Governor General Sir Rodney Williams and Lady Williams undertook a wide-ranging programme of diplomatic, cultural and philanthropic engagements during their June visit to London, helping to raise Antigua and Barbuda's international profile ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). According to Antigua.news, the couple maintained a demanding schedule that spanned high-level government meetings, royal ceremonies and a major charity gala.
The centrepiece of the visit was the 10th Halo Foundation Ball, known as Wings of Charity, held at the Chancery Rosewood Hotel in Mayfair. The event drew more than 400 guests, including individuals connected to CHOGM 2026 preparations. Live and silent auctions raised funds for five charitable initiatives aligned with Antigua and Barbuda's development priorities and Commonwealth partnerships.
Lady Williams said the gala received significant support from the Calvin Ayre Foundation, PLH in Barbuda and the soon-to-open Moongate resort at Half Moon Bay. Guests were introduced to locally made products, including handcrafted items and Antiguan gin, while local musicians performed, showcasing the country's creative talent.
Lady Williams highlighted the Halo Foundation's history of championing emerging artists, noting that internationally acclaimed cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason first gained wider recognition after performing at a Halo event before being invited to play at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. She also paid tribute to National Hero Sir Vivian Richards for his continued support through donations of signed memorabilia to benefit charitable causes.
Beyond the fundraising events, the official programme included attendance at Royal Ascot, where Lady Williams selected the Best Turned Out Horse and presented a cash prize to the winning stable, while Sir Rodney Williams presented trophies to winning teams.
The couple attended an annual dinner at St. James's Palace hosted by the Royal Drawing School and subsequently met United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Lady Starmer at 10 Downing Street. They also attended the Trooping the Colour ceremony, where they were seated alongside the British Prime Minister.
Lady Williams said she used the visit to engage with museum authorities, charitable organisations and young Antiguans and Barbudans living in the United Kingdom, while exploring funding opportunities for cultural and heritage initiatives. Among the foundation's immediate priorities, she noted, is securing support for the Generation Next Football Club to create pathways for local footballers into the international sports market.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourist Office in London contributed by providing promotional gift bags and helping to attract travel wholesalers, retailers and travel writers. Major British media organisations were invited to cover the gala.
Sir Rodney Williams said the mission reflected Antigua and Barbuda's growing presence on the international stage and its commitment to strengthening diplomatic, cultural and Commonwealth ties in the lead-up to CHOGM 2026.
The Governor General and Lady Williams commended High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Karen-Mae Hill and her team for their support throughout the visit. The programme concluded with engagements involving members of the Royal Household, Commonwealth officials and international business leaders. Lady Williams credited the Halo Foundation's volunteer team for making the ambitious programme a success.
