The highly anticipated documentary ‘Echoes of Waltham,’ which explores the historical ties between Grenada’s Waltham Estate and Scotland’s Paxton House, is set to make its Grenada debut at the 1261 Film Festival this weekend. The film, produced by British-Grenadian journalist Zoe Smith and directed by Meschida Phillip, features students from Bonaire Government School, Waltham elders, and historian Dr. Angus Martin. It is part of the broader ‘Island Echoes’ project, which aims to redefine Grenada’s engagement with its colonial past while fostering heritage tourism and education. The documentary’s premiere marks the launch of the ‘Island Echoes Symposium,’ an international event scheduled for April 2026 in St. Mark, Grenada. The symposium will bring together scholars, artists, and tourism experts for panels, archaeological workshops, and community programs, timed to coincide with the annual St. Mark Organisation for Development celebrations. Smith envisions the initiative as a sustainable model for heritage-based economic development, transforming historical sites into sources of cultural pride and economic opportunity. The documentary also highlights the complex transatlantic connections between Grenada, Scotland, and England, tracing the legacy of Ninian Home, a Scottish merchant who built Paxton House using wealth generated from enslaved labor in the Caribbean. The film’s Grenada premiere follows its successful screening at CARIFESTA’s film festival in Barbados, where it resonated deeply with Caribbean audiences. Smith hopes the project will empower Grenadians to reclaim their narratives and inspire similar initiatives across the Caribbean. For more information, visit www.islandechoes.org.
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Urgent call for contributions from the Barbadian public and business community
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact across the Caribbean, preliminary assessments reveal a grim scenario. The storm has claimed 49 lives as of Thursday, with infrastructure and housing damages exceeding an estimated $500 million. The scale of this dual humanitarian and infrastructural crisis has prompted the establishment of the official Hurricane Melissa Regional Relief Fund. This initiative aims to channel financial aid to the hardest-hit regions—Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba. Authorities are urgently appealing to the Barbadian public and local businesses for immediate contributions to bolster recovery efforts. These funds are critical for delivering emergency supplies and restoring vital infrastructure. For local donations, contributors are directed to use the Central Bank of Barbados’s official banking details, ensuring funds are allocated correctly to specific relief accounts for each country. International donors are also encouraged to follow detailed wire transfer instructions to support the relief efforts effectively. The collective response will play a pivotal role in mitigating the disaster’s long-term effects on the affected communities.
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Heavy hands, high hopes: Ryan Joseph’s MMA rise fuels dreams
Shannus Ryan Joseph, Saint Lucia’s towering heavyweight mixed martial arts (MMA) champion, is carving out a legacy in a sport still emerging across the Caribbean. Standing at an imposing six feet six inches and weighing 260 pounds, Joseph has become a trailblazer for combat sports on the island. Hailing from the small village of Micoud, he gained recognition in 2024 by securing two amateur victories under the Caribbean Ultimate Fist Fighting (CUFF) banner, including a title fight in November. Currently the CUFF Heavyweight Champion, Joseph is ranked 3,588th in the Central and South America region, drawing attention for his size, speed, and grappling prowess. According to Tapology.com, Joseph’s ranking is based on his limited fights, with his position subject to change as he accumulates more experience. His rise symbolizes Saint Lucia’s growing influence in MMA, a sport gaining momentum across the Caribbean. In a recent interview with St. Lucia Times, Joseph reflected on his journey, crediting his early karate training and his introduction to MMA while working in Trinidad. He emphasized the importance of mental strength, passion, and focus in his training, describing his drive as entering ‘beast mode.’ Joseph also expressed pride in representing Saint Lucia, encouraging aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams with consistency and patience. His success has inspired local gyms and youth programs, with Joseph poised to transition into professional MMA. His recent role as a judge at the inaugural Battleground Exhibition Classic further solidified his status as a champion and mentor in the sport.
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Public urged to support 50th anniversary restaging of Alwin Bully’s “Streak”; first show tonight is tonight
The 50th anniversary restaging of *Streak*, a groundbreaking play by the late Dominican playwright Alwin Bully, is set to captivate audiences on November 1st and 2nd at St. Gerard’s Hall. Organizers are rallying public support to breathe new life into Dominican theatre, emphasizing the cultural and educational significance of the production. Tickets, priced at EC$75, are available at Bullseye Pharmacy, Jay’s Bookstore, and through Lac Cour des Arts members. For those unable to attend in person, a pay-per-view livestream is accessible for US$25 via Multimedia Solutions and Dominica News Online. Mobile banking and delivery options are also available for ticket purchases.
Anita Bully, the playwright’s widow, highlighted the family-friendly nature of *Streak*, urging families to bring children to experience its rich portrayal of Dominica’s historical and social fabric. Organizers addressed concerns about ticket pricing, explaining the substantial costs of restoring St. Gerard’s Hall, which had previously served as a church. The production, in preparation since May, reflects a significant investment of time and resources.
Director Severin McKenzie underscored the historical importance of *Streak*, originally staged in 1975 as Bully’s first full-length play. It introduced Dominican audiences to calypso theatre and explored themes such as the Black Power movement, the rise of Rastafari, and youth identity struggles. The 2025 restaging features a diverse cast, blending seasoned actors with students from Dominica State College and members of local theatre groups. The production integrates drama, dance, music, poetry, and drumming, offering a multifaceted exploration of enduring themes like police brutality, cultural identity, and national independence.
McKenzie emphasized the educational value of reviving Dominican theatre, noting its importance for students studying the performing arts. The production also pays tribute to Alwin Bully, who designed Dominica’s national flag, and coincides with the country’s 47th Independence anniversary. Organizers urged the public to attend and support the arts, describing *Streak* as a powerful social commentary that encourages reflection on societal roles.
Gloria Augustus of Lac Cour des Arts, co-producer of the play, concluded with a call to action: ‘Next is now,’ she said, urging investment in the future of Dominican drama.
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Suriname en China bespreken duurzame mijnbouw tijdens conferentie in Tianjin
A delegation from Suriname’s Ministry of Natural Resources, led by Minister David Abiamofo, recently concluded a significant working visit to China. The trip, initiated at the invitation of Zijin Mining Group and the Tianjin China Geological Survey, focused on fostering collaboration in sustainable mining, environmental protection, and regulatory oversight. The visit commenced with a high-level meeting at Zijin Mining Group’s headquarters in Xiamen, where Minister Abiamofo engaged in extensive discussions with CEO Chen Jinghe. Central to their talks was the development of Rosebel Gold Mines, in which Zijin has held a majority stake since 2023. Minister Abiamofo emphasized the importance of responsible gold mining, ensuring the protection of both environmental and community interests. Key topics included sustainable energy solutions, safety standards, and local employment opportunities within the Rosebel project. The delegation also toured Zijin’s copper mine and refinery, where innovative technologies in energy efficiency, water recycling, and hybrid mining vehicles were showcased. During the China International Mining Conference and Expo (CIMC) in Tianjin, Minister Abiamofo delivered a presentation on Suriname’s commitment to sustainable and forward-looking mining practices. He outlined reforms to the Mining Act, which prioritize environmental responsibility, transparency, and the protection of community rights, particularly through the implementation of the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) principle. Additionally, the minister announced plans to establish the Suriname Mineral Resources Authority, an independent regulatory body tasked with ensuring compliance with legislation, environmental regulations, and safety standards. At the Zijin Forum, Abiamofo highlighted the mining sector’s role in Suriname’s economic transformation, stressing the need for partnerships with investors who meet international sustainability criteria. He cited recent improvements at Rosebel Gold Mines, including the use of hybrid mining trucks and the construction of a 25 MW solar plant to reduce CO₂ emissions. This visit builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the natural resources ministries of Suriname and China in October 2023, which lays the groundwork for knowledge exchange, technical cooperation, and joint initiatives in mining and geological development. Suriname’s participation in the CIMC reinforces its position as an emerging partner in responsible resource development in the Caribbean and South America.
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Chinese ambassador awards scholarships at UWI Confucius Institute
The University of the West Indies Confucius Institute in Barbados recently celebrated the achievements of students from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions with the prestigious Chinese Ambassador Scholarships. This event highlights the island’s deepening engagement with Mandarin Chinese and its culture. Dr Che Leon Corbin, the local co-director of the Confucius Institute, emphasized the institute’s global standing, ranking among the top 10 of 500 Confucius Institutes worldwide. He noted that the program fosters cultural connections, making China feel closer to Barbados. The scholarships, funded by the Chinese Embassy in Barbados, provide financial support for students excelling in Mandarin studies, enabling them to cover educational expenses. Tyrone Yearwood, a Chinese teacher at the Institute, clarified the distinction between the Ambassador Scholarship and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) government scholarship, with the latter offering full financial support for studying in China. Professor Nie Lu, the Chinese Director of the Institute, praised the students and teachers for their dedication, emphasizing the importance of language learning in strengthening international ties. The ceremony recognized students from various schools, including St George Primary, Harrison College, and others, as well as tertiary students like Genesis Chester and Richellia Stuart. The event underscored the role of cultural exchange and language learning in building global friendships. Professor Nie encouraged the students to continue their efforts in mastering Mandarin and embracing Chinese culture, calling them pioneers in this transformative process.
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St Elizabeth farmers count millions in losses after Hurricane Melissa
Farmers in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, are grappling with catastrophic losses estimated in the millions of dollars after Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, ravaged the region earlier this week. The hurricane decimated agricultural fields, destroying vital crops and leaving a trail of devastation in one of the country’s most important farming areas.
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Senator questions transparency in HOPE housing deal with Guyanese firm
A recent revelation that Modular Builds Guyana (MBG), a newly registered Guyanese company, has been contracted to construct homes under Barbados’ state-run HOPE housing project in St Lucy has sparked significant controversy. Democratic Labour Party Senator Ryan Walters has called for full transparency from the government, accusing it of operating in secrecy. The issue came to light after a social media video surfaced, showing MBG claiming to build 86 houses for HOPE Inc. using concrete board and galvanized steel frames. This disclosure has ignited public debate, as no prior announcement had been made regarding the company’s involvement in the project. Senator Walters expressed deep concern, questioning the transparency, accountability, and potential misuse of taxpayers’ funds in the housing program. He highlighted the government’s failure to act on promises made over 18 months ago to investigate HOPE Inc.’s operations and finances, referencing a special audit by the Auditor General in April that revealed mismanagement and wastage. Walters also pointed out that Modular Builds was registered in September 2025, raising questions about how a newly formed company could secure a large-scale government contract so quickly. In response, HOPE Inc. stated that MBG was awarded the contract through a rigorous tendering process and is constructing ten of the planned 86 steel-framed houses at Fustic Gardens, St Lucy. HOPE’s CEO, Mark Williamson, emphasized compliance with procurement regulations and noted that the project involves local labor and materials, with Guyanese artisans handling the erection of imported steel frames. Barbadian workers are also being trained to assist in future phases of the project.
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First Independence Day Baby Welcomed at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre
In a heartwarming celebration of national pride, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed its first Independence Day baby of the year. The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre proudly announced the birth of a healthy baby boy at 5:35 a.m. on the nation’s 44th Independence Day. The newborn, weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces, was delivered to delighted parents Glengield and Roleeka King-Henry. Hospital staff expressed immense joy, describing the birth as a symbolic and special moment to commemorate the twin-island nation’s milestone. The medical team extended heartfelt congratulations to the family and warmly welcomed the newborn, affectionately dubbed “the little king.” This joyous event not only marks a personal milestone for the King-Henry family but also serves as a beacon of hope and unity for the nation as it celebrates its independence.
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Hurricane Melissa leaves at least 30 dead as storm heads to Bermuda
The Caribbean is reeling from the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful storms in recorded history, which struck the region with devastating force. Making landfall in Jamaica on October 28 as a Category 5 hurricane, Melissa unleashed destructive winds, severe flooding, and relentless rainfall, leaving a trail of destruction across Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti. By October 30, the storm had weakened as it moved toward Bermuda, but the damage had already been done, with dozens of lives lost and communities left in ruins. Rescue and recovery operations are underway, but they are severely hindered by widespread power outages, communication breakdowns, and blocked roads. The death toll continues to rise, with over 30 fatalities reported in Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. Jamaican officials, including Education Minister Dana Dixon, described the devastation as unprecedented, with entire communities isolated and infrastructure flattened. Helicopters are being deployed to deliver relief supplies and transport patients, though landing in some areas remains a challenge due to debris and flooding. The emotional toll on residents is immense, with many unable to contact loved ones in the hardest-hit zones. Despite the overwhelming destruction, the global community has rallied to offer support, with countries pledging financial aid, food, and rescue teams to assist in the recovery efforts.