Antigua and Barbuda's oldest known living citizen, Irenie Mussington, has celebrated her 103rd birthday, receiving tributes from Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, family members and well-wishers. According to Antigua News Room, the Government also presented her with a cheque for EC$10,000 in recognition of the milestone.
Born on 4 July 1923, Ms Mussington faced adversity from a young age. She lost her mother at nine years old and left school at 11 to care for her injured grandmother, later working as a domestic helper to support herself.
At 18, she channelled that resilience into entrepreneurship, launching a street vending business selling homemade sweets. She eventually expanded her trade to include local drinks and clothing, and continued operating in St John's until she was 83 years old.
Ms Mussington is a mother of three, grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of nine. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams praised her as an example of resilience, hard work and community service.
Prime Minister Browne called her "a national treasure" during his weekly broadcast and extended his birthday wishes to the centenarian.
