Claudette "Boopie" Smith

Photo Credit: Hezikiah Maddox Photography

Claudette "Boopie" Smith

Photo Credit: Hezikiah Maddox Photography

This year, the Road Town Festival Village has been named in honour of long-serving contributor to festival in the Virgin Islands, Claudette 'Boopie' Smith.

According to the Virgin Islands Festivals and Fairs Committee, Smith has been an inspiring, reliable and creative member of the committee for the past 35 years and has been an active member in all of its sub-committees. She has also served as the chairperson of the food fair, village and decorating sub-committees.

Speaking at a press conference on June 21, Smith said that she was pleased that the village was named in her honor.

"My lifestyle has changed and I am now a Christian. I thank God for the gifts that he has given me which enabled me to serve my country and serve it well. The tireless times that I have [given]...came like nothing to me because it is something that I love to do for my country," Smith stated.

She gave thanks to the persons who were very helpful during her time serving on the committee, including the BVI Electricity Board.

She also shared that there was a time when people would go way out to do work for festival, but not get paid.

"We were paid by the grace and the ability given by God and we were very happy to do so for our country. I am very honored indeed to be told that the village is being named after me because I am an individual who stay behind the scene and do what I have to do. I am a team player and I don't care what background you come from; once it involves my country I'm going to do everything to the best of my ability to ensure that you shine. I am very honoured and I will continue to do my best for my country and I give God the glory and the honour because without him it was not possible," Smith stated.

She also gave notice and offered her willingness to serve the committee of the 60th anniversary celebrations.

"I want to make it very clear today that no matter which committee is formed, no matter who is in charge, the 60th anniversary I will be a good part of that," Smith said.

The Claudette 'Boopie' Smith Festiville will officially open on July 26 with the usual gospel fest.