From Statia to Nevis: A Warm Welcome at Vanilla Paradise

The Statia delegation, with Randy Elliot, Director of Agriculture, the Commission for Agriculture in Station, Rachelline Leerdam and Gina Empson, Vanilla Paradise Nevis’ Founder

At Vanilla Paradise Nevis, we love sharing our passion for vanilla, so when an eight-member government delegation from Sint Eustatius - known as Statia - visited Nevis in November 2024, we were thrilled to be part of their trip.

Statia, a neighbouring Dutch island in the Caribbean located 17.5 miles or 28 km miles southeast of St. Kitts and Nevis, has a rich history and close ties with our islands.  Their visit was part of a two-week workshop facilitated by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) to explore sustainable practices that could help Statia reduce reliance on imported food and boost local production. 

The Caribbean Sea, with the location of Sint Eustatius island indicated in the inset. Source: Hoetjes and Carpenter 

Strengthening Regional Ties

The delegation, led by Statia’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Rechelline Leerdam included representatives from the island’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. They were welcomed by Nevis’s Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Eric Evelyn, along with Randy Elliott, Director of the Nevis Department of Agriculture.

Their visit focused on exchanging ideas, learning best practices, and strengthening agricultural ties between our islands.

A Stop at Vanilla Paradise

One highlight of their visit was a tour of Vanilla Paradise Nevis. We were proud to showcase our efforts in sustainable vanilla cultivation as they explored our three shade houses, covering over 16,000 square feet (1,500 square metres) - home to more than 1,500 thriving vanilla vines.

We also shared an exciting look into the future: plans to double our growing space with three additional shade houses, and establish a processing plant for curing vanilla beans.

Commissioner Leerdam, commented on their visit, saying they were fascinated by the Vanilla Paradise project and are reviewing possibilities for vanilla cultivation on Statia.

Learning from Each Other

The delegation’s visit underlined the strong bond between Statia and Nevis. Minister Evelyn underscored the value of regional collaboration, saying, “We are always open to visits, discussions, and sharing best practices.” Gina Empson, our Founder, shared how sustainability is central to our vanilla farm, along with community involvement and plans for eco-tourism—initiatives that could also inspire and benefit Statia.

Building Connections for the Future

At Vanilla Paradise Nevis, we were honoured to be part of Statia’s sustainable agriculture exploration. Their interest in our work reinforces how collaboration fuels progress across the Caribbean.

As we expand our vanilla production we look forward to welcoming more visitors, fostering partnerships, and sharing the magic of vanilla.

To our friends in Statia, thank you for including us in your journey! See a video of the visit, including the delegation’s tour of Vanilla Paradise Nevis