Tortola, BVI – March 9, 2025 – The East End and Long Look communities have received a vibrant facelift with the successful completion of the Paint the Town Community Beautification Project. This initiative, which began on December 6, 2024, aimed to enhance the aesthetics and community pride of both areas by identifying eight specific sites that could benefit from a fresh coat of paint.
A collaborative effort between local organizations, volunteers, and community members, the project saw active participation from various groups including students from the Willard Wheatley Primary School, members of the Rotary Club of Tortola, and the addition of 17 Virgin Voyager Volunteers on 9th March, 2025. Together, they worked to transform public spaces, creating a more inviting and colorful environment for residents and visitors alike.
The Paint the Town Community Beautification Project is one of the seven key initiatives under the Roots to Resilience: Together We Thrive Programme, a project spearheaded by Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, Territorial At-Large Representative. The initiative was made possible through partnerships with UniteBVI and the VI Recreation Trust, and received sponsorship from Drake Traders and the generous donor through the Rotary Club of Tortola.
“We are thrilled with the outcome of this first phase of the Paint the Town project and the incredible community involvement that made it all possible,” said Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, Territorial At-Large Representative. “This initiative is a true example of the power of collaboration and community spirit. It is heartwarming to see residents, volunteers, and local businesses come together to make a meaningful difference in these two communities. The success of this phase of the project is a reflection of our shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Virgin Islands.”
Project coordinator Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye expressed her gratitude for the collective effort, stating, “This project would not have been the success it is without the dedication and enthusiasm of all those involved. From the students at Willard Wheatley Primary School and the Elmore Stoutt High School to the volunteers from the Rotary Club and Virgin Voyager Volunteers, each individual contributed to the beautification and the positive energy that now radiates throughout the East End and Long Look communities. Together, we’ve made a lasting impact that we can all be proud of.”
Ms. Bri’Nique Varlack, a student volunteer from the Willard Wheatley Primary School attended every single session long after she had secured all the community service hours required by the school. She shared, “I painted this wall. I was happy to do it and give back to my community.”
The project’s completion marks a major milestone in the efforts to uplift and enhance the environment of the East End and Long Look communities, providing a renewed sense of pride and connection to the spaces where residents live, work, and play. The Paint the Town Community Beautification Project will now turn its focus to Anegada and the Road Town.
The Roots to Resilience: Together We Thrive Programme continues to support initiatives aimed at strengthening the Virgin Islands’ communities and fostering greater unity, resilience, and sustainability across the territory.
About the Roots to Resilience Programme:
The Roots to Resilience: Together We Thrive Programme is a comprehensive initiative designed to foster community engagement and resilience throughout the Virgin Islands. Spearheaded by Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, it focuses on empowering local communities through various projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and encouraging sustainable development across the territory.
For more information on the Roots to Resilience Together We Thrive Programme and future projects, please follow Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE on social media or visit Roots to Resilience BVI on Facebook or www.togetherwethrivevi.com.
