Carib Scope

分类： society

  • The Loc’d Lounge Graduates First Cohort of SereniTeaLocs™ Certified Loc Guides

    The Loc’d Lounge Graduates First Cohort of SereniTeaLocs™ Certified Loc Guides

    ANTIGUA – The Loc’d Lounge has ushered in a transformative chapter for professional dreadlock care with the graduation of its inaugural SereniTeaLocsTM Certified Loc Guides cohort. This landmark achievement, celebrated on November 9th at The Listening Spa in Bay Gardens, establishes a new benchmark for specialized loc education and professional standards throughout the Caribbean region.

    The ceremony honored six women who successfully completed the intensive certification curriculum—the first program of its kind in Antigua. SereniTeaLocsTM represents a holistic educational model that integrates advanced technical training in small and tiny loc installation with critical components of client psychology, service excellence, and essential business development skills.

    Master Loc Guide and Founder Thea Joseph Baynes developed this proprietary methodology to revolutionize the industry through disciplined precision and professional integrity. “SereniTeaLocsTM was created to bring precision and professionalism to Crown care,” Joseph Baynes stated. “Our graduates are equipped not only with technical mastery but also with the mindset, discipline, and profound understanding of the responsibility inherent in caring for another person’s Crown.”

    The comprehensive training encompassed Sacred Crown Assessment techniques, advanced client consultation protocols, and specialized business development strategies. The graduation ceremony featured distinguished guests including Ms. Tarsha Henry (Finance and Business Development), Ms. Sharifa, and Mrs. Tiffany Tonge-Knowles (Program Editor and Guest Speaker).

    The Loc’d Lounge extended gratitude to community partners including Dwayna Joseph of The Listening Spa for providing the venue, Meg Total Wellness and Devoncial Ralph of Rae-el Collections for gift contributions, Moore Moments Photography for documentation, and Kanesha James of Basil Box for culinary services.

    This pioneering program aims to cultivate a regional network of technically excellent, ethically-grounded professionals who can transform loc care into a sustainable, values-driven career. With applications now open for the 2026 certification cycle, SereniTeaLocsTM is positioned to become the definitive standard for professional loc education across the Caribbean.

    Prospective applicants can find program details and enrollment information at www.thelocdlounge.co.

  • OP-ED: From Haiti to Dominica – Yves Joseph’s journey shows how labour migration fuels the Blue and Green Economy

    OP-ED: From Haiti to Dominica – Yves Joseph’s journey shows how labour migration fuels the Blue and Green Economy

    In the pre-dawn tranquility of Grange, Portsmouth, Yves Joseph tends to the fertile volcanic soil that has become his adopted home. His journey from Haiti to Dominica began not as a migration plan but as a 2006 visit to follow his Dominican wife, whom he met while studying agriculture in Cuba. What began as a personal pilgrimage evolved into a nearly two-decade contribution to Dominica’s agricultural sector, embodying the transformative potential of migrant integration.

    Yves’ farm, Joseph’s Best Eco Produce, stands as a testament to disciplined land stewardship and agricultural expertise. Operating one of the island’s most productive vegetable farms, he supplies supermarkets, restaurants, and direct consumers across Portsmouth and Roseau with diverse crops including lettuce, kale, carrots, cucumbers, cabbage, peppers, and herbs. Despite consistent market demand for fresh local produce, Yves faces Dominica’s critical agricultural labor shortage that threatens national food production.

    “I have land. I have water. I have fertile soil. I have the knowledge and willingness to produce,” Yves states. “But I need labourers.” This shortage forces continued reliance on imported vegetables despite Dominica’s rich agricultural potential.

    Migrant workers, particularly from Haitian communities, have provided foundational support to Dominica’s food systems for decades. Beyond filling labor gaps, they introduce innovation, enhance quality standards, and create new markets. Yves exemplifies this contribution through his technical expertise gained in Cuba, implementing advanced water supply systems, soil health management, crop rotation techniques, and sustainable apiculture.

    His beekeeping operation represents more than secondary income—it’s a vital ecological component. “Bees are life,” Yves emphasizes. “If we do not have bees, we will die.” His bees enhance farm productivity through pollination while producing world-class honey recognized for its purity, medicinal properties, and unique flavors derived from Dominica’s biodiversity. This apiculture work opens doors to agro-tourism, high-value exports, natural product development, and rural employment opportunities.

    The human narrative behind this agricultural contribution reveals deeper dimensions. Yves found acceptance in Dominica that many migrants worldwide still seek. “Dominica accepted me,” he recalls. “I embraced her as my second home.” In return, he has contributed nearly twenty years as a farmer, worker, taxpayer, community member, and now Dominican citizen.

    His story reflects broader Caribbean experiences where migration drives development rather than threatening it. As Dominica advances its Blue and Green Economy vision, labor migration must transition from peripheral concern to strategic priority. The proposed creation of an agricultural labor migration hub would connect farmers with skilled workers, increase public understanding of migrant contributions, inspire youth agricultural careers, foster local-migrant collaboration, support agro-processing innovation, and strengthen national food security.

    On International Migrants Day 2025, Yves Joseph’s journey demonstrates what becomes possible when migrants are welcomed, included, and empowered: strengthened agricultural sectors, enhanced food security, sustainable production methods, and new entrepreneurial pathways. His farm represents not just land cultivation but a hub of hope, proving migration represents not burden but bloom—the very growth Dominica needs to thrive.

    Yves seeks not charity but opportunity—to feed Dominica with what Dominica can grow. His story reframes labor migration from crisis to opportunity, reminding us that migrants don’t just arrive in countries; they help nurture them. The future of healthier food, thriving farms, and progress in sustainable economies depends on embracing those ready to build it.

  • Simons roept op tot vrede en eenheid tijdens Volkskerstzang

    Simons roept op tot vrede en eenheid tijdens Volkskerstzang

    In a stirring address during the National Christmas Carols event at Independence Square, President Jennifer Simons of Suriname delivered a powerful message emphasizing unity, mutual care, and inner peace as essential foundations for the nation’s future. The President articulated that the peace commemorated during Christmas must originate within individuals to genuinely benefit society as a whole.

    President Simons framed Christmas as both a period of reflection and hope, referencing the birth of Jesus Christ as the dawn of light that dispels darkness. She stressed that this inner illumination must first occur within each person before they can effectively address the needs of others and contribute to national development.

    Highlighting interconnectedness as crucial to national progress, Simons urged Surinamese citizens to become guardians of one another and embrace mutual responsibility, particularly during challenging economic and social times. Her central thesis maintained that Suriname can only thrive through collective care and solidarity.

    The President noted encouraging signs of growing social cohesion, pointing to the diverse religious backgrounds represented among attendees at Independence Square. She characterized this interfaith gathering as a promising seed of national unity that requires nurturing and protection.

    Simons extended appreciation to citizens actively maintaining clean environments, businesses supporting school rehabilitation projects, and organizations that voluntarily facilitated the National Christmas Carols event. The celebration featured blessings from spiritual leaders across multiple faith traditions and musical performances accompanied by the police band.

    Concluding her address, the President wished strength and hope to the nation while advocating for daily incremental steps toward a better tomorrow guided by mutual support and solidarity. “The peace that God has promised us must begin within ourselves,” Simons affirmed, encapsulating her vision of personal transformation preceding national advancement.

  • Here’s Why Horses Remain on Belize City Streets

    Here’s Why Horses Remain on Belize City Streets

    Belize City faces mounting pressure to address the controversial presence of horses within urban areas, with municipal authorities citing significant legal constraints as the primary obstacle to resolution. City Councillor Kaya Cattouse has clarified that the City Council lacks the jurisdictional authority to enforce actions against the keeping and racing of horses within city limits, despite escalating public outrage over recurrent animal welfare violations.

    Councillor Cattouse emphasized that the council is actively engaged with the issue rather than ignoring it. ‘We have been systematically documenting incidents and participating in interagency discussions,’ she stated. ‘Concerns have been formally elevated to national authorities who hold ultimate responsibility for animal welfare protocols, public safety standards, and legislative frameworks.’

    The debate has intensified following the circulation of recent photographs depicting injured and malnourished horses, prompting animal advocacy organizations to renew demands for complete removal of horses from urban environments. Michelle Rudon, a local volunteer, characterized the situation as persistent cruelty and called for immediate governmental intervention to address this deeply entrenched problem.

    According to Cattouse, the complexity extends beyond mere enforcement challenges. She advocates for a comprehensive approach that recognizes the multidimensional nature of the issue—encompassing public safety hazards, community health implications, animal welfare considerations, and aspects of youth development programming. This perspective suggests that only a coordinated national response strategy can effectively address the root causes.

    The Belize Police Department faces operational limitations due to absent legal provisions and inadequate facilities for impoundment. Cattouse highlighted the practical dilemma: ‘Without specific legislation authorizing confiscation, and lacking designated facilities for housing seized animals, law enforcement options remain severely constrained.’

    The councillor confirmed that substantive progress awaits the establishment of appropriate national legislation. ‘Once an adequate legal framework is implemented,’ Cattouse affirmed, ‘municipal authorities stand ready to fulfill their role in the execution phase.’ The matter was initially tabled for formal discussion during a City Council session in May, yet reports of animal mistreatment have continued to emerge in subsequent months.

  • Merry Monarch’s missing pieces

    Merry Monarch’s missing pieces

    While steel beams rise for the iconic North Stand at Port of Spain’s Carnival grounds, deeper structural questions surround Trinidad and Tobago’s premier cultural celebration. The National Carnival Commission (NCC) confirms the stand’s construction remains on schedule for mid-January completion at nearly 50% reduced cost from 2025—a tangible example of the government’s expenditure-tightening measures.

    Yet beneath surface-level preparations, significant planning ambiguities persist. Since August’s official launch with the underwhelming “You Go Love This” theme, observable policy drift has characterized the approach to February’s festivities. Critical elements including the parade route remain undiscussed, while marketing efforts have seemingly been limited to a discreetly launched website. Prize money allocations for major events still await formal announcement through proper press conferences.

    Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin’s July-ordered spending audit has yielded minimal public updates, though her August reference to an Inter-American Development Bank study on Carnival’s revenue impact suggests broader economic considerations. The allocated $137 million budget shows negligible reduction from previous $140 million allocations, yet fresh memories persist of the minister’s contentious funding disputes with Emancipation Day stakeholders.

    Additional complications emerge from the Prime Minister’s restrictions on state facility fetes—triggering logistical challenges and community dissatisfaction—and newly enacted noise pollution measures targeting fireworks. The shadow of August’s abruptly canceled Independence Day events, justified by security concerns during a state of emergency, continues to influence perceptions despite the situation’s normalization.

    Geopolitical tensions and speculation about US military activities contribute further layers of uncertainty to the planning landscape. Nevertheless, stakeholders including the NCC proceed with determination, embodying Carnival’s enduring spirit: regardless of challenges, the show must go on.

  • Project STAR, UNDP launch ‘Cash for Work’ initiative in Savanna-la-Mar and Salt Spring

    Project STAR, UNDP launch ‘Cash for Work’ initiative in Savanna-la-Mar and Salt Spring

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Project STAR has initiated a comprehensive recovery program in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Cash for Care & Work Initiative represents a strategic shift from traditional relief distribution toward sustainable recovery efforts focused on restoring livelihoods and community stability.

    The program targets residents of Savanna-la-Mar in Westmoreland and Salt Spring in St. James, offering short-term employment opportunities centered on safe debris removal from homes, public areas, and critical access routes. This approach simultaneously addresses both infrastructure rehabilitation and income disruption within affected communities.

    Through Project STAR’s established economic training framework, workers receive specialized instruction in safe handling protocols, proper protective equipment usage, and environmentally responsible disposal and recycling methods. This training component ensures both immediate employment and skill development for longer-term resilience.

    Saffrey Brown, Project STAR’s director, emphasized the program’s human-centered philosophy: “This initiative reflects our deliberate focus on longer-term recovery that places people and dignity at the center. We’re moving beyond simple relief distribution while acknowledging many households remain under significant emotional, economic, and social strain.”

    The program incorporates multiple support dimensions, including assistance for households facing increased caregiving demands due to hurricane impacts. Additionally, a limited number of micro and small business operators who sustained substantial losses will receive support to restart operations and restore income stability.

    UNDP Multi-country Office Jamaica Resident Representative Dr. Kishan Khoday highlighted the partnership’s strategic importance: “The need for collaborative responses to support Jamaica’s most vulnerable communities has never been greater. This partnership delivers practical solutions where they are needed most.”

    Civil society organizations within affected communities are facilitating transparent beneficiary selection and ongoing monitoring to ensure measurable impact. Selection criteria prioritize those most severely affected, including women-headed households, elderly residents, persons with disabilities, and low-income families.

    Brown noted the program’s foundational principles of fairness, inclusion, and accountability, particularly for communities that experienced heightened vulnerability before the hurricane. The initiative represents a dual approach addressing immediate needs while building community preparedness and capacity for future challenges.

  • JCF brings Christmas village to Hanover community

    JCF brings Christmas village to Hanover community

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The vibrant community of Cold Spring in Hanover experienced an extraordinary day of celebration and solidarity on Thursday, December 18, as the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Children’s Advocacy, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Initiative hosted its annual Christmas Village event. The initiative transformed Hamilton Park recreational grounds into a hub of festive activities, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter, colorful decorations, and profound community connection.

    The event’s success was made possible through the generous collaboration of local property owners Eric Hamilton and his family, who opened their recreational space to ensure the community could participate in the day’s festivities. This partnership exemplified the strengthened bond between law enforcement and civilian communities, highlighting a shared commitment to social welfare.

    Mr. Hamilton expressed deep satisfaction with the initiative, stating: ‘This program represents a tremendous blessing for our community. We were delighted to offer our property and participate in an endeavor that brings hope, joy, and unity to our children and families.’ He particularly commended the JCF Bucks system—an innovative approach that enables families to select essential items according to their specific needs while maintaining dignity and autonomy.

    Senior law enforcement officials, including Senior Superintendent Dahlia Garrick of the Constabulary Communications Network, Superintendent Andrew Nish (Divisional Commander), and Deputy Superintendent Nadine Murray-Brown (Officer in Charge of Hopewell Police Station), participated actively in the event, engaging directly with community members and demonstrating the JCF’s commitment to grassroots engagement.

    The Christmas Village featured an array of engaging activities designed for all ages. Children delighted in meeting Santa Claus and the popular Paw Patrol mascot, while musical performances, dance activities, and games maintained high energy throughout the day. The JCF Bucks system allowed children to experience the excitement of selecting toys, clothing, and food items from specially designed market stalls in a secure and supportive environment.

    Adult participants also benefited from the program through carefully prepared care packages provided by event sponsors. Simultaneously, representatives from multiple support agencies—including the Ministry of National Security, Medical Services Branch, CISOCA, and the Child Support Services Branch—offered essential counseling services, guidance on domestic violence reporting, and comprehensive assistance programs for families in need.

  • Independence Foreign Song organiser to host Melissathon on Dec 21

    Independence Foreign Song organiser to host Melissathon on Dec 21

    A groundbreaking virtual benefit event dubbed ‘Melissathon’ is scheduled for December 21st, organized by Jamaican entrepreneur Dr. Garfield McCook from his base in Atlanta, Georgia. This innovative musical marathon aims to generate crucial funds for communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic passage through Jamaica in late October.

    The three-hour streaming event will broadcast live from APAP Media Group Studios in Stone Mountain, Georgia, airing simultaneously on Facebook and YouTube platforms from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM EST. Dr. McCook, founder of the Jamaica International Independence Foreign Song Competition (JIIFSC), has assembled an impressive roster of musical talent from previous competition years to participate in this humanitarian initiative.

    The conceptual framework emerged from McCook’s desire to leverage his platform for meaningful disaster response. “The vision crystallized as I contemplated how JIIFSC could contribute to hurricane relief efforts,” McCook explained. “We’ve created a format where 47 competition artists will showcase their entries from 2021 through 2025 while encouraging donations for Melissa victims – hence the portmanteau ‘Melissathon.’”

    Notable performers include all five JIIFSC winners: Lavie Lujah, Barrington (GoddySon) Burke-Green, Leon “Letonick” Denton, Lionel Denton, Ernel Earlington/Doxology, and Lee “Preist” Johnson. The event will feature co-hosts Tony Anthony, Paul Abrahams, Mr Mighty, and Richard “Missa B” Blackford alongside McCook.

    The organizer personally witnessed the destruction in Falmouth, Trelawny, and the particularly devastated Black River region of St. Elizabeth following the Category 5 hurricane’s October 28th landfall. All proceeds generated through donations at jiifsc.com will be formally transferred to appropriate Jamaican authorities for targeted disaster recovery efforts.

  • Ex-cop ‘Milla 9’ and co-defendant get life sentences for fatal US home invasion

    Ex-cop ‘Milla 9’ and co-defendant get life sentences for fatal US home invasion

    A former Jamaican police officer turned prominent dancehall music producer has been sentenced to life imprisonment without parole for his role in a deadly 2019 home invasion in California. Omar ‘Milla 9’ Miller, 46, and his accomplice Andre Andrews, 40, received identical sentences from an Orange County Superior Court judge for the murder of 20-year-old Raymond Alcala during a violent break-in.

  • Fix toilet, bench problem at City Gate

    Fix toilet, bench problem at City Gate

    A glaring deficiency in public amenities at two of Trinidad’s most frequented locations has triggered substantial public dismay, highlighting systemic infrastructure neglect. City Gate, Port of Spain’s primary transportation hub serving hundreds of daily commuters including schoolchildren, exhibits critically inadequate facilities with merely a single functional female toilet available for massive public use.

    The situation becomes particularly dire for vulnerable demographics including elderly citizens, pregnant women, and disabled individuals who find no wheelchair-accessible facilities. The absence of baby changing stations further compounds the problem, denying mothers basic infant care infrastructure.

    Parallel deficiencies plague the Queen’s Park Savannah food court, another popular public gathering spot. During a December 13 visit, the author experienced firsthand the embarrassing reality of insufficient sanitation facilities. Despite the area’s popularity among food vendors and visitors, only one toilet exists which frequently remains locked during operational hours.

    The infrastructure crisis extends beyond sanitation to include inadequate seating arrangements. City Gate suffers from insufficient benches for commuters awaiting PTSC bus services, despite known reliability issues with public transportation.

    Critical questions emerge regarding compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OHSA) regulations, particularly concerning clean water availability and overall facility maintenance. While authorities cite concerns about socially displaced persons misusing facilities, the solution of hiring security personnel remains unimplemented.

    The author’s frustration reflects broader public sentiment toward perceived stagnation in societal development, with comparisons to ‘banana republic’ conditions and ‘caveman era’ infrastructure. As 2025 progresses, citizens demand urgent modernization of public facilities across Trinidad’s popular gathering points, calling for immediate action from relevant ministries and administrative bodies.