Dominica’s commitment to advancing disability rights takes center stage as two exceptional advocates, Ms. Judy Sango and Mr. Loik Charles, prepare to represent the nation at the upcoming Regional Training for Trainers event. Organized by the Commonwealth Disabled Peoples Forum (CDPF), the training is set to take place from October 13 to 17, 2025, at the Accra Beach Resort in Barbados. Both Sango and Charles have been lauded for their unwavering dedication to disability advocacy and leadership within the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities (DAPD) and their local communities. Sango, who serves as President of DAPD, and Charles, the Assistant Secretary/Treasurer, will join a cohort of emerging leaders from across the Commonwealth to enhance their skills in disability equality training. The event, the first in a series of regional initiatives, aims to foster a social model and human rights-based approach to disability advocacy. Participants will be equipped to educate their peers and government officials on the principles outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The CDPF, representing over 100 Disabled Peoples Organizations (DPOs) globally, underscores the importance of cultivating leadership among young persons with disabilities. DAPD has extended its congratulations to Sango and Charles, expressing confidence in their ability to leverage this opportunity to further the cause of disability rights and inclusion.
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LIVE: Our Lady of Fatima Novena 2025 Night 7
In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, user engagement continues to be a pivotal aspect of digital interaction. The simple yet powerful actions of sharing, tweeting, and pinning content have become fundamental to how users connect and disseminate information across platforms. These actions not only amplify the reach of content but also foster community building and real-time communication. Sharing allows users to distribute content within their networks, tweeting facilitates instant updates and conversations, and pinning helps in curating and organizing content for future reference. As social media platforms evolve, these engagement mechanisms remain crucial for both individual users and brands aiming to maximize their online presence. Understanding and leveraging these trends can significantly enhance digital strategies and user interaction.
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Ida Does schenkt nalatenschap Trefosa aan Surinaams Museum
In a significant cultural event, filmmaker and author Ida Does has donated a collection of documents, photographs, and personal belongings of the renowned Surinamese poet Trefossa (Henri Frans de Ziel, 1916–1975) to the Surinamese Museum Foundation. The handover ceremony took place in the Italian Hall of the Amsterdam City Archives, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Suriname’s independence. The donation was officially received by museum director Santosh Singh during a special gathering attended by representatives from both Surinamese and Dutch cultural sectors. In her speech, Does highlighted Trefossa’s groundbreaking contributions to Surinamese literature, particularly his role in popularizing the Sranan language through his poetry. She emphasized that Trefossa’s work symbolized freedom and self-determination, encapsulated in the term ‘Srefidensi.’ Among the donated items are a rare copy of Trefossa’s seminal poetry collection ‘Trotji’ (1957), his typewriter, and the handwritten lyrics of the Sranan verse of the Surinamese national anthem. Does revealed that she inherited these items from Trefossa’s widow, Hulda de Ziel-Walser, whom she befriended while producing her documentary ‘Mi a no mi’ (2008). After Hulda’s passing in 2005, she entrusted Does with her husband’s personal belongings. ‘Both Trefossa and his wife would have wanted it this way,’ Does remarked. ‘They rest together in Paramaribo. Trefossa embodied Suriname, and now it is my honor to present this legacy back to Suriname with pride.’ Museum director Santosh Singh expressed gratitude for the donation, announcing plans for a dedicated exhibition in May 2026 as part of the independence celebrations. The event was attended by Aspha Bijnaar, director of Musea Bekennen Kleur, and Mark Ponte, a researcher at the Amsterdam City Archives. The ceremony concluded with the signing of the donation documents and a recitation of Trefossa’s famous poem ‘Bro’ by Ida Does.
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WIN abstains from Region 4 Council vote after plans with APNU collapse, says Sarabo-Halley
In a significant political development, the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party abstained from voting for the Chairman and Vice Chairman positions in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) on Friday, October 10, 2025. This decision came as a protest against A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) refusal to allow WIN to chair Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), according to WIN executive member Tabita Sarabo-Halley. Sarabo-Halley revealed that WIN’s eight Region Four councillors chose not to cast their votes for any candidate after APNU failed to honor its commitment to support WIN for the Vice Chairmanship in Region Four. ‘Our original position was to support APNU for the Chairmanship, expecting their reciprocal support for our Vice Chairmanship bid,’ Sarabo-Halley explained during a press briefing at the Region Four Council Office in Triumph, East Coast Demerara. APNU, however, issued a statement later that afternoon, asserting its decision to proceed independently in the regional elections due to the inability to reach a political agreement with WIN. The statement highlighted APNU’s efforts to establish a cooperative framework but noted that WIN appeared intent on excluding APNU from key leadership roles in multiple regions. Despite the breakdown in negotiations, APNU expressed its openness to future dialogue and collaboration with all political stakeholders, emphasizing its commitment to strong, principled, and accountable leadership. The vote for the Chairmanship of Region 10 ended in a 9-9 tie between APNU’s Dominique Blair and WIN’s Mark Goring, leaving the final decision to the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development. Sarabo-Halley accused APNU and the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) of colluding to block WIN’s bid for the Region 10 Chairmanship, prompting WIN’s abstention in Region Four. She noted that the PPPC, which holds 17 councillors, secured 18 votes without WIN’s support, suggesting possible behind-the-scenes maneuvering. WIN’s abstention underscored the challenges of working with opposition parties, as Sarabo-Halley described the experience as a ‘tall order.’ The Region Four Chairmanship and Vice Chairmanship were ultimately secured by PPPC members Clemsford Belgrave and Deodat Sawh, respectively.
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Mental Health Is Everyone’s Responsibility, Says Community Advocate
Across Antigua and Barbuda, in homes, schools, and workplaces, countless individuals grapple with mental health challenges in silence. From students struggling to focus in class to employees withdrawing from social interactions, and elderly parents yearning for companionship, the emotional toll is pervasive. On October 10, 2025, the nation joined the global community in observing World Mental Health Day under the theme ‘Access to Service: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.’ This year’s theme resonates deeply as the country faces ongoing social pressures, personal hardships, and the impact of a tropical storm. It underscores the importance of emotional resilience and the need to prioritize mental health as a national imperative.
Mental health care access must be strengthened, particularly for young people. Many youths endure unseen battles, often manifesting as frustration or conflict. They are not merely ‘troubled’ but in dire need of compassion, guidance, and safe spaces to express their emotions. Similarly, individuals who appear successful externally may suffer privately. Seeking help should be seen as an act of courage, not weakness. Community programs, counseling sessions, and support groups play a crucial role in reminding people they are not alone.
In St. John’s Rural South, community advocate Jermaine N. Edwards has witnessed firsthand the pain of young people and the isolation of seniors. These experiences highlight the importance of fostering mental wellness through care and understanding. Encouragingly, the stigma surrounding mental illness is gradually fading, replaced by empathy and awareness. Early intervention through counseling and support can prevent deeper suffering.
Schools, workplaces, and community organizations must actively promote mental health. Teachers, employers, and parents should recognize signs of distress and respond with compassion. Parents, in particular, must address their children’s emotional well-being, countering the unrealistic standards often portrayed on social media. Seniors, too, deserve attention, as many face depression due to loneliness or the rapid pace of modern life. Intergenerational programs can bridge this gap, fostering mutual support and understanding.
Mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age or circumstance. Whether triggered by trauma, social pressure, or natural disasters, it must be met with care, not judgment. Investments in school counselors, community mental health programs, and trained professionals in clinics are essential. On this World Mental Health Day, let us commit to building a culture where help is accessible, voices are heard, and no one feels isolated. Mental health is not an individual issue but a shared responsibility. Together, we can create a society rooted in understanding, healing, and hope.
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Jonge goudzoeker verdrinkt bij Stoelmanseiland
A tragic incident unfolded this afternoon in the remote region of Stoelmanseiland, resulting in the drowning of 24-year-old Ritchel Linga from Paramaribo. According to initial police reports, Linga had traveled to the area several weeks ago to engage in gold mining activities. His cousin revealed that the victim had gone to the river around 2:00 PM to wash his clothes and bathe. When Linga failed to return after some time, his cousin initiated a search. Only his clothing and bathing items were found on the riverbank. A search operation was immediately launched with the help of other residents. After some time, the lifeless body of the victim was recovered from the water. The incident has cast a somber shadow over the community, highlighting the dangers faced by those working in remote and hazardous environments.
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Brug bij Witagron deels ingestort: verkeer volledig stilgelegd
A significant incident occurred today when a large section of the bridge over the Coppenamerivier near Witagron collapsed, severing the crucial link between the inland regions and Paramaribo. Initial reports indicate no casualties, but the collapse has had profound implications for residents, businesses, and travelers reliant on this vital route. The bridge’s failure has rendered traffic to and from Paramaribo impossible, severely hampering access to inland villages and goldfields. Authorities are currently assessing the situation, but the disruption is expected to have lasting economic and social impacts on the region. Emergency response teams are working to establish alternative transportation solutions while investigations into the cause of the collapse are underway.
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Dominica commemorates World Mental Health Day today
Dominica has joined the global community in commemorating World Mental Health Day on October 10, a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and advocating for improved mental health care worldwide. This year’s theme, ‘Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,’ underscores the urgent need for accessible and culturally relevant mental health support during crises. Dr. Nadia Wallace, Consultant Psychiatrist at the Acute Psychiatric Unit (APU), highlighted the persistent neglect and underfunding of mental health treatment in emergency response efforts. She emphasized that natural disasters, accidents, and humanitarian crises often leave individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, grief, and substance abuse, exacerbated by the loss of homes, income, and community ties. Dr. Wallace stressed that children, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions are particularly vulnerable. Despite growing awareness, access to mental health care remains inconsistent, especially in crisis-stricken areas. Stigma, a shortage of skilled professionals, and inadequate resources further complicate the provision of support. The World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) is advocating for the integration of mental health into emergency response frameworks, including training frontline workers in psychological first aid and investing in long-term, trauma-informed care. Dr. Wallace urged global stakeholders to prioritize mental health as an essential component of disaster planning and recovery, emphasizing that mental health care is a necessity, not a luxury, and must be equitable and accessible to all.
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Man gets 20 years for killing his grandpa, 94
A 25-year-old man, Jareth Jamala John, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the fatal assault of his 94-year-old grandfather during a psychotic episode in 2020. The tragic incident occurred at their family home in Collins, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. John, who began using marijuana at age 13, has consistently refused to quit the drug, despite evidence linking it to his mental health issues. During the sentencing hearing at the High Court in Kingstown, Justice Rickie Burnett revealed that John expressed a desire for more marijuana, claiming it helps him stay calm. Mental health assessments indicate that John remains a danger to others without continued psychiatric treatment. The court granted a one-third sentence reduction due to his guilty plea, resulting in a remaining term of seven years, nine months, and nine days. John was initially charged with murder and assault but pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. The case highlights the devastating consequences of untreated mental illness and substance abuse.
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Foundation work begins on Saint Lucia’s new Halls of Justice
The construction of Saint Lucia’s highly anticipated Halls of Justice has achieved a significant milestone with the successful pouring of the first section of the foundation for the Annexe Building. This event, which took place on October 4, marks the commencement of the physical construction phase following months of meticulous preparation and engineering assessments. The Annexe Building is set to accommodate six new criminal courts, addressing the growing demands of the island’s judicial system.