About Us
The Antigua & Barbuda National Association in London (ABNA UK) is an Unincorporated Association, formed in 1967 by a group of Antiguans and Barbudans living in London. From its inception, the Association became more than just a meeting place — it served as a vital platform for addressing the needs of the Antiguan and Barbudan community in the UK, while offering continued support to our fellow nationals back home.
ABNA (UK) is a self-funded organisation, sustained entirely through the contributions, fundraising, and voluntary efforts of its members and supporters. The Association receives no commercial or statutory funding, enabling it to remain fully independent and focused on the real needs and priorities of the community it serves.
Today, ABNA (UK) continues to be a strong community-focused organisation, providing essential support through outreach programmes, partnerships, and cultural initiatives. Led by 14 Executive Officers under the presidency of Everton George, the Association carries forward the vision of its founders, strengthening bonds between the Caribbean and the UK, and ensuring that heritage, values, and unity remain strong for future generations.
Our Mission
At ABNA (UK), our mission is to alleviate poverty and promote education both in Antigua & Barbuda and in the UK. We are committed to ensuring individuals and families have access to basic necessities, educational opportunities, and the support needed to thrive.
Our work extends beyond immediate assistance — we collaborate with schools, community groups, and partners to create sustainable solutions that empower people and raise awareness of the challenges faced by our communities.
We believe in the power of unity and collective action. Whether through volunteering, donations, or advocacy, we invite everyone to join us in breaking cycles of hardship and building brighter futures for our communities at home and abroad.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Lyndia Bowers – President – Antigua and Barbuda National Association (UK)
As President of the Antigua and Barbuda National Association (UK), I am proud to serve and lead an organisation that continues to unite, uplift, and empower our community. My commitment is to build on the association’s long-standing success while exploring new opportunities that support and inspire our members.
I value the voices of our community and remain dedicated to listening to the concerns and ideas of ABNA (UK) members. Through collaboration, we can develop solutions that strengthen our presence in the UK and extend meaningful support to our brothers and sisters in Antigua and Barbuda.
Together, we will continue to elevate our community, celebrate our culture, and create lasting opportunities for future generations.
Sandra Dyer – Vice President
As Vice President, I support the President and executive team in delivering ABNA (UK)’s goals. My responsibilities include assisting with governance, project oversight, and maintaining effective communication with stakeholders. In the absence of the President, I provide leadership continuity and ensure that decision-making remains aligned with ABNA’s mission.
I contribute to strategic planning, represent the organisation at events, and work with fellow officers to coordinate programmes that alleviate poverty and promote education. I also help strengthen relationships with the wider community and partner organisations, encouraging collaboration and inclusivity.
My role is vital in maintaining stability, accountability, and forward momentum, particularly in developing long-term growth strategies and ensuring members remain engaged. By working closely with the President and officers, I help ensure ABNA remains an active and impactful organisation serving both the UK and Antigua & Barbuda.
Janice Denton – Genenal Secretary
As General Secretary, I support the President and executive team in ensuring ABNA (UK)’s administration runs smoothly. My responsibilities include overseeing record keeping, correspondence, and compliance with statutory and constitutional requirements. I also manage meeting minutes and ensure clear communication between members, officers, and external stakeholders.
I contribute to governance by coordinating with the Executive Team, maintaining accurate documentation, and supporting project planning and delivery. I also help strengthen relationships with officers, volunteers, and the wider community, ensuring collaboration and efficiency in all administrative functions.
My role is vital in maintaining organisational stability, accountability, and transparency, particularly in ensuring decisions and operations are well documented and compliant. By working closely with the President and officers, I help ABNA remain professional, organised, and effective in serving both the UK and Antigua & Barbuda.
Mark Isaac – Public Relations Officer (PRO)
As Public Relations Officer, I manage ABNA (UK)’s image, communication, and engagement with the community. I oversee social media, newsletters, website updates, and press releases, ensuring that all communication reflects our mission to alleviate poverty and support education. I develop and implement strategies to promote ABNA’s work, strengthen its visibility, and build meaningful connections with stakeholders.
I liaise with media outlets and partner organisations to increase outreach and highlight our initiatives. I also monitor feedback, respond to inquiries, and ensure the organisation’s voice remains professional, consistent, and accessible. Working closely with the executive team, I provide guidance on branding, messaging, and campaign strategies to help ABNA engage effectively with the public.
My role is vital in raising awareness, strengthening ABNA’s reputation, and ensuring members, partners, and the wider community remain informed and engaged.
Dr. Jackie Jeffries - Youth and Development Officer
As Youth and Development Officer, I support the President and executive team in delivering ABNA (UK)’s programmes for young people. My responsibilities include designing and coordinating workshops, activities, and projects that encourage personal growth, education, and leadership. I also liaise with schools, volunteers, and community partners to ensure programmes are engaging, inclusive, and impactful.
I contribute to strategic planning by identifying opportunities for youth development, promoting cultural awareness, and supporting initiatives that align with ABNA’s mission of education and poverty alleviation. I also help strengthen relationships with community partners to maximise participation and support.
My role is vital in fostering youth engagement, skills development, and community involvement, ensuring ABNA provides meaningful opportunities for the next generation. By working closely with the President and officers, I help ensure ABNA remains a supportive, inclusive, and forward-looking organisation serving both the UK and Antigua & Barbuda.
Rosemary Braithwaite – Social Secretary
As Social Secretary, I coordinate ABNA (UK)’s events and cultural initiatives. I organise fundraisers, meetings, networking opportunities, and community activities designed to strengthen unity and celebrate Antiguan and Barbudan heritage. I liaise with members, volunteers, and external partners to ensure events are well-planned, inclusive, and aligned with the organisation’s goals.
I manage invitations, RSVPs, and logistics, supporting the executive team with planning and delivery. I also contribute to publicity by documenting events and assisting with promotion across various platforms.
My role helps ABNA foster a vibrant social environment where members feel connected and engaged. By creating opportunities for interaction and cultural exchange, I help strengthen ABNA’s visibility, build community bonds, and support our wider mission of promoting education and poverty alleviation through cultural pride and engagement.
Sonny Morrissey – Welfare Officer
As Welfare Officer, I oversee the wellbeing and support of ABNA (UK)’s members and beneficiaries. I identify community needs and work to ensure that individuals and families have access to guidance, resources, and assistance. I collaborate with community partners, local authorities when required, and educational institutions to provide support addressing social, financial, or personal challenges. My role includes maintaining an accident report book for any incidents at Association events, safeguarding vulnerable individuals, and ensuring all welfare activities comply with safeguarding and data protection policies. I also manage programmes for senior members, maintain an up-to-date register of hospitalised members, and arrange visits, gifts, and “get well” or sympathy cards as appropriate.
Additionally, I oversee a sub-committee to support these responsibilities, keeping detailed minutes and providing regular updates to the General Secretary. I monitor the impact of welfare initiatives and provide feedback to the executive team to improve services. Through my dedication to care, advocacy, and community engagement, I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment, ensuring ABNA’s mission extends beyond education and poverty alleviation to encompass overall community wellbeing, compassion, and meaningful support for all members.
Yvonne Maginley – Assistant Secretary
As Assistant Secretary of ABNA (UK), I bring extensive experience from local government and the criminal justice system, having previously served as a Probation Officer. In my role, I support the General Secretary with key administrative duties, including managing correspondence, preparing minutes for Executive and sub-committee meetings, and maintaining clear communication with members. I also step in during the Secretary’s absence to ensure smooth operations.
Beyond administration, I assist portfolio officers, help organise events, and contribute to planning and decision-making within the Executive. My organisational and communication skills, combined with a genuine commitment to service, allow me to play an active role in keeping ABNA efficient and connected.
Outside of ABNA, I enjoy baking, entertaining, cooking, reading, flower arranging, travelling, and discovering new restaurants. Family is at the heart of my life, which I share with my husband, my best friend and lifelong companion.
Brian Joseph – Membership Officer
As Membership Officer, I support the President and executive team in managing ABNA (UK)’s membership operations. My responsibilities include overseeing membership applications, renewals, and records, ensuring all members are correctly registered and informed about programmes, events, and updates. I liaise with the executive team to maintain accurate data and provide insights for strategic planning. I contribute to developing membership engagement initiatives, encouraging participation, and fostering strong relationships between members and the Association.
I also assist in coordinating communications to ensure members are aware of opportunities, responsibilities, and the benefits of being part of ABNA. My role is vital in maintaining accurate records, promoting engagement, and supporting the growth of ABNA’s membership base. By working closely with the President and officers, I help ensure ABNA remains an active, inclusive, and well-supported organisation serving both the UK and Antigua & Barbuda.
Sheralyn Nathan-Pepple – Education Officer
As Education Officer for ABNA (UK), I am responsible for developing and promoting educational initiatives that support the organisation’s mission to empower communities through knowledge and lifelong learning. I work closely with the Executive team to design and deliver programmes that benefit youth and adults alike, fostering skills development, cultural awareness, and academic achievement. My role also includes maintaining partnerships with schools, training bodies, and community organisations to expand opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans in the UK and abroad.
With a strong background in education and community engagement, I am passionate about creating pathways for personal growth and collective advancement. I oversee learning projects, workshops, and mentoring schemes that reflect ABNA’s values of unity, service, and development. Through these initiatives, I aim to inspire the next generation, encourage continuous learning, and strengthen educational ties between the UK and Antigua & Barbuda.
Theresa Peters – Additional Officer
As an Additional Officer, I assist in coordinating logistics, invitations, and communications to ensure events run smoothly and inclusively. I help manage relationships with volunteers, members, and external partners to deliver successful social activities that strengthen ABNA’s community presence.
I also support publicity and promotion efforts by documenting and sharing event highlights. My contribution ensures that ABNA’s events remain vibrant, culturally rich, and aligned with the organisation’s mission. By working alongside the Social Secretary, I help foster stronger community bonds and provide meaningful opportunities for members to engage with ABNA’s work.
Keith Coates – Additional Officer
As Membership Officer, I manage the recruitment, engagement, and retention of ABNA (UK)’s members. I oversee membership applications, maintain accurate records. I develop strategies to attract new members while encouraging participation from existing ones, helping to create a sense of belonging within the Association. I coordinate membership renewals, ensure compliance with policies, and act as the first point of contact for member queries.
By working closely with the executive team, I help maintain effective communication and engagement, ensuring members feel valued and supported. My role is vital in building long-term sustainability for ABNA (UK), as strong membership underpins our ability to deliver programmes, community initiatives, and support across the UK and Antigua & Barbuda
Marcia Williams – Additional Officer
As an Additional Officer of ABNA (UK), I support the Executive team in delivering the organisation’s objectives and ensuring smooth operations. I assist with administration, coordination, and communication, helping to maintain accurate records, organise events, and support projects that align with ABNA’s mission of community service, education, and welfare. My role is to provide practical and strategic support wherever needed to ensure ABNA functions efficiently and effectively.
I bring over 30 years of experience in estates and facilities management across heritage, healthcare, hospitality, and event management sectors, including roles at the British Museum, Blue Waters, and Bellamy Central. I hold a Master’s degree in Project Management (Built Environment), am a Prince2 Practitioner, IOSH certified, and a Member of the Institute of Workplace & Facilities Management (MIWFM). Outside of ABNA, I enjoy music, reading, socialising, and gardening, drawing on these interests to remain balanced and engaged. My parents, Vernella Williams of Pares Village and the late Stanford Williams of Parham Village, Antigua, instilled values of service and community that continue to inspire my contributions to ABNA (UK).
