Men and boys from across Antigua and Barbuda gathered on Friday for the annual International Men’s Day Forum, organized by the Department of Gender Affairs. The half-day event, held at Beachlimerz on Fort James, centered on critical themes of mental health, masculinity, and family roles under the banner “Supporting Men and Boys – Fostering Integrity, Compassion, and Resilience.” The forum kicked off with an engaging “Vote with Your Feet” exercise, designed to foster open dialogue and set the tone for the day’s discussions. Sydney Retemyer led the first session, emphasizing the importance of men addressing their mental health and seeking support. Colin John Jenkins followed with an insightful presentation on modern masculinity, exploring how role models and values like respect and accountability influence men’s behavior. Roland Moore concluded the event with a heartfelt discussion on fatherhood, advocating for emotionally engaged and supportive male caregivers. Participants openly shared their experiences, highlighting challenges such as stigma, communication barriers, and the need for robust support systems. Ashlea Ambris, Project Officer, praised the forum for creating a safe and honest environment for learning and connection, underscoring the broader societal benefits of enhancing male well-being. The Department of Gender Affairs expressed gratitude to its partners and reaffirmed its dedication to ongoing initiatives addressing the needs of men and boys.
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US denies visas to Cuban athletes to compete in Olympic qualifiers
The international campaign ‘Let Them Play’ has emerged as a powerful response to the challenges faced by Cuban athletes in participating in global competitions, including those leading up to the upcoming summer event in Los Angeles. Entire delegations have been barred from attending crucial technical meetings and competitions, hindering their ability to represent their nation on the global stage. Yasser Ibarra, First Secretary of the Cuban Embassy in Washington, highlighted the profound impact of these restrictions, stating that denying athletes the right to compete not only disrupts their careers but also undermines collective dreams and national pride. He emphasized that these obstacles are part of a broader policy of pressure and hostility against Cuba, extending even into the realm of sports. During a virtual meeting attended by activists from the United States, Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Canada, Ibarra stressed the significance of the campaign, describing it as a fundamental call for justice rather than a mere slogan. The Hands Off Cuba Committee in Los Angeles, spearheading the initiative, is advocating for messages to be sent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and seeking support from public figures, celebrities, and sports personalities. The campaign has already garnered backing from the National Network on Cuba, a coalition of over 60 organizations in the United States, underscoring its growing momentum and global resonance.
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FIHAV 2025 opens in Havana
The 39th Havana International Fair (FIHAV) is set to unfold from November 24 to 29 at the Expocuba fairgrounds, marking another significant event in Cuba’s economic calendar. This year’s edition introduces five innovative thematic areas, each designed to highlight Cuba’s potential in various sectors.
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Ex-Deputy Leaders Rigobert, Joseph return to endorse UWP
In a surprising turn of events, former United Workers Party (UWP) Deputy Leaders Gale Rigobert and Ezechiel Joseph made a notable return to the political arena on November 23. Their appearance at the UWP’s General Election Manifesto Launch in La Caye, Dennery, ended weeks of speculation about their political allegiances. The event, marked by fervent speeches and strategic endorsements, underscored their unwavering support for the party. Earlier in the evening, UWP Public Relations Officer Lenard “Spider” Montoute hinted at significant developments, teasing the crowd with the statement, “All the big fish are here tonight.” This followed comments by SLP Political Leader Philip J. Pierre, who had fueled rumors during a November 12 public meeting in Dennery South, suggesting that the UWP was unaware of impending political shifts. The speculation intensified after former UWP MP Edmund Estephane announced his decision to switch allegiance to the SLP. However, Rigobert and Joseph’s presence at the UWP event dispelled any doubts about their loyalty. Rigobert, a former Micoud North MP and Education Minister, delivered a passionate rallying cry, urging supporters to reclaim governance on December 1. Joseph, former MP for Babonneau and Agriculture Minister, emphasized his commitment despite personal challenges, endorsing UWP leader Allen Michael Chastanet as the next Prime Minister of Saint Lucia. He also dismissed rumors of discord with Chastanet, stating, “There is no divorce between Allen and myself.” Additionally, Joseph endorsed the party’s new candidate for Babonneau, Titus Preville, and firmly rejected any notion of wavering allegiance.
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Reach Within team runs 2025 TCS NYC Marathon
For the 15th consecutive year, Reach Within, a flagship initiative of the Bartholomew J Lawson Foundation for Children and a key project of the Caribbean Centre for Health Equity at St George’s University, successfully mobilized a team of runners for the 2025 TCS NYC Marathon. These dedicated participants collectively raised $60,000, which will directly fund programs aimed at empowering Grenada’s most vulnerable children and teens across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. Founded in 2005 in the wake of Hurricane Ivan, Reach Within initially focused on trauma-healing classes for families and school reconstruction. Over the years, it has expanded its reach to include literacy training, healthcare, food supplementation, and recreational activities in rural schools, alongside trauma-healing programs for youth in care homes. The organization emphasizes resilience over trauma, offering therapeutic activities such as drumming, sports, yoga, and caregiver training, as well as mentoring and counseling. Its Lucas Street drop-in center serves as a vital hub for teens and young adults transitioning out of the Child Protection Agency’s care system. Dr. Karen Lawson, founder of Reach Within, expressed pride in the marathon team’s dedication, highlighting how their efforts translate into transformative opportunities for Grenada’s youth. Those interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more about the 2026 TCS NYC Marathon can contact Donnet Williams, Reach Within’s General Manager, at [email protected].
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Man killed in Pierrot shooting
A tragic incident unfolded in Pierrot, Vieux Fort, resulting in the death of a 55-year-old man. Authorities reported that on the morning of Friday, November 21, at approximately 6:30 a.m., officers from the Criminal Investigations Department at the Vieux Fort Police Station were alerted to an unconscious man discovered on the ground. Emergency responders from the Saint Lucia Fire Service swiftly attended to the victim, who was then transported by ambulance to St. Jude Hospital. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead by a medical practitioner. The deceased has been identified as Paul Campsell, a resident of Pierrot, Vieux Fort. In a related development, police have confirmed that one individual is currently in custody and is assisting with the ongoing investigation into the shooting.
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Côte d’Ivoire Resigns as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania
Olivia Yacé, the representative of Côte d’Ivoire, has officially stepped down from her role as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania. The Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee confirmed the decision on November 24, 2025, stating that Yacé would relinquish all titles and mandates issued by the Miss Universe organization. The committee emphasized that her sash would be returned as a testament to this mutual agreement. Yacé, who secured the fourth runner-up position at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok, cited personal principles as the driving force behind her resignation. In a heartfelt social media post, she expressed her commitment to values such as respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity. She also highlighted her desire to serve as a role model for young women, particularly in African and Afro-descendant communities, encouraging them to defy limitations and amplify their voices. Yacé concluded her statement with gratitude, vowing to continue her journey with determination and a renewed focus on empowerment. Her resignation coincides with ongoing controversy surrounding the 74th Miss Universe pageant. Omar Harfouch, a judge who resigned days before the event, labeled the winner, Fátima Bosch, as a ‘fake Miss Universe’ and alleged irregularities in the selection process. Accusations also surfaced linking Miss Universe Organization President Raúl Rocha’s business dealings with Pemex to the pageant results. Rocha vehemently denied these claims, asserting that his company’s contract with Pemex was secured through a competitive process unrelated to the Bosch family or the competition.
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Trump Labels Maduro a Terrorist
In a significant escalation of tensions between the United States and Venezuela, the Trump administration has officially labeled Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his associates as members of a foreign terrorist organization. This designation targets the so-called ‘Cartel de los Soles,’ a term used to describe alleged corrupt Venezuelan officials, though it is not formally recognized as a criminal group. The move grants the U.S. government broader authority to impose stringent sanctions and explore expanded military options within Venezuela. As part of ‘Operation Southern Spear,’ the U.S. has already deployed warships and thousands of troops to the region, with recent bomber and fighter jet flights conducted near Venezuela’s coastline. Maduro has vehemently denied any involvement in drug trafficking and dismissed the existence of the cartel. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that three international airlines canceled flights departing Venezuela over the weekend following a U.S. Federal Aviation Administration warning about ‘potentially hazardous’ airspace. Despite the heightened tensions, both leaders have hinted at a possible willingness to engage in future talks, with Trump stating he might speak with Maduro ‘at a certain time.’
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Champions Holmwood Technical win double on ISSA netball resumption
ST JAMES, Jamaica—The ISSA Rural Area netball competition resumed on Tuesday with a series of thrilling matches, showcasing the dominance of double defending champions Holmwood Technical. The competition had been paused for nearly a month due to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in late October. Holmwood Technical kicked off their campaign with impressive victories in both the Junior and Senior categories, defeating Bishop Gibson High. The Junior team secured a narrow win with a score of 29-27, while the Senior team delivered a staggering 83-2 victory. Old Harbour High also emerged as double winners, triumphing over Tacky High with scores of 20-5 in the Juniors and 44-8 in the Seniors. Additionally, Old Harbour High defeated Charlemont High 18-2 in the Juniors and 44-8 in the Seniors. Kellits High and Central High exchanged victories; Kellits High won the Junior game 9-5, while Central High claimed a 24-19 win in the Seniors. In Montego Bay, Green Pond High secured two wins in the Junior competition, defeating hosts Mt Alvernia High 24-17 and Muschett High 30-9. Mt Alvernia High also achieved a decisive 36-2 victory over Muschett High. Other notable results included Iona High’s double win in the Juniors, beating St Mary Tech 19-9 and Oracabessa High 23-12, while Denbigh High defeated Glenmuir High 35-15 in the Juniors. In the Seniors, St Thomas Technical emerged victorious with a 22-9 win over Yallahs High.
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Hurricane damage to forests still being assessed; Forestry Dept warns of severe consequences
The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left Jamaica’s forests in a state of crisis, with significant environmental repercussions anticipated, according to the Forestry Department. Initial assessments reveal that approximately 51% of the island’s forested areas, spanning 272,943.89 hectares, have been adversely affected. Ainsley Henry, CEO and conservator of forests, emphasized that all parishes have sustained damage, with St Elizabeth, Trelawny, Manchester, St James, Hanover, Westmoreland, and other regions bearing the brunt of the devastation. The environmental fallout is expected to include heightened risks of landslides, soil erosion, mudflows, flooding, and a decline in biodiversity. Additionally, the loss of vegetative cover is likely to exacerbate heat in certain areas and worsen mosquito-related issues due to reduced shade. In response, the Forestry Department has initiated rapid forest assessments and is scaling up nursery production to facilitate restoration efforts. The department has also secured 1,500 breadfruit seedlings from the Trees That Feed Foundation for free distribution to the most affected parishes. Reforestation will commence post-data collection, prioritizing severely impacted zones. While some tree species, such as Blue Mahoe and mahogany, may show signs of recovery within weeks to months, others could take up to 15 years to fully regenerate. Henry urged public cooperation in wildlife protection and tree care, emphasizing the importance of pruning damaged trees and replanting where necessary. Despite the challenges, Henry remains optimistic, stating, ‘Jamaica, her forests, and her people are resilient. We will rise again, and we will be stronger.’