“Love your neighbour as yourself” — Mark 12:31 The third pillar in Singapore’s governance model, Connectivity and Openness to Ideas, offers timely and relevant guidance for small Caribbean states seeking transformational change. It highlights a pathway to sustainable development and resilience. Singapore’s remarkable evolution — from a resource-scarce island to a global innovation hub — …
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities as these authorities are appointed by God. Resisting such authority is seen as resisting God’s ordinance, and those who resist will face judgment.” – Romans 13:1 Last week, we explored benevolent leadership, the first pillar of governance upon which Singapore’s success rests. Today, we turn to its …
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” – Matthew 20:26-27 Between 1982 and 2007, I had the occasion to visit Singapore four times. Over those 25 years, I witnessed firsthand the remarkable transformation of this small …
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God.” – Romans 13:1 I regularly listen to a call-in program in Barbados as a barometer of the pulse of societal feelings. I note that callers, or those who text on …
“Where there is no vision, the people perish” – Proverbs 29:18. The Caribbean must reject political fatigue and embrace a culture of visionary thinking that uncovers new avenues for sustainable economic development. One compelling opportunity lies in the recycling of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs). Across our islands and coastal communities, the increasing number of abandoned and …
“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” – Proverbs 29:18 In his thought-provoking piece “Malnourished political consciousness”, published in last week’s Barbados Nation, political scientist Dr. Tennyson Joseph issued a timely challenge to the Caribbean body politic. He urged us to elevate our gaze beyond …
“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep, for you will laugh.”- Luke 6:20-21 Small island developing states (SIDS) face persistent inflationary pressures, and for low-income households, the cost of survival grows more challenging …
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” – Romans 13:1 General elections are constitutionally due in several Caribbean countries in 2025. Recent changes in government have already taken place in Anguilla, the Cayman Islands, and Trinidad …
“When governments fear, follow, serve, and obey the Lord, all will be well. When governments disobey and rebel against God’s good plans, the hand of the Lord will be against you and your king” – 1 Samuel 12:14-15. In the pursuit of robust democratic national governance, the role of an opposition party or parties in …
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” — The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12) Life’s purpose, at its core, is to create happiness and avoid pain for ourselves and those in our closest circle. No matter our position in society, whether …
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17 I was born during the Second World War. Since that global conflict ended over eight decades ago, the world has spun forward, accelerating technologically, socially, and economically. We now live in a hyperconnected era where content creation transcends boundaries and is no longer the …
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he should not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6 The Prime Ministers of Singapore and Barbados, two leaders of small but relatively successful island states, have recently voiced concerns over significant shifts in global trade protocols. Though nuanced on the …
“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1 As I find myself in the final quarter of life — having journeyed beyond three score and ten years— I often pause to reflect on the lessons learned and the paths taken. The words of Ecclesiastes remind …
“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3 From decades of observing and commenting on economic development, one undeniable truth stands out—entrepreneurship has matured into a vital force. No longer just a buzzword or an emerging trend, it is now a fundamental driver of sustainable Caribbean economic …
“And do not forget to do good and share with others. For with such sacrifices, God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:16 Two months ago, I reflected on Balancing the Scales: Fair Partnerships for Sustainable Caribbean Growth, questioning whether past foreign partnerships had truly benefited the Caribbean. Today, as we embrace a new economic relationship with …
“So that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.” – Colossians 1:10 As we navigate life’s journey, our ability to maintain balance and achieve success often depends on a few simple principles we embrace and …
“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he. If you believe that you will build a thriving business in your heart, you will.” – Proverbs 23:7 Nearly five decades ago, I chose to resign from my traditional job at the University of the West Indies. I first ventured into Caribbean entrepreneurship through a …
“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept of the future – it is here, transforming industries, economies and daily lives. AI presents vital opportunities in …
“In all labor there is profit, but talking of financial success leads to penury.” – Proverbs 14:23 Since gaining independence in 1966, Barbados has pursued economic enfranchisement by striving to create a just and prosperous society where all citizens can contribute to and benefit from national development. This pursuit has been marked by significant achievements …
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.” – Romans 8:28 Whether you are male or female, young or old, we all have stories of disappointments that have turned into blessings in disguise. Here are a couple of …
“But Peter and the apostles answered, We must obey God rather than men.” – Acts 5:29 If macropolitics—at the regional and national levels—provides the policy foundation for economic growth, sustainability, and resilience in the Caribbean, then micropolitics is the arena where policies must be effectively implemented. It is at this level that politicians must deliver …
“Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.”- Hebrews 10:36 Mia Mottley, now in her second term as Prime Minister of Barbados, has overseen the nation’s economic recovery following a 10-year monotonic decline. This decline was furthered by …
A Column by Basil Springer (January 10, 2025) “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.” – 2 Corinthians 8:21 Over the last two weeks, we have explored the global concept of Smart Partnerships and their potential to …
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17 In my last column, I posed the question: “Will Smart Partnerships thrive in 2025?” I highlighted the Commonwealth Partnership for Technology Management (CPTM) and public-private alliances in Barbados as strong examples of successful collaborations. Just last week, a CPTM board member confidently assured me …
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17 In personal as well as national growth and development, partnerships can play an important role in many ways, including improving quality of life, combining skills and resources, cultural interaction, human resource development, international travel, accessing new opportunities, driving innovation, sharing risk, increasing customer satisfaction, …
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” – Psalm 23: 1-3 The United Nations (UN) Global Conference on the Sustainable Development …
“And then he told them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.’” – Mark 16:15 The upcoming ICC T20 Men’s Cricket World Cup, scheduled for June 1-29, 2024, transcends mere sporting competition. It stands as a pivotal global event fostering international dialogue, cultural exchanges, and broadening economic opportunities, including significant …
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 The unique variety of sea island cotton, known scientifically as Gossypium Barbadense, thrives in Barbados’ favorable climate and soil conditions. This cotton is …
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3 I have often found that health care provides rich metaphors and strategies for seeking solutions to business problems. The medical journey – from the initial doctor/patient consultations and tests to diagnosis, treatment, and recovery – parallels the steps we …
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” – Proverbs 21:5 As a director of a commercial bank and various organizations across the public and private sectors, I have navigated the complexities of financial statements, witnessing the highs and lows that shape our regional enterprises. The income statement …
“For with God nothing is impossible.” – Luke 1:37 Attorney Ralph Thorne, a Barbados Labour Party (BLP) member, became a member of parliament in the party’s sweeping victories in the 2018 and 2022 general elections under Mia Mottley’s leadership. These elections were historic as the BLP secured all 30 parliamentary seats, leaving the Democratic Labour …
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” – Romans 12:2 Caribbean tourism, with its potential to be a pervasive cornerstone for sustainable socioeconomic development, has undergone significant changes over the past six decades. Initially catering to leisure seekers …
“The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.” – Psalm 19:7 In our businesses, we routinely engage accountants to compile financial statements, including balance sheets, income, and cash flow statements, for management accounting and revenue authority filing purposes. Now, let’s shift our …
“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” – Proverbs 29:18 During the 1970s, a Barbadian friend, now a leading Caribbean hotel entrepreneur, stayed at our home in Trinidad and was impressed by our sweet, seedless local Valencia oranges. After purchasing a few dozen and obtaining the necessary phytosanitary certificates, he returned to Barbados. Soon …
“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.” – Proverbs 3:27 In my previous column on November 5, 2023, I shared how a wave of nostalgia swept over me, transporting me back to the inaugural event of the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) on Sustainable Tourism symposium …
“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.” – John 15:12 In my column “Journey to wellness: balancing mind, body and relationships,” dated January 14, 2024, I underscored the importance of cherishing relationships. Soon after, however, I found myself grappling with a sense of loss over a relationship …
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8 West Indian Sea Island Cotton (WISIC) is a Caribbean gem renowned for its long staple length, unparalleled tensile strength, unique sheen, and incomparable …
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” – Proverbs 21:5 As we journey through 2024, riding the waves toward spiritual and personal well-being, we must anchor our New Year’s resolutions in sound financial management. Before January ends, let’s commit to mastering the art of balancing our books …
“He gives me new strength. He leads me on paths that are right for the good of His name. Even if I walk through a very dark valley, I will not be afraid, because You are with me. Your rod and Your shepherd’s staff comfort me.” – Psalm 23:3-4 In last week’s column, I shared …
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8 As another year dawned in the Caribbean last week, I reflected on my New Year’s resolutions in my …
“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 Shortly before I moved to Trinidad 10 years ago, I was invited by a colleague to attend a seminar coordinated by a Barbadian life coach who …
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to whom his favour rests.” – Luke 2:14 As I reflect on the Christmas season, I am drawn to the multifaceted beauty of this festive period, especially within the vibrant tapestry of Caribbean culture. Celebrating Christmas begins with acknowledging its core – the birth …
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19 One of the inescapable features of the Information Age is the speed with which news travels the world. We no longer have to wait for that morse code message …
“All of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” – 1 Peter 3:8 I last wrote about teamwork in this column in July 2014 in “Camaraderie Fuels Teamwork” and in October 2019 in “Camaraderie Fuels Teamwork Revisited.” My reflection on those occasions revealed that teamwork …
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26 Here is a reflection of my last fortnight of experiences. Thanksgiving is a heartwarming affair. Family reunions are the cornerstone of …
“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.” – Deuteronomy 8:18 Last week we reflected on the HIGS workshop methodology for generating business ideas for marketing, entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs and MSMEs. …
“My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding.” – Psalm 49:3 My last column concluded that the Caribbean could emerge as a global leader in sustainable tourism with appropriate training interventions. I am going to examine the action and impact of two training interventions in greater detail. …
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6 Tourism is a business, and its success depends on the expert management of its business systems (ManOBiz), which encompass Ideation, Security, Marketing, Operations and Human Resource Development (HRD). Holistic formal and …
“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” – Proverbs 29:18 This week a wave of nostalgia enveloped me, transporting me back to 2001 and the inaugural Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) on Sustainable Development symposium in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The genesis of this international event, to …
“Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” – Proverbs 10:4 In our last column, we envisioned that sustainable development, ensuring that we meet the needs of today without jeopardizing the prospects of future generations, is the beacon which leads the way and that enterprise development is the path we must tread towards …
“Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.” – 1 Timothy 6:17 As I pondered over this scripture in the Book of Timothy, it struck me how relevant …
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” – John 10:11 As I sit down to pen this column at the age of 82, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the journey that life has taken me on. It’s a journey marked by twists and …