a moral obligation to use that influence – at least in part – to do good. Whether it’s influence through money, by being famous or knowing a lot of people, everyone can do their part. There is no doubt that if everyone did something, the world would be a much better place.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

WOrth Noting

CAMPAIGN PLATINUM AWARD ABTA’s “Your Space in the Sun” campaign has won a Platinum Award in the international MARCOM Awards in the category of Digital Media | Social Media | Social Branding Campaign. This is the highest-level award granted and is in recognition of the campaign which was designed to show potential visitors that they can enjoy all the space they need in the twin islands; space to move, space to think, space to be you.

CRUISE SHIPS TO BE HOMEPORTED IN ANTIGUA Crystal Symphony is set to become the first cruise ship to homeport on a scheduled basis in St John’s starting in August this year. The ship will make 15 departures from the twin islands up to and including December. Antigua Cruise Port has also finalised negotiations with P&O Cruises to homeport their new Arvia ship in Antigua for the 2022-2023 cruise season.

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THE TALISKER WHISKY ATLANTIC CHALLENGE 2020 A GREAT SUCCESS All the teams in the 2020 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge AKA “the world’s toughest row” arrived safe and sound in the twin islands. The competitors set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on 12th December with the winners arriving just 32 days later, having crossed 3,000 miles of ocean to arrive in Antigua’s English Harbour. Twenty-one teams with a total of 53 rowers took place in the 2020 challenge battling monumental waves and inclement weather to make the epic crossing. Team Antigua Pairs, Travis Weste and JoJo Nunes, arrived back on home soil after a very respectable 47 days of rowing to a hero’s welcome. Twenty-one-year-old Jasmine Harrison from the UK also set a record for the youngest female to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

BLUE ECONOMY PLAN IS APPROVED The very first Maritime Blue Economy Plan (MBEP) is a partnership initiative between the governments of the UK and Antigua & Barbuda and will provide an overview of the islands’ maritime economy as well as establishing priorities and actions to help the nation benefit from it in the future.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

SARGASSUM SEAWEED SHIPPED TO FINLAND FOR NEW INITIATIVE The twin islands have shipped 202 lbs of the invasive sargassum seaweed as part of a new initiative that is being explored by Origin by Ocean, a Finnish company being incubated within the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Global Innovation Centre in Sweden. This shipment is for the first phase of a project to design a new biorefinery process (Nauvu™) for the extraction of biomolecules for use in food, cosmetics and domestic detergent, all from marine biomass. It will be used for initial reference trials against the benchmark feedstock of bladderwrack seaweed. More shipments will be made in coming weeks.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA MUSIC WEEK Limerz INC, creators and producers of events in the United States, held a week-long Antigua Music Week where artists, radio stations, Mas Bands, local and international DJs, blogs and social media influencers celebrated the music of the twin islands.

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GROUND BROKEN FOR NEW HOSPITAL COMPLEX Dr Joseph “Joey” John, one of Antigua’s most prestigious and visionary medical practitioners, has held a ceremonial turning of the sod for a multi-million-dollar hospital at Woods Estate. According to John, “The Doctors Hospital and Medical Complex will be a multi-speciality twenty-four-seven facility offering not only all services and procedures already available in Antigua, but importantly many not yet available on the island. It is also hoped that the facility will increase the market share of regional health tourism on the island.”

JET BLUE INCREASES FLIGHTS TO ANTIGUA JetBlue Airways’ newly announced alliance with American Airlines will add a thrice-weekly departure to Antigua’s V.C. Bird International Airport from Newark starting on 1st July.

RBC CLOSES SALE OF EASTERN CARIBBEAN BANKING OPERATIONS Royal Bank of Canada, based in Toronto, has closed the sale of its Eastern Caribbean banking operations to a consortium of regional banks. The sale includes 11 branches found in Antigua and neighbouring islands. The consortium buying the operations includes the 1st National Bank of St Lucia, Antigua Commercial Bank, Bank of Dominica, Bank of Montserrat and the Bank of Nevis.

BUSINESS ON THE BEACH ABTA (Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority) have launched a new campaign for the UK called Business on the Beach to encourage Brits to come to the twin islands to work remotely and replace their Zoom background with a genuine backdrop of the ocean. To launch this new campaign, ABTA partnered with Keyonna Beach Resort to find a talented individual to enjoy a two-week workcation at the all-inclusive resort to help the hotel on their website development and graphic design.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

worth noting

SEVENTH EDITION OF RORC TRANSATLANTIC RACE FINISHES IN ANTIGUA The seventh edition of the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) Transatlantic Race finished in Antigua this year rather than the usual finish in Grenada. The winning team from France took just over nine days to reach the island from the starting point in Lanzarote in the Canary Islands on 9th January. Ten European teams took place in the race.

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NEW CRUISE PORT OFFICIALLY COMPLETE The US$30 million fifth cruise berth which can accommodate the world’s largest passenger ships has now been declared complete. Global Ports Holding (GPH) were able to finalise the project on time despite the pandemic.

WOMEN IN SAILING BITCOIN ATMS IN ANTIGUA

DIGITAL EC$ GOES LIVE The EC dollar or “DCash” was officially launched by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) at the end of March. The ECCB became the first currency union central bank to issue digital cash. DCash is being initially rolled out in four of the eight member countries of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union: Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, St Kitts & Nevis and St Lucia.

Antigua’s first Bitcoin ATMs went live at two SSID Financial Ltd locations in March. With around 50 businesses accepting Bitcoins in the twin islands, the installation of Bitcoin ATMs cements the growing interest in digital currencies and crypto-assets in the country. The new ATMs will allow people to purchase and redeem both Bitcoin and Bitcoin cash.

Antigua Sailing Week together with the Antigua & Barbuda Sailing Association and the Antigua & Barbuda Marine Association have announced a mentorship programme to encourage women and girls to consider the sport and business of sailing by developing pathways and generate opportunities in the twin islands.

SUGAR RIDGE GROW AND GIVE AWAY FRUIT TREES The Sugar Ridge team is planting thousands of fruit trees and giving them away across the island. Trees include mango, ackee, guava, tamarind and cherry and have been given to local schools, community groups and individuals. The hotel has launched a website www.treetribe.com to complement this initiative.

ANTIGUA ON LIST OF BEST PLACES TO REMOTELY WORK Travel website, Big 7 Travel, has put Antigua at number 24 on their list of 50 Best Places for Remote Working in 2021. With the twin island’s recent establishment of the Nomad Digital Visa, people who work from home are able to work from paradise for up to two years.

FIRST GRADUATION HELD AT UWI FIVE ISLANDS CAMPUS The University of West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus held its first ever graduation since its inauguration in September 2019. The graduation of six women with a post-graduate diploma in education was described by Prime Minister Browne as a “small step in numbers, but a great leap in achievement”.

ISSUE 10 • APRIL 2021

worth noting

CORAL NURSERY LAUNCHED IN UNDERWATER NATIONAL PARK Environmentalists - including marine ecologist, Ruleo Camacho, of Antigua & Barbuda National Parks and DiveCarib’s in-house marine biologist, Louis Evans - have built the first coral nursery under the waves in Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. This “coral garden” will increase the resilience of the coral reef ecosystem and provide shelter and food for many fish species. Similar nurseries have been used to help reefs in places like the Florida Keys.

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AIRBNB AND CTO CAMPAIGN Airbnb together with the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and Antigua & Barbuda are promoting responsible travel to the twin islands and wider Caribbean across Airbnb’s global community. The campaign will encourage travellers to explore Antigua & Barbuda’s boutique properties that are often off the beaten track to boost tourism on the islands.

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MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL ADDING 19 BLUE DIAMOND RESORTS Marriott International is continuing its expansion via a new, long-term partnership with Sunwing Travel Group’s Blue Diamond Resorts to double its existing all-inclusive footprint. In total, 19 franchised resorts will be added, in six Caribbean and Latin American destinations. They will all be flagged under Marriott’s Autograph Collection. This will be the company’s first foray into Antigua where Royalton Antigua Resort & Spa will be joining the fold.

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AUA SIGNS MOU WITH UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE American University of Antigua College of Medicine (AUA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore – one of the top 20 historically black colleges and universities in the US for the academic year 2020-2021. This MOU will create an admissions pathway for qualified students to attend AUA and earn their Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees.

Global Views, Personal Service

FIRST KITE-BOARD ROUND-TRIP BETWEEN ANTIGUA & BARBUDA Eighteen-year-old Tiger Tyson is the first person to have kite-boarded a round-trip between Antigua & Barbuda. He completed the first leg from Antigua to Barbuda in one hour and 17 minutes and the return in one hour and 30 minutes.

TEN PERCENT OF GOVERNMENT SHARES IN WIOC OFFERED FOR PUBLIC INVESTMENT The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is divesting ten percent of its holdings in the West Indies Oil Company Limited (WIOC). This amounts to 301,920 ordinary shares. Fifty percent of the offer is reserved for public servants and the remainder for other citizens and institutions of the twin islands, OECS and CARICOM, in that order of priority.

31 Gambles Estate P.O. Box 1275 | St. John’s, Antigua +1 268 562 8474 | info@ilis.ag www.caribbeancitizenshipinvest.com

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Antigua & Barbuda THE CITIZEN

Articles inside

Sargassum seaweed shipped to Finland for new initiative

Coral nursery launched in underwater national park

Mentoring as a catalyst for growth

Arts & Culture - Ronald Silencieux

Health planning and second citizenship

Investment migration and education

No water. No life. No blue, no green.

Using influence to do social good

Antigua through my lens by Janie Conley-Johnson

Digital Nomad

Interview with Desmond Cooper

Interview with Shabier Kirchner

Interview with Akon

Mentoring as a catalyst for growth

The importance of a solid entrepreneurial ecosystem

Innovation spurring new business in the twin islands

Not making a decision... is making a decision

Antigua & Barbuda welcomes you!

Welcome from Gaston Browne