President Bostic launches Chapman Challenge as Barbados celebrates milestones of nationhood

Newly installed President of Barbados, His Excellency Lieutenant Colonel the Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic, has issued a national call to action aimed at empowering young Barbadians to rise above their circumstances.

Delivering his inaugural address at the Independence Parade and National Awards at Kensington Oval on Sunday, President Bostic unveiled the Chapman Challenge, named after the community in which he grew up.

“It is a challenge to every adult to guide a child and a challenge to every young Bajan to rise above their circumstances. We must ensure that every child has the guidance to become a model citizen. To our young people, I say, set your sights high. Do not retreat from your destiny, nor surrender yourself to those things which harm your ambition.”

The mantra ‘no retreat, no surrender’ was a rallying cry for President Bostic when he led Barbados’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic as Minister of Health. Now, he has redirected that same message toward the nation’s youth, urging them not to give up on their ambitions and calling on adults to help steady their steps.

He explained that the challenge will be rooted in local communities where support is most needed.

“It will live and breathe where our people live, in the communities that need it most. In every parish of this nation, from the cliffs of St Lucy to the fields of St Philip, there are young men and women waiting for a signal. They are waiting for someone to believe in them, to find them. We will identify parish councillors across the island, leaders and institutions within your own villages who know the heartbeat of the community. They will search for our challengers, who are the young people ready to rise.”

The President urged experienced citizens, faith-based organisations, and sporting and cultural groups to provide mentorship and guidance.

“But a climber needs a rope, and the ship needs stability, and so I’m calling for an army of anchors. We need men and women of experience to step forward.”

Reflecting on the foundation that shaped him, Bostic said: “I am a very proud product of a community that comprised Chapman and Emmerton lanes, Lakes Folly, Mason Hall and Reed streets, Cats Castle, Kensington New Road, and New Orleans, but my navel string is buried in Chapman Lane… It showed me that we are stronger together, that we rise and fall as one.”

The ceremony, filled with military precision, music and patriotism, marked both Barbados’ 59th Independence Day and its continuing celebration as a Republic.

Before President Bostic’s address, Barbados’ first President, Her Excellency the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason, formally handed over leadership to her successor in a symbolic transition of the nation’s highest office.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley also addressed the nation, urging Barbadians to reconnect with their love for country.

“For when we fall in love again, love will help carry us and give us the passion that we need…to keep going. If we love and are disciplined enough, we can truly be world-class by 2030.”

She described President Bostic as the embodiment of national duty and resilience — “a man who accepted responsibility, did not become weary, rose to the occasion, and at every stage of his life has reflected love of country and love of people.”

The Prime Minister expressed hope that this renewed spirit would inspire communities across the island, “from Pie Corner to Gemswick, from Fitts Village across to Bath, St John”.

Dignitaries in attendance included His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan; Prime Minister of Guyana, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; Major (Ret’d) Sammy Njenga Mbugua from Kenya and Capt (Ret’d) Errol Stewart from Jamaica. (LG)