分类： society

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) hosted its 21st Regional Tourism Youth Congress at the Hilton Barbados Resort, showcasing the talents of young tourism leaders from across the region. The event, part of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), brought together 15 students aged 14-17, each serving as junior ministers or commissioners of tourism in their respective countries. Participants presented innovative ideas on topics reshaping the industry, including sustainable tourism, digital transformation, and heritage experiences, while also tackling mystery questions designed to test their creativity and problem-solving skills. The competition highlighted the shift from the traditional ‘sea, sun, sand’ model to a new focus on ‘smart technology, sustainable practices, and social inclusion.’

Jolé St John, Tobago’s 16-year-old junior secretary of tourism, claimed first place with her compelling presentation, earning the title of regional junior minister of tourism until the 2026 Congress. Jamaica’s Caleader Lewison, also 16, secured second place and was appointed CTO’s junior secretary-general of tourism. Aylani Morris Seymour from the Cayman Islands took third place, while Isaiah Toney of St Vincent and the Grenadines received an honorary mention for his exceptional qualities beyond the standard scoring.

The congress was chaired by last year’s winner, Keyana Warner of Nevis, and judged by a panel of tourism leaders, including Rosetta West-Gerald, CEO of the Montserrat Tourism Authority; Paul Pennicook, interim CEO of Experience Turks and Caicos; and Charlene Drakes, manager of Stakeholder Engagements for Carnival Corporation & plc. In the lead-up to the competition, participants engaged in enrichment activities such as a master class on Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in tourism, a career readiness workshop on personal branding and leadership, and a field trip highlighting sustainable initiatives and Barbados’ cultural history.

Ian Gooding-Edghill, chairman of the CTO Council of Ministers and Commissioners and Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport, commended the delegates for their dedication and passion. Sharon Banfield-Bovell, CTO’s director of Resource Mobilisation and Development, emphasized the event’s significance as a launchpad for the next generation of tourism visionaries. The 2025 congress featured participants from 15 CTO member countries and territories, underscoring the region’s commitment to nurturing young talent in the tourism sector.

In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Jamaican authorities have charged 33-year-old Fabian Watson with six violations of the Dangerous Drugs Act. The charges stem from the seizure of over 1,500 pounds of compressed ganja on Church Street in Morant Bay, St Thomas, on Wednesday night. The illicit haul, with an estimated street value of $4.7 million, was discovered during a joint operation by the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) and the St Thomas police. Watson, a delivery driver from Mount Zion, Rock River in Clarendon, was intercepted while driving a truck. A subsequent search revealed more than 150 parcels of compressed ganja and over $180,000 in cash. Watson now faces charges including possession, dealing, and trafficking of ganja, as well as conspiracy and possession of criminal property. Acting Senior Superintendent Patrae Rowe, director of FNID, emphasized the division’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and their financial operations. Rowe also highlighted the dangerous link between ganja trafficking and the influx of illegal firearms, which fuel violent crimes in Jamaica. Authorities are urging the public to report illegal activities through various hotlines, including FNID at 876-923-6184, Crime Stop at 311, and the police emergency number at 119.

The St Mary Police Division in Jamaica is intensifying efforts to locate 29-year-old Herbie Ballentine, also known as ‘Junior Ballentine,’ following his dramatic escape from police custody on Friday. Ballentine managed to flee after overpowering officers from the Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom) and local police, who had temporarily removed his handcuffs to allow him to sign a statement.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo) has reiterated its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of execution and accountability in the Negril Roundabout Beautification Project, addressing recent public concerns and stakeholder feedback. The $20 million initiative, launched in June 2025, aims to enhance the aesthetic and functional appeal of one of Negril’s busiest gateways, a key entry point to the resort town. Despite encountering delays due to contractor-related challenges, TPDCo has assured the public that the project is back on track and will be finalized before the peak winter tourism season.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Delroy Chuck, Jamaica’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, has urged the nation’s Justices of the Peace (JPs) to embrace their role as ambassadors of peace. Speaking during a virtual sensitisation session on Thursday, Chuck emphasized the critical role JPs can play in curbing domestic violence and fostering harmony within communities.

A 19-year-old British teenager, Marcus Fakana, who was recently pardoned by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) leader after serving a prison sentence for a consensual relationship with a 17-year-old girl, has tragically died in a car accident. The incident occurred in Tottenham, north London, early Friday morning, following a police pursuit. Fakana was a passenger in the vehicle involved in the crash. According to Sky News, the driver, Marwaan Mohamed Huseen, has been charged with multiple offenses, including causing death by dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and failing to stop. Fakana had been serving a one-year sentence in the UAE, where the age of consent is 18, but was released after six months following a pardon from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He had returned to his home in Tottenham shortly after his release. The police reported that the vehicle involved in the crash was initially pursued but lost sight of before the collision occurred. Fakana sustained severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

In a proactive move to address pressing urban issues, Mayor Fitzroy Wilson of St Mary, Jamaica, spearheaded a comprehensive walk-through of Port Maria on Thursday. Accompanied by a multidisciplinary team of local agencies, the initiative aimed to evaluate and resolve critical concerns such as traffic congestion, illegal vending, and public health hazards. The delegation included representatives from NEPM Waste Management Limited, the police force, the Health Department, the fire department, the Municipal Corporation, and the tax office. Mayor Wilson emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, ‘We are assessing the town’s needs and addressing complaints about congestion, illegal vending, business trade licenses, and health-related issues.’ Among the key topics discussed was the subpar condition of the transportation centre’s sanitary facilities. The mayor assured residents that refurbishment plans are underway, with upgrades expected within a month. Additionally, the team examined the town’s drainage system and pedestrian infrastructure. While recent sidewalk improvements have been made, the mayor acknowledged the need for further enhancements to ensure safety and accessibility. A local bus operator highlighted the challenges of loading passengers due to non-compliant practices, urging stricter enforcement. In response, Superintendent Anthony Wallace of the St Mary Police Division pledged increased monitoring and enforcement efforts, including the appointment of a new sub-officer and additional personnel to ensure compliance and improve public order.

A tragic early morning accident on the Hellshire main road in St Catherine, Jamaica, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left several others injured. The collision, which occurred shortly after 3:00 am on Saturday, took place approximately 100 meters south of the Greater Portmore entrance. The victims, one of whom is believed to be a teenager, have not yet been officially identified. The crash involved a white BMW and a grey Honda Fit Shuttle, with the BMW reportedly striking a utility pole, causing a power outage in the vicinity. Eyewitnesses reported that multiple people sustained injuries and were rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital for treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, which has left the community in shock.

The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) is extending a warm invitation to all Jamaicans to partake in a day of leisure, cultural immersion, and entertainment at the globally acclaimed Reach Falls in Portland this Heroes’ Weekend. On Friday, October 17, the gates of Reach Falls will be opened to Jamaicans free of charge, as part of the UDC’s ‘Enjoy Your Jamaica’ campaign, which aims to encourage locals to explore and appreciate their homeland’s natural beauty. Typically, admission costs $500 for Jamaican adults and $250 for children. Attendees will be greeted with a complimentary drink and can look forward to a vibrant schedule of entertainment and exciting giveaways. Additionally, local vendors will be present, offering a variety of food and refreshments for purchase. Sherlock Glenister, UDC Deputy General Manager, emphasized the initiative’s goal to allow Jamaicans to reconnect with one of the island’s most stunning natural wonders. He reiterated the UDC’s dedication to promoting local attractions and fostering a sense of pride in Jamaica’s natural heritage. This event is a component of the UDC’s broader strategy to showcase its diverse array of attractions across the island and to inspire Jamaicans to rediscover the exceptional experiences available within their own country.