LONDON, United Kingdom — Young Antiguan artist Annia Matthews made a strong impression at the recent launch of the CHOGM 2026 Cricket Match in London, where she performed as a specially invited musical guest.
Matthews captivated guests with a confident and powerful performance of her original song, “Keep On”, earning warm applause and praise for her vocal ability, stage presence and representation of Antigua and Barbuda. The song captured a powerful message about mental health and earned her an invitation from the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey to co-host a roundtable on Youth Mental Health to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.
During the event, she met Antiguan and Barbudan cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards, who commended her talent and praised how she continues to represent the country. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration, Hon. E. P. Chet Greene, also praised Matthews’ performance and confirmed that she is expected to feature in activities surrounding CHOGM 2026, providing further opportunities to showcase Antiguan and Barbudan talent on the international stage.
“I felt truly honoured to perform at the launch of the CHOGM cricket match and to be in a room filled with so many people who have made, and continue to make, an impact across the Commonwealth. There was a real sense of connection in the room, and I felt emotionally connected to the significance of the moment”.
She added that, “Seeing Sir Vivian Richards take part in the passing-on-the-bat ceremony was especially inspirational for me. As an Antiguan artist, I felt the weight of responsibility in that moment, standing between his generation and mine, and recognising the importance of carrying our culture, stories and legacy forward”.
Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Kingdom, has strongly encouraged the inclusion of emerging Antiguan and Barbudan creatives in the High Commission’s diplomatic and cultural engagements. The approach reflects a broader effort to use international platforms to showcase the country’s cultural talent and give young nationals meaningful exposure.
Currently in the United Kingdom, developing her craft following an invitation to perform at the annual Wings of Charity Gala in June, hosted by Their Excellencies, Sir Rodney Williams and Lady Williams, Annia continues to build her international experience while proudly representing the creativity and cultural excellence of Antigua and Barbuda.
