Carib Scope

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  • Delroy Lindo to make feature directorial debut with Jamaica-set film — reports

    Delroy Lindo to make feature directorial debut with Jamaica-set film — reports

    Acclaimed actor Delroy Lindo, renowned for his powerful performances in films like ‘Sinners’ and ‘The Harder They Fall,’ is channeling his heritage into a new cinematic venture. Following his recent role in a vampire-themed horror movie, Lindo is now developing a profoundly personal film set within a Jamaican community.

    In an exclusive interview with Deadline, Lindo revealed the project’s core themes will explore power dynamics, spirituality, and the transformative, healing power of community bonds. The actor, who was born in the UK to Jamaican parents, expressed a deep, long-standing commitment to bringing this story to the screen, having first become aware of the material in 2015. He formally secured the rights to the project in 2021 and has since been dedicated to assembling the necessary funding.

    The narrative centers on a young man grappling with profound loss. As Lindo detailed, ‘The story is about a young man who has lost his mother. His parents are both doctors. We meet him on the day it is discovered that his mother has been tragically killed.’ The plot then advances six years, revealing that neither the young man nor his father have healthily processed their grief. In an attempt to find healing, the son is sent to his maternal homeland in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains.

    Lindo confirmed the film will incorporate an element of magical realism, promising a visually and emotionally rich tapestry that blends the real with the mystical. This passion project arrives nearly five decades into his distinguished acting career. Prior to its production, audiences will next see Lindo in the upcoming monster blockbuster ‘Godzilla vs Kong: Supernova,’ slated for a 2027 release.

  • YARD Empire mentee cops Oliver Samuels Foundation scholarship

    YARD Empire mentee cops Oliver Samuels Foundation scholarship

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a landmark event for Jamaica’s cultural education, 18-year-old Dante Saunders has become the inaugural recipient of the Oliver Samuels Foundation scholarship. The ceremony, held at the prestigious Edna Manley School for the Visual and Performing Arts on January 14, marked a significant milestone in supporting emerging artistic talent from underserved communities.

    Saunders, an Arts Management student from Kingston’s inner city, credits community organization YARD Empire for transforming his educational trajectory. ‘My journey began when I attended musical classes offered by YARD Empire,’ Saunders revealed during his acceptance speech. ‘It became both an escape and an opportunity to transcend my environment while connecting with diverse individuals.’

    The young scholar specifically acknowledged mentor Terri Salmon (‘Aunty Terri’) for her persistent encouragement. ‘She consistently reinforced that higher education was accessible to me, even when completing high school seemed unimaginable,’ Saunders recounted.

    Beyond academic support, YARD Empire’s mentorship program provided performance opportunities that exposed Saunders to various arts careers and professional pathways. This comprehensive support system ultimately enabled his transition to formal arts education.

    Representing Minister of Gender, Culture, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange, Permanent Secretary Deanroy Bernard praised the foundation’s vision. ‘This initiative demonstrates commitment to nurturing Jamaica’s next generation of cultural leaders and strengthening our creative future,’ Bernard stated. He emphasized that the scholarship represents more than financial support—it constitutes ‘a national declaration that arts education matters and young creatives deserve investment.’

    Foundation namesake Oliver Samuels expressed profound satisfaction with the rapid impact of the initiative, launched merely months earlier in November 2025 with Chairman Jeff Browne. ‘This foundation embodies my dedication to giving back to Jamaica,’ Samuels declared. ‘We plan to award four annual scholarships, recognizing the arts as vital for national progress.’

    The foundation’s primary mission remains dismantling financial barriers to arts education, ensuring artistic careers become accessible to all Jamaicans regardless of socioeconomic background.

  • JC’s Joseph Salmon committed to University of Nebraska

    JC’s Joseph Salmon committed to University of Nebraska

    Jamaican athletic sensation Joseph Salmon, the standout discus thrower from Jamaica College, has officially declared his commitment to join the University of Nebraska’s prestigious track and field program. The 18-year-old throwing specialist, who turns 19 on September 22, selected Nebraska after careful consideration of the program’s exceptional athletic environment and academic offerings.

    Salmon expressed strong confidence in his decision, highlighting Nebraska’s roster of elite throwers as a decisive factor. ‘The program features exceptional athletes like Axelina Johansson, who recently shattered indoor shot put records, and Cade Moran, who opened his season with a 20-meter throw,’ Salmon noted. ‘Being surrounded by competitors performing at the highest level creates a driving force that pushes me toward excellence.’

    The young athlete’s remarkable potential became undeniable when he launched a massive 66.32-meter throw at the Purewater/RDannyWilliams/JC meet on January 10, 2026—his very first attempt of the season. This phenomenal performance not only set a new meet record but positioned him within striking distance of the longstanding Boys and Girls Athletics Championship record of 66.88 meters, held by Olympian Travis Smikle since 2011.

    Salmon, who previously claimed the Class One discus title at the 2025 Championships with a 62.14-meter throw, has significantly surpassed that mark early in the season. Reflecting on his development, the athlete acknowledged that his transfer from Clarendon College to Jamaica College proved instrumental in his rapid advancement. At Nebraska, Salmon will pursue academic studies in Construction Management while continuing to develop his athletic career under top-tier coaching and competition.

  • Jamaica to take full advantage of UN High Seas Treaty, says gov’t

    Jamaica to take full advantage of UN High Seas Treaty, says gov’t

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica has strategically positioned itself to leverage the groundbreaking UN High Seas Treaty that became effective on January 17, ushering in a transformative era for international marine conservation. Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith emphasized that this development creates unprecedented opportunities to synchronize global legal frameworks with national environmental initiatives.

    The BBNJ Agreement (Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction) represents a milestone in oceanic governance, particularly regarding scientific collaboration and fair distribution of marine resource benefits. Minister Johnson Smith highlighted Jamaica’s progressive environmental commitments, including territorial water protection and blue economy development through sustainable fisheries and coastal ecosystem rehabilitation.

    Jamaica’s diplomatic engagement with the treaty has been substantial, having ratified the agreement during the third UN Oceans Conference in Europe last June, following its initial endorsement at the 79th UN General Assembly in September 2024. The nation maintains its influential role in multilateral ocean governance as headquarters of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and through Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ participation in the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy.

    The minister further noted that Jamaica’s re-election to category ‘C’ of the International Maritime Organisation reinforces its credibility as an advocate for equitable marine resource distribution. The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, originally signed in Montego Bay, continues to serve as the foundational legal instrument for global ocean governance, with the new BBNJ Agreement representing its natural evolution.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 19th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 19th 2026

    The academic publishing landscape is undergoing a revolutionary transformation with the emergence of a groundbreaking digital platform dubbed ‘Special Publications.’ This AI-powered system, which processes new research submissions in approximately seven minutes, represents a seismic shift from traditional peer-review models that often take months.

    Developed by an anonymous team of digital archivists and AI specialists, the platform utilizes advanced machine learning algorithms to analyze, categorize, and validate scientific submissions. The system’s ‘webmaster’ functionality autonomously handles everything from initial manuscript screening to final publication readiness, dramatically accelerating the dissemination of knowledge.

    This innovation addresses critical inefficiencies in academic publishing, where valuable research frequently faces prolonged delays before reaching the scientific community. The platform’s seven-minute processing capability—signified by the ‘7 Minutes Ago’ timestamp—ensures near-instantaneous publication while maintaining rigorous academic standards through algorithmic validation protocols.

    The implications for research communities are substantial, particularly for time-sensitive fields where rapid knowledge sharing can accelerate discoveries. The platform’s architecture also promises to reduce administrative burdens on researchers and institutions while potentially democratizing access to cutting-edge findings across global scientific networks.

  • Turbulence promises even more in 2026

    Turbulence promises even more in 2026

    Jamaican entertainer Turbulence is channeling his energy from international stages into creative pursuits for 2026, following a year of extensive global touring throughout 2025. The artist, who describes his travels as a form of “musical ambassadorship,” visited multiple continents including Africa and the Caribbean, performing in locations from the Bahamas to Guadeloupe.

    The upcoming year marks a strategic pivot toward studio production with several new singles already released and additional projects in development. His recent track “Fancy Suit” signals the beginning of what promises to be a prolific period of musical creativity. Fans can anticipate a series of visual accompaniments and a full-length album scheduled for release in the near future.

    Turbulence emphasizes the critical balance between performance commitments and creative development, noting that artists must carefully manage both aspects to maintain career sustainability. While preparing for an upcoming European tour, he acknowledges that periods of reduced public visibility often indicate intensified behind-the-scenes creative work.

    The artist articulates a philosophical approach to music creation that prioritizes meaningful messaging over commercial success. Drawing inspiration from reggae legends including Beres Hammond, Cocoa Tea, and Sizzla Kalonji, Turbulence emphasizes the importance of creating music with enduring social value. His artistic mission focuses on promoting themes of love, unity, and moral consciousness through lyrics that encourage self-awareness and positive action.

    For emerging artists, Turbulence offers counsel rooted in artistic integrity: “Love your craft, respect your craft, and don’t just come hustle. Know that you’re not singing just for yourself, and know whatever you say or sing might haunt you 10 years from now.” This perspective informs his commitment to creating positive content that reflects his values and provides a meaningful legacy for future generations.

  • MG Liz’s Love Up getting love

    MG Liz’s Love Up getting love

    Emerging Jamaican vocalist MG Liz has officially launched her musical career with the release of her debut single ‘Love Up,’ marking a significant milestone shared by countless artists. The roots-reggae track, developed in collaboration with seasoned artist Derajah and Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Bruno Dupre, represents the culmination of a year’s creative effort.

    In an exclusive interview with the Jamaica Observer, MG Liz described experiencing a whirlwind of emotions surrounding her official entry into the music industry. ‘It’s really something. I’m beyond excited, but I’m also nervous because this takes everything to another level. At the same time, I feel so grateful, there’s just so much happening all at once,’ the artist confessed.

    The collaborative single emerged from Derajah’s extensive international connections, leveraging his performance experience throughout Europe and Brazil. This network facilitated the involvement of Dupre, who contributed guitar, bass, drums, and horns to the production, creating a rich musical backdrop for MG Liz’s vocal talents.

    Hailing from Kingston and raised in Redwood, St. Catherine, the newcomer cites legendary influences including Marcia Griffiths, Gladys Knight, Celine Dion, and Mariah Carey. Her artistic journey accelerated in early 2025 when she began developing original material with recording aspirations.

    MG Liz revealed that approximately 90 percent of her recently recorded work features Derajah as producer, with additional collaborations including a Swedish producer and another American producer. The initial industry response has been notably positive, with professionals showing genuine interest in her distinctive sound and artistic direction.

  • Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, Jamaican music icon and Third World co-founder, dies at 69

    Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, Jamaican music icon and Third World co-founder, dies at 69

    The global music community is mourning the sudden passing of Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, legendary guitarist and co-founder of pioneering reggae band Third World. The esteemed musician died unexpectedly on Sunday evening at age 69, according to an official statement released by his representative.

    Coore’s musical journey began as an early member of Inner Circle before he embarked on his defining musical partnership with keyboardist Ibo Cooper to establish Third World in 1973. The band revolutionized contemporary music through their innovative fusion of traditional reggae with soul, funk, pop, and rock elements, creating what would become known as the reggae-fusion genre that catapulted Jamaican music to international prominence.

    Under Coore’s creative leadership and exceptional musicianship, Third World produced an enduring catalog of hits that transcended generations and geographical boundaries. Their timeless classics including ‘Now That We’ve Found Love,’ ’96 Degrees in the Shade,’ and ‘Try Jah Love’ established them as one of Jamaica’s most commercially successful and longest-running musical acts.

    Beyond his performance excellence, Coore was celebrated for his compositional brilliance and profound musical knowledge. His contributions to Jamaican culture and the creative arts earned him the nation’s prestigious Order of Distinction, awarded by the Government of Jamaica in recognition of his exceptional service to the country’s cultural landscape.

    Coore’s legacy extends through his surviving family including his wife Lisa, children Shiah, Kanna, Stephen, and Ashley, his grandchildren, and countless extended family members, bandmates, colleagues, and devoted fans worldwide who continue to be inspired by his musical genius.

  • ‘Butch’ Stewart’s love affair with Air Jamaica

    ‘Butch’ Stewart’s love affair with Air Jamaica

    A decade-long saga of national pride, monumental challenges, and ultimate sacrifice defines Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart’s stewardship of Air Jamaica, as commemorated on the fifth anniversary of the iconic businessman’s passing. The Jamaica Observer’s retrospective series reveals the full scope of this complex chapter in Caribbean aviation history.

    When Stewart’s Air Jamaica Acquisition Group (AJAG) assumed control in 1994 with a US$26.5 million investment, he inherited an airline battered by multiple crises. The once-beloved ‘Love Bird’ had earned the notorious nickname ‘ganja bird’ due to rampant drug smuggling operations that exploited inadequate security protocols. Simultaneously, political patronage drained resources as officials and their associates routinely flew without payment, while government support for fleet modernization remained insufficient.

    Stewart immediately implemented a radical transformation strategy centered on his ‘on-time no-line’ philosophy. His vision encompassed fleet modernization, route expansion, operational efficiency improvements, and elevating Air Jamaica to premier carrier status through strategic alliances. The revitalization produced remarkable achievements: the aging fleet was replaced with 20 state-of-the-art Airbus aircraft, twelve new gateways were established, and the airline won international accolades including ‘Best Airline Servicing the Caribbean.’

    The progress was dramatically undermined in May 1995 when the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration downgraded Jamaica to Category II status due to concerns about the Civil Aviation Division’s oversight capabilities. This designation created devastating operational and financial consequences, with PricewaterhouseCoopers estimating losses exceeding US$150 million over the subsequent 2.5 years. The restrictions crippled route expansion plans, forced uneconomical leasing arrangements, and prevented utilization of new aircraft.

    Despite these setbacks, Stewart’s team achieved extraordinary operational successes. The Montego Bay hub increased aircraft utilization from below six hours to approximately ten hours daily, while code-sharing agreements with Delta Airlines and coveted landing slots at London’s Heathrow Airport significantly enhanced international connectivity. The airline became particularly vital for Jamaican diaspora communities and informal commercial importers who relied on its services for economic sustenance.

    A 2006 MIT study quantified Air Jamaica’s enormous economic impact, estimating US$5.491 billion in total contributions to Jamaica’s economy between 1995-2004. This included US$1.83 billion in direct incremental benefits and US$3.661 billion in indirect contributions through employment and visitor expenditures. These gains occurred despite accumulated losses of US$674 million during Stewart’s tenure.

    The final blows came from external forces: the 9/11 terrorist attacks devastated global air travel, while Jamaica’s reputation suffered from international coverage of crime and violence. Without government support equivalent to the US$19 billion bailout provided to U.S. carriers, Stewart made the painful decision to return the airline to government control in December 2004, ultimately leading to its acquisition by Caribbean Airlines and eventual dissolution.

  • ‘World-class recovery’

    ‘World-class recovery’

    In a significant endorsement of Jamaica’s post-disaster recovery, the United States has upgraded its travel advisory for the island nation from Level 3 to Level 2. The decision, announced by the U.S. State Department on Saturday, comes nearly three months after Hurricane Melissa—a catastrophic Category 5 storm—caused extensive damage across western parishes in October 2025, with estimated economic losses ranging between US$6 billion and US$8 billion.

    Jamaican Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett hailed the reclassification as a powerful vote of confidence in the nation’s resilience and its pioneering ‘destination assurance’ framework. ‘Jamaica is the only country globally developing a comprehensive white paper on destination assurance, which will soon evolve into formal strategy and policy,’ Bartlett stated on Sunday. This innovative approach coordinates security, health, sanitation, and public works agencies to ensure a safe, secure, and seamless experience for both visitors and residents.

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness welcomed the advisory improvement, emphasizing its importance for tourism recovery and investor confidence. The upgrade follows Holness’s telephone discussion with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where both leaders acknowledged Jamaica’s ‘world-class recovery’ efforts despite facing one of the most severe weather events in its history.

    Secretary Rubio commended Jamaican authorities for their effective management of relief operations and the rapid restoration of critical services. Their conversation also covered broader regional cooperation, with discussions focusing on infrastructure reconstruction, crime reduction strategies, and collaborative security initiatives. Jamaica’s participation in the Gang Suppression Force in Haiti was particularly noted as evidence of its role as a reliable regional partner.

    Minister Bartlett emphasized that the improved advisory level would help revitalize tourism segments that had previously avoided Jamaica due to negative travel designations. With major airports reopened and commercial flights resumed, Jamaica now anticipates a resurgence in visitor numbers and continued investment in its tourism infrastructure, bolstered by what Bartlett characterized as ‘international elevated positions’ in market competitiveness.