Carib Scope

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  • Darius Harding, Mariah Charles sparkle at secondary schools’ national 5K

    Darius Harding, Mariah Charles sparkle at secondary schools’ national 5K

    In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, CTS College’s Darius Harding and Tableland Secondary’s Mariah Charles emerged as the champions of the Secondary Schools Track and Field (SSTF) National 5K race, held at North Eastern College, Sangre Grande on November 13. The event, which saw participation from over 650 student-athletes, was a testament to the young talents’ endurance and determination.

    Harding, the standout performer in the boys’ category, clocked an impressive 16 minutes and 49 seconds, making him the only competitor to finish under 17 minutes. Queen’s Royal College’s Isaiah Alder secured second place with a time of 17:33, while Toco Secondary’s Darreon Thom took third in 17:48. Notably, El Dorado East Secondary’s Brion Scott, who won gold in the boys’ under-17 800-metre event at the Carifta Athletics Games earlier this year, finished fourth overall but topped his age group with a time of 17:55.

    On the girls’ side, Charles was the undisputed star, not only winning the under-15 age group but also claiming the overall female title with a time of 23:03. St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain’s Zahzara Williams came in second among the girls with a time of 23:26, followed by her schoolmate Arya Siewrattan in third place with 24:11. The Bishop Anstey High School under-15 duo of Aaliyah Griffith (24:23) and Keanna Cummings (24:42) completed the top five.

    The event also highlighted the depth of talent across various age groups. Arima Central Secondary’s Mikael Serrette (18:02) finished fifth overall and topped the under-17 category, while North Eastern’s Raymond Lewis placed ninth overall and won the under-15 category with a time of 19:24. Other notable performers included Presentation College San Fernando’s Shane Bissoon (18:05), Presentation College Chaguanas’ Christopher Radhay (18:47), Trinity College Moka’s Asayeis Leith (19:20), and Toco’s Shaquan Olton (19:29).

    The SSTF National 5K race not only showcased the athletic excellence of these young competitors but also underscored the importance of fostering talent at the grassroots level. The event was a celebration of sportsmanship, perseverance, and the spirit of competition, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.

  • President Christine Kangaloo visits JC Mac Donald Home for the Aged

    President Christine Kangaloo visits JC Mac Donald Home for the Aged

    In a heartfelt celebration of World Kindness Day, President Christine Kangaloo and her husband, Kerwyn Garcia, SC, visited the JC Mac Donald Home for the Aged on November 14, bringing warmth and compassion to its residents. The visit, marked by meaningful interactions and shared moments of joy, underscored the importance of kindness in fostering community connections. Established in 1931, the JC Mac Donald Home has a storied history of serving the elderly, currently housing 20 residents under the care of a dedicated team of 12 staff members. The President’s Office also organized a special lunch for the residents, enhancing the day’s festivities. A highlight of the visit was the debut performance of the Office of the President’s Choir, whose uplifting melodies brought music and delight to the home. President Kangaloo expressed her gratitude to the home’s management and staff for their unwavering commitment to caring for the elderly, reaffirming the significance of such acts of kindness in society.

  • International Men’s Day: Supporting men and boys

    International Men’s Day: Supporting men and boys

    In a world where traditional notions of masculinity often discourage emotional expression, mental health practitioner Amanda Ackbarali is championing a more compassionate approach to men’s mental health. As International Men’s Day (November 19) and Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month are observed, Ackbarali highlights the urgent need for culturally grounded support systems to help men navigate their emotional struggles. With over a decade of experience in psychology and mediation, Ackbarali founded The Opening Lotus in 2018, a mental health practice dedicated to providing accessible care for marginalized populations, including men facing depression, anxiety, burnout, and unresolved grief. She emphasizes that men often seek therapy not because they are ‘mentally ill,’ but because life has become overwhelming, and they are ready to find new ways to cope. Ackbarali points out that societal expectations in Trinidad and Tobago often pressure men to suppress their emotions, leading them to cope through humor, alcohol, or religion rather than addressing their pain. She advocates for healing spaces that feel natural and culturally familiar, such as river limes, hikes, or football matches, where men can open up without judgment. Ackbarali also notes a generational shift, with younger men increasingly embracing therapy and older men showing greater emotional openness. She calls for a strengths-based approach to men’s mental health, celebrating their resilience and capacity for leadership and care. By teaching emotional literacy early and using creative methods like music, storytelling, and sports, Ackbarali believes we can raise emotionally intelligent boys who grow into compassionate men. She urges parents, teachers, and communities to listen without ridicule and encourages men to start their healing journey, knowing that one man’s progress can inspire another.

  • Return of Vision 2020 with revitalisation plan

    Return of Vision 2020 with revitalisation plan

    In a recent announcement, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar unveiled the ambitious Revitalisation Blueprint, promising a transformative economic overhaul. The plan includes the creation of 50,000 new jobs, the establishment of an “innovation corridor,” the conversion of Carrera Prison into a resort, and the development of a 500-acre “prison campus” at Tamana. Additionally, the government anticipates a surge in foreign investment to fuel these initiatives. However, critics argue that this blueprint bears a striking resemblance to Vision 2020, a similar plan introduced two decades ago by former Prime Minister Patrick Manning, which ultimately failed to materialize. The parallels between the two plans are undeniable, with the only notable update being the Tamana prison campus, ironically proposed on lands originally designated for science and technology under Vision 2020. Skepticism deepens as the 2025-2026 fiscal budget lacks any allocated funding for these projects, raising questions about their feasibility. Without clear financial backing, legislative groundwork, or detailed timelines, the blueprint risks becoming another unfulfilled promise. Critics highlight the government’s history of grand announcements without concrete results, pointing to ongoing challenges such as a shrinking manufacturing base, sluggish private sector investment, and security instability. Until the administration presents a measurable, costed, and time-bound plan supported by actual budgetary allocations, the Revitalisation Blueprint remains a well-written dream lacking financial substance. Citizens are urged to hold the government accountable, ensuring that vision does not devolve into illusion.

  • Lt Commander Claudio Luces Smith urges youth to Never Give Up

    Lt Commander Claudio Luces Smith urges youth to Never Give Up

    Lt Commander Claudio Luces Smith, a 45-year-old Coast Guard officer and welfare officer for Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force, has dedicated over two decades to serving his nation and mentoring its youth. Known in the music industry as Naldinyo, Smith combines his passion for music with mentorship through his Never Give Up project, aiming to inspire young people to overcome challenges and make meaningful life choices. Growing up in Boyce Trace and Kernaham Trace, Chin Chin Cunupia, Smith’s early life was shaped by the values of hard work and discipline instilled by his parents. His journey from Madras Government Primary School to becoming head prefect at Presentation College, Chaguanas, laid the foundation for his unwavering determination. Smith’s career in the TT Defence Force began at 22, driven by a desire to serve his country. A pivotal moment came when he coordinated a life-saving medical evacuation, reinforcing his commitment to service. Beyond his military duties, Smith founded the Futuro Stars Football Academy and Youth Club in 2009, focusing on youth development. Recognizing the power of music, he launched the Never Give Up project, releasing five songs that blend mentorship with positive messaging. Smith’s work addresses critical issues faced by young men, including drug misuse, bullying, and mental health struggles. He emphasizes the importance of positive male role models in guiding youth toward better choices. As a father of four, Smith credits his family’s support and effective time management for balancing his responsibilities. On International Men’s Day, he encouraged young men to embrace determination and persistence, urging them to rise above setbacks and shape their destinies. Smith’s vision is to expand his initiative into schools and community programs, fostering self-belief and purpose among the youth. He also calls on society to celebrate and uplift positive male figures, whose stories can inspire the next generation.

  • Evening of parang raises funds for San Fernando West toy drive

    Evening of parang raises funds for San Fernando West toy drive

    San Fernando West marked the beginning of the Christmas season with a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community spirit. On November 14, the constituency hosted its first Christmas fundraiser under the patronage of MP and Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath at the Naparima Bowl. The event, aimed at supporting the annual Christmas toy drive, brought together patrons for an evening of live parang music, local cuisine, and festive camaraderie. Singer Joel John opened the night with nostalgic renditions of Christmas classics, setting a warm and cosy tone. The energy escalated with Fuego Caribeño, a parang band from Vistabella, whose fiery performance in vibrant red outfits electrified the stage. Their set included a Spanish twist on ‘Dance with Me,’ Scrunter’s soca parang hit ‘That Eh Working Here Tonight,’ and their award-winning ‘El Annuncio,’ culminating in a lively rendition of ‘La Bamba.’ Una Solo Voz followed, offering a contrasting elegance in black attire. Their performance, accompanied by the legendary Clarita Rivas on the cuatro, showcased the band’s versatility and captivated the audience. Amid the festivities, Dr. Dowlath honoured four distinguished constituents for their contributions to society, including Sabrina Mowlah-Baksh, Dr. Catherine Ali, Ivan Toolsie, and Dr. Jamwant Maharaj. The evening concluded with outdoor celebrations, featuring food stalls and continued music, fostering a sense of community and Christmas cheer while raising funds for the toy drive.

  • Trinidad and Tobago ruggermen set for RAN Sevens on home soil

    Trinidad and Tobago ruggermen set for RAN Sevens on home soil

    The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) men’s rugby team is set to compete in the 2025 Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens tournament, scheduled to take place at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Malabar from November 21 to 23. The 12-member squad includes nine players from last year’s team, which reached the final before falling to Canada. Notable returning players include Nigel Ballington, Shakeel Dyte, Keston Earle, Agboola Silverthorn, Keishon Walker, and dead-ball specialist Ruari O’Farrell. The tournament will feature teams from Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, and defending champions Canada. The TT team will be led by coach Jonathan O’Connor and managed by Chad Simeon. The men’s tier one knockout matches will begin on November 22, with the final set for November 23. The women’s category will see TT compete against Barbados, Bermuda, Guyana, Jamaica, and reigning champions Mexico. The top three men’s teams (excluding Canada) and the top two women’s teams will qualify for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, the men’s tier two winner, if a full member union of RAN, will earn a promotion opportunity.

  • This Day in History – November 19

    This Day in History – November 19

    As the 323rd day of 2025 unfolds, the world reflects on a tapestry of historical milestones and significant events that have shaped societies across the globe. Today marks the establishment of the Castleton Botanical Gardens in St Mary, Jamaica, in 1862, a testament to the enduring beauty of nature and human ingenuity. In 1915, the execution of labour organiser and songwriter Joe Hill by Utah state officials cemented his legacy as a folk hero in the American labour movement. The Soviet Government’s formal abolition of radio broadcasting by foreign correspondents in 1946 highlighted the tightening grip of state control during the Cold War era. A landmark moment in religious history occurred in 1965 when the ecumenical council adopted a declaration affirming freedom of conscience as Church doctrine, a decision that continues to resonate in theological discourse. The completion of the 12.9-kilometre Confederation Bridge in 1996, the longest bridge over ice-covered waters, stands as a marvel of engineering and a symbol of unity between Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. In 1998, a historic moment unfolded as South Korean tourists entered North Korea for the first time since the division of the Korean Peninsula, marking a tentative step towards reconciliation. The release of the Nintendo Wii in 2006 revolutionised the gaming industry, while Amazon.com’s introduction of the Kindle in 2007 transformed the way people read and access literature. A 2009 study published in Nature revealed alarming trends in the world’s oceans’ ability to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change. In 2010, the US Transportation Safety Administration exempted uniformed airline pilots from new screening procedures, a decision that sparked debates over security and privacy. The untimely death of New Zealand rugby legend Jonah Lomu in 2015 left the sports world in mourning, while Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe’s refusal to resign in 2017 marked a tumultuous chapter in the nation’s political history. The Weeknd’s 2019 hit single Blinding Lights achieved unprecedented success, becoming the longest-charting song on Billboard’s Top 100. Meanwhile, protests in Iran resulted in significant casualties, with Amnesty International reporting 106 deaths over five days. A 2020 inquiry exposed unlawful killings by elite Australian troops in Afghanistan, casting a shadow over the nation’s military operations. Austria’s 2021 decision to mandate COVID-19 vaccinations marked a bold step in pandemic response, while Malaysia’s 2022 general elections produced the country’s first-ever hung Parliament. In 2023, Brazil recorded its highest-ever temperature of 112.6°F, a stark reminder of the escalating climate crisis. Today also celebrates the birthdays of notable figures such as Ferdinand de Lesseps, Calvin Klein, Savion Glover, and Winston “Merritone” Blake, whose contributions have left indelible marks on their respective fields.

  • JBG weighs exit from US meat business after $46-b fraud

    JBG weighs exit from US meat business after $46-b fraud

    Jamaica Broilers Group (JBG) is contemplating a strategic exit from its beleaguered US meat business following a significant fraud scandal that has shaken the company. The decision comes as JBG implements a sweeping overhaul to restore financial stability and operational efficiency. The fraud, which spanned nearly four years, involved the deliberate underreporting of costs to artificially inflate profits, leading to $46 billion in balance sheet adjustments and the erasure of shareholder equity. The scheme was uncovered after a whistleblower alerted management, prompting immediate action.

  • Caribbean programmes give thumbs up to unified basketball tournament

    Caribbean programmes give thumbs up to unified basketball tournament

    The Caribbean region witnessed a groundbreaking event as the Special Olympics 3×3 unified basketball tournament took place in Guadeloupe from November 14 to 15. This historic competition, held at the Daniel Cassin gymnasium, marked the first of its kind in the region, bringing together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to promote social inclusion. Delegations from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, and host nation Guadeloupe participated in the event, which is now being hailed as a potential permanent fixture on the regional sports calendar.