KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican soccer sensation Shaneil Buckley has officially joined the prestigious Florida State University (FSU) women’s soccer team, a powerhouse in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The announcement was made on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in Buckley’s burgeoning career. Buckley, a former standout at Excelsior High, has already made waves in collegiate soccer during her time at Daytona State College. There, she earned the title of junior college All-American and clinched the winning goal in the 2024 national championship game. Over two seasons, Buckley showcased her exceptional talent by playing in 38 games, starting all but one, and amassing an impressive record of 38 goals and 17 assists, totaling 93 points. At just 20 years old, Buckley has also represented Frazsier Whip FC, a three-time national women’s club champion. Her move to FSU follows in the footsteps of fellow Jamaican Reggae Girl Jody Brown, who enjoyed a successful four-year stint at the Tallahassee-based university. Buckley’s transition to FSU is expected to further elevate her career and contribute to the team’s continued success in NCAA women’s soccer.
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Indecom refers funeral assistance for family of man killed by police
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom) has initiated steps to assist the family of Matthew Small, a victim of a fatal police shooting in Ewarton, St Catherine, on December 13, 2024. This move follows a heartfelt plea published in the Jamaica Observer on November 8, 2025, titled “Please, I need to bury my grandson!” Small was one of two individuals who lost their lives during the incident, which occurred without eyewitnesses or the use of body-worn cameras by the involved police team. Since 2021, Indecom has been integrating social intervention referrals into its investigative processes through family liaison officers (FLOs). This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support to affected families, addressing both the emotional and financial challenges they face. Commissioner Hugh Faulkner highlighted the importance of this dual approach, stating that it not only ensures independent and factual resolution of cases but also offers essential support services such as counselling and social assistance. Most referrals are directed to the Victim Services Branch of the Ministry of Justice, the Office of the Children’s Advocate, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. Since the inception of this mechanism, Indecom’s FLOs have made over 160 referrals for counselling, 14 PATH referrals, 30 funeral grant referrals, and several others for education grants and compassionate housing. To date, Indecom has confirmed 11 successful funeral grant referrals, four PATH referrals, and a wheelchair donation from Food for the Poor. The commission underscores that while referrals do not guarantee assistance, they are a crucial first step in enhancing access to welfare support. Currently, two family liaison officers are coordinating this initiative across Indecom’s five regional teams.
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Great Huts Eco Resort launches ‘Resilient Rhythms’ wellness programme in Portland
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s widespread devastation, Great Huts Eco Resort in Portland, Jamaica, is transforming its serene cliffside location into a hub for community healing and personal renewal. Managing Director Vivene Wallace and Pilates instructor Iyla Cousins have unveiled ‘Resilient Rhythms,’ a biweekly wellness program set to run from November 22, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Originally conceived as part of a broader wellness initiative for Portland, the program has taken on new significance in the wake of the hurricane, focusing on physical and emotional recovery. Participants will engage in guided mat Pilates sessions, restorative flows, and group journaling, all designed to calm the nervous system, rebuild strength, and foster human connections. ‘Pilates empowers the body and refocuses the mind,’ Cousins remarked. ‘These sessions remind us that through movement and community, we can rebuild—inside and out.’ The classes will be held at Great Huts Eco Resort, offering stunning views of Boston Bay. Each session is priced at J$3,000 for locals and J$4,500 for visitors, with bundle rates available. Attendees will also enjoy curated wellness experiences, including access to local healers, nourishing refreshments, and the resort’s natural and artistic spaces. Additionally, participants are encouraged to bring donation items for hurricane-affected communities in western Jamaica and St Ann, with incentives such as discounts on classes and accommodations. Local vendors with wellness products are invited to connect via @matandflow. For registration and updates, follow @matandflow and @great.huts on social media or contact via WhatsApp at 876-353-3388. Accommodation packages are available at www.greathuts.com, with 15% of proceeds supporting the Portland Rehabilitation Management Centre.
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Vincentian PM’s Trini wife hits Victoria Keyes claims as ‘political malice’
Eloise Gonsalves, the wife of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, has firmly refuted allegations of corruption surrounding her family’s acquisition of properties at the Victoria Keyes housing development in Diego Martin, Trinidad. In a video shared on the Unity Labour Party (ULP) Facebook page on November 13, Eloise, who was born in Trinidad to Dominican parents, emphasized that her family received no preferential treatment in their dealings with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC). She dismissed the claims made by Minister in the Ministry of Housing Anil Roberts on November 11 as ‘political malice,’ attributing them to the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) ahead of the November 25 general election. Eloise stated, ‘The political malice has started against my family. But if the NDP gets in, it ends with you and your family. They are attacking Grace Walters (a ULP candidate) viciously and now they’re lying about us.’ She explained that the property investment was a family decision following the destruction of her 90-year-old mother’s home during Hurricane Maria, with the aim of providing housing for her mother’s sons and grandchildren in Trinidad. Prime Minister Gonsalves echoed his wife’s sentiments during a November 12 broadcast on NBC Radio in St Vincent, labeling Roberts’ statements as ‘misrepresentations’ and ‘falsehoods.’ He accused Roberts of violating his family’s rights as Trinidadian citizens and engaging in ‘political mischief’ by disclosing private information. Gonsalves denied any misuse of political influence to secure advantages for his family.
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Minister of the People tours Sewa clothing drive
On November 13, Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services, Vandana Mohit, visited the Sewa TT Clothing Recycle Project 2025 at the Divali Nagar site in Chaguanas. This annual initiative, which focuses on recycling and redistributing clothing, is set to benefit over 6,000 individuals, including 1,100 directly supported by the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services (MPSDFS).
The project, a collaboration between the ministry and Sewa TT, aims to identify NGOs, transitional facilities, and vulnerable clients to ensure the clothing reaches those in need. Minister Mohit praised Sewa TT for its dedication to social responsibility and volunteerism, emphasizing how the initiative promotes sustainability while restoring dignity and comfort to the less fortunate.
In a press release, the ministry highlighted the significance of such partnerships, stating, ‘This project reflects the power of collaboration and compassion. It is a shining example of how partnerships between government and civil society can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.’ The release also underscored the ministry’s broader mission to strengthen ties with NGOs and community organizations, fostering a more inclusive and caring society.
Accompanied by Cindy Heeralal, NGO unit coordinator at MPSDFS, and Sewa TT president Revan Teelucksingh, Minister Mohit toured the project site, witnessing firsthand the preparation and distribution of clothing. The event showcased the collective efforts of volunteers and officials, reinforcing the importance of community-driven initiatives in addressing social challenges.
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UWI Cave Hill and Ghana University offering joint degree programme
In a groundbreaking collaboration, the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill campus and the University of Ghana have introduced a joint medical degree programme aimed at training doctors accredited to practise in both Barbados and Ghana. The initiative was announced by Professor Clive Landis, Principal of UWI Cave Hill, during a forum titled ‘Reclaiming Our Atlantic Destiny: Connect. Rebuild. Renew,’ attended by His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene of Ghana. The programme is structured to allow students to complete three years of preclinical studies at UWI Cave Hill, followed by three years of clinical training in Ghana. Graduates will receive a Bachelor of Science in Preclinical Sciences from UWI and an MBChB from the University of Ghana. The degree is fully accredited by the medical and dental councils of both countries, enabling graduates to practise medicine in either nation. Professor Landis highlighted the programme’s strategic alignment, noting that Barbados has surplus preclinical capacity while Ghana excels in clinical training. Two Ghanaian students, part of the inaugural cohort, were recognized during the event. The Asantehene’s visit to the campus is expected to enhance the programme’s visibility in Ghana. Additionally, a portrait honoring the Asantehene was unveiled at the UWI Cave Hill administration building, known informally as ‘The Golden Stool.’ The forum was part of the Asantehene’s historic visit to Barbados for the GUBA Awards and Investment Conference.
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ANSA Chemicals Jamaica donates 69,800 litres of bleach to support sanitisation efforts after hurricane
In a significant move to bolster public health and safety in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, ANSA Chemicals Jamaica has pledged a substantial donation of 69,800 litres of bleach. This initiative is designed to support sanitation and water treatment efforts in communities across Jamaica that have been severely affected by the hurricane. The donation comprises two types of bleach: 50,000 litres of eight per cent industrial-strength bleach and 19,800 litres of five per cent household bleach, ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to safe, treated water. Stephen Summers, Country Manager of ANSA Chemicals Jamaica, emphasized the company’s commitment to aiding relief and rebuilding efforts, stating, ‘This donation is part of our ongoing commitment to the people of Jamaica in their time of need.’ The distribution will be managed by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), with plans to deliver three to five industrial totes and one container of household bleach daily. Matthew Samuda, Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, praised the partnership, highlighting the critical role of sanitation in preventing public health crises post-disaster. Commander Alvin Gayle, Director General of ODPEM, also welcomed the donation, noting its importance in maintaining public health and safety. ANSA Chemicals Jamaica, a leading provider of chemical products in the Caribbean, continues to play a vital role in enhancing community well-being through such initiatives.
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WATCH: Fury over frogs in tank
In a heated monthly meeting of the St Ann Municipal Corporation, Councillor Ian Bell of the People’s National Party (PNP) for the Beecher Town Division took a firm stance, refusing to proceed with the agenda until he received a satisfactory update on the refurbishment of a contaminated water tank in Epworth. The tank, the sole water source for the community, has been tainted with frog remains, a critical issue Bell raised during the previous month’s meeting. Despite assurances that the superintendent had been instructed to address the problem, Bell expressed frustration over the lack of progress, stating, ‘Today, nothing has been done at that tank.’
Mayor Michael Belnavis of St Ann’s Bay attempted to calm the situation, but Bell’s concerns were only partially addressed when Saad Williams, the corporation’s chief engineering officer, provided an update. Williams revealed that a second assessment of the tank had determined the allocated budget was insufficient for temporary repairs. A revised estimate is now being prepared, and the project awaits additional funding before any action can be taken. The delay has left the Epworth community without access to clean water, highlighting ongoing challenges in local infrastructure management.
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Frustrated Trinbago Express customers want minister’s help
Customers of Trinbago Express, a shipping courier company, staged protests outside the Ministry of Trade, Investment, and Tourism in Port of Spain on November 12, urging Trade Minister Satyakama Maharaj to intervene in resolving their cargo delays. The shipments, which have been held at the Port of Port of Spain for several months, include personal items, business goods, and gifts. Demonstrations also took place in Tobago and at the New York Attorney General’s Office, with protesters chanting, ‘No cargo, no peace.’
Umar Abdullah, leader of the First Wave Movement, emphasized the anguish felt by customers both locally and in the diaspora. He called on the Ministry of Trade to act decisively, stating, ‘The Ministry cannot claim ignorance or impotence. It has the power to investigate, the authority to intervene, and the duty to act.’
Among the protesters was dual citizen Claude Beerom, who returned to Trinidad from the US with essential items, including medication. Beerom expressed frustration over the delay, noting that Trinbago Express Shipping Inc collected his items in June but has yet to deliver them. He highlighted the challenges faced by returning residents, particularly those with specific dietary and medical needs.
Trinbago Express T&T Ltd, the local arm of the company, has severed ties with its US counterpart and closed its Port of Spain office. Managing Director Lidmer Murray explained that the local company operates independently and has no control over the US operations. He cited the inability to access containers due to unpaid shipping fees as the primary reason for the closure. Murray urged Trinbago Express Shipping Inc to fulfill its financial obligations to customers.
Efforts by Newsday to contact Trade Minister Maharaj and Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Colin Neil Gosine for comment were unsuccessful.
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Burris defends $2m Døds Diving Championships
The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) invested over $2 million in hosting the Døds Diving World Championships in Charlotteville on August 9, a decision that has sparked discussions about the allocation of resources for sports tourism. Secretary of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities, and Transportation Tashia Burris revealed the financial details during a plenary session in the Assembly Legislature on November 12, responding to inquiries from Minority councillor Petal Daniel-Benoit. The event, a collaboration between Døds Federation International, the THA, and the Eco-Industrial Development Company of Tobago, attracted 50 divers from across the globe, who showcased their skills from a 10-meter platform. Burris emphasized the event’s potential for financial sustainability, noting that the THA will receive 50% of local advertising revenue for the 2026 edition, with four major advertisers already expressing interest. She contrasted this with the Tobago International Cycling Classic, which relies heavily on THA sponsorship and has struggled to attract international participants. Burris highlighted the Døds Diving event’s global exposure, with online viewership reaching 50 million and international broadcast deals secured for 2025-2027. In contrast, the Cycling Classic, which lacks UCI sanctioning and offers low prize money, has seen limited participation and international appeal. Burris concluded that the Døds Diving model represents a sustainable partnership for high-level sports tourism, while the Cycling Classic requires significant reforms to remain viable.