Kia Kirwan, the reigning Queen of Carnival 2025 from Antigua and Barbuda, showcased her exceptional talent and Caribbean charm at the Miss Essence and Mind Swimsuit Pageant in St. Maarten, securing the prestigious title of first runner-up. The event, held on October 25 at the Aleeze Convention Hall, brought together contestants from across the Caribbean under the inspiring theme, “United in Essence, Strong in Mind.” The competition was fierce, with Kadijah Mulley of St. Kitts and Nevis claiming the top honor, while Miss Trinidad and Tobago secured the second runner-up position. Kirwan, one of eight delegates, impressed the judges with her creativity, confidence, and poise across multiple segments, including creative swimwear, glitz and glam swimwear, identical swimwear, and a rigorous question-and-answer round. Other notable participants included Jasmin Jade Ruan of Anguilla, Kimberly Sattur of Guyana, Florancia Casseus of Haiti, and Malakya Wiggerton of the United States. Kirwan’s stellar performance at the pageant adds to her growing list of achievements, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the Caribbean pageant circuit. Her success follows her recent crowning as Antigua and Barbuda’s Queen of Carnival 2025, highlighting her dedication and talent on the regional stage.
分类： entertainment
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Spreading ‘Mighty’ Dennery Segment vibes year round
For nearly a decade, Nevis Mighty Alexander has been a trailblazer in the Dennery Segment genre, a unique musical fusion that blends indigenous rhythms with African and Soca influences, enriched by lyrics in both English and Kwéyòl. While the genre is often associated with Lucian Carnival, Alexander’s work transcends seasonal boundaries, offering anthems for Jounen Kwéyòl, Solo, and Christmas celebrations. His discography includes chart-toppers like ‘Bad in Bum, Bum,’ ‘Two Clap,’ ‘Bagay,’ and the recent hits ‘Keh Dek Keh Dek’ and ‘Nuh Nuh.’
Currently based in the UK, Alexander recently embarked on a promotional tour in Miami with the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority to spotlight Lucian Carnival. In an exclusive interview with St. Lucia Times, he shared insights into his musical journey, the essence of Dennery Segment, and his commitment to preserving the Kwéyòl language.
‘Dennery Segment is a reflection of Saint Lucian culture—how we communicate, express ourselves, and celebrate our identity through music,’ Alexander explained. His passion for music ignited at the age of 12, inspired by artists like Yardie, Exodus, and LT. He credits Subance, a fellow Dennery Segment artist, for their collaborative hits, and Jaheim for producing his debut track, ‘Tout Cet Fanm La Matay La.’
However, it was ‘Bad in Bum, Bum,’ a 2017 collaboration with Subance, that catapulted Alexander to international fame. ‘That song put Dennery Segment on the global map,’ he recalled. Despite his carnival success, Alexander emphasizes the importance of year-round creativity. ‘I’m an artist first. I want to make people happy and honor our traditions, whether it’s Jounen Kwéyòl or any other occasion.’
Alexander also champions the use of Kwéyòl in his music, viewing it as a vital link to his heritage. ‘This is our language, our authenticity. I want to inspire others to carry it forward,’ he said. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his international reach, citing Cardi B’s recent appreciation for ‘Keh Dek Keh Dek’ as a sign of growing global interest. ‘More vibes, more collaborations—that’s what’s next for me,’ he declared.
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Asa Bantan, Spice, and Kes electrify Windsor Park on Night Two of WCMF
The second night of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) transformed Windsor Park Cricket Stadium into a vibrant hub of Caribbean culture, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended. From bouyon to soca, reggae to dancehall, the festival was a testament to the rich musical heritage of the region. Thousands of enthusiastic patrons danced through the night, celebrating the diverse sounds that define the Caribbean. Asa Bantan, hailed as the King of Bouyon, kicked off the evening with a dramatic entrance that ignited the crowd. His performance, filled with hit after hit, solidified his reputation as one of Dominica’s most cherished artists. Despite a minor delay in the schedule, the energy remained unbroken, thanks to a meticulously curated lineup of top-tier performers. Kes the Band took the stage as dawn approached, delivering a mix of timeless classics and modern hits that resonated with fans of all ages. Spice followed, captivating the audience with her bold dancehall style, particularly empowering female fans with her provocative yet inspiring performance. A tribute to Vybz Kartel, though not physically present, stirred the crowd, who sang along passionately to his iconic tracks. Local Creole and bouyon acts also shone, ensuring that homegrown talent remained at the forefront of the festival. As the sun rose, the celebration continued, with revelers still dancing in the early morning light. With two nights behind them, anticipation is now building for the final night of WCMF, promising even greater energy and excitement as the festival draws to a close.
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Shanice Francis: Stitching Saint Lucia into global fashion
Culture, though challenging to articulate in words, finds profound expression through actions. In Saint Lucia, one of the most compelling cultural manifestations is the tradition of wearing Madras fabric. This vibrant textile, with its origins in Madras (now Chennai), India, arrived in the Caribbean through colonial trade routes. Initially a lightweight cotton material, Madras became a symbol of resilience and identity for enslaved Africans in Saint Lucia. While they were often compelled to wear estate livery, they embraced Madras garments during feast days and special occasions as a form of self-expression and dignity.
Over time, Madras became integral to Creole fashion, particularly in the Wob Dwiyet, a traditional four-piece costume for women. Today, it stands as a national emblem, especially during Creole Month celebrations. Shanice Francis, known as Gruntage Baby, is a Saint Lucian fashion designer and owner of Gruntage Studios, who has been instrumental in preserving and redefining this cultural heritage. Living in the diaspora, Francis uses Madras to connect with her roots and celebrate her heritage through her innovative designs.
Francis emphasizes the importance of evolving traditional Madras designs to make them accessible to a broader audience. She envisions leveraging Saint Lucia’s tourism industry to promote Madras globally, suggesting its incorporation into resort staff uniforms. She also advocates for better access to resources for local creatives to thrive and scale their productions. Francis’s advice to young designers is to infuse their work with the spirit of Saint Lucia, sharing the stories behind the art and collaborating globally while retaining their unique cultural voice.
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NPATT celebrates ‘the power of parang’
The vibrant sounds of cuatro, maracas, and harmonious voices filled the air in San Raphael on October 25, as the National Parang Association of Trinidad and Tobago (NPATT) made its third stop in the 2025 Parang Festival. Titled ‘El Poder de La Parranda – The Power of Parang,’ the event showcased the resilience of cultural traditions, proving that even rain couldn’t dampen the festive spirit. The evening was a celebration of life, togetherness, and tradition, held under the watchful gaze of the San Raphael RC Church. The community came alive with the aroma of pastelle, the warmth of fellowship, and the rhythm of traditional parang. Opening the night was Los Sonidos, who delivered a spirited performance of their 2022 original, ‘Parranda es La Vida.’ Their captain, Kyesha Jones, described the piece as a celebration of life, togetherness, and tradition. The band closed with a moving tribute medley to the late, legendary singer and composer Daisy Voisin, leaving the audience both nostalgic and inspired. Among the various performances was Herencia Venezolana, a group of Venezuelan nationals who’ve become an integral part of NPATT. Their music blended authentic parang rhythms with the vibrant sounds of their homeland, adding an international flavour to the festival. Band leader Anderina Briceño Ventura, who also manages La Casita Hispanic Cultural Centre, shared her pride in bridging cultures. Representing Edinburgh 500, Chaguanas, La Familia de Carmona y Amigos delivered their signature sound with flair. Formed in 2004, the group’s tight harmonies and lively percussion captured the audience’s hearts, proving that parang’s reach extends far beyond its traditional strongholds. NPATT President Alicia Jaggesar, who also leads Los Alumnos de San Juan, expressed gratitude to the San Raphael community for their support. She announced that NPATT’s next festival stop will be in San Fernando, in partnership with the National Centre for Persons with Disabilities. She also confirmed the much-anticipated return of the National Parang Competition on December 13, marking its first staging in nine years. The competition will feature up to eight top bands performing traditional pieces, which would include an Anunciación (Annunciation), a Nacimiento (Nativity) and a Christmas carol arranged in parang style. Still, it is left to be seen if the last titleholders, Voces Jóvenes, will defend their crown at the grand finals in Arima, where judging returns to the traditional format. Also gracing the stage were Voces de Promesa, Admonias Magníficas, Los Amigos Cantadores, Los Alumnos de San Juan, Voces Jóvenes and Buenos Ayres Sancouche – each bringing their unique interpretation of the genre. The event, which first launched on September 27 in Santa Cruz, continues to travel across communities, igniting the Christmas spirit through rhythm and song.
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Santosha Jamaica
Nestled on the serene south coast of Jamaica in the parish of Westmoreland, near the quaint fishing town of Whitehouse, Santosha stands as a 12,000-square-foot sanctuary of modern contemporary architecture. This luxurious retreat offers a tranquil haven, enveloped by a calm natural environment, designed to provide a space for relaxation and a complete disconnection from the stresses of daily life. The villa’s décor, inspired by nature’s vibrant palette, creates a fresh, colourful, and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for multi-generational gatherings, special events, and corporate retreats. Guests can indulge in tailored dining experiences, savouring fresh local cuisines prepared by a private chef, while a dedicated butler and housekeepers ensure a restful and harmonious stay. The property boasts a fully equipped gym, spa treatments, yoga sessions, and holistic health programmes, catering to both physical and mental well-being. The infinity edge pool, private beach, and access to the Caribbean Sea offer endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. With a gated entry and secure parking, Santosha promises a safe and luxurious escape, evoking summery feelings from dusk to dawn.
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Switching off
In a significant shift for the music and entertainment industry, Paramount, the parent company of Music Television (MTV), has announced the discontinuation of its five music channels in the United Kingdom. MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live will cease broadcasting after December 31. This decision marks the end of an era for these iconic channels, which have been pivotal in shaping music culture since MTV’s inception in 1981. Following their shutdown in the UK and Ireland, the channels will also go off the air in France, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary, Australia, and Brazil. MTV revolutionized the music industry by introducing music videos as a mainstream medium, with The Buggles’ ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’ being the first video aired. Over the decades, MTV became a cultural phenomenon, launching the careers of artists like Madonna, ZZ Top, and Dire Straits. Its British and European channels played a crucial role in promoting Jamaican music, with acts such as Black Uhuru, Sean Paul, and Shaggy benefiting from their exposure. Christopher Schlarb, former director of promotions at VP Records, described MTV as the ultimate destination for success, particularly for dancehall and reggae acts in the early 2000s. Music video director Jay Will emphasized MTV’s role in amplifying radio hits, while industry veteran Cristy Barber expressed her heartbreak over the closure, recalling MTV’s unwavering support for reggae and dancehall. The discontinuation of these channels reflects changing consumer habits, as younger generations increasingly turn to digital platforms for music content. However, the legacy of MTV’s influence on music and culture remains undeniable.
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Such Things Exist shines spotlight on3 artists
The exhibition *Such Things Exist*, currently on display at the LOFTT Gallery in Woodbrook, Trinidad, offers a profound departure from traditional Caribbean art. Featuring the works of Bianca Peake, Brian Ashing, and Aurora Honeywell, the exhibition delves into themes of identity, emotion, and personal introspection, challenging conventional expectations of Caribbean aesthetics.
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Kyna Pedro-Guevara: The voice that bridges two worlds
Kyna Pedro-Guevara, affectionately known as Kyna, has emerged as a transformative figure in Trinidad and Tobago’s television industry. At 36, her show *Aquí con Kyna*, broadcast on Gayelle the Caribbean, has carved out a unique space for empathy, cultural representation, and human connection. Kyna’s charisma, authenticity, and sensitivity embody the spirit of a modern Caribbean woman—deeply rooted in her heritage yet globally aware.
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Jeremy Ledbetter: Jazz star in Canada with musical roots in Trinidad
Jeremy Ledbetter, a renowned keyboardist and composer, has carved a unique niche in the global music scene, blending jazz, Latin, and Caribbean influences. Born and raised in Toronto, Ledbetter’s musical journey took a transformative turn when he studied at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad, where he immersed himself in steelpan and soca music. This experience laid the foundation for his deep connection to Trinidadian culture and its vibrant music scene. Ledbetter’s career has been marked by collaborations with legendary artists like David Rudder and his wife, Venezuelan vocalist Eliana Cuevas, as well as his leadership of the Caribbean jazz group CaneFire. His recent Juno Award win for his jazz trio album *Gravity* underscores his versatility and talent. Beyond performing, Ledbetter has become a sought-after producer, contributing to numerous acclaimed albums. His dream of bringing his jazz trio to Trinidad and conducting orchestral arrangements for Cuevas’s music reflects his enduring passion for bridging musical traditions.