In a significant move to celebrate and sustain the rich cultural legacy of Calypso music, the St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival Committee (SKNNCC) has unveiled its Recording Support Initiative (RSI) for October 2025. This program, designed to empower Calypsonians, offers financial assistance of EC$500 to artists releasing new music during this period. The initiative builds on the momentum of last year’s successful campaign during Sugar Mas 53, aiming to amplify the reach and recognition of Calypso music across traditional radio and digital platforms. By supporting early releases, the SKNNCC ensures that these powerful voices resonate throughout the carnival season, preserving the music, stories, and heritage that define the festival. With over 60 Calypsonians registered in Calypso Tents this year, the upcoming season promises to be a vibrant celebration of talent and tradition. The SKNNCC urges all artists to seize this opportunity to showcase their creativity and connect with broader audiences. For more information, contact the Carnival Secretariat at 869-466-0058 or email info@skncarnival.com.
分类： entertainment
-
St. Kitts’ Venetta Zakers Secured First Runner-Up in CIBC Caribbean Regional Unsung Heroes Competition
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS – October 21, 2025 – Venetta Zakers, a prominent figure from St. Kitts, has been honored as the First Runner-Up in the 2025 CIBC Caribbean Regional Unsung Heroes competition. This prestigious recognition underscores her exceptional contributions to community service and philanthropy through her non-profit organization, Zakers Affinity Causes (ZAC).
ZAC is renowned for its transformative initiatives, particularly the ‘Entrepreneurship Behind Bars’ (EBB) program, which empowers at-risk youth and incarcerated women by equipping them with essential skills and support. Ms. Zakers’ dedication to uplifting vulnerable groups has not only made a significant impact locally but has also garnered regional acclaim.
Ms. Eberna Whyte, CIBC Country Head, expressed immense pride in Ms. Zakers’ achievement, stating, ‘Her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to community development truly embody the spirit of the Unsung Heroes initiative. This recognition serves as an inspiration for all of us to further our efforts in serving our communities.’
The competition, which featured nominees from ten Caribbean territories, awarded the title of Regional Unsung Hero to Lucinda Smith of Tortola, British Virgin Islands, for her volunteer work in providing meals to families in need and supporting individuals facing serious illnesses. Joshuanette Francis of Antigua and Barbuda, founder of Good Humans 268 Inc., secured third place for her work in disability awareness, climate justice, and youth empowerment.
The top winners were celebrated at an awards ceremony held in Barbados, marking a moment of pride and inspiration for the Caribbean region.
-
EUROCINE 2025 brings the best of European cinema to the Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo is set to host EUROCINE 2025, a prestigious festival showcasing the finest in contemporary European cinema, from November 10 to 15 at Caribbean Cinemas in Galería 360. The event was unveiled during a media briefing organized by the European Union Delegation to the Dominican Republic, in partnership with Member States, DGCINE, Ebribari Audiovisual, and Caribbean Cinemas. Ambassador-designate Raúl Fuentes Milani emphasized the festival’s mission to celebrate Europe’s rich cultural diversity and to foster stronger ties between the European Union and the Dominican Republic. The festival will kick off with the screening of *The Count of Monte Cristo* (France, 2024), a fresh adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ timeless tale of revenge, justice, and redemption, directed by Matthieu Delaporte and Alexandre de La Patellière. The festival’s program features a diverse array of films, including *King Frankie* (Ireland, 2024), a family drama; *Culture vs. War* (Ukraine, 2024), a documentary; and *Reversion* (Spain – Dominican Republic, 2025), a thrilling action film that will serve as the closing feature and mark its Latin American premiere. Other notable entries include *The Fantastic Machine* (Sweden, Denmark, 2023), a documentary; *Yaya and Lennie: The Road to Freedom* (Italy, 2021), an animated sci-fi adventure; and *Flow* (Latvia, Belgium, France, 2024), an animated family film. EUROCINE 2025 promises to be a cinematic journey that bridges cultures and highlights the artistry of European filmmaking.
-
70 films and world premieres to open the Dominican Film Festival in New York 2025
The 14th edition of the Dominican Film Festival in New York (DFFNYC) is set to commence on October 23, 2023, with the international premiere of *Los Rechazados: Operación Submarino*, directed by Yasser Michelén. The opening event will take place at the iconic United Palace Theater in Washington Heights, New York. This year’s festival, themed *“Crossing Borders,”* promises to be the largest showcase of Dominican cinema outside the Dominican Republic, featuring over 70 films. Screenings will be held at AMC Empire 25 and the Alianza Dominicana Cultural Center, which will also offer free public workshops to engage the community. According to Armando Guareño, the festival’s founder, DFFNYC aims to spotlight the richness of Dominican storytelling while fostering connections between filmmakers from the island and its global diaspora. The program includes co-productions with countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Spain, alongside animations and short films from partner festivals. The festival’s official competition highlights the creativity and diversity of Dominican cinema, with categories for fiction, documentaries, and short films. A special *“Diaspora Competition”* will honor Dominican filmmakers living abroad. The event will conclude with the screening of *Carlota la más Barrial*, a film that celebrates community spirit and resilience. For full details and schedules, visit @dffnycofficial or www.dominicanfilmfestivalny.com.
-
Day Party Chaos at Cork Street Forces Guest Relocations from Harbour View
Guests at Harbour View Boutique and Spa found their tranquil weekend getaway abruptly interrupted by an unanticipated day party at Cork Street, featuring Deejay Puffy. The event, which began an hour earlier than advertised, turned into a scene of chaos with deafening music, overcrowded spaces, and revelers spilling onto the streets. Michelle Williams, the director of Harbour View, expressed her frustration, stating that businesses were not informed in advance, leaving them unprepared for the disruption. The situation forced the relocation of several guests who could not tolerate the noise and disorder. Williams emphasized the need for better event planning to ensure such gatherings do not infringe on the peace of local residents. She advocated for designated spaces where day parties can be enjoyed without disturbing the community, particularly on Sundays, traditionally reserved for family time and relaxation.
-
Secrets Resorts hosts sendoff party for Miss Saint Lucia Universe
On October 17, Secrets Saint Lucia Resorts and Spa hosted a regal send-off event for Shianne Smith, Saint Lucia’s representative at the upcoming 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand. The celebration, attended by family, sponsors, and media, marked a significant milestone as Smith prepares to compete among over 100 delegates on November 21. Alisteer Nelson, Director of Sales and Marketing at Secret Resorts, expressed pride in supporting the Miss Universe Saint Lucia initiative, while General Manager Ricardo Esteban emphasized the honor of sharing this momentous occasion. Joycie Mederick, Pageant Director, reflected on the transformative journey of past delegates under her Cinnamon Productions, expressing gratitude to sponsors and well-wishers for their unwavering support. Smith, in her heartfelt address, vowed to embody the spirit of Saint Lucia, showcasing the nation’s strength and pride on the global stage. The event also featured token presentations by ACADO to Smith and her fellow contestants, symbolizing unity and encouragement. Pre-judging activities are set to commence next week, leading up to the televised pageant finale.
-
CUS: Divali 2025 in het teken van eenheid, liefde en nationale trots
The Cultural Union Suriname (CUS) inaugurated the 18th National Divali Celebration on Saturday evening with grandeur and dignity, attended by President Jennifer Simons, Vice President Gregory Rusland, ministers, members of the National Assembly, diplomatic representatives, and numerous citizens. In his welcoming address, CUS Chairman Anielkumar Manurat emphasized that Divali transcends a mere religious festival, embodying a universal message of light, hope, and unity. He stated, ‘Tonight, we light thousands of small lamps, but each flame represents a greater fire—the fire of unity, humanity, and national pride.’ The CUS urged the populace to ignite the light of Divali not just externally but internally, symbolizing solidarity, respect, and spiritual strength. ‘Divali teaches us that darkness never has the final word. Where love and understanding prevail, evil dissipates. Where people respect one another, misunderstanding vanishes. And where a nation lives in harmony, prosperity flourishes.’ This year’s celebration was particularly significant, marking 50 years of Suriname’s independence. The CUS highlighted that this milestone is not only a moment of pride but also a call to responsibility. ‘Fifty years ago, our people chose freedom, self-determination, and faith in their own strength. Fifty years of building, falling, rising, and moving forward—as one people, with one heart.’ The CUS offered prayers to Maha Laxmi Mata, the Goddess of prosperity, love, and harmony, wishing her blessings upon all Surinamese—leaders, families, and everyone striving for a better future. ‘Divali is not merely a festival of lights but an invitation to ignite the light within ourselves. When we act in love and see each other as brothers and sisters, Suriname becomes not just a country on the map but a living nation of hope, strength, and harmony. Subh Divali to the entire Surinamese people. May the light of Divali continue to shine over our beloved Suriname.’
-
Clement Richards’ debut novel brings Kalinago legend Chief “Indian” Warner to life
Clement Richards, a Caribbean cultural activist and writer, is set to release his debut novel, *Indian Warner: Son of Two Worlds*, on October 23, 2025. The historical narrative delves into the life of Thomas “Indian” Warner, a pivotal figure born to a Kalinago mother and an English father during the colonial era in the Caribbean. Set against the backdrop of Waitukubuli (Dominica), the novel vividly portrays the island’s natural landscapes and the turbulent waters of the Eastern Caribbean, while chronicling Warner’s journey as a bridge between two worlds. Richards’ writing is praised for its sharp descriptions and meticulous storytelling, offering a voice to those often marginalized in colonial histories. The novel explores Warner’s rise as chief of the Kalinago tribe and his tragic demise at the hands of his brother, Philip Warner, highlighting the personal and political complexities of his life. Through this story, Richards aims to honor the resilience of the Kalinago people and their struggles against colonial oppression. The book is designed to resonate with modern audiences, blending historical imagination with reflections on identity and belonging. It will be available in paperback, audiobook, and eBook formats, with narration by Raymond Lawrence, a former Dominican Chief Cultural Officer. Richards hopes the novel will affirm Caribbean cultural memory while educating global readers about the region’s complex history. As Dominica’s Independence season approaches, Richards encourages Dominicans worldwide to support the project by purchasing the book, thereby promoting the island’s cultural heritage.
-
Buju, Capleton featured on Latin remix of ‘This is How We Roll’
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A year after its initial release, the track ‘This is How We Roll,’ a collaboration between US-based producer BL Tha Hook Slayer and Jamaican reggae icons Buju Banton and Capleton, has achieved remarkable success on streaming platforms. Now, BL Tha Hook Slayer and Honduran Latin artist Fresh Bodden are in Jamaica filming the music video for the Latin remix of the hit song, aiming to elevate its global appeal. The original version of the track was born from a creative session with Capleton, who suggested involving Buju Banton. The result was a powerful collaboration that resonated with audiences worldwide. BL Tha Hook Slayer described the experience of working with his musical idols as surreal, emphasizing the significance of the moment. The Latin remix was inspired by Fresh Bodden, whom BL Tha Hook Slayer met through his manager and a Colombian producer. Fresh Bodden, known for his organic growth of a substantial fanbase, brings a unique Latin flavor to the remix. The video is being shot in Kingston and Ocho Rios by RSK Fama Video Production from the Dominican Republic. Fresh Bodden, visiting Jamaica for the first time, expressed his admiration for the island’s vibrant culture and reggae heritage, which he was introduced to through his father’s collection of Jamaican music. This collaboration marks another milestone in his career, following his previous work with Mr Vegas.
-
Valiant featured on remix of Chris Brown and Bryson Tiller’s ‘It Depends’
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The collaborative track ‘It Depends,’ performed by American R&B/pop sensation Chris Brown and Bryson Tiller, has soared to the top of Billboard’s Rhythmic Airplay and Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay charts. The song also holds impressive positions at #4 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and #2 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart. Adding to the excitement, a remix featuring Jamaican dancehall artist Valiant is set to debut this Friday. Valiant, currently on his Prove Them Wrong Tour across the United States and Europe, shared the remix artwork on his official Instagram page with the caption, ‘#brysontiller @chrisbrownofficia banger OTW.’ This marks a significant milestone for Valiant, as it represents his first major collaboration with high-profile international artists.