Carib Scope

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  • Stephon Gabriel: From sound engineering to soca

    Stephon Gabriel: From sound engineering to soca

    Couva-based music producer Stephon Gabriel has successfully transitioned from behind-the-scenes sound engineering to center stage as a recording artist, marking a significant career evolution with his debut single release. The accomplished sound technician unveiled his original composition “Soft Touch” on November 17th, representing a personal and professional milestone in his fifteen-year music industry journey.

    Gabriel’s musical transformation began unexpectedly earlier this year when his reimagined cover of Kes’ “Cocoa Tea” garnered substantial online engagement. The innovative rendition, featuring completely reworked instrumentation, demonstrated his creative vision and convinced him to pursue original music production more seriously.

    The Trinidadian creative’s path to music professionalism took a decisive turn after winning the World Bank’s Voices4Climate competition in 2013. This achievement prompted him to leave his position at Microsoft TT—despite holding a computer science degree from the University of Southern Caribbean—to fully commit to his musical aspirations. That same year, he established Gabriel Creative Studios, solidifying his dedication to audio production.

    Reflecting on his origins, Gabriel recalled his early fascination with music: “From the age of 14, I knew music lived in me. I was the guy at school everyone would come to, to record love songs for their girlfriends.” His passion was ignited upon receiving a guitar for his fourteenth birthday, eventually expanding to include work on feature films such as “Home” and “Again” produced in Trinidad.

    “Soft Touch” emerged from a collaborative creative process with producers Jumaane, Jaydot, and Amiel Duncan, with mastering handled by Andre Stewart. The track represents both personal expression and broader professional ambitions. Gabriel explained its genesis: “It started with one of my producers I work with—Jumaane, who sent me a couple tracks and I put aside a particular one and then, on one random night, I listened to it and got to writing.”

    Beyond his artistic pursuits, Gabriel operates a publishing division called Just In Time Music, designed to connect Caribbean creatives with international opportunities in Hollywood and global markets. He has secured several music placement deals for films and television shows, though specific projects remain confidential during ongoing negotiations.

    Recognizing educational gaps within the local music community, Gabriel has launched an educational TikTok account (@StephanGabrial868) to share crucial information about royalties, music publishing, and masters ownership—empowering fellow Trinidadian artists with industry knowledge essential for professional success.

  • La Romain man killed in car crash

    La Romain man killed in car crash

    A devastating single-vehicle accident on the Solomon Hochoy Highway has resulted in the death of a 50-year-old man from La Romain. The victim, identified as Dennis Ramesh Nehorah of Hibiscus Drive, lost his life when his car veered off the southbound lane near Gasparillo and subsequently caught fire.

    Preliminary reports indicate the incident occurred recently, with emergency services responding to the scene where the vehicle had already become fully engulfed in flames. The exact circumstances leading to the vehicle leaving the roadway remain under investigation by authorities.

    The tragic incident has prompted renewed discussions about road safety measures along this major transportation corridor. The Solomon Hochoy Highway serves as a critical artery for transportation in the region, making safety concerns particularly significant for regular commuters and transportation officials alike.

    Nehorah’s passing marks another somber addition to Trinidad and Tobago’s road traffic fatality statistics, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced in preventing such tragedies. Community members from La Romain have expressed shock and sadness upon learning of the incident, remembering Nehorah as a longtime resident of their community.

  • Family of Lisa Morris-Julian calls for fire report to be made public

    Family of Lisa Morris-Julian calls for fire report to be made public

    The grieving family of former D’Abadie/O’Meara MP Lisa Morris-Julian is calling for full public disclosure of the official investigation report into the devastating December 2024 fire that claimed her life along with her two children. This demand emerges just before the first anniversary of the tragedy that shocked the nation.

    Despite Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander’s assertion that the report exonerates responding fire officers and rules out foul play, the family confirms they have neither received the document nor been consulted about its findings. A family representative expressed profound frustration, stating, “The entire country needs to know what happened that morning,” while highlighting concerning discrepancies in the official narrative.

    The comprehensive report, completed by a special three-member committee on January 10, examined both the circumstances of the blaze and the emergency response effectiveness. The autopsy confirmed Morris-Julian, her 25-year-old daughter Xianne Julian, and six-year-old son Jesiah Julian all succumbed to smoke inhalation at their Farfan Street residence in Arima—notably located within walking distance of the local fire station.

    Family members raise serious questions about response times and resource allocation, particularly given reports that neighbors personally alerted the nearby fire station yet witnessed delayed emergency deployment. “I was there from the moment I found out her house was on fire, and there was nobody from the fire station there when I got there,” the relative recounted, challenging the official clearance of fire service procedures.

    The family maintains that public transparency would not only provide them with closure but could potentially prevent future tragedies through improved safety protocols. They find the government’s reluctance to release the document perplexing, noting: “If everything is well, then just release it. If you are able to publicly eliminate foul play, why not share what happened publicly? This concerns the public.”

    As the family prepares to endure their first Christmas without their loved ones, they remember Lisa as an exceptional mother and public servant, Xianne as a promising young woman with a bright future, and Jesiah as a child who touched everyone he met. Their profound loss is compounded by what they describe as insensitive public commentary and the politicization of their tragedy.

  • Mona continue Walker Cup defence against Hydel

    Mona continue Walker Cup defence against Hydel

    The stage is set for thrilling quarterfinal clashes in the ISSA Walker Cup on Monday, featuring historic rivalries and underdog ambitions. Defending champions Mona High commence proceedings at Waterhouse Stadium with a 2:00 pm encounter against Hydel High, followed by the marquee matchup between nine-time champions Kingston College and archrivals Calabar High at 4:15 pm.

    Simultaneously at Ashenheim Stadium, Vauxhall High—the sole remaining contender never to have secured the trophy—faces two-time winners St. Catherine High at 2:00 pm. The day’s fixtures conclude with Charlie Smith High, also two-time champions, confronting four-time holders Tivoli Gardens High at 4:15 pm.

    Mona High enters the contest with significant psychological advantage following Hydel’s devastating 0-5 defeat to Jamaica College on Saturday. The defending champions additionally draw motivation from the hospitalization of their football program head, Craig Butler, potentially overwhelming opponents grappling with physical and mental recovery.

    The Kingston College versus Calabar confrontation transcends ordinary competition, carrying the weight of recent history. Their last encounter ended 2-2, eliminating KC from the Manning Cup—a result that KC coach Vassell Reynolds acknowledges as motivation for redemption. Calabar’s coach Jeremy Miller anticipates intensified rivalry dynamics, noting: “We expect KC to seek revenge for their Manning Cup exit. We must overcome our own disappointment to pursue seasonal redemption with this trophy.”

    Historical context heightens stakes: Calabar last lifted the Walker Cup in 2007, while KC’s most recent triumph occurred in 2016. Meanwhile, St. Catherine High leverages their 2018 format-change advantage that propelled previous victories in 2019 and 2021 against a Vauxhall squad pursuing their inaugural title at this level.

    The Charlie Smith-Tivoli Gardens matchup introduces fatigue variables, with Charlie Smith recovering from a physically draining 0-1 defeat to Excelsior on Saturday. Their capacity to regenerate against a well-rested Tivoli squad—idle since Wednesday—could determine this contest’s outcome.

    Established in 1961 to honor HN “Chicken” Walker, devoted former general secretary and treasurer of ISSA, the Walker Cup adopted its current “best losers” format in 2018, permitting teams eliminated from later Manning Cup rounds to compete while excluding semifinalists.

  • Youth Arise Antigua Ends 2025 with Two Grand Community Initiatives

    Youth Arise Antigua Ends 2025 with Two Grand Community Initiatives

    Youth Arise Antigua has culminated its 2025 operations with two significant community engagement projects, demonstrating the organization’s sustained dedication to social welfare and youth development under Makiba Ward’s guidance.

    The first initiative occurred on November 29, 2025, at Fiennes Institute Nursing Home, where the organization conducted a Thanksgiving Lunch for elderly residents. Volunteers and members participated in meal service activities while establishing meaningful interpersonal connections with seniors. The event emphasized respect for older generations and highlighted the value of cross-generational relationships within community structures. Participants reported an atmosphere characterized by mutual appreciation and emotional fulfillment for both volunteers and residents.

    On December 13, 2025, the organization executed its annual Christmas Toy Drive, distributing more than 200 gifts to children throughout St John’s metropolitan area. This charitable endeavor brought festive celebrations to numerous families through contributions from donors and organizational members, ensuring widespread holiday enjoyment across the community.

    Concurrently, Youth Arise Antigua has commenced membership recruitment for the 2026 operational year. The registration period opened December 1, 2025 and will continue through January 16, 2026. The organization seeks motivated individuals committed to community advancement and youth-driven development projects throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

    Future objectives include expanded community outreach, enhanced partnership networks, and increased youth participation in national development initiatives, maintaining the organization’s core mission of service-oriented action and compassionate engagement.

  • Jonge ondernemers krijgen structurele steun

    Jonge ondernemers krijgen structurele steun

    The Surinamese government is developing a comprehensive structural program to train and mentor young entrepreneurs, with President Jennifer Simons announcing collaborative efforts with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) during Saturday’s Entrepreneurship Fair & Bazaar at the Congreshall. Existing institutions have already initiated training programs as part of this national initiative.

    President Simons emphasized the critical importance of providing youth with economic development opportunities to prevent cycles of poverty. She stated that sustainable entrepreneurship requires robust support through training, skill development, and continuous guidance. “Young people must be given the space to excel in their chosen fields,” Simons declared during her address.

    The event, organized by the RUMAS Foundation under Emmy Hart’s leadership and themed ‘Dream to Goal,’ focused on promoting self-employment among young Surinamese. The president commended the organization’s efforts, describing the participation of young trainers and attendees as “encouraging and hopeful.”

    Multiple government agencies are already implementing support measures. The Foundation for Labor Mobilization & Development (SAO) has commenced training sessions, while the Foundation for Productive Work Units (SPWE) requires further strengthening. The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports has also scheduled educational activities. Additionally, the government plans to establish a specialized institute next year to guide aspiring entrepreneurs through partnerships with private sector entities and existing community organizations.

    President Simons highlighted that well-prepared entrepreneurs will be positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities as Suriname’s oil and gas sector develops further. She urged young entrepreneurs to persevere and continue their education despite business challenges.

    The fair featured presentations from four entrepreneurial groups representing hairstylists, textile workers, landscapers, and pastry chefs. The Volkscredietbank (VCB) provided information about affordable loan options, while RUMAS director Hart announced new training programs for canteen management, car wash businesses, and construction sectors.

    Participant Kelvin Paiman, a hairstylist, described the event as a significant motivational boost. “My hobby has become my profession,” he stated, noting that such initiatives help eliminate doubts among youth considering business ventures.

  • Redefining Student Success Through Education and Wellness in St. John’s Rural West

    Redefining Student Success Through Education and Wellness in St. John’s Rural West

    A groundbreaking educational initiative combining academic reinforcement with comprehensive wellness support has been launched at Five Islands Primary School and Greenbay Primary School in Antigua. This innovative program represents a holistic approach to student development, addressing both educational needs and health requirements that fundamentally impact learning capabilities.

    The program operates on the principle that academic excellence and physical wellbeing are intrinsically linked. By simultaneously strengthening instructional support systems and health outcomes, the initiative creates an optimized environment where students can achieve their maximum potential. The project enjoys political backing from Senator Michael Joseph, ABLP Caretaker for St. John’s Rural West, who serves as Junior Minister in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs.

    Academic enhancement components include structured after-school instruction for Grade Six students in Mathematics and English Language. Two specialized educators—one dedicated to mathematics instruction and another focusing on English—deliver targeted academic support four days weekly. Students participate in rotating group sessions to ensure balanced exposure to both subjects. These additional instructional hours serve multiple purposes: reinforcing classroom learning, recovering lost instructional time, and preparing students more effectively for national standardized assessments.

    While the schools maintain responsibility for the academic framework, the program receives substantial augmentation through financial assistance, vitamin supplements, and additional resources provided through senatorial support, ensuring successful implementation.

    The wellness dimension constitutes a equally critical component, with all participating students receiving daily nutritional supplements specifically formulated to support immune function, cognitive development, and overall health. The supplementation regimen includes multivitamins, DHA, vitamin C, and elderberry, complementing existing school meal programs. This nutritional support aims to reduce illness-related absenteeism while promoting sustained engagement in learning activities. Each student receives a three-month supply of supplements for administration under parental supervision, with continuation evaluated based on observed outcomes.

    School administrators have enthusiastically endorsed the initiative as a timely intervention. Principal Alden James of Five Islands Primary School emphasized that the extended learning hours provide a structured, supervised environment during after-school periods. Acting Principal Cleopatra Henry of Greenbay Primary School highlighted the program’s dual approach to addressing both academic deficiencies and nutritional challenges affecting student populations.

    Currently, more than 95 Grade Six students across both institutions are participating in the comprehensive program. Implementation will be closely monitored throughout the academic year, with performance metrics utilized to evaluate effectiveness. Successful outcomes may lead to program expansion in subsequent academic years, potentially extending the integrated approach to additional grade levels and schools.

    This initiative reflects a broader commitment to youth development in St. John’s Rural West, aligning educational support with wellness interventions to not only improve examination results but also foster long-term student success and resilience.

  • Guyana signs agreement to expand military cooperation with US

    Guyana signs agreement to expand military cooperation with US

    In a significant move to bolster regional security, Guyana has formalized an expanded military cooperation agreement with the United States. The pact, endorsed following high-level discussions in Georgetown, signals a strategic realignment of US defense priorities toward the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Western Hemisphere.

    President Irfaan Ali confirmed the agreement after meeting with key US defense officials, including Senior Advisor to the Secretary of War Patrick Weaver and Acting Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Joseph Humire. The arrangement establishes a framework for intensified joint military operations while expressly respecting both nations’ sovereignty and legal systems.

    This development represents the operationalization of Washington’s new ‘Southern Spear’ security initiative, which calls for increased strategic attention and resource allocation to CARICOM nations. The agreement specifically enhances existing mechanisms like the Shiprider Agreement, enabling US security forces to pursue, intercept, and board vessels suspected of drug trafficking within Guyanese territorial waters.

    When questioned about the potential for a full defense treaty, President Ali characterized the agreement as an ‘evolving process,’ indicating that more substantive cooperation agreements would be discussed in coming months.

    The timing of this military accord follows President Ali’s emphatic statements about safeguarding regional stability. In talks with Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, Ali highlighted concerns about criminal exploitation of Guyanese airspace and waterways for illicit activities. He emphasized the necessity of international partnerships to combat transnational crime and ensure long-term regional security for future generations.

  • Business Baddie offering support for female entrepreneurs

    Business Baddie offering support for female entrepreneurs

    A transformative entrepreneurial movement is gaining momentum in Barbados, offering a structured antidote to the isolation many women face in business. Business Baddie, a pioneering support network founded by attorney and former educator Kerrilyn Walters, provides female entrepreneurs with the practical tools and community accountability needed to transform ideas into successful enterprises.

    Established in 2021 as a modest consulting initiative, the organization has evolved into a structured membership group that deliberately maintains an intimate size—currently approximately 13 members—to ensure meaningful engagement and personalized support. Walters, who serves as Chief Business Baddie Officer, conceived the idea drawing from her previous experience running a baking business before entering the legal profession.

    The program’s core methodology centers on hands-on, practical workshops conducted monthly, covering essential business skills including marketing strategy, content creation, financial planning, budgeting, and operational scheduling. Unlike conventional seminars where participants passively receive information, Business Baddie sessions require active implementation—members literally plan their content calendars or develop marketing strategies during workshops.

    A distinctive feature of the program is its accountability partnership system, where members are paired and rotated quarterly to maintain fresh perspectives and consistent motivation. This structure ensures participants remain committed to their stated business objectives despite life’s inevitable distractions.

    The community extends beyond formal workshops through active WhatsApp communication, creating a continuous support network where members receive prompt responses to queries and challenges. This approach has demonstrated tangible results, with one member successfully transitioning from a home-based operation to establishing a standalone salon.

    While currently maintaining its boutique size, the organization welcomes women across all age groups and business development stages—from those seriously contemplating entrepreneurship to established business owners seeking growth. The group is preparing to launch its third cohort in 2026, with new initiatives to be announced at their upcoming members’ dinner at Radisson Aquatica Resort on December 14.

    Business Baddie primarily operates through its Instagram platform @businessbaddiebb, maintaining an accessible digital presence while fostering genuine, substantive connections that address the critical support gap in female entrepreneurship.

  • Governor-General And Lady Williams Express Condolences On The Passing Of Sir Gerald Watt, Kcn, Kc

    Governor-General And Lady Williams Express Condolences On The Passing Of Sir Gerald Watt, Kcn, Kc

    The nation of Antigua and Barbuda is in mourning following the passing of Sir Gerald Owen Anderson Watt, KCN, KC, a towering figure in the country’s legal and political landscape. His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Her Excellency Lady Williams have issued official condolences expressing profound sorrow at the loss of the former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

    In their tribute, the Governor-General and Lady Williams highlighted Sir Gerald’s exceptional decades-long career in public service, during which he held multiple prestigious positions including Attorney General, Parliamentarian, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, and President of the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association. His most notable role as long-serving Speaker of the House of Representatives spanned over a decade, where he demonstrated remarkable dedication to parliamentary procedures and democratic principles.

    Renowned for his formidable legal intellect and spirited demeanor, Sir Gerald was celebrated for his unwavering convictions and readiness to engage in vigorous debate. His distinctive combination of intellectual rigor and outspoken nature brought substantial clarity and courage to critical national discussions concerning legal frameworks, governance structures, and constitutional matters. This significant contribution played a pivotal role in strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic institutions.

    Throughout his distinguished career—whether in parliamentary chambers, courtrooms, or public forums—Sir Gerald consistently commanded respect for his principled positions and steadfast commitment to advancing the nation’s best interests. His tenure as Speaker was particularly noted for its passion, thoroughness, and profound respect for the responsibilities inherent to the office.

    The Governor-General and Lady Williams emphasized that Sir Gerald’s legacy of exemplary public service, intellectual bravery, and national devotion will endure in the nation’s collective memory. His absence will be deeply felt across the legal and political spheres.

    Their Excellencies have extended heartfelt sympathies to the Watt family, offering assurances of prayers and support during this period of profound loss and reflection for the nation.