For years, Shino Correa, affectionately known as Aguakate, has been a beacon of joy, laughter, and inspiration for the Latino community in New York City. His extraordinary versatility sets him apart: by day, he is a dedicated radio personality at X96.3, and by night, he transforms into a captivating merengue artist. This dual role not only highlights his relentless work ethic but also cements him as a symbol of resilience, talent, and commitment that embodies the Hispanic community in the United States. Beyond his artistic and professional endeavors, Shino has long been a pillar of his community. He has organized events, championed youth programs, and mentored countless individuals, offering guidance and inspiration to those who admire him. His contributions extend far beyond entertainment; they foster unity, pride, and a sense of belonging among Dominicans and Latinos in NYC. Recently, Shino’s impact was formally recognized with a proclamation in Paterson, presented by Councilman Luis Vélez. This accolade underscores not only his professional success but also the profound influence he has had on Dominican families and the broader community. While many artists have recently embraced Spanish-language music, Shino has been a trailblazer in NYC, staying true to his roots long before it became a trend. Witnessing his journey is a privilege, and calling him a friend is an even greater honor. Shino Correa exemplifies how talent, passion, and hard work can uplift a community. His music, voice, and dedication continue to inspire countless individuals, proving that leadership, creativity, and generosity can coexist in one extraordinary individual.
分类： entertainment
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Gregory Sinaise, proudly continuing the Kwéyòl heritage legacy
The vibrant community of Belle Vue in north Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, is widely recognized as the cultural capital of the island. Known for nurturing cultural legends such as the late Rameau Poleon and Patrick Gilo Benjamin, as well as the 2024 Groovy Monarch Sly, Belle Vue is a hub of traditional music, dance, and celebrations. Recently, the community honored one of its most cherished cultural figures, Gregory Sinaise, as part of its Kwéyòl Heritage Month festivities. Sinaise, a celebrated singer, musician, and lyricist, is a pillar of Kwéyòl heritage and a respected figure in Saint Lucia and the French diaspora. His contributions to the annual Kwéyòl Song Competition, including victories in 2014 and 2015, have cemented his legacy. Sinaise’s hit song ‘Lakouyante,’ a fusion of Zouk and Cadasse rhythms, remains a national favorite. In an interview with St. Lucia Times, Sinaise expressed his pride in his roots and his commitment to preserving Kwéyòl culture. He emphasized the importance of teaching Kwéyòl in schools and making resources like dictionaries more accessible. Sinaise, who is currently working on a new album, plans to continue spreading Kwéyòl culture through his music, even as he considers stepping back from the Kwéyòl Song Competition after this year.
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Ignite Media Launches: A Bold New Flame in Caribbean & African Diaspora Media
The media landscape has just been set ablaze with the launch of Ignite Media, a groundbreaking multimedia platform spearheaded by Franz deFreitas, the iconic voice behind the acclaimed ‘Voice of the People.’ More than just a radio station, Ignite Media is a movement designed to spark change, inspire connection, and challenge the status quo. Its mission is to deliver content that is ‘relevant, bold, creative, fearless, and unfiltered.’ DeFreitas, who left Observer Media on September 2, 2025, has channeled his energy into creating a platform rooted in editorial freedom, truth-telling, and civic empowerment. ‘Ignite is not just talk,’ deFreitas emphasized. ‘It’s a space for straight truth, fresh ideas, and real engagement with our listeners.’ The platform’s programming lineup includes daily talk shows, investigative exposés, live call-in forums, and multimedia extensions like podcasts and video reports. Initially launching online, Ignite Media plans to expand to terrestrial radio syndication, with collaborations across the Caribbean, the African diaspora, and beyond. At its core, Ignite Media is a cultural statement, proudly rooted in Caribbean and African identity while addressing global issues. Its content pillars focus on social issues, history, business, education, youth development, and political engagement. In an era of corporate and political pressures, Ignite Media stands as a fearless alternative, offering authentic dialogue and unfiltered truth. The platform’s promise is to inform, include, and inspire, backed by solid research and fact-based journalism. While the official launch date remains undisclosed, anticipation is already building for this revolutionary media venture. As one supporter aptly put it, ‘The world doesn’t need more noise — it needs more fire. Ignite Media is bringing the heat.’
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Lennard Henry triumphs in I.T., Media and Entertainment category at WOW Factor 2025
Lennard Henry, popularly known as Young Lyrics, has been honored with the prestigious I.T., Media, and Entertainment award at the 2025 WOW Factor Awards. The accolade celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional creativity and influence in the realms of technology, digital media, and entertainment. Henry’s unique ability to merge music, storytelling, and digital innovation has positioned him as a rising star in the industry, earning widespread acclaim and recognition. The WOW Factor Awards, known for spotlighting groundbreaking talent across diverse fields, aim to honor both emerging and established figures whose contributions leave a lasting cultural impact. This year’s recognition of Young Lyrics underscores his transformative approach to artistic expression and his ability to connect with audiences through cutting-edge digital platforms. The event also highlighted the importance of innovation in shaping the future of media and entertainment, with Henry’s work serving as a prime example of how technology can enhance creative storytelling. As the industry continues to evolve, Young Lyrics’ achievements are a testament to the power of blending artistry with technological advancement.
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Private Chef Vito Walter Takes Top Honours in Food & Beverage at WOW Factor 2025
In a remarkable achievement, private chef Vito Walter has been awarded the prestigious Food & Beverage Category Award at the WOW Factor Awards 2025. This accolade celebrates Walter’s exceptional contributions to the culinary arts, particularly his innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality. Operating within Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant hospitality sector, Walter has redefined the dining experience through his bespoke menus and meticulous presentation, setting a new standard for private chefs worldwide. The WOW Factor Awards, known for recognizing excellence across various industries, highlighted Walter’s professionalism, creativity, and impact on the culinary landscape. His win not only underscores his personal dedication but also shines a spotlight on the growing influence of private chefs in elevating gastronomic experiences. This recognition serves as a testament to Walter’s ability to blend artistry with service, making him a standout figure in the industry.
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Karen Grenado-Wong Honoured for Excellence in Hospitality and Tourism
Karen Grenado-Wong, a distinguished professional from Sandals Grande Antigua, has been crowned the 2025 winner in the Hospitality and Tourism category at the prestigious WOW Factor Awards. This annual accolade recognizes individuals who exhibit extraordinary dedication, leadership, and service excellence across diverse industries. Grenado-Wong’s achievement underscores her unwavering commitment to elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector, setting a benchmark for excellence in the Caribbean hospitality industry. Her recognition not only celebrates her personal accomplishments but also highlights the high standards and customer-centric values that have solidified Antigua and Barbuda as a top-tier destination. The award serves as a source of inspiration for her peers, encouraging them to strive for similar heights in their professional endeavors. Additionally, the news platform promoting this story invites businesses to advertise through customizable digital marketing packages, offering a unique opportunity to reach a wide audience in Antigua.
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Queen of Soca opens October 16 in cinemas
Queen of Soca, a vibrant and deeply authentic feature film directed by Kevin Adams, has made its mark at the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival, earning widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and powerful portrayal of Caribbean culture. Set to premiere nationwide on October 16, the film promises to bring its infectious energy and compelling narrative to audiences across the country. The story follows Olivia, portrayed by Terri Lyons, a young woman from a disadvantaged community who defies societal and familial expectations to pursue her dream of becoming a soca star. As she navigates the tension between her mother’s religious convictions and her own aspirations, Olivia discovers that self-belief is the ultimate act of rebellion. Adams, known for his award-winning short film No Soca No Life, masterfully explores themes of faith, freedom, and transformation through the lens of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich soca culture. Produced by Christopher Din Chong, the film boasts a talented local cast, including Penelope Spencer, Melanie Pantin, and Daniel “Bang Em Smurf” Calliste, with a dynamic soundtrack by Kit Israel and Kasey Phillips. Din Chong describes the film as ‘Trini to the bone – bold, beautiful, and bursting with rhythm,’ emphasizing its role as a celebration of Caribbean identity. Adams hopes the film will inspire national pride and pave the way for more local stories to reach the big screen. Queen of Soca, supported by the Carifesta Take One Film Grant, represents a milestone in Caribbean cinema, blending heartfelt drama, cultural authenticity, and musical vibrancy. Audiences are encouraged to check local cinemas for showtimes and experience this defining moment in Caribbean storytelling.
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Advocate.Pioneer.Prodigy
The transformative impact of Allan ‘Skill’ Cole on Jamaica’s music landscape was celebrated during a heartfelt thanksgiving service at the National Arena on October 11. Kay Osbourne, a close friend of Cole for over six decades and former general manager at Television Jamaica, highlighted his pivotal role in breaking barriers for reggae and Rastafari music on Jamaican radio in the 1970s. At a time when such genres were shunned by mainstream media, Cole’s relentless efforts ensured that the music of The Wailers, including Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer, found its way onto airwaves, particularly through the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation. This marked a significant shift in the cultural and musical identity of Jamaica. Cole, a prodigy who represented Jamaica in football at just 15, was deeply intertwined with the music scene. His defiance of societal norms and his advocacy for Rastafari messages through music were instrumental in the roots-reggae explosion of the era. The service featured tributes from prominent artists such as Beenie Man, Junior Reid, and Stephen Marley, underscoring Cole’s enduring legacy. Cole, who managed Bob Marley during his final U.S. tour in 1980, epitomized the social awakening of Jamaica in the 1960s and 1970s. His contributions to music and culture were honored by industry figures, including Marcia Griffiths, Olivia Grange, and Mark Golding, who gathered to pay their respects.
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St James Police Youth Club hosts Beyond the Beat concert
The St James Police Youth Club marked its 33rd anniversary with a spectacular concert titled ‘Beyond the Beat,’ held at the Four Roads Community Centre in Diego Martin on October 5. The event was a vibrant celebration of culture and talent, featuring a lineup of distinguished performers and honoring cultural icon Gene Toney, founder of Cocorite YuJamaas. The concert showcased a diverse array of performances, including the rhythmic beats of the Diegoville Drummers, the energetic moves of Organized Chaos, and the captivating dances by the St James Police Youth Club Ballroom Dancing Academy, featuring Taylor McCalfin and Malik Sharbodie. Austin ‘SuperBlue’ Lyons, a legendary calypsonian, thrilled the audience with his dynamic performance, while Xhaiden Darius, the 2025 National Junior Calypso Monarch, delivered a standout act. The Cocorite Ujamaa Folk Performers added a traditional touch with their fan dance, and the Ignited Dancers (Juniors) brought youthful energy to the stage. The event also included a special award presentation to calypsonian Philip ‘Black Sage’ Murray by Corporal Derrick Sharbodie, founder and manager of the St James Police Youth Club. Newsday photographer Faith Ayoung captured the essence of the celebration through her lens, documenting the memorable moments of this cultural extravaganza.
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19-y-o student cops Miss Jamaica World Beach Beauty title
In a dazzling display of grace and charisma, 19-year-old Nevaeh Allen, a business finance student at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), was crowned the 2025 Miss Jamaica World Beach Beauty on Sunday. The event, held at Fort Clarence Beach in Portmore, is a pivotal fast-track competition in the annual Miss Jamaica World pageant. Allen’s victory not only earned her the prestigious title but also guaranteed her a spot in the top ten of the grand finals, scheduled for November 2 at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College.