The GARD Center proudly celebrated the completion of 148 certificates across 12 transformative training programmes a powerful reflection of our commitment to building sustainable livelihoods, strengthening food security, and empowering citizens across Antigua & Barbuda.
This year’s achievements spanned Hydroponics Training & Management (GEF SGP), Horticulture Level 1 (Mill Reef Fund), Vetiver Craft & By-Product Development (CCRIF SPC), Office Administration & Customer Service, Beginners & Intermediate Sewing, and Soapmaking each equipping participants with practical, income-generating skills and greater opportunities for growth.
From schools adopting climate-smart hydroponic systems, to community women receiving start-up kits, to inmates gaining valuable agricultural training, to farmers learning erosion-control with vetiver, and to artisans advancing their craft in sewing and soapmaking 2025 has been a year of tangible impact and inspiring resilience.
Despite challenges, including equipment theft and unpredictable circumstances, our team, facilitators, and trainees demonstrated remarkable determination, adaptability, and dedication. WhatsApp communication became a vital tool, keeping engagement strong and learning continuous.
As we look ahead, the GARD Center remains committed to supporting graduates with mentorship, guidance for entrepreneurial ventures, advanced training, and technical assistance ensuring every participant can confidently apply their skills in meaningful ways that uplift their communities.
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We extend our deepest gratitude to the dignitaries, partners, donors, and stakeholders whose unwavering support made today possible.
Principal Donor Partners
• Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP)
• CCRIF SPC (Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility)
• Mill Reef Fund
Financial & Development Partners
ACB Caribbean • CIBC Caribbean • Community First Cooperative Credit Union
St. John’s Cooperative Credit Union • James & Maginley Charity & Care Foundation
Community & Government Stakeholders
Caribbean Policy Development Centre • Department of Environment • Fisheries Division
Government of Antigua & Barbuda • Community Gardens & Beautification Festival
Ministry of Social Transformation – Community Development Division
Corporate Donors
Antigua & Barbuda Hotel & Tourism Association • FLOW Antigua
Friends of the GARD Center • Harney Motors
Ministry of Agriculture • Ministry of Tourism • RUBIS West Indies Ltd.
Faith-Based & Community Partners
• Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas – for the generous use of 5 acres of land and continuous leadership
• Freemans Village Methodist Church – for hosting the ceremony and providing technical support
• Members of the Brethren Assemblies – for daily devotions with our trainees, especially inmates
Judges & Technical Support
Carol Faye Bynoe-George • Jahmol Colbourne • Agriculture Teacher Denise Hodge
Internal Acknowledgements
Our dedicated administrative and project team, grounds and farming assistants, and all partner organizations who contributed expertise and resources throughout the year.
Congratulations, Graduates!
To every participant from Hydroponics, Horticulture, Vetiver Crafting, Sewing, Soapmaking, and Office Administration your hard work, resilience, and commitment have brought you to this milestone. You now carry skills that strengthen households, communities, and our nation’s path toward sustainability and empowerment.
“Your creativity, dedication, and hard work have brought you this far now take what you’ve learned, believe in your potential, and turn your passion into success. The journey is just beginning!”
Give yourselves a round of applause!
