Join renowned historian and broadcaster David Olusoga for a thought-provoking discussion on the UK’s continuing influence in its Overseas Territories, with a special focus on the Caribbean. In this event titled “Islands of Influence: The UK’s Ongoing Role in Overseas Territories,” Olusoga will explore the historical, political, and cultural ties that continue to shape these regions today.
about
LITERARY ARTS FESTIVAL IN THE BVI
The BVI Literary Festival, affectionately known as the BVI Lit Fest, was founded in November 2021 as a key feature of the Department of Culture’s Culture and Tourism Month activities. In collaboration with the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, the BVI Lit Fest has quickly become an annual highlight, bringing together writers, poets, publishers, booksellers, and book lovers to celebrate the literary arts and the creative process.
At the heart of the BVI Lit Fest is a diverse and enriching programme that includes workshops, panel discussions, readings, signings, and book launches. Our festival proudly features a mixture of local, regional, and internationally acclaimed writers and poets, creating a vibrant space for literary enthusiasts to engage in deeper, more focused discussions on cultural identity through literature.
History
The inaugural BVI Lit Fest, held from 2-13 November 2021, set the standard for excellence with a robust lineup of events. Highlights included the “Writing with Writers’ Workshop” series, the “Let’s Talk Lit” panel discussions, a book fair, and an “Evening of Music and Poetry.” Our workshops, conducted virtually, covered poetry, publishing, and non-fiction, facilitated by distinguished writers such as Virgin Islands Poet Laureate Dr. Richard Georges, Anthony Anaxagorou, and Andre Bagoo. Our panel discussions, also held virtually, delved into essay writing, fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, with esteemed guest panellists like Andre Bagoo, Amanda Choo Quan, and Amilcar Sanatan sharing their insights and expertise. The guest panellists for the fiction panel discussion were Cadwell Turnbull and Tiphanie Yanique. The guest panellist for the non-fiction panel discussion was Tami Navarro. The guest panellists for the poetry panel discussion were Raymond Antrobus, Canisa Lubrin, and Desiree Seebaran.
Our Mission
Our mission is to foster the development, promotion, and marketing of the works of Caribbean Literature authors – specifically those from the Virgin Islands. The BVI Lit Fest aims to create a dynamic environment where lovers of the Literary Arts can explore and celebrate their passion, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the Virgin Isla
Event Schedule plan
Conference Schedule.
Islands of Influence: The UK’s Ongoing Role in Overseas Territories
by
.
Writer’s Welcome Reception (Ticketed Event)
by
.
Immerse yourself in an intimate evening of literary brilliance as you connect with distinguished authors, presenters, and sponsors. Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and an exclusive conversation with David Olusoga and Marsha Massiah, all in the stunning venue of Allamanda Estate.
ROOTS TO ROUTES
by
.
.
Celebrate the legacy of Virgin Islands poetry as local authors bring to life the works of Quincy Lettsome, Jennie Wheatley, and Sheila Hyndman. They will honor their roots while sharing their own literary journeys, followed by an engaging discussion and Q&A.
Short Film Showcase
by
Experience the creativity and talent of HLSCC student filmmakers as they showcase their original short. Following the screening, Enya Douglas-Tarabay, director of the ensemble, will lead an insightful discussion on the filmmaking process.
Verse and Vision
by
.
.
Poetry Panel featuring Jason Allen-Paisant and Yashika Graham
BVI Legacies
by
.
Shea Alexander, head of OA Consulting Group Ltd. elucidates the connection between business legacies and media representation.
WORDS MATTER: A Fireside chat with Lisa Ann Violet
by
VP Bank Lecture by Lisa Ann Violet, Chief Executive Officer of the Virgin Islands Deposit Insurance Corporation.
MANGROVE GUARDIANS: Protecting Our Coastal Ecosystems
by
.
.
.
An insightful environmental panel on coastal resilience and climate change, highlighting the research and innovations happening at the HLSCC Mangrove Nursery & Coastal Resilience Laboratory.
BVI Culture & Literature: A look at Little Hill Stories
Explore the intersection of creative writing and Virgin Islands culture with authors Janice George-Harris and Dr. Charles Wheatley as they discuss how cultural heritage influences storytelling in their works Little Hill Stories and The Story of Red Bay.
INK AND INSPIRATION
by
.
An engaging and insightful deep dive into the world of Children’s Literature with award-winning authors and illustrators. Perfect for aspiring writers, educators, and book lovers alike, this conversation promises to inspire and illuminate the power of literature for young minds.
SOUNDS OF MY PEOPLE
by
Musical sound lab by Alton Bertie and Friends
CRAFTING TRUTHS: Writing a Prize-Winning Story
by
An engaging session of readings and discussion with authors Portia Subran, Medita Wheatley, and Diane Drayton. Discover their insights into crafting compelling stories and the journey behind their compelling works.
THE PUBLISHING PATH: One-on-One Coaching for Aspiring Authors
by
Experience 30-minute consultations include publishing guidance regarding mainstream and self-publishing, agent referrals, editorial recommendations, publicity and marketing plan discussion. Limited spaces available, Register now!
PITCH YOUR BOOK: ONE-ON-ONE COACHING SESSIONS
by
Experience a coaching session with literary agent Elise Dillsworth to pitch your book and receive feedback. Limited spaces available, Register now!
Sunset Stories at Brandywine (Ticketed Event)
by
.
.
.
Be captivated by literary discovery and inspiration as Kevin Jared, Celeste Mohammed, and Denene Millner share readings from their best-selling novels. Sip bubbly and engage in thought-provoking Q&A sessions, while basking in the sunset at Brandywine’s Pavilion. Tickets on Sale.
WRITING WITH WRITERS WORKSHOP
Light A Fire: Poets' showcase (Ticketed Event)
Book Brunch (Ticketed Event)
Sponsors
Premier Sponsor
Diamond Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Sponsoring Partners
Venue Sponsors
Exclusive Media Partners