Renowned artist Karen Sylvester is set to unveil her latest exhibition, ‘Somewhat Familiar,’ at Studio Joli in St James, Trinidad, starting October 18. The showcase will feature Sylvester’s signature lush landscapes and intricate details, which have cemented her reputation as a master of her craft. Drawing inspiration from her childhood along the banks of a river in Trinidad’s Northern Range, Sylvester’s works are a heartfelt tribute to nature and her homeland. Despite lacking formal training, she has honed her skills through meticulous observation, blending sketches, photographs, and vivid memory recall to transform physical landscapes into evocative emotional experiences. Since 1993, Sylvester has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions both locally and internationally. Beyond her artistic pursuits, she is deeply committed to community engagement, contributing to art auctions, environmental conservation, and educational initiatives. Her works are celebrated in the National Museum and private collections worldwide. ‘Somewhat Familiar’ will run until October 30, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in her art and rediscover their appreciation for the natural world. For more details, contact Studio Joli at 705-7907 or visit their website.
分类： entertainment
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Trini Cooking with Natasha adds creative twist to Divali sweets
For Natasha Laggan, a renowned food content creator and culinary influencer, Divali transcends the boundaries of a mere festival—it is an emotion, a sensory experience that defines her identity. Born into a Trinidad and Tobago family of Indian descent, Laggan’s earliest memories of Divali are steeped in the flickering glow of deyas, the aromatic allure of ghee and geera, and the joyous laughter echoing from the kitchen. These moments not only shaped her love for food but also cemented her connection to her cultural roots.
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Island clinches top wedding destination award for second year
For the second year in a row, Barbados has been crowned the Caribbean’s leading wedding destination, solidifying its reputation as the region’s most sought-after location for matrimonial celebrations. This prestigious title was announced at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Caribbean & North American Gala Ceremony, held on October 4 at Sandals Grande in Saint Lucia. The event, which honors excellence in travel and tourism, attracted prominent industry leaders and competitors from across the region. The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) celebrated the achievement, attributing it to the island’s unwavering commitment to developing a world-class wedding industry. Cheryl Carter, BTMI’s Chief Operations Officer, expressed pride in the recognition, stating that it underscores Barbados’ ability to create unforgettable experiences for couples. She highlighted the island’s diverse wedding offerings, from intimate ceremonies to lavish celebrations, all enriched by its vibrant culture, breathtaking venues, and unparalleled hospitality. Graham Clarke, Director of BTMI’s Caribbean department, emphasized the significance of the award amidst fierce competition from neighboring destinations. He praised local stakeholders for their contributions to maintaining Barbados’ status as a wedding haven. WTA founder Graham Cooke lauded the winners as exemplars of tourism excellence, noting their role in elevating industry standards. Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards are widely regarded as the pinnacle of recognition for achievements in global travel, tourism, and hospitality.
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Two Saint Lucian stars return home on holiday
Joseph Marcell, the internationally renowned actor celebrated for his iconic role as Geoffrey Butler in *The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air*, is currently savoring a much-needed holiday in his homeland, Saint Lucia. This visit follows his recent performance in Scotland, where he starred in the world premiere staging of Bach’s rediscovered work, *Markus Passion*.
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Antiguan-born Dr. Dave Ray Inducted into the Hall of Fame at Inaugural Beauty Icon Awards
Dr. Dave Ray, a celebrated figure from Antigua known as ‘The Beauty Surgeon,’ has been inducted into the Hall of Fame at the first-ever Beauty Icon Awards. Organized by the prestigious Bronner Bros Beauty Conglomerate, the event took place on October 11, 2025, at the Riverside Epicenter in Atlanta, Georgia. This landmark ceremony celebrated the profound impact of Black beauty and culture, honoring icons, legends, and innovators who have shaped the industry.
The star-studded event featured heartfelt tributes to influential personalities, including Chaka Khan, the ‘Queen of Funk,’ and makeup visionary Danessa Myricks. Chaka Khan, a multi-Grammy Award-winning artist, was described by Kelly Keith, Executive Producer of the show, as ‘the embodiment of a beauty icon.’ Her music and fearless style have empowered generations, redefining beauty on her own terms.
Dr. Dave Ray, one of the 15 distinguished honorees, expressed deep humility upon receiving the honor. ‘For the past 35 years, I’ve dedicated myself to education, mentorship, and fostering the legacy of Black beauty—not for awards, but to pass on my knowledge,’ he shared. ‘I will continue this work as long as I am able.’
The Beauty Icon Awards, co-sponsored by Kiss Collection and featuring their subsidiary brands Vivacé and Red by Kiss, is set to become an annual tradition in Atlanta. The event not only celebrated the enduring legacy of Black beauty but also aimed to inspire future generations through art and innovation. Dr. Ray’s induction further highlights his groundbreaking contributions and unwavering dedication to elevating Black talent and innovation in the global beauty industry.
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Waar licht en stad samensmelten: een onvergetelijke avond in Chaoyang
The 2025 Beijing Chaoyang International Light Festival has transformed the city into a dazzling wonderland, where light, art, and technology converge to create an unforgettable sensory experience. Held in the heart of Beijing’s Liangma River Cultural and Economic Belt, the festival, themed ‘Shining Galaxy,’ has captivated visitors with its enchanting displays and innovative use of digital technologies. From flying dragons dancing among trees to a luminous opera singer gliding across a shimmering lake, the festival is a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and urban life.
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Saint Lucia prepares for La Magéwit Festival in Dennery
The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) has unveiled plans for the 2025 La Magéwit Flower Festival, set to take place on October 17 in La Resource, Dennery, in honor of the Feast of Saint Marguerite Alacoque. This cherished event, a cornerstone of Saint Lucian cultural heritage, will feature a vibrant array of performances, including traditional songs, theatrical displays, and community-driven festivities. The day will commence with a church service at St Michael’s Parish Church at 10 a.m., followed by a grand cultural parade leading to the La Resource Playing Field, where Marguerite societies and school groups from across the island will showcase their talents. CDF’s Executive Director, Raymona Henry-Wynne, emphasized the festival’s profound significance, calling it a ‘living testament to who we are as a people.’ She highlighted the foundation’s commitment to preserving and celebrating these cultural treasures, which connect the community to its past, present, and future. Ryan Germain, CDF’s Senior Media and Communications Officer, revealed that this year’s event will introduce new creative elements, including theatrical training for participants, to elevate the festival’s appeal while maintaining its authenticity. Germain also underscored the importance of collaboration between cultural and religious organizations, noting that Saint Lucia’s two flower festivals are unique to the island. With strong participation expected from schools, cultural groups, and the diaspora, the festival will be live-streamed on YouTube and Facebook, ensuring global accessibility. The La Magéwit Flower Festival, characterized by its signature purple, blue, and white colors, remains a symbol of Saint Lucia’s cultural resilience and pride.
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Island clinches top wedding destination award for second year
Barbados has once again been honored as the Caribbean’s leading wedding destination, securing the title for the second consecutive year. This prestigious recognition was announced at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Caribbean & North American Gala Ceremony, held on October 4 at Sandals Grande in St Lucia. The event, which celebrates excellence in the travel and tourism sectors, brought together industry leaders and contenders from across the region. The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) expressed pride in the achievement, attributing it to the island’s unwavering commitment to developing a world-class wedding industry. Cheryl Carter, BTMI’s Chief Operations Officer, emphasized the island’s dedication to creating unforgettable wedding experiences, leveraging its rich culture, stunning venues, and exceptional hospitality. The ceremony also marked the third leg of WTA’s Grand Tour 2025, showcasing the region’s finest travel and tourism organizations. Graham Clarke, Director of BTMI’s Caribbean department, highlighted the significance of the award amidst fierce competition from neighboring destinations, crediting local stakeholders for their pivotal role in securing the honor. WTA founder Graham Cooke praised the winners for setting new benchmarks in tourism excellence. Since its inception in 1993, the World Travel Awards have been a hallmark of industry achievement, celebrating outstanding contributions to travel, tourism, and hospitality globally.
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Colton T releases new single with Afro-beat flair, “Naija”
Colton T, a rising artist, has unveiled his latest single, ‘Naija,’ a dynamic fusion of Afrobeat and Caribbean rhythms that has quickly captured the attention of music enthusiasts worldwide. The track, released on October 15, 2025, has ignited a wave of excitement on social media, with fans creating dance challenges and sharing their interpretations of the song. Produced by ICM Records, ‘Naija’ was written by Colton T and arranged by Kirk Blackmoore, blending Afrobeat percussion with smooth Caribbean elements to create a unique auditory experience. The accompanying music video, directed by Anthony Farrell and filmed in Dallas, features Chiamaka, a model and co-host of Rolling Stone Africa, with behind-the-scenes footage by Evan Jones offering a glimpse into the creative process. The song’s infectious energy and soulful melodies emphasize cultural unity, resonating deeply with listeners. ‘Naija’ serves as a precursor to Colton T’s upcoming EP, ‘Ambience,’ a five-track project slated for release in early 2026. The single’s viral dance snippet has significantly contributed to its rapid rise in popularity, solidifying Colton T’s position as a trailblazer in the music industry.
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Dominican Republic closes Nalis’ Latin Night series
The National Library of Trinidad and Tobago (Nalis) in Port of Spain brought its annual Latin Night 2025 series to a vibrant close on October 13, with the Dominican Republic as the featured nation. The event, held at the Pamella Benson Audio Visual Room, celebrated cultural exchange through film, music, and cuisine, drawing diplomats, artists, students, and cultural enthusiasts. The evening’s highlight was the screening of the Dominican documentary *Hay un país en el mundo*, directed by José Enrique Pintor (Pinky Pintor), which explores the nation’s identity through landscapes, poetry, and music. The film’s title is inspired by a renowned poem by Pedro Mir, a literary icon of the Dominican Republic. Debbie Goodman, Nalis’ corporate communications manager, emphasized the program’s mission to foster regional unity and appreciation for shared cultural heritage. Dominican Republic Ambassador Raquel Jacobo Jaar praised the initiative, noting the symbolic value of the documentary in highlighting the deep historical and cultural ties between the two Caribbean nations. The event concluded with a reception featuring traditional Dominican food and drinks, prepared by the local Dominican community. The Latin Night 2025 series, running from October 1 to 13, showcased the cultures of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Spain, and the Dominican Republic through diverse performances, workshops, and exhibitions.