Last Updated on January 6, 2025, 7:22 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew hosted the New Year’s Grand Gala on January 4th, 2025, under the theme ‘Building Prosperity Through Sustainability’.
The Gala began with the National Anthem of St Kitts and Nevis – O Land of Beauty, and was hosted by Comedian Rachael Price.
Attendees of the New Year’s Grand Gala
The Gala was attended by the members of the Federation along with their spouses – Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew and his wife Diani Prince – Drew, Dr. Geoffrey Hanley and his wife Adaeze Hanley, Samal Duggins and his wife Ermelin Sebastian-Duggins. Several other dignitaries including Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas and Chief Legal Officer Hadiya Claxton were part of the gala.
The Gala was hosted for the citizens, and guests from different walks of life, creating a fun and unforgettable experience for all.
Raheemah Abdulaleem: Keynote Speaker
Raheemah Abdulaleem, Special Assistant to the President of the USA and General Counsel in the White House, Executive Office of the President, was invited by PM Drew as the keynote speaker for the Gala.
She shared that the theme for this year’s Gala was very impactful, reminding her that prosperity and sustainability are not different but interconnected goals.
Raheemah Abdulaleem further appreciated the people of St Kitts and Nevis, for building a thriving, and sustainable future, by keeping the nation as their priority.
She also created an acronym using St Kitts and Nevis on sustainability and prosperity:
- S – Support (sustainable development to build a prosperous future)
- T – Treasure (natural beauty and resources of the island)
- K – Keep sustainability at the heart of all decisions, plans, and new initiatives)
- I – Inspire (inspire others to embrace sustainable environmental practices)
- T – Trust (Trust the approach of society that is committed to protecting the environment)
- T – Thrive by creating harmony between people and the environment
- S – Sustainability (to create a safe future for coming generations)
- N – Nurture, innovation, to create economic growth that respects the environment
- E – Empower communities through education and sustainable livelihoods
- V – Value the island’s cultural and natural heritage as a source of pride and prosperity
- I – Invest in renewable energy, green industries, and eco-friendly infrastructure
- S – Strengthen partnerships, to build resilience, and ensure long-term success
PM Dr. Terrance Drew addressed the guest
PM Drew appreciated Raheemah Abdulaleem for voicing her thoughts, and for joining them with her sister and daughter, before greeting the attendees at the Gala.
He talked about the difficult times that caused them some setbacks last year and how they overcame them with dedication and unity, which was a resolve to not only recover but to also thrive as a united and prosperous nation.
PM Drew shared heartfelt gratitude after the event concluded successfully
PM Dr. Terrance Drew appreciated the keynote speaker, Raheemah Abdulaleem for delivering a great and impactful message with everyone attending the Gala.
He further appreciated Rachel Price for hosting the Gala, and all the singers and bands including Christopher Martin, INFamus, KC5, Rucas H.E. and David House, EK ‘The Real Right’, Edward ‘Mighty J’ Williams, and more, who entertained them during the Gala with their spectacular performances, and also congratulated Jackie “Singing Jackie” Hazel-Leader, for being a part of Calypso for fifty years.
PM Drew also appreciated the organizing committee who created an amazing evening for them with the decor, lighting, and everything else.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
