Rianna Patterson (middle) with the Dominica Public Service Union
Charles Louis Photography
Roseau, Dominica – [June 1, 2025]
The Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU) sponsored $3000 EC towards a reception hosted by The Ambassador for CARICOM and Commissioner to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Dr.Gerard Jean-Jacques in honor of the Caribbean-Canada Leaders Dialogue (CCLD) 2025 Dominica Study Tour delegates on the 28th of May 2025. DPSU was pleased to host the group, and also provided cash, venue and logistics support which enhanced the Dominica experience.
Alumni of CCLD General Secretary of the DPSU, Mr Thomas Letang also made a personal contribution of an additional $200 to cover entertainment costs for the reception.
“Dominica was honored to host this important delegation, and we are proud of the connections made and the conversations sparked; I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mr.Letang and the Dominica Public Service Union for their kind contributions towards the reception, which also provided an opportunity to network with government officials, civil
society and experience our culture.” This is the first time Dominica has hosted a tour and certainly not the last!,” said Ms. Rianna Patterson, country host for Dominica and co-lead of the Caribbean Canada Leader Dialogue.
“Cultivating leaders at this time in a world of artificial intelligence and cascading crises is so critical. A world faced with a climate crisis, several wars, deepening inequalities and the debilitating impact on people, on workers in Small Island Developing States. He also told the participants …He truly hopes that the experience in Dominica has inspired them to see the world through a gender neutral, and a just and rights based lens. One that values people and their families, the work that they do and for the DPSU those who provide public services that touch everyone in communities” expressed by Steve Joseph, DPSU President.
Throughout the study tour, delegates engaged in site visits, fireside chats, and cultural activities designed to foster mutual understanding and to showcase Dominica’s unique approach to sustainable development and community resilience.
The closing reception in Dominica was held at the close of a dynamic and impactful week of dialogue and exchange, the reception celebrated the success of the 13-member delegation’s visit to Dominica and the strengthening of diplomatic, developmental, and cultural ties between the Caribbean and Canada. The gathering brought together key government officials, civil society leaders, youth representatives in a spirit of unity and regional pride.
The reception did not only serve as a formal end to the visit but also as a reaffirmation of ongoing collaboration between Canada and the Caribbean. Delegates expressed deep appreciation for Dominica’s hospitality, leadership, and role in advancing regional dialogue. Upon leaving Dominica, the delegates attending the closing plenary in Barbados where they showcased an emotional presentation on their learning this trip which included showcasing Bouyon music, our Kalinago language and Creole traditions by dancing to a Creole song with the inclusion of madras print in front of 100 leaders from Canada and the Caribbean.
The CCLD initiative continues to serve as a vital platform for emerging and established leaders across Canada and the Caribbean to engage in cross-cultural learning, policy exchange, and joint action.
Special thanks again to the Dominica Public Service Union and Mr.Thomas Letang,
Alumni of CCLD General Secretary of the DPS who were the main sponsor for the reception, who made this engagement possible.
Additional sponsors for the Dominica tour includes Fort Young Hotel, Belfaste Estate, Charles Louis Photography, Jael Joseph, Fine Foods Inc, D Baked That, Jaydees Naturals and Bee Natural
