THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JUNE 12 - JULY 12, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 4 Jermaine Lannaman/ Senior Gleaner Writer WILMINGTON, DE: DELAWARE GOVERNOR Matt Meyer warmly welcomed the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce (CACC’s) first annual Caribbean Heritage Conference Gala, held June 6-7 in Wilmington, praising its vibrant celebration of Caribbean cultural and its transformative impact on the state. EXPRESSING HIS enthusiasm for the event, Meyer reaffirmed Delaware’s commitment to working closely with the Caribbean community to improve lives and empower individuals and groups through prosperous initiatives in business, health and wellness, education, and training. “The CACC’s presence in Delaware is a gift to our state,” Meyer said at the gala. “This event showcased the incredible energy and talent of our Caribbean community, and I’m committed to deepening our partnership to create opportunities that uplift everyone.” The Caribbean Cultural Gala, held June 6 at the Delaware Historical Society, seemingly left a lasting impression on Meyer. “This was a powerful celebration of Caribbean culture – music, art, and stories that reflect the heart of this community,” he remarked. Judy Malcolm and Raeanne Billey’s cultural heritage presentation brought Caribbean traditions to life, which Meyer called “a beautiful reminder of the diversity that strengthens Delaware.” Dr. Claire Nelson’s keynote on Caribbean identity resonated deeply. Delaware governor pledges stronger C’bean ties, hails Heritage conference Delaware Governer Matt Meyer poses with an attendee, Michael Badley, during the first annual Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce Gala Conference in Delaware, USA. The event held on June 7 kicked off celebrations in the state for Caribbean American Heritage Month. PHOTOS BY JERMAINE LANNAMAN “Her words inspired us all to honour our shared history while building a brighter future together,” Meyer noted. The Caribbean Excellence Awards, hosted by Chikezie Woods and Dr. Kimisha Simpson, highlighted community leaders, with Meyer emphasising their significance. “These honorees are proof of the Caribbean community’s contributions to Delaware,” he said. “Their work inspires us to do more to support this vibrant community.” The Young Caribbean Professionals Conference on June 7 at Opera Delaware impressed Meyer with its focus on professional growth. “This conference was a game-changer, equipping young leaders with the tools to succeed,” he said. He highlighted panels like STEM: Navigating Innovation & Technology, led by Chikezie Woods, and Government, Law & Politics, led by Commissioner Lorraine Badley, as “critical platforms for empowering our next generation.” Sessions on Agribusiness & Sustainability by Andy Wetherhill, Banking and Finance by Ron Davis, and Healthcare and Wellness by Jean Wintz Dabney offered practical insights. “These discussions align perfectly with Delaware’s goals to foster innovation and opportunity,” Meyer said. The youth empowerment talk by Asha J. Richards, Education showcase by Dr. Kimisha Simpson, and Futuristic Innovation Panel with Lexi Whilby and Dr. Nelson also stood out. “The vision and ambition here are exactly what Delaware needs to thrive,” he added. Meyer underscored the event’s role in strengthening Delaware’s ties with the Caribbean community. Supported by partners like the Delaware Historical Society, OperaDelaware, and the Jamaican Heritage and Reggae Museum, the event showcased the power of collaboration. “This partnership is a model for what we can achieve together,” Meyer said. “I’m committed to working with the CACC and the Caribbean community to drive initiatives that empower individuals and groups.” He outlined plans to support prosperous programs in key sectors. “In business, we’ll create pathways for entrepreneurs to access resources and grow,” Meyer said. “In health and wellness, we will promote equitable access to care. In education and training, we’ll invest in programmes that prepare our youth for success.” He praised Lexi Whilby, CACC’s founder and executive director, for her leadership. “Lexi’s vision has set a new standard, and Delaware is all in to support this momentum,” he said. “This event wasn’t just a celebration – it was a call to action,” Meyer concluded. “I’m excited to deepen our collaboration with the Caribbean community to build a more prosperous, inclusive Delaware.” With the CACC Gala and Conference setting a high bar, Meyer’s commitment signals a bright future for Caribbean-American initiatives in the state. President Joe Biden delegate and Delaware African and Caribbean Affairs Commission, Commissioner Lorraine Badley, (left) makes a point during the first annual Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce Conference Gala in Delaware, USA on June 6. The event was held as part of the State’s Caribbean American Heritage Month celebrations.
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