The King’s Baton Relay celebrations in Dominica began on 10 April 2025 with the official unveiling of the Baton and the launch of the new Commonwealth Sport Dominica brand at the organisation’s headquarters in Roseau. Around 25 guests attended the event, including executive members of Commonwealth Sport Dominica, affiliated sporting associations, and local artists.
Designed by local artist and Waitukubuli Artist Association member Jenae Bell, the Baton reflects Dominica’s culture and environment through intricate artwork: the word “Mabrika” (the Kalinago word for “welcome”), woven reef designs, native seeds, scenes of Dominica’s nature sites, and patterns inspired by Creole cloth.
Guests also met Michael Lees, President of the Waitukubuli Artist Association, and Nicole Morson, National Coordinator at the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN), whose team supported the Baton project.
On 11 April 2025, the Baton visited Convent Preparatory School in Roseau during the school’s Sports Day celebrations. Approximately 50 students engaged with the Baton through mini quiz sessions focusing on the Commonwealth Games, the national symbols represented on the Baton, and the differences between the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. Students showed great enthusiasm, eager to share their knowledge and pride in Dominica’s contributions to the Games and the Baton’s story.
Later that day, the Baton was part of a beach clean-up and environmental activity organised by the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) Dominica chapter in collaboration with Commonwealth Sport Dominica. The clean-up took place at Fond Cole Beach, a black sand beach just outside Roseau that has suffered from heavy pollution due to its proximity to the city. A group of 35 volunteers, from primary school students to adults, came together to collect over 200lbs of waste, helping to restore the coastline and highlight the importance of environmental stewardship within the community.
On 14 April 2025, the Baton journey continued with sport-facing activities, including a meet-and-greet with Dominica’s CARIFTA Games team. Batonbearers and young athletes came together to celebrate the spirit of the Commonwealth and highlight local sporting excellence. The Baton also visited a local sports training session and game, providing an opportunity to engage with grassroots athletes and inspire the next generation.
The celebrations culminated on 15 April 2025 with a symbolic ‘Relay’ run through the streets of Dominica’s capital. Various sporting associations took part, proudly carrying the Baton through the city and demonstrating the unity and energy of Dominica’s sporting community.
The Baton’s visit to Dominica blended national pride, creativity, environmental awareness, youth engagement, and sporting spirit. A true reflection of the island’s vibrant contribution to the Commonwealth movement.
