At just 14 years old, Amayiah Thomas is already making waves as a professional cosmetologist while nurturing her dream of becoming a footballer. A third-form student at Chaguanas North Secondary School, Amayiah has been honing her cosmetology skills for four years, inspired by her mother, Akeela Flanders, who is a seasoned hairstylist. Specializing in unique braid styles, weaves, ponytails, and nail services, Amayiah has transformed her early exposure to her mother’s craft into a thriving skill set. Her journey began by assisting her mother with clients, which allowed her to master intricate braiding techniques. Recognizing her talent, her mother enrolled her in professional courses to refine her skills and earn certification. Beyond cosmetology, Amayiah is also an aspiring footballer, having trained with the U-14 national team before pursuing opportunities abroad. Despite her introverted nature, she finds joy in dancing and cherishes the unwavering support of her mother, who has been her biggest cheerleader. Amayiah’s passion for cosmetology lies in the confidence she instills in her clients, whether for weddings, graduations, or personal transformations. However, her path hasn’t been without challenges, as she often faces skepticism from adults who doubt her abilities. To other young individuals, she offers this advice: ‘Always listen to those who support you, keep your head up, and never stop believing in yourself.’ Her mother, Akeela, echoes this sentiment, urging parents to support their children’s ambitions, as they never know when a life-changing opportunity might arise. While cosmetology is her current focus, Amayiah’s ultimate goal remains a career in football, showcasing her determination to excel in multiple fields.
作者: admin
-

#EyeOnMelissa: Braeton residents concerned over uncollected garbage ahead of potential flooding
Residents of Braeton, a community in Portmore, St Catherine, Jamaica, are raising alarms over the prolonged absence of garbage collection services as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches the island. Reports indicate that waste has been left uncollected for over a week, leaving the neighborhood littered with accumulating trash. The situation has sparked fears among locals that the uncollected garbage could obstruct drainage systems, exacerbating the risk of severe flooding.
-

#EyeOnMelissa: Pagee residents upset over distance of shelters as hurricane approaches
As Hurricane Melissa looms over Jamaica, the residents of Pagee, a small fishing village in St Mary, are grappling with the challenges of relocating to emergency shelters. The nearest designated shelter is situated several kilometres away in Trinity, a distance that has sparked frustration and concern among the community. Barrington, a local resident, voiced his discontent, stating, ‘We used to have Kirk Church nearby, but now we’re told to go to Trinity Primary School, which is far from here.’ While Barrington has opted to stay with a friend rather than seek refuge in a shelter, he expressed deep worry for vulnerable members of the community, particularly the elderly and those with health issues, who may find the journey arduous or unaffordable. ‘They’ll either have to spend money they don’t have on transportation or risk staying home and facing flooding,’ he remarked, as he hurried to a part of the village with electricity to charge his phone.
-

Police thump Jabloteh 4-0, Rangers vs Phoenix postponed
The 2025 Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) Tier I kicked off with a commanding performance by Miscellaneous Police, who secured a resounding 4-0 victory over San Juan Jabloteh at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet, Tobago. Kwesi Allen was the star of the match, scoring two first-half goals to set the tone for his team. Allen opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a swift strike, followed by a stunning finish in the 35th minute to complete his brace. Jem Gordon added a third goal just before halftime in the 43rd minute, while former national team captain Joevin Jones sealed the win with a goal in the 69th minute. The match showcased Miscellaneous Police’s dominance, particularly against a youthful Jabloteh side. Meanwhile, the second match of the doubleheader between Terminix La Horquetta Rangers and FC Phoenix was postponed due to flight disruptions caused by unexpected airspace restrictions. TT Football Association executive secretary Yale Antoine described the situation as a ‘force majeure’ event, praising the professionalism of all teams involved despite the challenges.
-

Man found not guilty of shooting at cousin in 2019
In a landmark verdict on October 21, Marcus Pollard was acquitted of all charges related to a 2019 shooting incident involving his cousin, Raquel Charles. The jury delivered a unanimous not-guilty verdict after nearly two hours of deliberation in the Hall of Justice, Port of Spain, presided over by Justice Sherene Murray-Bailey. Pollard had faced charges of shooting with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition. The prosecution alleged that Pollard fired a single shot at Charles near her head on Blanchisseuse Road, Arima, on March 19, 2019, following a verbal altercation. A spent 9mm casing recovered at the scene was confirmed by the Forensic Science Centre, but no firearm or ammunition was found on Pollard, his vehicle, or his home. Pollard maintained his innocence, claiming that Charles fabricated the story due to family tensions and jealousy. He admitted to being in the area but denied firing a weapon. The defense highlighted the lack of forensic evidence, including gunshot residue or fingerprint analysis, and inconsistencies in Charles’ account compared to first responders’ statements. Prosecutors relied on Pollard’s 2019 police interview, where he acknowledged being in the area but denied the allegations. The defense team, led by attorneys Suneesh Singh, Mikkell Samaroo, and Kimberly Mackhan, successfully argued that the state’s case was implausible due to the absence of physical evidence and inconsistencies. The jury ultimately returned not-guilty verdicts on all counts, clearing Pollard of all charges.
-

Trinidad and Tobago queens shine in South Korea
Meguella Simon, a multifaceted talent from Trinidad and Tobago, has added another remarkable achievement to her illustrious career by securing the position of second runner-up at the 48th Mrs Woman of the Universe pageant held in South Korea on October 18, 2025. This prestigious event, which celebrates married, widowed, or single mothers aged 18-55, saw Simon break barriers as the first black woman to rank in the top five in the competition’s 48-year history. Alongside her pageant success, Simon was also crowned Mrs Superstar, a testament to her diverse talents and contributions to the arts, education, and community service. Simon, a teacher with two master’s degrees in education and Carnival studies, has previously made history as the first virtual Calypso Queen and has excelled as an actress, pannist, radio announcer, and model. She also served as the former president of the Lions Club of San Fernando. Reflecting on her journey, Simon described the experience as a transformative learning opportunity, emphasizing her commitment to using her platform to empower others. She expressed pride in representing Trinidad and Tobago and hinted at future participation in pageants, though her immediate focus is on preparing for Carnival 2026. This year’s event also featured two other Trinidadian delegates: Candace Picton-Friday, who earned the title of Mrs First Lady, and Aliana Seepersad, who won Best National Costume in the Miss Woman of the Universe category. Local director Alveada Meah praised the trio for their grace and excellence, highlighting their role in placing Trinidad and Tobago on the global stage. The pageant continues to inspire women worldwide, with applications now open for the next edition.
-

#EyeOnMelissa: JN Group offices likely to remain closed on Monday
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica National (JN) Group has issued a public advisory regarding the potential closure of its local offices on Monday, October 27, as Hurricane Melissa advances toward the island. The group emphasized that its emergency response systems are fully operational to ensure the safety of employees, customers, and assets during the severe weather event.
-

Taxi driver pinned in two-vehicle Mandeville crash extricated by firefighters
A serious traffic accident occurred on New Green Road in Mandeville, Jamaica, early Sunday morning, involving two Toyota Wish vehicles, one of which was a taxi. The incident prompted an emergency response from the Mandeville Fire Station, which received a distress call at 7:31 am. According to a senior official from the Jamaica Fire Brigade, one individual was trapped inside one of the vehicles and required specialized assistance to be extricated. Firefighters successfully rescued the person, who was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation, and authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution on the roads.
-

#EyeOnMelissa: Birnamwood district in Portland impassable
PORTLAND, Jamaica—Authorities have issued a public advisory following a landslide in the Birnamwood district of Portland, which has left a section of the area completely inaccessible. The incident, involving falling boulders and debris from the hills, has prompted the police to urge motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid the hazardous zone. While no injuries or casualties have been reported, the situation has raised concerns about safety and mobility in the affected region. The police have assured the public that further updates will be provided as the situation evolves. Residents and travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest developments.
-

#EyeOnMelissa: Evacuation order issued for Alligator Pond, says councillor
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — As Hurricane Melissa intensifies into a Category 4 storm, local authorities in the Alligator Pond division are urging residents to evacuate to safer grounds. Councillor Omar Robinson, who oversees the area, reported that the coastal village is already experiencing rising sea levels, signaling the imminent threat of the hurricane. ‘The waves are climbing higher as I speak,’ Robinson stated during a telephone interview on Sunday. He confirmed that the Parish Disaster Manager, Keval Lewis, and local police have issued an evacuation order for the region. Robinson emphasized the urgency, noting that Hurricane Melissa is expected to make landfall near Alligator Pond, bringing potentially devastating impacts. The New Forest High School has been designated as a shelter, though it is nearing capacity. Robinson and his team are working to clear nearby swamps to mitigate flooding risks. He has implored residents and fisherfolk to move to higher ground, stressing the importance of safety. Many in the community are taking the storm seriously, with fisherfolk securing their boats and residents reinforcing their homes. One fisherman, in his 30s, shared that this is the first time he has prepared so thoroughly for a hurricane, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Hurricane Melissa has already claimed three lives in Haiti, where heavy rains and landslides have caused widespread destruction. As the storm continues its slow but deadly path through the Caribbean, Jamaica remains on high alert, hoping for the best while preparing for the worst.
