CHOISEUL IS RISING — AND THERE IS NO TURNING BACK

There was a time when many of our parents and grandparents left the communities of Choiseul in search of opportunity elsewhere. They travelled north to Castries seeking employment, education, and a better life for their families.

Too often, they were met with ridicule.

They were called "country bookies."

Their accents were mocked. Their rural upbringing was looked down upon. Some were made to feel that coming from Choiseul somehow made them less capable than those from the city.

But our parents and grandparents never allowed those attitudes to define them.

They worked hard. They sacrificed. They endured. They built homes, educated their children, and laid the foundation for a generation that would eventually prove the doubters wrong.

Today, Choiseul is reaping the rewards of those sacrifices.

The victory of young Azeil Philgence, "Mr. Personality," and Dugard Combined School in the 2026 National Primary Schools Calypso Competition is about far more than a trophy.

It is a statement.

A statement that talent exists in every corner of Saint Lucia.

A statement that excellence does not belong exclusively to urban communities.

A statement that Choiseul can compete with anyone, anywhere, and win.

A Long Tradition of Excellence

This latest achievement did not happen in isolation.

Choiseul has produced national cricketers, musicians, educators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and scholars who have represented our district and country with distinction.

Our district has also made its mark on the national pageant stage.

Choiseul's own Shernaya Stephen captured the National Carnival Queen title in 2003, while Emerle Tisson brought the crown back home in 2025 before going on to win the Caribbean Queen title.

From the calypso stage to the cricket field, from the classroom to the pageant stage, Choiseulians continue to demonstrate that greatness can emerge from any community when talent is nurtured and given the opportunity to flourish.

Today, Mr. Personality joins that growing list of achievers.

Dugard Combined Has Made History

The competition featured schools from across the island, many from larger urban centres with greater resources and visibility.

Yet when the final results were announced, it was Dugard Combined School from Choiseul that stood at the top.

Not because anyone gave them an advantage.

Not because anyone lowered the standards.

But because they earned it.

Through preparation.

Through discipline.

Through hard work.

Through talent.

The result is a reminder that Choiseul's children are second to none.

Breaking Old Stereotypes

For too long, some people have carried outdated notions about rural communities.

But the facts continue to tell a different story.

When Choiseul's sons and daughters are given the opportunity to compete, they often excel.

Whether in academics, culture, sports, pageantry, business, or leadership, the district continues to produce individuals who perform at the highest level.

Every victory chips away at the old stereotypes.

Every achievement honours the sacrifices of those who came before us.

Every success sends a message to the next generation that they too can achieve greatness.

A Message to Our Young People

Never allow anyone to tell you that your address determines your future.

Never believe that where you come from limits where you can go.

Walk proudly.

Study hard.

Work hard.

Dream big.

Your grandparents carried the burden so that you could carry the crown.

Congratulations, Mr. Personality

Choiseul salutes Azeil Philgence, his family, his teachers, his mentors, and the entire Dugard Combined School community.

This victory belongs to all of us.

It belongs to every parent who made sacrifices.

Every grandparent who endured ridicule.

Every teacher who believed in a child.

Every young person who dares to dream.

Choiseul is rising.

Not through excuses.

Not through entitlement.

Not through complaints.

But through excellence.

And there is absolutely no turning back.

🏆 Congratulations, Mr. Personality.

🏆 Congratulations, Dugard Combined School.

🏆 Congratulations, Choiseul.

We are making our parents and grandparents proud. 

 

Road to World Cup 2026: Five Nations Standing Between Glory and Heartbreak

As football fever begins to build across Saint Lucia and the wider Caribbean, Choiseul on the Move turns its attention to the biggest sporting event on the planet — the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams, 104 matches, and one golden trophy. But when the noise, emotion, and national pride are stripped away, five countries appear to stand above the rest.

Choiseul on the Move World Cup 2026 Prediction List

5. Argentina

4. Brazil

3. Portugal

2. Spain

1. France

5. Argentina: Can the Champions Do It Again?

Argentina enter World Cup 2026 as defending champions after their unforgettable triumph in Qatar. Lionel Messi finally completed his football story in 2022, but 2026 presents a very different challenge.

Messi will be 38, and while his genius remains unquestioned, Argentina can no longer depend on him to carry the full weight alone.

The good news is that Argentina still possess a strong spine, with players like Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Cristian Romero, and Lisandro Martínez.

Under Lionel Scaloni, Argentina remain tactically disciplined and emotionally strong. However, no team has retained the World Cup since Brazil in 1962.

Prediction: Argentina can go deep, but defending the crown may prove too heavy a burden.

4. Brazil: The Samba Giants Are Rising Again

Brazil always enter a World Cup with expectation. Five World Cup titles demand nothing less. Yet the uncomfortable truth is that Brazil have not lifted the trophy since 2002.

With Carlo Ancelotti now guiding the team, Brazil appear more organised, more disciplined, and more structured than in recent years.

In attack, Vinícius Júnior gives Brazil a devastating weapon. His speed, skill, and confidence can destroy any defence. Alongside him, Raphinha adds balance, while Alisson Becker provides security in goal.

The major question remains Neymar. If he returns to something close to his best, Brazil become even more dangerous. If not, they may lack that one special creator in tight matches.

Prediction: Brazil are seriously contenders, but fitness and defensive consistency could decide their fate.

3. Portugal: Is This Finally Their Time?

Portugal may have their strongest squad ever heading into World Cup 2026.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be 41, and this may be his final chance to win the one major trophy missing from his legendary career. But unlike previous tournaments, Portugal no longer need Ronaldo to do everything.

With Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, João Neves, Vitinha, Rúben Dias, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Rafael Leão, and Gonçalo Ramos, Portugal have balance, depth, and real quality across the pitch.

Their biggest challenge may be mental. Portugal have often looked good on paper, only to fall short when the knockout pressure arrives.

Prediction: Portugal are dangerous enough to win it, but they must overcome their old habit of freezing in big moments.

2. Spain: The Team Everyone Wants to Avoid

Spain may currently be playing the best football in the world. Their Euro 2024 success showed control, confidence, and attacking clarity.

The symbol of Spain’s new era is Lamine Yamal, a teenage sensation already performing like a superstar. Alongside Nico Williams, Spain have two wide players capable of terrifying defenders.

In midfield, Rodri, Pedri, and Fabián Ruiz give Spain control, intelligence, and rhythm. They can dominate possession, press smartly, and move opponents around until spaces appear.

Their one concern is the absence of a traditional striker. In a tight knockout match, Spain may need a clinical finisher to turn control into victory.

Prediction: If Spain solve their finishing problem, they may become the most difficult team to stop.

1. France: The Team to Catch

France sit at number one because they have the most complete squad in the tournament.

With Kylian Mbappé still near his peak, France possess a match-winner who can change a game in seconds. Around him, the squad is packed with world-class options.

Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise bring creativity in attack. Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Adrien Rabiot offer power and control in midfield. At the back, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Jules Koundé, and Mike Maignan give France serious strength.

Didier Deschamps may not always produce the most beautiful football, but he knows how to survive tournaments. France do not need to entertain everyone. They simply need to win.

Prediction: France begin World Cup 2026 as the team to beat.

Final Choiseul on the Move Prediction

🏆 Champions: France

🥈 Runners-Up: Spain

🥉 Third Place: Brazil

🏅 Semi-Finalists: Portugal

Of course, football has never been predictable. One injury, one red card, one penalty shootout, one moment of magic, or one mistake can turn the whole tournament upside down.

Argentina still have champions’ pride. Brazil still have flair. Portugal still have hunger. Spain have youth and rhythm. France have power and depth.

But when all factors are placed on the table, Choiseul on the Move predicts France as the strongest candidate to lift the 2026 World Cup trophy.

So football fans of Choiseul, who is your pick for World Cup 2026?

 

Promise Kept in Mongouge — Now Take It to Every Corner of Choiseul-Saltibus

"I would not be a representative who only holds meetings when an election is around the corner."

Those were among the most powerful words coming out of the recent Constituency Town Hall Meeting at the Mongouge Community Centre.

For that promise alone, the Parliamentary Representative deserves recognition.

Too often in Caribbean politics, community meetings become seasonal events that magically appear a few months before an election. Residents are gathered, promises are made, photographs are taken, and then communities return to silence.

The recent meeting in Mongouge signalled a different approach.

According to the Representative's own report, residents received updates on constituency spending, infrastructure investments, drainage works, youth programmes, elderly support initiatives and plans for future development.

More importantly, residents were given an opportunity to ask questions directly and receive answers publicly.

That is what accountability looks like.
Not rumours. Not Facebook debates. Not political whispers. Direct engagement between elected officials and the people they represent.

The Real Test Starts Now

However, while Mongouge deserves praise for hosting the first town hall, the real test begins now.

The challenge before the Representative is simple:

Can this model be replicated across every polling division?

Choiseul-Saltibus is much bigger than one community.

The concerns of Mongouge may not be the concerns of Piaye. The concerns of Piaye may not be the concerns of Roblot. The concerns of Saltibus may differ from those of La Fargue, Reunion, Industry, Victoria or Delcer.

Every community deserves an opportunity to sit across from its representative and discuss issues affecting daily life.

That is why Choiseul on the Move believes the Mongouge meeting should be viewed not as an event, but as the beginning of a constituency-wide engagement programme.

What We Recommended Months Ago

Following the General Elections, Choiseul on the Move published a recommendation entitled:

"Representation Must Be Built From the Ground Up."

The recommendation called for the establishment of active community groups across the constituency—small trusted teams of residents capable of maintaining direct contact with people on the ground.

These groups would become the constituency's eyes and ears.

• They know where elderly residents live alone.
• They know which families may need assistance.
• They know which drains need attention.
• They know where social problems are developing.
• They know where opportunities are being missed.

Without this grassroots layer, representation can easily become disconnected from reality.

The town hall model and active community groups work hand in hand.
One creates dialogue. The other maintains communication between meetings.

And What About Roblot?

As the Hurricane Season officially gets underway, another question deserves attention:

What role will the Roblot Community Centre play?

Community centres should not simply stand as buildings waiting for special occasions.

They should serve as centres of preparedness, training, community meetings, information sharing and emergency coordination.

With hurricane threats becoming increasingly unpredictable, every available community resource should be activated and placed into service.

Residents of Roblot and surrounding communities deserve to know what plans exist for the facility and how it can be utilised to strengthen disaster preparedness efforts.

Step Up Before the Storms Do

To his credit, the Parliamentary Representative has taken the first step.

He promised transparency. He promised accountability. He promised to return to the people outside of election season.

The Mongouge Town Hall suggests that promise is being honoured.

Now comes the opportunity to go even further.

Take the town halls to every polling division. Build active community groups. Strengthen communication networks. Activate community centres. Keep residents informed. Listen to concerns before they become frustrations.

Choiseul-Saltibus does not need representation that appears every five years.

It needs representation that listens every month, engages every community, and remains connected to the people long before and long after election day.

Mongouge was a good beginning.
Now let the conversation continue across the entire constituency.

 

Straight Talk: Green Cards, CIP and the Pain of Ordinary Saint Lucians

Choiseul on the Move • Facts before noise • People before politics

A strong statement has been circulating on social media claiming that some Saint Lucians who were approved for U.S. Green Cards, spent heavily on biometrics, lodging and travel, and had successful interviews, were later denied because of Saint Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Programme.

That is a serious claim. And because it touches people’s dreams, families, money, migration plans and the reputation of our country, it cannot be treated like ordinary political bacchanal.

Let us be honest

If someone spent thousands of dollars preparing for a U.S. immigration process and was later denied, that pain is real. The frustration is real. The financial loss is real. Nobody should laugh at that or dismiss it.

But pain alone does not prove the cause. That is where we must be careful.

Here is the balance

On one side, many citizens are worried that international scrutiny of Caribbean Citizenship by Investment programmes could affect the way Saint Lucians are viewed overseas.

On the other side, it is not fair to declare that every visa refusal, Green Card denial or immigration delay is automatically caused by CIP or by one political party.

U.S. immigration decisions can involve many factors: documentation, security checks, eligibility rules, medical requirements, financial information, background reviews and other internal processes. Unless an applicant receives a clear written reason stating that Saint Lucia’s CIP was the cause, we must avoid turning suspicion into fact.

But Government Still Has a Duty

That does not mean citizens should stay quiet. Any government managing a programme that affects the international image of Saint Lucia must be transparent. If there are concerns from foreign governments, the people deserve to know what is being done to protect the value of our passport.

A passport is not just a travel document. It is a symbol of national trust. When the reputation of that passport is questioned, every Saint Lucian can feel the consequences.

Choiseul on the Move says:

• Do not dismiss the pain of affected Saint Lucians.
• Do not use people’s disappointment for political scoring.
• Do not make claims without evidence.
• Do demand transparency from those in authority.
• Do protect the good name of Saint Lucia.

This Is Bigger Than SLP or UWP

The real issue is not red, yellow or party colours. The real issue is whether Saint Lucia’s name is being protected. The real issue is whether ordinary citizens can still move through the world with confidence. The real issue is whether national programmes are being managed with honesty, discipline and accountability.

If mistakes were made, let them be corrected. If false claims are being spread, let them be exposed. If citizens are being affected, let their concerns be heard.

Final Word

Saint Lucians deserve truth, not rumours. They deserve answers, not political noise. And above all, they deserve leadership that protects the value of being Saint Lucian.

That is the straight talk.

 

LETTING LOVE LEAD THE WAY

A Message from Claudette Adjodha That Still Speaks to Saint Lucia Today

There are some people whose words remain relevant long after they have been spoken.

Nearly a decade ago, musician, poet and cultural advocate Claudette Adjodha shared a simple but powerful message during an interview with The Voice newspaper. At a time when the world was already struggling with division, violence and uncertainty, she offered a solution that was neither political nor complicated.

Her answer was simple:

Let love lead the way.

Today, in 2026, that message may be more important than ever.

Across Saint Lucia, and indeed throughout the world, many people are feeling the weight of rising costs, social tensions, family disputes, crime and uncertainty about the future. Social media often rewards outrage rather than understanding. Differences in politics, religion and personal beliefs sometimes separate neighbours who once lived peacefully side by side.

Yet Adjodha's message reminds us that real change begins with ordinary people making extraordinary choices.

The choice to listen before judging.

The choice to forgive instead of holding grudges.

The choice to help rather than harm.

The choice to build instead of destroy.

During her interview, Adjodha spoke passionately about peace, unity and the need for people to recognize their shared humanity. She suggested that many of society's problems stem from selfishness, greed and a loss of compassion for others.

It is difficult to argue with that observation.

Every day we see examples of how one kind gesture can brighten someone's life. A helping hand to an elderly neighbour. A word of encouragement to a struggling young person. A meal shared with someone in need. These simple acts rarely make headlines, yet they are often the very things that hold communities together.

Choiseul has always been a community built on togetherness.

Our grandparents survived difficult times not because they had great wealth, but because they looked out for one another. Neighbours shared labour in the gardens. Fishermen helped fellow fishermen. Families supported each other through sickness, hardship and loss.

That spirit of community is part of what makes Choiseul special.

Perhaps that is why Claudette Adjodha's message resonates so strongly today.

Love is not weakness.

Love is strength.

It takes strength to forgive.

It takes strength to show kindness when others are unkind.

It takes strength to choose peace when conflict seems easier.

As Saint Lucia continues to navigate the challenges of modern life, perhaps we would all do well to remember the wisdom shared by Claudette Adjodha years ago.

Not every problem can be solved overnight.

Not every disagreement can disappear instantly.

But if more of us chose understanding over division, kindness over bitterness and compassion over selfishness, our communities would undoubtedly become stronger.

In a world that often encourages us to look out only for ourselves, Claudette Adjodha's message remains a refreshing reminder of what truly matters.

Letting love lead the way may not solve every problem, but it is certainly the best place to start.

What are your thoughts? Can love still be a guiding force in today's society? Share your views in the comments below.

— Choiseul on the Move

 

🌿 CHOISEUL MYSTERIES EXPLAINED #2

🐸 Why Do Frogs Get So Noisy After Rain?

A Sunday Feature from Choiseul on the Move

If you've lived in Choiseul for any length of time, you've heard it.

The rain falls steadily through the night. The gutters begin to flow. Small puddles appear in the yard. Then, almost as if on cue, the silence is broken by a chorus of croaks, chirps, and whistles coming from every direction.

🐸 Kroak! Kroak! Kroak!

From Roblot to Saltibus, from La Fargue to Delcer555, frogs suddenly seem to appear everywhere after a good shower of rain.

But have you ever wondered why?

🌧️ The Rain Is Their Signal

The simple answer is that frogs love moisture.

Unlike humans, frogs breathe partly through their skin. Their skin must remain moist for them to survive and function properly. During dry weather, many frogs hide under leaves, in holes, under rocks, or deep within vegetation to avoid losing moisture.

When the rain comes, conditions become perfect.

The air becomes cooler and wetter, allowing frogs to move about safely without drying out.

For frogs, rain is like a giant announcement saying:

"Come out, it's time!"

🎵 Why All The Noise?

Here's where things get interesting.

Most of the croaking you hear after rain comes from male frogs.

They're not complaining about the weather.

They're actually singing.

The croaks are mating calls designed to attract female frogs. Each species has its own unique call, helping females identify the right mate.

The louder and stronger the call, the better the male's chances of attracting attention.

So what sounds like a noisy concert to us is actually a giant frog dating service taking place all across the community!

🐸 Nature's Family Planning

Rain also creates temporary pools, puddles, and ponds where frogs can safely lay their eggs.

These pools provide ideal conditions for tadpoles to grow before transforming into frogs.

Without rain, many frogs would struggle to reproduce successfully.

That's why rain triggers such a burst of activity.

The frogs know the time is right to ensure the next generation survives.

🌿 The Choiseul Connection

In Choiseul, the sound of frogs after rain is as familiar as the crowing rooster at dawn.

Many of us grew up falling asleep to their nightly chorus.

For farmers, the sound often signals that the soil is receiving much-needed moisture.

For gardeners, it means nature is hard at work.

And for children, it is one of those unforgettable sounds of village life.

Believe it or not, frogs are also helpful neighbours.

They eat mosquitoes, flies, and many other insects that can become pests around our homes.

In a way, they help keep nature balanced.

💡 What Frogs Teach Us

Frogs remind us that nature responds to opportunity.

They don't waste time complaining about the dry season.

They wait patiently.

Then when the rain comes, they seize the moment.

There is a lesson there for all of us.

Sometimes our season will come too.

The key is being ready when it arrives.

🌧️ Next Time It Rains...

The next time a shower passes through Choiseul and the frogs begin their evening concert, stop for a moment and listen.

What sounds like noise is actually one of nature's most fascinating conversations.

It is the sound of life, renewal, and the continuation of a cycle that has been taking place long before any of us were here.

And now you know why frogs get so noisy after rain.

🔍 Coming Next Sunday...

✨ Why Do Fireflies Glow At Night?

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💬 Got a Choiseul mystery you'd like us to explore? Leave it in the comments and it might become a future edition of Choiseul Mysteries Explained!

Choiseul on the Move Our People. Our Culture. Our Future.

 

🏆 CHOISEUL'S YOUNG CALYPSO KING BRINGS THE CROWN HOME!

Dugard Combined's Mr. Personality Makes Choiseul Proud

There are moments when an entire community pauses to celebrate one of its own. This is one of those moments.

The people of Choiseul have every reason to smile today as Dugard Combined School has captured the 2026 National Primary Schools Calypso Championship, thanks to an outstanding performance by young Azeil Philgence, better known on stage as "Mr. Personality."

Competing against some of the island's most talented young performers at Mindoo Phillip Park, Mr. Personality delivered a memorable rendition of his song "Remember Me", earning the judges' top score and bringing the coveted national title back to Choiseul.

A Victory Built on Hard Work

Those who know the Primary Schools Calypso Competition understand that success does not happen overnight.

Behind every winning performance are weeks of rehearsals, coaching sessions, long evenings, nervous moments, and countless sacrifices from teachers, parents, mentors, and students. This championship is a reflection of the dedication and commitment shown by the entire Dugard Combined School family.

For years, Choiseul has produced talented singers, musicians, storytellers, and cultural ambassadors. This latest achievement proves once again that the district continues to nurture young people capable of shining on the national stage.

The Results

The top performers in the 2026 National Primary Schools Calypso Competition were:

🥇 Mr. Personality – Dugard Combined School

🥈 Ti Jean – Canon Laurie Anglican School

🥉 Unique – Anglican Infant School

🏅 Mighty Informer – Ave Maria Girls' Primary School

While all participants deserve praise for their performances, it is Choiseul's Mr. Personality who now carries the title of National Primary Schools Calypso Monarch.

More Than Just a Trophy

This victory means much more than a trophy or a title.

It sends a powerful message to every young person in Choiseul that dreams can become reality through preparation, discipline, and perseverance.

It reminds us that our schools continue to produce excellence despite challenges.

And it demonstrates that talent can emerge from any community when given the opportunity to grow.

Watch his delivery here: https://youtu.be/TlQrzodXo1U

Congratulations from Choiseul

Choiseul on the Move extends heartfelt congratulations to:

✅ Azeil Philgence (Mr. Personality)

✅ His parents and family

✅ The teachers and staff of Dugard Combined School

✅ The songwriters, coaches, and mentors

✅ The entire Dugard Combined School community

Today, Choiseul celebrates with you.

The crown has come home.

And somewhere across our district, another young child is watching this success story and believing that one day they too can stand on a stage and make Choiseul proud.

Congratulations, Mr. Personality. Choiseul will certainly remember you! 🇱🇨🎤🏆