DPSU sponsors closing reception for Caribbean-Canada Leaders Dialogue study tour in Dominica

The Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU) played a significant role in supporting the Caribbean-Canada Leaders Dialogue (CCLD) 2025 Dominica Study Tour, sponsoring the closing reception with a contribution of EC$3,000. In addition to financial backing, the DPSU provided venue and logistical support, ensuring a memorable experience for delegates. The event, hosted by The Ambassador for CARICOM and Commissioner to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Dr. Gerard Jean-Jacques, brought together leaders from across the region to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties.

Dominica played host to an esteemed delegation from the Caribbean-Canada Leaders Dialogue (CCLD) 2025 Dominica Study Tour, marking a milestone in the island’s engagement in regional leadership discussions. The event, held in honor of the visiting delegates, was sponsored by the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), which contributed EC$3,000 towards the closing reception, in addition to logistical and venue support.

The reception, held on May 28, 2025, and organized by The Ambassador for CARICOM and Commissioner to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Dr. Gerard Jean-Jacques, was made even more memorable through a personal contribution from Mr. Thomas Letang, General Secretary of the DPSU and CCLD alumnus, who donated an additional EC$200 to enhance entertainment for the evening.

Expressing gratitude, Ms. Rianna Patterson, Dominica’s country host and co-lead of the CCLD initiative, reflected on the significance of the event.

“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!” she stated.

DPSU President Steve Joseph highlighted the importance of fostering leadership in today’s challenging global landscape, emphasizing the need for leaders who approach issues “through a gender-neutral and a just and rights-based lens—one that values people, their families, and the work they do, especially those who provide essential public services in communities.”

Throughout their visit, the 13-member delegation engaged in site visits, fireside chats, and cultural experiences showcasing Dominica’s unique approach to sustainable development and community resilience. The tour culminated in an impactful closing reception that reinforced diplomatic and cultural bonds between the Caribbean and Canada.

Following the reception, the delegation continued their journey to Barbados for the closing plenary, where they proudly showcased aspects of Dominica’s rich heritage—including Bouyon music, the Kalinago language, and Creole traditions—through dance and cultural presentations before an audience of 100 regional leaders.

The CCLD initiative remains an important platform for emerging and established leaders across Canada and the Caribbean, encouraging cross-cultural engagement, policy exchange, and collaborative action.

Special appreciation was extended to the Dominica Public Service Union and Mr. Thomas Letang for their contributions to the reception. Other sponsors of the Dominica tour included Fort Young Hotel, Belfast Estate, Charles Louis Photography, Jael Joseph, Fine Foods Inc., D Baked That, Jaydees Naturals, and Bee Natural.