In a dazzling celebration of Latin American culture, Trinitica International orchestrated Vista Latina 2025 at the Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business. This annual event, dedicated to cultural diplomacy, brought together high school students, educators, and diplomats for an immersive experience that highlighted the vibrant traditions, music, and art of Latin America. The event featured dynamic Latin dance performances, interactive presentations, and embassy showcases, offering students a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Mexico, Venezuela, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Panama. Diplomatic representatives from these nations, including Julio Cabada and Leydis Bernal from Cuba, Indra Peralta and Gary Tomlinson from Panama, and Eduardo León from the Dominican Republic, actively participated, emphasizing the importance of cultural education and diplomatic engagement. Aleah Guitan, Director of Trinitica International, remarked, ‘Vista Latina is more than a cultural event; it is a bridge connecting students to the richness of Latin America, fostering curiosity, empathy, and a lifelong appreciation for global culture.’ The event left a profound impact on attendees, inspiring them to become informed, globally aware citizens. Trinitica International continues to champion cross-cultural understanding and collaboration across the Caribbean and Latin America through its innovative initiatives.
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On track to climate disaster
As the world gathers for COP30 in Brazil, Dr. Anjani Ganase highlights the escalating climate crisis, with global temperatures nearing the critical 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement. Trinidad and Tobago, as a small island nation, must play its part in mitigating these impacts. Currently, the planet has already warmed by 1.4°C above pre-industrial levels, with severe consequences for marine ecosystems. Coral reefs, which support over 25% of marine biodiversity, are particularly vulnerable, with a tipping point reached at 1.2°C. This has led to widespread coral bleaching, threatening fish stocks, food security, and coastal protection. The Global Tipping Points Report 2025, released by the University of Exeter and the Stockholm Resilience Centre, warns that without urgent action to limit temperature rise to 1.5°C, coral reefs may transition to algae-dominated systems, with only a few hope spots remaining. Polar ice sheets are also at risk, with the Western Antarctic Peninsula expected to experience significant ice loss, impacting polar marine life and accelerating sea level rise. These cumulative effects increase the vulnerability of small island nations, particularly in the Pacific, which face the risk of becoming uninhabitable. The report also highlights the potential collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which could lead to severe droughts in the Amazon and Caribbean, and harsher winters in Europe. For Trinidad and Tobago, the combined impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and coastal areas will be costly. Despite international funding, there has been little progress in marine management over the past 40 years. The country’s new climate change policy aims to reduce carbon emissions and build resilience, but effective implementation of legislation and marine protections is urgently needed. The report also identifies positive tipping points, with some countries shifting away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy. At COP30, Trinidad and Tobago must advocate for adherence to the Paris Agreement and take concrete actions domestically to address the climate crisis.
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Dow Village Government sweep Caroni District Football tournament
Dow Village Government Primary School has once again demonstrated its supremacy in district football by securing a clean sweep at the Caroni District Football tournament on November 7. The school’s Under-15 boys’ team clinched the championship with a commanding 5-1 victory over Enterprise Government Primary School in the finals. This triumph adds to their earlier successes, as they had already claimed the Under-12 boys’ and Under-15 girls’ titles just a week prior. This remarkable achievement marks the second time in three years that Dow Village has swept the tournament, a feat first accomplished in 2023. Leading the charge was Elijah Austin, the tournament’s standout player and prolific striker, who scored over 20 goals throughout the competition. His exceptional performance was pivotal in securing the school’s triple crown. Coach Edna St Louis, owner of the Golden Tigers Football Club, has been a key figure in the school’s continued success since joining the coaching team in 2024. She was supported by Kim Jordan (teacher), and parents Akeem Billy and Crystal Nicholas. Under their guidance, Dow Village also captured the 2024 Under-12 boys’ title against Chaguanas RC School. Principal Gopaul Rajcoomar expressed immense pride in his students’ achievements, praising their teamwork, discipline, and dedication. He highlighted that the school’s consistent performance is a testament to the strong partnership between teachers, coaches, and parents. With this victory, Dow Village Government Primary School has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in Caroni District school football.
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CXC crafting relief plan for candidates
In the wake of the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and Jamaica’s Ministry of Education are joining forces to develop a comprehensive relief plan for students scheduled to take examinations in January and May-June 2026. The Category 5 hurricane, which struck Jamaica on October 28 with winds reaching 185 miles per hour, caused widespread destruction, severely damaging over 600 educational institutions and displacing thousands of students. While classes have resumed in more than 600 schools, many students in the southwestern region face prolonged delays in returning to their studies. Dr. Wayne Wesley, Registrar and CEO of CXC, expressed deep empathy for the nation and highlighted the council’s collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information (MOEYSI) to address the concerns of candidates preparing for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), and Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence exams. Once finalized, the relief plan will be widely publicized to ensure students receive the necessary support. Education Minister Dr. Dana Morris Dixon emphasized the ministry’s commitment to prioritizing exam-bound students during the phased reopening of schools. Hurricane Melissa, the most extreme storm in Jamaica’s history, caused catastrophic flooding and infrastructure damage, particularly in St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland, leaving a lasting impact on the island’s education system.
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Yorke readies troops for do or die W/Cup qualifier vs Jamaica
The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) men’s football team is gearing up for a pivotal FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier against Jamaica at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo on November 13. With TT currently third in Group B of the Concacaf final round with five points, a victory over group leaders Jamaica (nine points) is essential to keep their qualifying hopes alive. Curacao, sitting second with eight points, also poses a threat as they face Bermuda in a simultaneous match. Only the group winners will secure automatic qualification, with the two best second-placed teams advancing to the intercontinental playoff. TT’s head coach, Dwight Yorke, emphasized the must-win nature of the game, stating, ‘We’re fighting for our lives to keep our dreams alive.’ Yorke acknowledged Jamaica’s strength but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion. The previous encounter in September saw Jamaica secure a 2-0 victory, but Yorke remains optimistic about TT’s improved performance. Meanwhile, Jamaica’s coach, Steve McClaren, highlighted the significance of qualifying for the World Cup as a way to bring joy to a nation recovering from Hurricane Melissa. Both teams are under immense pressure as they vie for a spot in the prestigious tournament.
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Mitchell slams fete ban at cricket academy, Hasely Crawford stadium
Former Minister of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts, Randall Mitchell, has voiced strong opposition to the Urban Development Corporation’s (Udecott) decision to prohibit fetes and cultural events at facilities under its management, including the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and Hasely Crawford Stadium. Mitchell emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural expression should not be dismissed as mere ‘noise,’ a term he believes undermines the nation’s rich cultural heritage. He argued that the cultural economy, driven by creatives and event organizers, plays a vital role in the country’s economic and social fabric. While acknowledging the issue of noise pollution, Mitchell asserted that outright bans are not the solution. Instead, he called for a balanced approach, leveraging existing frameworks like the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) and noise pollution regulations to address concerns without stifling cultural activities. Mitchell highlighted the economic impact of events, which employ hundreds of individuals, from sound engineers to artists, and contribute significantly to tourism and creativity. He urged for stricter enforcement of decibel limits and event hours rather than blanket prohibitions. Mitchell also expressed hope that Prime Minister’s policies would support the cultural economy equitably, without favoring one demographic over another.
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Kartel toasts Grammy nomination, joins relief efforts
Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel has secured his second Grammy nomination, with his album *Heart & Soul* earning a spot in the Best Reggae Album category. The announcement, made on November 7, places Kartel in competition with fellow artists Lila Iké, Mortimer, Jesse Royal, and Keznamdi. This nomination follows last year’s recognition of his *Party With Me* EP. In a statement to the *Jamaica Observer*, Kartel emphasized his commitment to legacy and uplifting Jamaica, stating, “Every song, every show, every mission me do now it’s about legacy and upliftment. Jamaica build mi, so mi haffi build back Jamaica.”
Beyond his musical achievements, Kartel has been actively engaged in humanitarian efforts through his Adidja Palmer Foundation (APF). On the same day as the Grammy announcement, APF delivered a 40-foot container of essential supplies, including 12,000 bottles of water, 1,500 loaves of bread, and hygiene kits. Partnering with World Central Kitchen, the foundation also cleared debris, served over 3,500 hot meals, and provided direct support to a children’s home housing 70 disabled children.
Looking ahead, APF plans to expand its mission from emergency response to sustained rebuilding. Kartel aims to adopt one children’s home, rebuild the roof of another, and create safe spaces, including a women’s and kids’ shelter, a soup kitchen, and a counseling area. The foundation will also assist in rebuilding a basic school and restoring parts of St Elizabeth, Jamaica’s breadbasket parish.
After visiting communities affected by a recent hurricane, Kartel shared his vision for mental health support, highlighting the trauma experienced by many, especially children. “We’re creating a space where people can get psychological help, because too many — especially the kids — are dealing with trauma. This is not normal, so we have to care for the mind, not just the body,” he said. Kartel praised the resilience of Jamaicans, stating, “Jamaican people tough like steel, and that’s what hurt me the most; I’ve never seen the people dem cry so much, ever! But the resilience of Jamaican people is second to none. As we always say, ‘We likkle but wi tallawah.’ Right now is the time when we need unity the most.”
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The numbers don’t add up!
Members of Jamaica’s Infrastructure and Physical Development Committee expressed deep skepticism on Wednesday over the National Water Commission’s (NWC) optimistic recovery figures following Hurricane Melissa. Despite NWC’s claim that 75% of its systems had been restored islandwide, MPs highlighted the stark disparity between these numbers and the ongoing water shortages in severely affected western parishes. Acting NWC Vice President of Operations, Dr. Phillipa Campbell-Francis, explained the complexity of the recovery process, citing 1,000 water systems dependent on electricity, many of which remain damaged or inoperable. However, MPs like James Robertson of St Thomas Western and Heroy Clarke of St James Central argued that the NWC’s data failed to reflect the dire reality on the ground, where communities still lacked piped water weeks after the storm. Clarke criticized the inefficiency of water trucking operations, noting that logistical delays left many areas underserved. MPs also questioned the methodology behind the NWC’s figures, with Richard Azan of Clarendon North Western quipping that the numbers seemed “drone-generated.” NWC officials acknowledged challenges, including power outages, siltation, and pipeline leaks, but assured that efforts were underway to restore full service. Despite support from Global Support and Development, which provided emergency water supplies, parishes like Westmoreland and St Elizabeth remain far from full recovery. The committee urged the NWC to provide clearer data and realistic timelines to address the crisis effectively.
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Unnecessary bureaucracy
The People’s National Party (PNP), Jamaica’s main opposition party, has clarified its refusal to participate in a Joint Select Committee (JSC) overseeing hurricane recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. The decision has sparked criticism from the government, which accused the PNP of inconsistency and a lack of principled leadership.
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World Central Kitchen On The Rock
When Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on October 28, its devastation extended beyond physical damage to homes and infrastructure, leaving thousands of families grappling with food insecurity. In response, World Central Kitchen (WCK), a global non-profit founded by Spanish-American chef José Andrés, swiftly scaled up its relief efforts to provide hot meals to those most affected by the disaster. Known for its rapid response to crises worldwide, WCK collaborates with local chefs, farmers, and communities to deliver comfort through familiar flavors during times of need.
Chef Oli, WCK’s Emergency Response Director, arrived in Jamaica with extensive experience from disaster zones across the globe. “We began preparations before the hurricane made landfall,” he explained. “We coordinated with restaurant partners from previous relief efforts, ensured they had adequate supplies, and started cooking for families who had evacuated inland. As soon as conditions allowed, we resumed operations.”
The relief efforts were bolstered by local and international support. The Westmoreland Police Division assisted in offloading over 2,500 hot meals from a relief helicopter, while Jamaican Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton personally thanked WCK volunteers for their dedication. Even retired sprint legend Usain Bolt visited the WCK operations hub to express his gratitude to the team.
WCK’s operations in Jamaica are a testament to its mission of providing immediate food relief in the aftermath of disasters. With the help of local volunteers like Micheala Atkinson, who proudly displayed a “Free WCK Meals” sign, the organization ensures that affected communities receive daily hot meals. Chef José Andrés himself visited the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital to coordinate ongoing relief efforts, underscoring WCK’s commitment to supporting Jamaica during this challenging time.