The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a dire warning as Hurricane Melissa rapidly intensifies, posing a significant threat to Jamaica with destructive winds and torrential rainfall. The storm, currently located south of Jamaica, is moving westward at a slow pace of approximately 3 mph (6 km/h) and is expected to maintain this trajectory through the weekend. By October 27 and 28, the hurricane is forecast to turn north and northeast, potentially bringing its center near or over Jamaica and approaching eastern Cuba by midweek. Maximum sustained winds have already reached 115 mph (185 km/h), with higher gusts, and the NHC warns of continued rapid strengthening. Residents are urged to seek immediate shelter and remain indoors as conditions are expected to worsen significantly through October 26 and into October 28. A Hurricane Warning remains in effect, indicating that dangerously high water levels and exceptionally rough seas are anticipated within 36 hours, even if winds are below hurricane force. The storm’s impacts are expected to be severe, with the potential for widespread damage and disruption.
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Derrick ‘Rah’ Peters on Bouyon roots: ‘I didn’t want to be a copycat’
Derrick ‘Rah’ Peters, a pivotal figure in the development of Bouyon music, recently shared insights into the genre’s African roots and its global ascent during an interview on the Mornin’ Barbados program. Peters, whose musical journey began at the age of two, recounted his early fascination with percussion instruments, even crafting homemade drums due to limited resources. Influenced by Caribbean and African sounds like kompa, reggae, kadans, soca, and calypso, Peters’ unique musical style began to take shape in his formative years. In the late 1980s, Peters joined forces with the Windward Caribbean Kulture (WCK) band, including keyboardist Cornell Phillips, marking the genesis of Bouyon. This genre, akin to a ‘soup’ or ‘stew,’ blends diverse rhythms while honoring traditional Dominican sounds and the cultural heritage of the Kalinago people. Peters emphasized the importance of originality, stating, ‘I didn’t want to be a copycat.’ Early hits like ‘Culture Clash’ and ‘Conch Shell’ showcased the genre’s distinctive fusion, with the latter introducing the lapo kabwit drum sound to a broader audience. Bouyon’s evolution continued with influences from salsa and hip-hop, always rooted in African traditions. The band’s 1995 album ‘To Chou To Flam,’ featuring the hit ‘Balance Batty,’ cemented Bouyon’s regional popularity. Peters also highlighted the genre’s enduring appeal, attributing it to its African heritage and the deliberate craftsmanship behind its creation. Looking to the future, Peters expressed pride in his son, Ajmal ‘Skyo’ Peters, who is carrying forward the musical legacy. Peters concluded with a call to preserve Bouyon’s roots while embracing innovation, ensuring the genre’s continued strength and relevance.
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92-Year-Old Man Dies Waiting for Care at NRH, Investigation Launched
A tragic incident at the Northern Regional Hospital (NRH) has prompted a full investigation by Health and Wellness Minister Kevin Bernard. A 92-year-old man reportedly waited nearly an hour for medical attention before passing away, raising serious concerns about the hospital’s emergency response protocols. Minister Bernard described the event as “deeply concerning” and emphasized that “no one should be denied urgent care.” He vowed to hold accountable any staff found negligent or failing to triage appropriately. The incident gained attention after a social media post by the deceased’s relative, who claimed hospital staff dismissed their pleas for help, stating, “We are busy sir, wait outside!” The relative recounted the chaotic scene when it became clear the man was no longer breathing. This is not the first time NRH has faced allegations of negligence, with previous complaints involving a firefighter and an eleven-year-old child. Minister Bernard reiterated the ministry’s “zero tolerance” for lapses in duty and assured that the investigation’s findings would lead to corrective actions to prevent future tragedies.
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PM Browne seeks God’s Guidance and Protection of the Students in Jamaica
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has extended his heartfelt gratitude to all parties involved in ensuring the safety of 45 Antiguan and Barbudan students during the recent onslaught of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. The students were relocated to the Hotel Pegasus in New Kingston, a move facilitated by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, where they will remain until October 27, 2025, or until the storm subsides. Prime Minister Browne has called upon churches and congregations across Antigua and Barbuda to seek divine blessings for Jamaica and to pray for the protection of their citizens and other international students in the region. Reports confirm that the students are safely accommodated in the multi-storied hotel and are deeply appreciative of the swift actions taken by the Gaston Browne administration. The Prime Minister has also pledged additional support if the students face displacement post-storm. Despite his unavoidable absence from the state, Prime Minister Browne remains actively informed about the situation in Jamaica and is set to return to Antigua on Monday.
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Destang named Florida swimmer of the year
Antoine Destang, Saint Lucia’s most accomplished young swimmer, continues to make waves both nationally and internationally. As he gears up to represent his country at the upcoming Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Championships in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Destang is still basking in the glory of his high school achievements. Now a freshman student-athlete at the University of Michigan, he has already begun to carve out a promising collegiate career.
Destang’s recent accolades include being named Florida Swimmer of the Year for his age group at the 2025 Florida Swimming Annual Awards Banquet. This honor places him alongside swimming legends like Katy Ledecky, the most decorated female swimmer in history. His senior year at The Bolles School was marked by multiple top-ten national performances in the 15-17 age group, showcasing his ability to excel under pressure.
Earlier this year, Destang shone at the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships in Trinidad and Tobago, securing a bronze medal in the freestyle and a silver in the 100m butterfly. His performance in the latter event was the third fastest in CARIFTA history. Competing for the Bolles Sharks, he amassed five medals and eight top-ten finishes in the first quarter of 2025, including a silver in the 100-yard backstroke at the Florida Senior Championship.
Destang’s versatility was further highlighted at the French Elite Championships and the 22nd World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where he competed against seasoned professionals. At Michigan, he has already achieved a top-ten finish in the 100-yard butterfly, signaling his potential to become a world-class swimmer.
As the OECS Championships approach, Destang aims to help Saint Lucia improve on their previous fourth-place finish. Despite being overlooked for Saint Lucia’s Junior Sportsman of the Year award in 2023 and 2024, his consistent performances and record-breaking swims have cemented his status as one of the Caribbean’s brightest swimming talents.
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Government of St. Kitts and Nevis Evacuates Students from Jamaica Ahead of Hurricane Melissa
In a swift and decisive move, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has successfully evacuated its nationals studying in Jamaica ahead of the intensifying Hurricane Melissa. The evacuation, coordinated through the Prime Minister’s Office, saw 27 students board a chartered flight from Kingston, Jamaica, on Saturday evening, October 25, 2025. The flight was en route to Turks and Caicos before proceeding to St. Kitts on Sunday, October 26. Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew emphasized that the government’s prompt action underscores its unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad. For students who chose to remain in Jamaica, arrangements have been made in collaboration with the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the St. Kitts and Nevis Student Association (SKNSA). These students are being housed in a secure hotel that meets safety and emergency standards, with official shelters also available if needed. The government is closely monitoring the situation in Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, maintaining active communication with regional partners and CARICOM institutions. Nationals in affected areas are urged to stay vigilant, adhere to local authorities’ guidance, and keep in touch with their embassies. For assistance, contact details for key representatives have been provided, including Ms. Karyl Woods, President of the SKNSA, and Ambassador H.E. Verna Mills of the St. Kitts and Nevis Embassy in Cuba.
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Love Divine strikes the perfect note
The third edition of Love Divine, held at the Frank Collymore Hall in Barbados, was a mesmerizing blend of music, faith, and community spirit. Originally conceived as a tribute to the late Sylvian Moore, the event has evolved into one of the island’s most cherished musical fundraisers. Hosted by the charismatic Antwone Holder, the evening was a rich tapestry of hymns, gospel, reggae, and Caribbean soul, performed by the Love Divine Band under the expert direction of Kevin Moore. The band’s precision and passion, coupled with modern arrangements by Roger Gittens and Mark Husbands, breathed new life into timeless classics like ‘Will Your Anchor Hold’ and ‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus.’ Trumpeter Kweku Jelani delivered a standout performance, blending reverence with reggae rhythms in ‘Lamb of God/By the Rivers of Babylon.’ The second half of the concert was a celebration of joy and unity, featuring powerful vocals from Skyy Dowridge and electrifying performances of ‘Big God’ and ‘Shackles.’ The audience, moved by heartfelt moments like the Gilkes brothers’ tribute to their late parents, joined in clapping, stomping, and singing, creating an atmosphere of togetherness. The event, produced by Trumpetboy Entertainment, raised over $27,000 for Cancer Support Services, a cause close to the hearts of co-producers Kevin and Kelita Moore. The night concluded with Stedson RPB Wiltshire’s stirring rendition of ‘I’m Alive,’ a fitting anthem of resilience and hope. Love Divine 3 proved once again that music has the power to heal, inspire, and unite.
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At the intersection of neuroscience and coaching, a Saint Lucian voice emerges
Sarah Joseph, a Certified Neuro-Behavioural Coach, has made significant strides in the field of mental health and brain function. Earlier this year, she was selected as the only Caribbean-based speaker at the International Association of Functional Neurology and Rehabilitation Global Annual Conference, where she delivered a keynote address titled ‘Rewiring the Stuck Mind: Leveraging Neuroplasticity to Overcome Emotional Avoidance and Overthinking.’ Her session received rave reviews, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
Joseph’s journey into behavioural coaching began in 2023 when she started blogging about her personal experiences with autoimmune, neuroimmune, hormonal imbalances, and chronic illnesses. Her blog, S.A.R.A.H Chronicles, evolved into a brand offering mindset transformation services rooted in cognitive neuroscience and behavioural psychology. Her mission is to help individuals rewire their minds, restore emotional balance, and build confidence.
Certified in neuroscience, behavioural change, and emotional mastery, Joseph transitioned from a 13-year career in finance and leadership to full-time behavioural coaching in 2024. She also serves as a facilitator for the Saint Lucia Employers Federation and lectures with the Youth Development and Empowerment Programme. Her work has earned her two nominations for the Caribbean Posh Icon Award.
Joseph’s coaching programmes have garnered widespread acclaim, with clients praising her professionalism and transformative methods. One client noted significant improvements in self-confidence and risk-taking abilities, attributing these changes to Joseph’s one-on-one programme.
Beyond private sessions, Joseph is expanding her reach through various platforms, including her YouTube podcast ‘Master Your Mindset,’ her LinkedIn newsletter ‘The CEO Mindset,’ and a free e-book titled ‘Mastering You.’ These resources aim to empower individuals to take charge of their mental well-being and navigate the often-stigmatised space of mental health.
Joseph’s approach to coaching focuses on the subconscious, addressing neural pathways and emotional triggers to facilitate lasting change. While her business does not provide counselling services, she offers a unique form of support that complements traditional therapy, focusing on restoration and future-oriented growth.
As one of the few behavioural coaches in the Caribbean, Joseph is charting new ground and making a profound impact on mental health in the region.
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#EyeOnMelissa: St Elizabeth officials urge residents to stay safe as Hurricane Melissa nears
As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica’s south-western coast, authorities in St Elizabeth are intensifying efforts to ensure public safety. With the storm expected to make landfall on Tuesday, local officials are urging residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Superintendent Coleridge Minto, head of the St Elizabeth Police Division, emphasized that law enforcement is fully mobilized to enforce safety measures and keep citizens off the streets during the hurricane. ‘We are appealing to everybody to remain indoors,’ he stated firmly. Meanwhile, Black River Mayor Richard Solomon highlighted that emergency preparations are complete, with 29 shelters already accommodating 360 individuals. This marks a significant increase from last year’s Hurricane Beryl, which saw 100 people seeking refuge. Both officials reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the community, particularly those in flood-prone and coastal areas, and encouraged residents to heed evacuation advisories and stay updated through official channels.
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#EyeOnMelissa:Jamaica receiving pledges of support – PM
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced that Jamaica has secured significant pledges of support from both regional and international partners to aid in hurricane preparation and recovery efforts. The pledges come as the island braces for the imminent arrival of Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm expected to bring devastating winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread flooding. Holness expressed gratitude for the outpouring of assistance from entities such as the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, the European Union, and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). Additionally, all member states of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have offered various forms of support. Speaking at a press briefing at the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in Kingston, Holness emphasized the unusual nature of Hurricane Melissa, which is anticipated to linger over the country for an extended period, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding in areas typically unaffected. The Prime Minister assured citizens that the government is fully prepared to manage the crisis, with plans already in place for relief, recovery, and rebuilding phases depending on the extent of the damage.