Explore every episode of the podcast Portside Conversations

Leadership at the BVI Ports Authority goes beyond operations. It is about people, purpose and creating an environment where individuals can grow and thrive. In this episode, Shirmel share the power of leadership style that coaches, mentors and uplifts staff to reach their full potential.

From the figures to engaging in iniatives such as a competitive choir, sports and agriculture. Listen to how investing in people created a stronger team with deep connections and a workplace where excellence and community go hand in hand.

In this episode of Portside Conversations, Mrs. Velma Chung joins us to explore the rich culture and meaningful customs that define daily life at the port. She highlights the strong comradery among staff and shares how their voices, experiences, and insights play an active role in shaping port operations. A warm and thoughtful discussion that celebrates the people behind the port.

Every institution has a beginning and every beginning has people behind it.

In Episode 1 of Portside Conversations, Gene Creque takes us through a brief synopsis of his life, his early professional years before the BVI Ports Authority existed, and the role he played during its formation. From those foundational moments through to his retirement, this conversation captures the challenges, decisions, and experiences that helped shape the Authority in its earliest days.

This episode sets the tone for the series, offering listeners an authentic look at the origins of the BVI Ports Authority and the individuals who helped build it from the ground up.

Kick off your journey with the BVI Ports Authority’s Portside Conversations, your Portside seat to authentic voices and bold ideas. In this introductory episode, Hon Kye Rymer, Minister of Communications and Works shares the vision for the podcast, what listeners can expect and why the stories of the people and ports that keep our BVI moving. Subscribe now and don’t miss a single conversation that goes beyond the surface.

In this episode, we explore the early foundations of goods importation in the British Virgin Islands and the critical role played by pioneering agents who helped shape the territory’s trade and maritime landscape. We sat down with Chris Haycraft of Island Shipping to reflect on the journey from the early days at the docks to the modern shipping and agency operations we know today honouring a legacy that continues to support the BVI’s growth.

What does it take to keep the British Virgin Islands' ports safe, secure, and operating smoothly every day?

In this episode of Portside Conversations, we sit down with Dave Smith, Security Manager at the BVI Ports Authority. Together, we explore how port security has evolved over the years, the critical role security plays in safeguarding people and goods, and the challenges of protecting one of the Territory's most important gateways.

From advances in technology and international security standards to emergency preparedness and professional excellence, Dave Smith shares valuable insights from a career spent protecting the ports and supporting the maritime industry. He also reflects on the people behind the uniform, the importance of leadership, and what the future holds for port security in an ever-changing world.

Whether you're interested in maritime operations, security, leadership, or the stories of the people who keep our ports moving, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of an essential service that often goes unnoticed.

What does it take to keep an island nation connected, moving, and thriving? In this episode of Portside Conversations, we sit down with Romeo Titley, Marine Supervisor, who brings over two decades of maritime expertise and service to the BVI Ports Authority.

From their early days on the waterfront to helping shape the modern port system we know today, Romeo share his personal journey, reflect on the evolution of the Territory's ports, and provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at the essential work of Marine Services. The conversation explores how they supports safe navigation, vessel operations, port development, environmental stewardship, and the seamless movement of people and goods throughout the Virgin Islands.

Through stories of service, leadership, innovation, and teamwork, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the men and women who work around the clock to ensure our ports remain safe, efficient, and ready for the future.

Discover how Marine Services serves as the backbone of port operations and why its role is critical to the continued growth and development of the British Virgin Islands.

In Episode 6 of Portside Conversations, we sit downwith Vance Lewis, CEO of Tortola Pier Park, to explore the vision,leadership, and partnerships shaping one of the British Virgin Islands’ premiercruise destinations.

From the growth and development of Tortola Pier Park to theimportance of collaboration. This episode highlights the vision of the BVIPorts Authority, how strong public-private partnerships contribute to anenhanced visitor experience and key mindsets for the success of the gateway forcruisers. Vance also shares insights on the evolving cruise tourism landscapeand what the future holds for the Territory.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on progress, innovation,and pride in the VI’s tourism sector.

In this episode of Portside Conversations, we sit down with Patti Romney of the Romasco Group for a compelling look at the roots and remarkable growth of the cruise tourism industry in the British Virgin Islands. Patti shares how the journey began with her father’s pioneering vision, laying the foundation for what has become a vital pillar of the territory’s tourism economy.

From humble beginnings to a thriving, world-class cruise destination, she reflects on the evolution of the industry, the partnerships built along the way, and the lasting benefits the Virgin Islands have gained—economically, socially, and culturally.

Tune in to learn how far we’ve come, the lessons from the past, and where the future of cruise tourism in the Virgin Islands is headed.