Public servants gathered as the Antigua and Barbuda Public Service Association opened its annual conference.

Firstly, the event took place at the Villa Polyclinic. The theme focused on stronger and more resilient workers.

Moreover, President Joan Peters delivered a clear message. She said leaders must show purpose and presence.

In addition, she stressed the power of trust. She said members depend on the union when they feel unheard.

To explain this, Peters shared a personal story. She recalled a call from a public officer in distress.

At first, she heard fear and stress in the voice. Then, the officer said they felt powerless and unseen.

Soon after, Peters met the officer with her team. They reviewed the case step by step.

Next, the team pushed for action and kept follow-ups. Their work brought a fair outcome.

Importantly, the officer later said they felt protected again. Therefore, Peters said every case involves a real person.

Meanwhile, she addressed unpaid wages for over 100 workers. The issue started during the 2021 pandemic.

However, she confirmed that payments will begin soon.

Furthermore, Dr. Desiree Antonio gave the feature address. She spoke about a “love triangle of resilience.”

She named three key areas. These are the workplace, the community, and the self.

She explained that balance looks different for each person. So, workers must adjust their focus.

Also, she urged workers to set firm limits. She warned them not to give all their energy to work.

Later, Peters spoke about her time as president. She highlighted a major success from 2025.

She helped secure a long-delayed collective agreement. Talks had started in 2017.

Now, the signed deal protects workers and carries legal weight.

Finally, the conference ends tomorrow. Members will elect a new president to lead the union.