Author: Tyrone Roach
This research gap was brought to light during a lecture on ‘Autism and Black Folk,’ delivered for Black History Month (BHM) UK on behalf of the Barbados Overseas Community and Friends Association (BOCFA) at ED City in West London. The lecture underscored the need for further investigation and understanding of the subject, urging the audience to take action.
In 1991, Ivan was elected Vice President of the Methodist Conference, the governing body of the Methodist Church that meets annually to discuss matters affecting the life of the Church, the nation and the world.
His story is chronicled in the late Dr Elizabeth Watson’s recent book, *Jackie Opel: Caribbean Musical Visionary*, which captures his brief but influential life. The work is based on her doctoral thesis, “Uncovering and Recovering Caribbean Popular Music: Jackie Opel as a Case Study”. The book offers a definitive discography and new insights into Opel’s creative development and enduring cultural legacy.
Fast forward to 2025. A notable aspect of Holder’s current tenure has been the implementation of the ‘We Gathering’ initiative. The WeGathering events, along with a long list of other events, began in Reading, Berk, where he has family connections and lived for a short time.
Mum Yvonne Thompson, who is currently in the United Kingdom to care for her son, has stated that he is not medically fit to be relocated to Barbados, as the necessary treatment is unavailable there
“My initial months in the United States were challenging. Relocating away from family and friends to attend school in Florida proved difficult, and the rigorous demands of aviation studies added to the stress.”
Her remarkable prowess became evident early in her education when she received recognition for “best diary” during a primary school trip.
Top Boy series dangerously portrays Black youth as gang-affiliated caricatures, and if Bajan youth are inexorably drifting toward violent crime and mindless consumer culture, where does the blame lie?
In a tribute, Barnet Council leader Barry Rawlings said… Agnes broke down barriers as the first Black mayor of Barnet and a role model for many people. That legacy will live on through community groups she founded as a pillar of the community for 40 years.”
The issue of knife crime was addressed at the recent launch of London’s Notting Hill Carnival, where CEO Matthew Phillips emphasised initiatives aimed at fostering a positive environment and ensuring the safety of all attendees.