分类： entertainment

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.

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.

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.

The streets of Scarborough, Tobago, came alive on October 25 as thousands of revelers and spectators gathered for the fourth staging of the island’s J’Ouvert celebrations. The event, described by Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro as ‘pure niceness,’ showcased the vibrant culture and hospitality of Tobago. The parade route, spanning from the Shaw Park Complex along the Claude Noel Highway, Wilson Street, and Calypso Rose Boulevard, provided ample space for participants to ‘play mas’ and immerse themselves in the festivities. Despite regional tensions, including US Navy operations in the Caribbean and narco-trafficking concerns, the atmosphere remained carefree and celebratory. The Fog Angels’ Wild Wild West band stood out as the largest and most colorful, with over 6,000 masqueraders and a fleet of music and support trucks. Guevarro praised the efforts of ACP Oswain Subero and Snr Supt Earl Elie, along with officers from Trinidad, for ensuring an ‘incident-free’ event. Zorisha Hackett, Secretary of the Division of Education, Research and Technology, expressed her elation at the success of the parade, which marked a significant milestone in Tobago’s carnival history. She emphasized the need for collaboration between Trinidad and Tobago bands while preserving Tobago’s unique identity. Kern Cowan, CEO of the Tobago Festivals Commission, highlighted the smooth execution of the event and plans to expand the parade route in future years. The festivities continued with Pan and Powder later in the day, culminating in the grand parade of the bands on October 26.

Meguella Simon, a multifaceted talent from Trinidad and Tobago, has added another remarkable achievement to her illustrious career by securing the position of second runner-up at the 48th Mrs Woman of the Universe pageant held in South Korea on October 18, 2025. This prestigious event, which celebrates married, widowed, or single mothers aged 18-55, saw Simon break barriers as the first black woman to rank in the top five in the competition’s 48-year history. Alongside her pageant success, Simon was also crowned Mrs Superstar, a testament to her diverse talents and contributions to the arts, education, and community service. Simon, a teacher with two master’s degrees in education and Carnival studies, has previously made history as the first virtual Calypso Queen and has excelled as an actress, pannist, radio announcer, and model. She also served as the former president of the Lions Club of San Fernando. Reflecting on her journey, Simon described the experience as a transformative learning opportunity, emphasizing her commitment to using her platform to empower others. She expressed pride in representing Trinidad and Tobago and hinted at future participation in pageants, though her immediate focus is on preparing for Carnival 2026. This year’s event also featured two other Trinidadian delegates: Candace Picton-Friday, who earned the title of Mrs First Lady, and Aliana Seepersad, who won Best National Costume in the Miss Woman of the Universe category. Local director Alveada Meah praised the trio for their grace and excellence, highlighting their role in placing Trinidad and Tobago on the global stage. The pageant continues to inspire women worldwide, with applications now open for the next edition.

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.