Renowned steelpan virtuoso Joshua Regrello continues to shatter boundaries and set new milestones in the world of music. Following his groundbreaking performances on the Great Wall of China and his Guinness World Record for the longest steelpan marathon in 2024, Regrello is now poised to make history once again. On October 19, during the closing night of the Divali Nagar festival in Chaguanas, Trinidad, he announced his upcoming debut performance at the iconic Taj Mahal in India. This will mark the first time a pannist has performed at the historic mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1631 by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Regrello’s announcement was met with resounding applause from the audience, including NCIC president Surujdeo Mangaroo and Senator Darrel Allahar, despite heavy rain earlier in the evening. The festival, themed ‘Loka Sangraha: The Welfare of the World,’ celebrated global harmony and collective well-being. Regrello’s performance, alongside tabla player Shivan Seenath, featured a fusion of Bollywood hits and Indian classical music, showcasing his dedication to mastering diverse musical styles. He encouraged young attendees to pursue their dreams through hard work, emphasizing the rewards of perseverance. Looking ahead, Mangaroo revealed that the 2026 Divali Nagar will focus on ‘Rajneeti,’ exploring the intersection of ethical governance and political strategy.
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Army face stern Mt Pleasant test in Caribbean Cup semis
Defence Force, the reigning champions of the Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL), are set to continue their 2025 Concacaf Caribbean Cup journey as they face Jamaica’s Mount Pleasant Football Academy in the semifinal’s first leg. The match will take place at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo on October 22 at 6 pm, with the return leg scheduled for October 29 in Jamaica. Defence Force secured their spot in the semifinals by finishing second in Group B, narrowly edging out Weymouth Wales FC on goal difference. Key players like captain Kevin Molino and midfielder Cassim Kellar, both named to the Caribbean Cup’s Best XI, will be crucial in this high-stakes encounter. Mount Pleasant, on the other hand, topped Group A with a flawless record, including a dominant 2-0 victory over MIC Central FC Reboot in Mucurapo last month. Defence Force will also welcome back striker Isaiah Leacock and Tobago playmaker Adriel George, adding depth to their squad. However, they will miss right-back Isaiah Garcia due to yellow card accumulation. Under the leadership of interim coach Devorn Jorsling, Defence Force aims to overcome Mount Pleasant’s near-perfect form and advance to the final.
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Trinidad and Tobago grouped with Mexico for 2026 Concacaf U-17 Men’s qualifiers
Trinidad and Tobago’s men’s under-17 football team has been placed in a challenging group for the 2026 Concacaf Under-17 Men’s Qualifiers, which will determine the participants for the upcoming Fifa Under-17 Men’s World Cup. The draw, held on October 21, placed TT in Group A alongside regional powerhouse Mexico, as well as Barbados, Saint Martin, and Sint Maarten. The qualifiers are scheduled to take place from February 3 to 12, with TT hosting their matches at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. TT’s campaign begins on February 3 against Barbados, followed by games against Saint Martin (February 5), Sint Maarten (February 9), and Mexico (February 12). The top team from each of the eight groups will secure a spot in the World Cup. Mexico, already qualified for the 2025 Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, will be a formidable opponent for TT. Earlier this year, TT narrowly missed out on qualification for the 2025 World Cup after finishing second in their group behind Costa Rica. The 2026 qualifiers feature 34 Concacaf member associations divided into eight groups, with TT ranked 15th in the region’s under-17 rankings as of April 2025. The competition promises to be intense as teams vie for a chance to represent their nations on the global stage.
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Nutrien shutdown puts 1,600 jobs at risk
The impending controlled shutdown of Nutrien Trinidad, a global leader in crop inputs and services, has raised concerns over the potential loss of more than 1,600 jobs. The shutdown, effective October 23, stems from limited port access and challenges in securing affordable natural gas supplies. Nutrien’s Point Lisas facility, operational since 1998, is a critical hub for its global fertilizer supply chain, exporting ammonia and urea to markets in North and South America, Europe, and Africa. The closure could significantly impact Trinidad and Tobago’s economy, as Nutrien contributes substantial foreign exchange earnings.
The National Energy Corporation (NEC), a subsidiary of the National Gas Company (NGC), issued formal notices to companies with significant arrears, including Nutrien, warning of suspended port access if balances exceeding $610 million were not settled within 14 days. Edmond Thompson, Nutrien’s Vice President and Managing Director, stated that the company disputes NEC’s claims of retroactive port service fees and has been engaged in constructive dialogue to resolve the matter. However, NEC’s decision to restrict port access has left Nutrien with no choice but to initiate a temporary shutdown.
Thompson acknowledged the potential need for temporary workforce adjustments, including short-term layoffs, while maintaining essential services and safeguarding assets. He emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting employees through the Employee Assistance Programme. The shutdown has sparked political tensions, with Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal attributing the crisis to the previous administration’s failure to negotiate new contractual arrangements with downstream operators. Former Energy Minister Stuart Young criticized the current government, warning that the energy sector is collapsing under its management.
The American Chamber of Commerce (Amcham) and the Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago have called for continued collaboration among stakeholders to address operational and infrastructural challenges. Both chambers emphasized the importance of maintaining investor confidence and ensuring Trinidad and Tobago remains an attractive destination for energy investment. The government’s efforts to resolve gas supply and infrastructure issues are seen as critical to safeguarding jobs and the future of Point Lisas.
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55 vie for TPP candidacy for THA elections
The Tobago People’s Party (TPP) has announced that 55 individuals have submitted their nominations to stand as candidates in the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections. TPP leader Farley Augustine revealed this during a press briefing at Shaw Park on October 21. Augustine confirmed that the nomination process has concluded, and a committee is now rigorously vetting the nominees to ensure they meet the party’s membership and eligibility criteria.
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Trinidad and Tobago’s Chloe Fraser cops ping-pong U19 gold in Paris
Trinidad and Tobago’s rising table tennis star, Chloe Fraser, secured a remarkable victory at the Criterium Federal National 1A Junior Tournament in Châtenay-Malabry, Paris, on October 14. The 17-year-old claimed the girls’ under-19 singles title after a thrilling comeback in the final against Maelys Messe. Fraser, who initially lost the first set 3-11, demonstrated exceptional resilience to win the next three sets 11-5, 11-6, and 11-8, clinching the championship. Her path to the final was equally challenging, as she overcame Margaux Rouet in a grueling five-set quarter-final and defeated Gaetane Bled in straight sets during the semi-finals. This victory marked a significant rebound for Fraser, who had recently competed at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Youth Contender in Montenegro, where she reached the U17 round of 16 but was eliminated in the U19 round of 32. Reflecting on her performance, Fraser expressed satisfaction with her ability to maintain a high level of play across both tournaments. She credited her coach for identifying and addressing technical errors after the WTT, which contributed to her success in Paris. Currently ranked 12th in France’s junior category and 70th globally in U17, Fraser’s triumph underscores her growing prominence in international table tennis.
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Sucre promises aims for bigger success in 2026
Sucre, the 2025 Youth Soca Champion, is poised to make waves in the soca music industry as he sets his sights on 2026. Representing the Zig Boi Music Group, Sucre has already established himself as a formidable talent with a title to his name. His journey to success has been marked by a rigorous development program, guided by the experienced hand of Zig Boi Music Group CEO, Mr. Spine. Over the past two years, Sucre has been immersed in a comprehensive training regimen that included studio sessions, live performances, and networking opportunities. His collaboration with the legendary band Traffik and the formation of the youth-centric Evolution Band have further honed his skills and expanded his reach. Sucre’s victory in the Soca Champions competition was a testament to his dedication and talent. Since then, he has performed on international stages, including an opening act for Morgan Heritage in St. Maarten. As he prepares to compete against top acts like Blaka Dan in the 2026 Soca Champions competition, Sucre remains committed to inspiring the next generation of soca artists. His latest single, ‘Gimme Wuk Darlin,’ continues a love story narrative that began with his 2025 hit, ‘Hold on Darlin.’ Sucre’s vision extends beyond personal success; he aims to create a community that nurtures young talent and ushers in a new era of soca music.
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October filled with faith, pride for Venezuelan migrants
October 2025 has become a month of profound significance for Venezuelans worldwide, marked by a blend of pride, hope, and emotional renewal. On October 10, Maria Corina Machado, a prominent opposition leader, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering commitment to defending democratic rights and fostering a peaceful transition in Venezuela. This global recognition resonated deeply with millions of Venezuelans living abroad, reigniting a sense of pride and optimism for their homeland. Just nine days later, on October 19, the Vatican celebrated the canonization of Venezuela’s first two saints, Dr. Jose Gregorio Hernandez and Mother Maria Carmen Rendiles Martinez, in a grand ceremony at St. Peter’s Square led by Pope Francis. These two revered figures, symbols of faith, science, and humility, provided a spiritual affirmation for Venezuelans both at home and in the diaspora. For Venezuelans in Trinidad and Tobago, these events carried special emotional weight. Carolina Alvarez, originally from Barquisimeto and now residing in Chaguanas, described the canonization as a moment when ‘Venezuela stood up again,’ recalling her grandmother’s prayers and the enduring legacy of Dr. Hernandez. Luis Martinez, from Caracas and now living in Port of Spain, shared how hearing the Pope mention Dr. Hernandez’s name brought tears to his eyes, rekindling a sense of hope. Maria Fernanda Perez, from Maracaibo and living in San Fernando, expressed that the canonization felt like ‘a caress for those of us who are far away,’ restoring faith in the midst of adversity. Javier Gomez, a construction worker from Valencia now living in Arima, encapsulated the collective sentiment, stating, ‘The Nobel filled me with pride, but the saints gave me back my soul.’ These events, he reflected, reminded Venezuelans of their enduring faith and resilience, offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
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CG Poseidon storm into EFA ‘Big 8’ by hammering Trincity Nationals
In a spectacular display of football prowess, CG Poseidon, last season’s Eastern Football Association (EFA) runners-up, secured their place in the EFA Big 8 with a resounding 12-0 victory over Trincity Nationals on October 19. The match, held at the Clayton Ince recreation grounds in Maloney, saw Poseidon finish third in Group B, ensuring their progression to the tournament’s quarterfinals. Entering the game in sixth place with 11 points, Poseidon needed a win to secure a top-four spot in their group. Their dominant performance not only achieved this but also leapfrogged them to third place with 14 points, trailing only group winners FC Maloney (21 points) and second-placed Eastern Connect FC (16 points). Poseidon’s Isaiah Farrell led the charge with a hat-trick, supported by Kedell Jones and Joshua Rogers, who each scored twice. Lejean Lezama, Jamal Oliver, Zedane Ravello, and Kemo Toby also contributed to the goal fest. Meanwhile, FC Maloney, already confirmed as group winners, dashed FC Porto Arima’s Big 8 hopes with a 5-2 victory, led by Saleem Henry’s brace. In another thrilling match, Zebulun narrowly defeated USC Hummers 4-3, with Hasie Alexander scoring a hat-trick. The Big 8 matches are set for this weekend, featuring high-stakes clashes such as Eastern Connect vs. Athletic United FC and reigning champions Malabar Youngstars vs. Wallerfield. The EFA final, scheduled for November 9, will see the champions take home a $15,000 prize, with $10,000 and $5,000 awarded to the second and third-placed teams, respectively.
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Port of Spain MPs upset over reduced garbage disposal budget
Tensions flared during a recent session of the Standing Finance Committee of the House of Representatives as opposition MPs raised concerns over an $8 million reduction in the budget allocation for garbage collection and other services in Port of Spain. The debate, which took place on October 21, saw Port-of-Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young leading the charge, asserting that the cuts would significantly hamper the capital city’s ability to manage waste effectively. Minister of Local Government Khadijah Ameen countered these claims, stating that the allocation was sufficient and could be supplemented if necessary. She accused the opposition of creating unnecessary panic and seeking headlines rather than focusing on the facts. Ameen emphasized that the line item in question covered multiple services, not solely garbage collection. However, Young and other MPs, including Port of Spain South MP Keith Scotland and Diego Martin North East MP Colm Imbert, remained unconvinced, pointing to broader reductions in the Port of Spain City Corporation’s budget for goods and services, which had decreased by $20 million over the past year. St Ann’s East MP Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly and Arouca/Lopinot MP Marvin Gonzales also pressed Ameen for clarity on where additional funding might come from, to which she reiterated her earlier responses. The session highlighted growing concerns over the financial management of essential services in the capital.