Choiseul, Saint Lucia – The picturesque community of Choiseul added another proud moment to its legacy with the official opening of the Choiseul Arts and Crafts Centre, a long-awaited facility that promises to rekindle local creativity, entrepreneurship, and skill development.
Delivering the welcome remarks, Parliamentary Representative Hon. Bradley “Flex” Felix expressed deep pride in the people of Choiseul, their enduring spirit, and the village’s standing as the cultural and craft capital of Saint Lucia.
“At every opportunity when I speak of Choiseul/Saltibus, I reference the most picturesque and beautiful community in Fair Helen,” Felix began with a smile. “And sometimes—depending on who’s in the audience—I call it the most mesmerized and hypnotic community. Many of my colleagues may seek the title, but what makes a difference here is the talent and the heart of our people.”
The Minister warmly acknowledged the presence of the Minister of Tourism and extended special recognition to the event host, noting that the day’s celebration was “all about their efforts and the shared vision that made this possible.”
Sprinkling in a touch of humor and Creole flair, Felix playfully added:
“The emcee has given me an order—to give a little more power on Creole. So, bienvenue, pour placer à cette liste-ci, qui n'est plutôt qu'une patate et pistache. I hope that qualifies!”
A Vision Rooted in Community and Opportunity
Felix reminded attendees that the Choiseul Arts and Crafts Centre was first conceptualized in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and urged today’s managers to stay true to its original purpose—to empower the people through skill development and creative enterprise.
“The activities taking place here go beyond crafts. We are expanding into vocational and skill training, and building other commercial and economic platforms,” he said.
“I urge the management not to lose sight of the intended recipients of this vision. Many come for skills training not just as a hobby, but as a means to an end. Fees should be adjusted accordingly.”
Linking Tourism and Local Enterprise
Reflecting on Choiseul’s place in the broader tourism landscape, the MP shared his vision for integrating local talent and craft into Saint Lucia’s tourism product.
“When we revitalized the Choiseul fishpond, we ensured the inclusion of a small jetty—so that small craft could bring guests to experience Choiseul and its tourism hubs firsthand,” Felix explained.
He noted that the distance and access routes had long been obstacles to the village’s full participation in the tourism economy, and expressed gratitude to P.S. Vitte for highlighting that issue during her own address.
A Day of Pride and Possibility
In closing, Hon. Felix extended his heartfelt appreciation to all who made the project possible and shared his optimism for what lies ahead.
“Today, we come together with purpose, excitement, and a shared goal,” he said. “I welcome you all and wish this facility every success. Welcome, everybody, and thank you very much.”
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