Local talk show host, Karia J. Christopher has described the Virgin Islands as having the ‘most vicious audience’ in the world during a recent episode of her ‘Real Talk’ television show. Photo: Facebook/Flow

Hon Shereen D. Flax-Charles said that for many years working in the tourism sector, she has been encouraged to enter the political sphere to make a difference. Photo: Floe/Facebook

Hon Alvera Maduro-Caine said for her coping mechanism, prayers have been the go-to strategy for restraint and staying calm. Photo: Flow/Facebook

The talk show host dropped the bombshell assessment of her audience during a December 9, 2020, episode of the show while interviewing legislators Hon Alvera Maudeo-Caines (R6) and Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Hon Shereen D. Flax-Charles (AL).

Handling public criticisms  

“I want to talk to you both about the journey and I want to start with you Honourable Flax-Charles, that decision; because you're newer, to open up your whole life, to the most vicious audience in the world, that’s us here in the BVI, I could tell you that.”

Mrs Christopher continued, “…Because of the passion that you have for people clearly, but understanding that once you decided that you wanted to run for public office, it's not about you anymore, it’s about your husband and your children and your brothers and your sisters, how has that journey been for you?”

Hon Flax-Charles said that for many years working in the tourism sector, she has been encouraged to enter the political sphere to make a difference; however, she said the job has impacted her family life, including mothering duties for having to constantly travel to Tortola from the Sister Islands.

Family & Politics 

“I still have a 13-year-old son, and mothers need to be around their sons especially even in times like these.”

According to Hon Flax-Charles, her son would often joke about having regrets campaigning for his mother during the run-up to the 2019 elections. 

“He is getting the understanding that I won't be there all the time, every single time like I was before…it can be a bit difficult for the children, even the ones that are grown, they will call and I say I can’t talk to you know, I'm going into a meeting I'll call you back, and sometimes, to be honest, I don't call them back the same day,” she said.

She said; however, the job remains rewarding to be able to help persons in trying times and help them progress.

Hon Maduro-Caines said for her coping mechanism prayers have been the go-to strategy for restraint and staying calm.

Media & Public Life  

Mrs Christopher said as a media personality in a public space, there is gratification from seeing what she achieved and built from scratch with the ‘Real Talk’ platform.

“When you’re in a public space it almost forces you to pause before you see anything and so I wonder how that affects you being genuine and true to yourself?” she questioned.

She said to muzzle her voice means not being authentic and true, while at the same time accusing locals of not reading enough, rather only looking at headlines, ‘and run with it.”