The United Employees Social gathering (UWP) of St. Lucia marked its Sixtieth anniversary with a spirited celebration and fundraiser on the White Defend Banquet Corridor in Scarborough. The occasion highlighted the celebration’s historic achievements and future ambitions. Key celebration figures, together with Chief Allen Chastanet, Deputy Chief Man Joseph, native chair Minerva Ward, and nationwide UWP chair Therold Prudent, delivered impactful speeches.
Minerva Ward, the native chair, opened the night by highlighting the contributions of the Canadian Caucus. “Tonight, we commemorate 60 years of unwavering dedication to the folks of St. Lucia. This celebration is not only about our previous however our future as a celebration that listens to its diaspora and strengthens its bonds throughout borders,” she mentioned.
Therold Prudent, reflecting on the formation of the UWP’s worldwide caucuses, praised the dedication of diaspora communities, emphasizing their essential position within the celebration’s rejuvenation.
The night additionally honored people who’ve made vital contributions to the UWP and the broader St. Lucian group. Frank McKesson Ford and Catherine “Cathy” Duve had been acknowledged for his or her longstanding dedication and repair.
Frank McKesson Ford, celebrated for his contributions in sports activities, arts, and group service, acquired the primary award. His journey from a younger barber in St. Lucia to a group chief in Toronto exemplifies his dedication.
Catherine Duve was the second honoree. A loyal member and supporter of the UWP, Duve performed a pivotal position in forming the UWP’s youth and ladies’s actions. Reflecting on her years of service, Duve mentioned, “We labored relentlessly to help our celebration and nation, pushed by a way of obligation and love for St. Lucia.”
Allen Chastanet, addressing the group centered on the celebration’s imaginative and prescient and the challenges forward. He acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors and outlined his targets for the longer term. “Our journey over the previous 60 years has been outstanding. We’ve constructed colleges, roads, and introduced electrification to St. Lucia. Now, we should proceed to drive our nation ahead, balancing financial development with social growth,” Chastanet mentioned.
Man Joseph emphasised the UWP’s dedication to democracy and excellence. “We imagine in democracy, and we should struggle for it. Our imaginative and prescient is evident: we would like St. Lucia to be a spot the place each citizen can thrive, the place our infrastructure helps development, and the place our folks take pleasure in a top quality of life,” Joseph declared.
The UWP’s Sixtieth-anniversary celebration in Toronto not solely honored the celebration’s wealthy historical past but in addition reaffirmed its dedication to a affluent future for St. Lucia. With sturdy diaspora backing and a transparent imaginative and prescient for progress, the United Employees Social gathering goals to steer St. Lucia in the direction of continued growth and success.
As Minerva Ward aptly put it, “We aren’t simply celebrating 60 years of the UWP; we’re celebrating 60 years of unity, progress, and unwavering dedication to our beloved St. Lucia.”
