Barbados High Commission at London, U.K.

Delighted to have been a part of the Barbados delegation, led by my parliamentary successor in St. James North, Educational Transformation Minister the Honourable Chad Blackman M.P., at the 2026 Education World Forum held in London between17th-20t May under the theme "Education for a share Future: Peace, Planet, Purpose and Pathways".

Our delegation at this Forum, the largest annual gathering of Education, Higher Education and Skills Ministers globally, their advisors, private sector, international NGOs and education funders, also included Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Bradshaw as well as Dr Renee Rattray Education Specialist.

Pleased to have observed the significance placed during many of the sessions on special needs education and on artificial intelligence.

Also had the opportunity to meet up with some other Caribbean Education Ministers such as Jamaica's Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon and Bermuda's Senator Crystal Caesar.
— HE Edmund G Hinkson, SC

Delighted to have on 21st May, 2026 attended and to have participated with His Excellency High Commissioner Albert Fotabong in the celebrations in the United Kingdom of the Independence of the Republic of Cameron.

Relations between our two nations have been actively growing in recent years, particularly through multilateral forums such as the United Nations, the Commonwealth, the African Union and the World trade Organisation.
— HE Edmund G Hinkson, SC

Very well deserved congratulations to the Barbados Horticultural Society on achieving its 24th Gold Medal since its first participation in 1988 in the annual Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show in London.

Mrs Jennifer Weetch, STE and her team of six strived tirelessly to create a work of art around the theme "On the Road to 60" in identifying with Barbados 60th Anniversary of Independence.

Gratitude to our Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., led ably by Mrs Elan Mottley-Harris, for rendering its usual support to the team.

It was a distinct honour for me to be present for the first time at this event on its opening day.
— HE Edmund G Hinkson, SC

It was a singular pleasure to have paid a courtesy call, together with First Secretary Ms Denice Sandiford, on the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in the United kingdom Honduran Ambassador His Excellency Mr Ivan Romero-Martinez on 11th May, 2026.

The Ambassador readily conveyed his wealth of knowledge gained over a lifetime in diplomacy, including the last 18 years as his country's Head of Mission to London.

We also discussed the possibility of our two nations transitioning our diplomatic relationship, established in 1992, to a closer, more structured bilateral partnership through a trade agreement, investment treaty and double taxation.

We dialogued on the possibility of Honduran educators teaching Spanish in our Barbadian schools as we seek to establish this language as our second language.

The Ambassador also expressed his wish to see Barbadians assist in English language training of his country's hospitality sector workers
— HE Edmund G Hinkson, SC

🇧🇧 More moments from our recent diaspora engagement meeting at the Barbados High Commission in London, where Barbadians from across the UK came together to share ideas, expertise and a common commitment to Barbados’ continued development.

Thank you to all who joined the conversation and contributed so thoughtfully. ✨

On May 9, 2026, His Excellency Edmund G. Hinkson, SC hosted at the High Commission a highly engaging and productive meeting with Barbadians and stakeholders from diverse professional, civic and community backgrounds residing in the United Kingdom who share a common passion for the continued development of Barbados.

The High Commissioner set an inspiring and collaborative tone, emphasizing the importance of strengthening connections within the Bajan community and of exploring meaningful ways for Barbadians abroad to support their homeland through financial, real property, life sciences, agricultural and renewable energy investments, healthcare initiatives including those relating to disabilities and mental illness, philanthropy including to schools, churches and districts, mentorship, voluntary service as well as through sharing of professional and life skills expertise.

The meeting, which was moderated by Diaspora Attaché Officer Ms. Betty Lewis, provided a valuable platform for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas. We heard thoughtful, wise contributions from current professionals, retired experts, young leaders, entrepreneurs, and community advocates. Everyone who spoke expressed a strong willingness to contribute their skills, knowledge and experience toward Barbados’ national growth and development. Discussions highlighted opportunities in areas such as education, healthcare, youth development, business, technology, culture, entrepreneurship and community service.

Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Mackie Holder, GTE’s commitment to have the High Commission host a UK Barbadian Diaspora Conference this year was greeted with warm enthusiasm. The High Commissioner gave information on the welcome stamp regime. First Secretary Miss. Deniece Sandiford spoke of avenues through which philanthropic donations to Barbados can be made.

There was present an overwhelming sense of unity, patriotism and commitment. Participants reaffirmed the strength and potential of our Bajan community when we come together with a shared purpose. The Mission will now follow up on all of the contributions and ideas expressed during the meeting.

Sincere gratitude and appreciation to everyone who attended, participated and contributed to the discussion.