Qasim Henry, the visionary behind Antigua Inside Out, has been honored with the prestigious Transportation and Tours Award at the 2025 WOW Factor Awards. This accolade recognizes his exceptional contributions to enhancing visitor experiences through his innovative and culturally immersive tour services. Antigua Inside Out has become synonymous with authentic excursions that highlight the island’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, making it a favorite among tourists seeking a deeper connection with Antigua and Barbuda. The WOW Factor Awards, known for celebrating excellence and innovation in the tourism sector, spotlight individuals and businesses that elevate the industry by creating unforgettable experiences for visitors. Henry’s win underscores his dedication to showcasing the island’s unique charm and his commitment to delivering unparalleled service. The award not only highlights his personal achievements but also shines a light on the vibrant tourism industry of Antigua and Barbuda, which continues to thrive through the efforts of passionate professionals like Henry. For those looking to explore the island’s culture and natural beauty, Antigua Inside Out remains a top choice, offering tours that are as informative as they are inspiring.
分类： society
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Antigua and Barbuda Honours Top Professionals at WOW Factor Awards 2025
The 2025 WOW Factor Awards, hosted by iRise Management, illuminated the John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Centre on Saturday evening, spotlighting the spirit of excellence and exceptional customer service across Antigua and Barbuda. This annual gala recognized outstanding professionals from diverse industries for their innovation, dedication, and exemplary service. Among the distinguished honorees were Stosh Browne of Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank (ECAB), who clinched the Financial Services award, and Brian Branker of Caribbean LNG Inc., celebrated in the Manufacturing, Energy, and Telecoms category. Priscilla Joseph of St. John’s Catholic Primary was lauded in Sports and Education, while Vito Walter, a private chef, triumphed in the Food and Beverage sector. Other notable winners included Qasim Henry of Antigua Inside Out for Transportation and Tours, Jeannette Bowen of Hadeed Motors Ltd. for Sales and Marketing, and Shallamar-Ann Williams of Shally’s Balloons Plus for Entrepreneurship. In the creative and entertainment sphere, Lennard “Young Lyrics” Henry was honored in I.T., Media, and Entertainment, while Karen Grenado-Wong of Sandals Grande Antigua took home the Hospitality and Tourism award. Anderson Tuitt of the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) was recognized in Law Enforcement and Safety, Charisse Pigott-Benta of the Social Security Board in Public Sector and Statutory Corporations, and Shenelle Benjamin, an emergency room nurse at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, in Health and Wellness. The event, bolstered by sponsors such as GIC Insurance, Paperclips, Harney Motors, and Falmouth Harbour Marina, underscored the nation’s commitment to raising standards and inspiring excellence across all sectors.
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Hundreds of young people benefit from BRIDGE project
KINGSTON, Jamaica — On October 9, The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston hosted a graduation and close-out ceremony for the European Union (EU)-sponsored BRIDGE Project, attended by nearly 60 young participants. These graduates were among the over 300 youths who engaged in empowerment and development activities organized by the MultiCare Youth Foundation (MYF). Each received certificates and branded tokens in recognition of their accomplishments. The BRIDGE Project, an acronym for Building through Reintegration, Intervention, Development, Growth, and Education, aimed to reduce youth crime and violence by addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by at-risk youth. MYF Chairman Joseph Matalon praised the participants for their resilience and transformation, emphasizing the project’s success in creating a foundation for positive change. He highlighted the EU’s support as part of a broader partnership with Jamaica, focusing on empowering vulnerable citizens. Matalon underscored the collaborative efforts of various organizations, including Crime Stop Jamaica, the Joan Duncan Foundation, and the Department of Correctional Services, in achieving national transformation. The 34-month initiative provided layered interventions, including literacy instruction, life skills training, mentorship, and cognitive behavioral therapy, benefiting over 300 youths across five communities. Notably, 85 participants secured internships, and 50 were assisted in applying for vocational programs. The project also engaged youth through arts and videography training, fostering advocacy and positive storytelling. Additionally, over 280 school administrators and teachers participated in leadership training, while 50 community members were trained in dispute resolution techniques. MYF Administrative Manager Ann Astwood expressed gratitude to donors and sponsors, crediting their support for the project’s success. She encouraged the graduates, noting their perseverance as a testament to the program’s impact. The BRIDGE Project exemplifies the transformative power of opportunity and belief, paving the way for a brighter future for Jamaica’s youth.
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Pedestrian killed in accident while heading to church
A tragic accident on October 12 claimed the life of Alan Ramirez, a 77-year-old man known for his deep faith and community service. Ramirez was waiting for a taxi along the Toco Main Road to attend mass at St Vincent Ferrer RC Church in Matura when he was struck by a van driven by a policeman. The incident has left the community in mourning, as Ramirez was a cherished figure whose kindness and dedication touched many lives. In a heartfelt social media post, St Francis of Assisi RC Church described Ramirez as a “radiant soul” whose love for God and people was evident in all his actions. He was a dedicated parishioner and a faithful servant, always greeting others with a warm smile and offering unwavering care. Beyond his spiritual devotion, Ramirez was also celebrated for his kung-fu skills, which he taught to students at St Francis of Assisi RC Church in Sangre Grande during the mid-1990s. His teachings instilled discipline, confidence, and respect in his students. The church expressed profound sorrow over his sudden passing, stating, “His spirit of kindness, faith, and service will continue to inspire us all.” Investigations into the accident are ongoing.
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Labour Ministry invites jobseekers to attend job fair in Portland
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) in Jamaica has announced the St Catherine Job Fair, set to take place on Wednesday, October 29, at Celebration Church in Portmore. The event, running from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, is designed to connect jobseekers in Portmore and surrounding areas with a variety of employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including hospitality, security, finance, and customer service. Positions such as customer service representatives, baristas, chefs, security guards, accounting clerks, and restaurant managers will be available. Prominent companies like Fontana Pharmacy, Hawkeye, Centerfield Star Bucks Convenient Brands Limited (which includes Dominos and Circle K), SWAT Elite, Guardsman, Optimum, Wendy’s, KFC, Restaurants Associates Limited (including Burger King, Popeyes, and Little Caesars), and Honey Bun will be participating. Lyndon Ford, Director of the Electronic Labour Exchange (ELE), advises jobseekers to research companies of interest beforehand, dress professionally, and bring a positive attitude to enhance their chances of securing employment. Participants are encouraged to register online at lmis.gov.jm, upload their résumés, and bring essential documents such as proof of qualifications, National Insurance Scheme (NIS) card, Tax Registration Number (TRN) card, and passport-sized photographs. Walk-ins are also welcome. For further details, individuals can contact the Ministry at customerservice@mlss.gov.jm or visit mlss.gov.jm/events. This initiative underscores the MLSS’s commitment to fostering social protection and economic stability for Jamaicans by linking them with meaningful employment opportunities.
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Problem of politicising crime
In 2010, Debbie Jacob faced a pivotal moment in her career as an educator at the Youth Training Centre (YTC). Overwhelmed by the fear of failing her students—teenagers incarcerated for violent crimes—she sought advice from Sgt. Roger Alexander, now the Minister of Homeland Security. His encouragement to continue teaching proved invaluable. Jacob’s experiences, documented in her book *Wishing for Wings*, highlight the transformative power of education and the importance of societal acceptance for troubled youth. She emphasizes that many of her students lacked positive male role models and felt abandoned by society, factors that often led them into crime. Jacob’s work at YTC and later at Port of Spain (PoS) Prison revealed a recurring pattern: minors involved in crimes were frequently influenced by older, more experienced criminals. Despite this, Jacob argues that treating young offenders as adults is not the solution. She criticizes Minister Alexander’s stance on trying minors as adults, pointing out that such measures fail to address the root causes of crime. Jacob calls for a focus on social reform and education, rather than punitive measures, to break the cycle of crime. She believes that many young offenders are redeemable and that society must take responsibility for its failures in providing adequate support and guidance to at-risk youth.
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‘I am in mourning’
In a poignant and deeply emotional address, philanthropist and Supreme Ventures Foundation Director Leighton McKnight expressed profound sorrow over the escalating violence against women and children in Jamaica. Speaking at the foundation’s Supreme Hero Finals held at ROK Hotel in Kingston, McKnight’s choice of black attire symbolized his mourning for the nation’s current state. ‘I’m in black today because I’m in mourning,’ he stated solemnly. ‘With what’s going on across our country, we need more and more heroes.’
McKnight highlighted recent tragedies that have shaken the nation, including the brutal murder of a teenage girl and the suicide of former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant Tyra Spaulding. ‘Just week before last, one of my mentees, Jada, was shot and killed in her home,’ he shared, his voice trembling with emotion. ‘The following week, Tyra Spaulding, another young lady I mentored, took her own life.’
Referencing recent headlines from Jamaican newspapers, McKnight lamented the normalization of violence in society. ‘Last week, a four-year-old was murdered in Linstead. This week, similar tragedies unfolded in central Kingston. Children are being murdered. We cannot continue like this,’ he declared.
Drawing parallels to Bob Andy’s 1970s reggae classic ‘Fire Burning,’ McKnight emphasized the urgent need for social reform. ‘The song is more relevant today than it was 50 years ago,’ he noted. ‘If we keep ignoring the needs of the less fortunate, they will rise up, and we will regret our inaction. Giving back is not just charity; it’s self-preservation.’
McKnight concluded with a call for national empathy, quoting George Benson’s ‘The Greatest Love of All.’ ‘I believe the children are our future. Treat them well, and let them lead the way,’ he urged. ‘Children are growing without love, and all they know is violence. It’s our responsibility to break this cycle.’
He challenged the audience and the nation to prioritize compassion over policing and material wealth. ‘Jamaica will not improve through better policing or solidarity alone. It will improve when we care for those in need. It’s going to get better because of those who care,’ he asserted.
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Court grants extensions in Danny Guerra’s lawsuit against police
The constitutional case filed by businessman Danny Guerra against the police, alleging violations of his and his company’s rights, has been postponed to later this year. Both parties requested additional time to prepare written submissions, prompting Justice Frank Seepersad to grant an extension without a hearing. The case, initially scheduled for October 13, has been rescheduled to November 27. Guerra’s legal team must submit their arguments by October 31, while the state has until November 28 to respond. Any replies from Guerra’s side are due by December 19. Guerra, the owner of DG Homes Ltd, initiated the constitutional motion following a May 2024 search of his company’s Sangre Grande office. He claims that police officers, led by Sgt Rajesh Antoine of the Special Investigations Unit, denied him legal representation during the operation. In January, Justice Seepersad upheld an injunction halting further police investigations into Guerra’s business. Guerra maintains that he provided payroll records to Ministry of Labour officials, who found no wage violations, but alleges that Antoine persisted in questioning him about hiring non-citizens and demanded access to the company’s safe. Separately, on October 11, Guerra, his son, and 17 workers were charged with unlawfully processing aggregate without a license from the Ministry of Energy. Arrested during a police operation on October 9, they were released on bail and are expected to appear before an Arima magistrate on October 22.
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Tracking travel
A groundbreaking smart card system is set to revolutionize the safety and efficiency of Jamaica’s Rural School Bus Programme, offering parents real-time tracking of their children’s journeys to and from school. Developed by El Hydro, the technology partner for the initiative, the system will notify parents instantly via SMS or a dedicated app when their child boards or exits a school bus. This feature aims to bolster confidence in the programme, which is still in its developmental stages.
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5 years, no progress
Five years after the Mental Health (Offenders) Inquiry Committee, commissioned by Chief Justice Bryan Sykes, urged the Jamaican Ministry of Health to establish dedicated facilities for mentally ill individuals in conflict with the law, no such space has been identified. Hundreds of these individuals remain detained in correctional institutions, often for decades, with half still awaiting trial. The committee, comprising representatives from the judiciary, human rights organizations, and health and correctional services, highlighted the systemic failure to address the therapeutic needs of these detainees. Dr. Kevin Goulbourne, consultant psychiatrist and director of Mental Health and Substance Use at the ministry, recently confirmed that efforts are ongoing to create a more humane environment outside the prison system. The 2020 report emphasized that correctional facilities are ill-equipped to handle mental health care, a responsibility historically shifted from Bellevue Hospital to the Department of Correctional Services in the 1970s. Justice Georgiana Fraser, the committee chair, stressed the urgency of designating appropriate facilities, noting that many detainees have not been tried or found guilty. The report also criticized successive health ministers for failing to address this issue. Goulbourne acknowledged the challenges, including the lack of early assessments and the absence of a forensic psychiatric unit. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton emphasized the need for collaboration between health, justice, and security sectors to improve mental health support for incarcerated individuals. Chief Justice Sykes has called for systemic reforms to ensure timely court appearances and appropriate care for mentally disordered defendants, who currently cannot be discharged without a trial verdict.