From the tender age of two, Jakeem King’s passion for basketball was ignited by witnessing his uncle, Kushiah King, execute a jaw-dropping slam dunk. Now, at just 12 years old, Jakeem is carving out his own legacy on the hard courts of Trinidad. A Form One student at Fatima College, he has already secured a spot on the school’s under-17 team for the prestigious RBC Royal Slam College Basketball competition.
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The Coconut Cracker a classical favourite with a Caribbean twist
The Caribbean School of Dancing (CSD) continues its legacy of blending discipline and creativity with a groundbreaking production titled *Fantasy in Dance: The Coconut Cracker*. Scheduled for November 15 and 16 at Queen’s Hall in St Ann’s, this performance reinterprets the classic ballet *The Nutcracker* through a distinctly Caribbean lens. Choreographed by principal Bridgette Wilson, the show features a cast of 110 dancers and 20 musicians, including members of the UWI Arts Steel, promising a vibrant celebration of local culture, music, and dance.
Wilson, inspired by the late Patricia Roe’s dedication to making ballet accessible to Caribbean audiences, has transformed the traditional European narrative into a story that resonates with Trinidadian heritage. The Nutcracker becomes the Coconut Cracker, a coconut vendor, while the Sugar Plum Fairy is reimagined as the Sugar Cane Fairy. The siblings Clara and Fritz are now Kyara and Junior, and even the toy soldier is redefined as Soldier Larry, drawing from sailor mas traditions.
The production also incorporates local elements such as a Sahara dust storm replacing the snow scene, with moko jumbies guiding Kyara to the Land of Island Paradise, symbolizing Trinidad and Tobago. Wilson’s vision is to reclaim space for Caribbean culture within the traditionally Eurocentric art form of ballet, showcasing the richness of local traditions on a global stage.
In addition to *The Coconut Cracker*, younger students aged three to eight will perform *Anansi and the Magic Shell*, an original story blending ballet, hip-hop, tap, and modern dance. The costumes, designed by Valmiki Maharaj of The Lost Tribe, merge traditional ballet attire with Caribbean aesthetics, further enhancing the cultural narrative.
Wilson sees this production as the beginning of a larger creative journey, aiming to expand and refine *The Coconut Cracker* in future iterations. Her work not only honors the legacy of CSD but also reaffirms the place of Caribbean culture in the world of performing arts.
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Candice Dookree mapping change, inspiring growth
Dr. Candice Dookree, a 30-year-old scholar from Trinidad and Tobago, has recently achieved a significant milestone by earning her doctorate in geoinformatics from the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine. Her groundbreaking research focuses on the spatio-temporal dynamics of urban growth in San Fernando, utilizing advanced technologies such as satellite remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and logistic regression. This statistical technique allows for the prediction of urban expansion based on factors like distance to roads, population density, and elevation. Her findings highlight the critical role of infrastructure decisions in shaping urban development and environmental sustainability, offering valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Born and raised in Preysal, Dookree’s journey to academic excellence was fueled by a childhood filled with curiosity and exploration. Initially aspiring to study civil engineering, she found her passion in geomatics engineering, a field she initially knew little about. Her doctoral journey, though challenging, was marked by resilience and the unwavering support of her family, friends, and mentors. As a woman in a male-dominated field, Dookree is committed to inspiring more young women to pursue careers in science and technology. Currently working with the Ministry of Finance’s Valuation Division, she integrates geospatial technologies into property valuation processes, modernizing data collection and analysis. Her vision for the future includes expanding her research into smart-city development and AI-driven geospatial analytics, while also contributing to academia as a lecturer. Dookree’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the transformative potential of geospatial science in addressing the unique challenges faced by Caribbean nations.
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Tobago’s illusion of amelioration
Between 1823 and 1833, escalating tensions between Caribbean planters and enslaved workers reached a critical point, threatening the region’s socio-economic stability. Enslaved populations, increasingly intolerant of their subjugation, launched widespread resistance movements that challenged the very foundations of the plantation system. Fearing the potential for uncontrollable chaos, the West Indian lobby urged the British Parliament to implement reforms aimed at improving the living and working conditions of enslaved Africans. These proposals included measures such as limiting physical punishments, encouraging slave marriages, and allowing enslaved individuals to own property and purchase their freedom. However, these reforms, which aimed to mitigate the harsh realities of enslavement, were met with fierce opposition from the plantocracy. Planters in Tobago, in particular, resisted these changes, viewing them as threats to their control over the enslaved population and their economic interests. Despite efforts to portray the era as one of ‘amelioration,’ the revised laws largely preserved the oppressive structures of slavery, with new courts established to enforce harsh penalties for resistance. The Anglican Church, initially aloof, later joined efforts to Christianize the enslaved population, seeing it as a means of control. Ultimately, the planters’ rejection of these reforms led to the British Parliament’s decision to abolish slavery in its colonies in 1833, marking the end of a tumultuous decade of resistance and reform.
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‘I am here to help’
TRELAWNY, Jamaica — Global sprint icon Usain Bolt extended a heartfelt message of solidarity and support to his fellow Jamaicans on Sunday, following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, which wreaked havoc across western Jamaica. In a poignant video shared on X, Bolt expressed his deep sorrow and commitment to aiding recovery efforts. The legendary athlete, who recently returned to the island, witnessed firsthand the extensive damage caused by the Category 5 hurricane. Originating from Trelawny, one of the hardest-hit parishes, Bolt spent the day distributing essential care packages at his alma mater, William Knibb High School, which also suffered significant damage. Reflecting on the scenes of devastation, Bolt shared, “On the way up…at the riverside, you see a lot of people washing. It’s hard to put into words how I feel about what I am seeing, but Jamaica, I am here to help in any way possible.” In a powerful caption accompanying his video, Bolt reaffirmed his dedication to his homeland, stating, “J A M A I C A, You all gave me the chance to represent you on the world stage — to wear our colours with pride, show the world the strength, resilience, and the heart of our people. Everything I’ve achieved started right here at home. Now, as so many of our children, brothers and sisters face the hardships caused by Hurricane Melissa, please know — We are right here with YOU. We are STANDING together, REBUILDING together, and reminding the world that JAMAICANS never leave each other behind.”
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Jamaica’s Under-20 Reggae Boyz drawn in manageable group — Ricketts
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica has been placed in Group B for the CONCACAF U20 Championship Qualifiers, alongside Puerto Rico, Bonaire, St. Kitts and Nevis, Cayman Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Michael Ricketts, President of the Jamaica Football Federation, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to navigate the group, describing it as ‘manageable.’
Ricketts emphasized the importance of preparation and execution, stating, ‘No group is ever easy because it all depends on how prepared you are, how organized you are, and ultimately how you perform on match day. But this group looks manageable, and I am hopeful that we will be ready.’
He also highlighted the broader challenges facing Jamaican football, with multiple competitions underway, including the Senior Men’s World Cup, U-17, U-20, and Women’s Senior tournaments. Despite the demanding schedule, Ricketts affirmed the federation’s commitment to excelling in all qualifying competitions.
The first round of qualifiers is scheduled to run from February 23 to March 4, 2026. The group winners will advance to the Championship final round, joining seeded teams such as the United States, Mexico, Honduras, Panama, Cuba, and Guatemala. The final round, set for July 2 to August 9, 2026, will determine qualifiers for both the 2027 FIFA Men’s Under-20 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games.
Jamaica is widely expected to progress from Group B after the round-robin stage. The qualifying matches will be hosted across venues in Costa Rica, Curaçao, and Nicaragua, adding an international dimension to the competition.
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Prisons club president: Everything was amicably resolved
In a dramatic turn of events, Prisons FC, the current leaders of the 2025/26 TT Premier Football League (TTPFL), has reversed its decision to withdraw from the season. The club’s initial announcement to exit the league, made less than 48 hours prior, was attributed to financial challenges and a reduction in subvention funds from the TT Football Association (TTFA). However, after a series of discussions between Prisons FC’s management and the TTFA board, an agreement was reached to continue participation in the league. TTPFL acting CEO Yale Antoine confirmed the decision on November 7, ensuring that Prisons’ scheduled match against Club Sando on November 9 would proceed as planned. Prisons coach Dexter Cyrus expressed relief in a Facebook post, stating that the team had always wanted to continue playing and praised the resolution reached through dialogue. Club president Jude Gordon apologized for the earlier decision, emphasizing that misunderstandings are part of relationships but can be resolved amicably. While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, Gordon assured that Prisons FC is committed to the league for the long term. The team, which has undergone a significant makeover with only one prison officer in the squad, currently leads the table with six points from two games. Their next fixture against Club Sando is set to take place at the Mahaica Sporting Complex in Point Fortin.
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Sometimes cheaper to go than to stay
In a heartwarming tale of cross-border compassion, Suki, a rescue dog from Tobago, is set to embark on a life-changing journey to Massachusetts on November 13. This initiative is spearheaded by the Venus Doggess Of Love NGO, which has successfully rehomed 18 animals, including two cats, in New England. The organization has cultivated a robust network of animal lovers, including veterinarians, dog trainers, and daycare center owners, who facilitate these adoptions. While some question the cost and effort involved, the NGO emphasizes that international adopters cover all travel expenses, making it a financially viable option. In cases where local homes are unavailable, foster arrangements are made, with travel funds raised through donations and fundraisers. The dedicated team in Massachusetts even covers their own expenses, ensuring a seamless transition for the animals. Suki’s journey was supported by a recent film screening at Mount Irvine Bay Resort, which raised sufficient funds for her travel crate and airfare. Despite the challenges of local adoption, the NGO highlights the long-term cost-effectiveness of sending dogs abroad compared to indefinite local care. Suki, part of a group dubbed ‘The Famous Five,’ has been in the NGO’s care for two years, with two of her companions already thriving in Canada. As the land used for their shelter is now needed by its owners, the NGO urgently seeks loving homes for the remaining two dogs, Frankie and Jojo, before dismantling the facility. This story underscores the power of international collaboration in transforming the lives of rescue animals.
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Education for children – but not for all
The true measure of a nation’s progress lies in its ability to safeguard its most vulnerable citizens, particularly children. In Trinidad and Tobago (TT), the rights of children to education are enshrined in international treaties, national laws, and policies designed to ensure equitable access to quality education and protection from discrimination. However, the reality paints a starkly different picture. Despite legislative frameworks, children with special needs, disabilities, and migrant backgrounds continue to face significant barriers to education. The Education Act mandates compulsory schooling for children aged five to 16, yet systemic failures persist. Parents of children with autism, Down syndrome, or other learning challenges often struggle to find suitable schools or trained educators. Public schools lack the resources for inclusive education, forcing many families to seek costly private alternatives or resort to homeschooling. Migrant children face additional hurdles, as they require student permits to access schooling, a process complicated by their parents’ legal status. Children in state care due to protection concerns also experience delays in education, further exacerbating their vulnerability. These systemic gaps not only deprive children of their fundamental rights but also place long-term burdens on society and government. Achieving inclusive education demands urgent reforms, including better teacher training, increased funding, and a commitment to prioritizing the needs of marginalized children. As TT strives to uphold its promise of free education, it must ensure that no child is left behind.
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UK’s King Charles honours nation’s war dead
LONDON, United Kingdom — In a poignant display of national unity, Britain’s King Charles III presided over the annual Remembrance Sunday commemorations, honoring the nation’s war dead. The 76-year-old monarch, currently undergoing treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer, laid the first wreath at the Cenotaph memorial in central London. The ceremony commenced with the traditional two-minute silence observed at 11:00 am (1100 GMT).
Accompanied by senior members of the royal family, including his son Prince William and daughter-in-law Catherine, the Princess of Wales, the event was marked by solemnity and reverence. Queen Camilla and Catherine, who is in remission following her own cancer diagnosis, observed the proceedings from the balcony of the Foreign Office, overlooking the memorial.
The Whitehall area of the capital was thronged with crowds as political leaders, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, alongside current and former members of the armed forces and war veterans, paid their respects. The ceremony honored British and Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives in the two World Wars and other conflicts. Approximately 10,000 armed forces veterans participated in a march-past, including around 20 who served in World War II. Among them was 101-year-old Sid Machin, one of the last surviving veterans of the Burma (now Myanmar) campaign, who served in a special forces unit.
Prince William also laid a wreath, while Prince Harry, who has been estranged from the royal family since stepping back from his duties in 2020, was notably absent. However, days before the event, Harry released a heartfelt statement through his U.S. office, expressing his pride in being British and urging the public not to forget veterans. The Duke of Sussex, who served two tours in Afghanistan, reflected on the courage and compassion he witnessed in war zones but lamented how veterans often feel forgotten once they remove their uniforms.
The weekend’s commemorations also saw Prince George, the 12-year-old eldest son of Prince William and Catherine, attend his first tribute for fallen soldiers at the Royal Albert Hall. The Festival of Remembrance, organized annually by the Royal British Legion, featured readings, prayers, videos, and musical performances, including a performance by Rod Stewart. This marked a significant milestone for George, who is second in line to the throne, as he begins to take on a more active role in royal duties.