On the evening of September 25, the concept store Locale, situated at 4 Holborn Road, transformed into a hub of gastronomic and sartorial excellence with the Maison De Vert event. The eight-course culinary journey was masterfully curated by Chef Jerron Green of Jeronimos Kitchen, offering guests a feast for the senses. The evening’s wine selections, presented by Caribbean Producers Jamaica, were introduced by Flavio Andreatta, the Caribbean area manager at Giowine, adding a refined touch to the proceedings. The event also showcased the exquisite interior design by Aiesha Panton, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the evening. Attendees included notable personalities such as Gina Forrest, Senior Brand Manager for Wines and Premium Waters at CPJ, Rojah Thomas, Director of Retail Sales, and Paula Bullings, Corporate Wine Specialist, who joined Andreatta in a celebratory toast. The fashion-forward crowd was equally impressive, with Shereika Myers, CPJ Category Manager for Wines & Water, turning heads in an ASTR The Label Avani Textured Midi Dress. The event was a perfect blend of culinary artistry, fine wines, and high fashion, making it a memorable night for all who attended.
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‘One Nation, New Symbols’ exhibition opens at National Gallery
The National Gallery of Jamaica (NGJ) launched its highly anticipated exhibition, ‘One Nation, New Symbols,’ on Sunday, September 28, 2025. The event, accompanied by live entertainment from Fatalic Sounds, marks a significant cultural milestone in the nation’s artistic landscape. Curated by Monique Barnett-Davidson, the exhibition aims to explore and reinterpret Jamaica’s rich history through a contemporary lens, fostering civic dialogue and national identity.
Barnett-Davidson emphasized the exhibition’s mission to showcase the work of 43 Jamaican visual artists who celebrate, challenge, and reimagine the symbols that define the nation. From national emblems to everyday icons, the artworks reflect the lived experiences of Jamaicans, offering a profound commentary on social, political, and cultural themes. The exhibition will remain open to the public until March 29, 2026.
The NGJ initiated a public call for submissions earlier this year, receiving 166 applications. A rigorous two-round judging process, overseen by a panel of stakeholders, culminated in the final selection of participating artists. Notable contributors include Justeen Bailey, Kimani Beckford, Stephanie Brown, and Dana-Marie Bullock, among others.
Barnett-Davidson highlighted the exhibition’s broader objectives: reimagining national symbolism through contemporary art, amplifying Jamaican artistic voices, and promoting civic engagement through accessible public exhibitions. ‘This platform allows artists to respond to current societal conditions using visual language, continuing the tradition of art as a powerful form of social commentary,’ she added.
The opening event also featured key figures from the NGJ, including Nadine Boothe-Gooden, acting senior director, and Shawna-Lee Tai, assistant curator, alongside representatives from sponsors like Häagen-Dazs.
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YFL Junior Cup more than celebration of football, says lead organiser
The highly anticipated fourth edition of the Youth Football League’s (YFL) Junior Cup is set to commence on October 4 at the Constant Spring field, with subsequent matches moving to Kirkvine, Manchester, on October 11. The all-island final will return to Constant Spring on October 18, where the top six teams will compete for the championship title. Hillel Prep, the defending champions, will aim to retain their crown in this prestigious tournament.
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‘Bunny’ Shaw bags brace in Man City win over London City in WSL
Manchester City delivered a commanding performance in the Women’s Super League (WSL) on Sunday, securing a 4-1 victory against the London City Lionesses. Jamaican international Khadija “Bunny” Shaw was the standout player, netting two crucial goals from the penalty spot in the second half. This win propelled Manchester City to third place in the league standings, with nine points from four games, trailing behind Manchester United and Chelsea, who have 10 and 12 points, respectively. Shaw’s brace brought her season tally to three goals, placing her among the top three goal scorers in the WSL. The match began with Manchester City taking an early lead, as Vivianne Miedema headed in a cross from Kerstin Casparij in the 11th minute. Laura Blindkilde Brown extended the lead just three minutes later with a precise low shot through a crowded box. London City managed to pull one back in the 19th minute, thanks to a clinical finish by Nikita Parris following a defensive lapse. However, Shaw’s composure from the penalty spot in the 69th and 89th minutes, following fouls by Saki Kumagai and Wassa Sangare, sealed the victory for Manchester City.
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Alkaline locked to headline Dream Weekend 2026
Dream Entertainment has officially announced that dancehall sensation Alkaline will headline Dream Weekend 2026, marking a significant shift for the iconic summer festival. After 16 years in Negril, the event will relocate to Montego Bay on Jamaica’s north coast in 2026, promising a fresh chapter for the beloved celebration. Known as the ‘Vendetta Boss,’ Alkaline is celebrated for his chart-topping hits and ability to draw massive crowds both locally and internationally. His inclusion in the lineup signifies a bold new direction for the Dream brand. Scott Dunn, Group Managing Director of Dream Entertainment Limited, emphasized Alkaline’s cultural significance, stating, ‘Alkaline represents the voice of a generation and the pinnacle of modern dancehall. His exclusive performance at Dream Weekend 2026 is not just a show but a cultural milestone, reflecting our commitment to innovation and boundary-pushing.’ Scheduled for July 30 to August 3, 2026, the festival will coincide with Emancipendence week, offering signature themed parties, premium entertainment, and an immersive cultural experience. The picturesque waterfront venues of Montego Bay will provide a stunning backdrop, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience for loyal attendees.
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Let’s not view Obeah through borrowed lens
Over a century since the Obeah Act of 1898 criminalized the practice, Obeah remains one of Jamaica’s most contentious cultural issues. Recently, Christian groups have vehemently opposed its legalization, warning that it would unleash ‘demonic forces’ across the nation. However, this fervent opposition raises a critical question: Why is there not a similar level of unity and outrage when addressing pressing societal issues such as child abuse, teenage pregnancy, juvenile delinquency, or the rampant violent crime plaguing communities? The selective indignation is striking. For instance, Indian astrologers freely advertise their services in newspapers and on television without sparking protests, yet Obeah is singled out. This disparity reveals a deeper issue: practices tied to African heritage are still viewed with suspicion and prejudice. The root of the problem lies in a Eurocentric mindset that has conditioned society to perceive African traditions as inherently evil while uncritically embracing other cultural practices. Some even falsely attribute Haiti’s struggles to its recognition of Vodou, a claim that is not only baseless but also dismissive of historical complexity. Obeah is an integral part of Jamaica’s history, once serving as a tool of resistance against colonial oppression. To erase it is to deny a legacy of survival and defiance. While there are deviant practices within Obeah, Christianity, with its over 40,000 denominations, is not without its own controversies. True emancipation requires dismantling the stigma surrounding Afrocentric religions and confronting the colonial prejudices that continue to shape perceptions. Obeah must be discussed honestly, free from fear or bias, as it is not merely a religious issue but a matter of identity, history, and the freedom to embrace one’s heritage without distortion.
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‘TV Boss’ shines in Paradox Pt 2
Johnoy ‘TV Boss’ Williams is basking in the spotlight for his standout performance in the official music video for Valiant and Shaneil Muir’s ‘Paradox Pt. 2.’ Released on September 12, the video has already amassed over 1.2 million streams on YouTube, showcasing its widespread appeal. In the narrative, TV Boss portrays Muir’s brother, who advises her to leave her partner (Valiant) after repeated letdowns. Reflecting on his role, TV Boss confidently stated, ‘My performance was 10 out of 10. I always give my best, which is why I keep getting opportunities.’ Born in Portland, Jamaica, and now based in the United States, TV Boss discovered his passion for acting during his time at Buff Bay High School. He honed his craft at the School of Drama at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, setting the stage for a flourishing career. His portfolio includes notable projects like Sting and Shaggy’s ‘Til A Mawnin,’ Stephen Marley’s ‘Rock Stone,’ Busy Signal’s ‘Stay Suh,’ and Alkaline’s ‘Juggernaught.’ Additionally, he became a familiar face on Television Jamaica’s ‘The Ity and Fancy Cat Show’ and appeared in Nick Cannon’s ‘King of Dancehall.’ TV Boss attributes his success to his natural ability to embody characters, blending humor and wit to resonate with audiences. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, ‘I’ve grown a lot, transitioning from Jamaica to the US. My work in Jamaica laid the foundation for my career, and America offers vast opportunities.’ Looking ahead, TV Boss is exploring avenues in film production and business to expand his influence in the industry.
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MORE THAN DESERVING
The Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) has announced plans to honour sprint icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in recognition of her extraordinary athletic achievements and significant social contributions. Fraser-Pryce, who recently concluded her 18-year senior career at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, leaves behind a legacy that has inspired both locally and globally.
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‘WE ARE HAPPY’
Jamaica’s Under-21 netball team concluded their 2025 World Netball Youth Cup campaign with a commendable fifth-place finish, marking a significant milestone in their journey. Head Coach Annett Daley expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly after their 53-44 victory over Scotland in the consolation group final at the Europa Sports Complex in Gibraltar. The match, held on Sunday, showcased the young Sunshine Girls’ resilience and determination.
Daley highlighted the team’s ability to adapt and improve despite limited practice opportunities. ‘The girls stuck to the task and they delivered,’ she remarked, emphasizing the squad’s grit and execution. She also praised the defensive unit for their exceptional performance, noting their ability to recover from errors and maintain focus under pressure.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the tournament, Daley acknowledged the growing competitiveness in international netball, driven by increased investments from various countries. She stressed the importance of retaining and developing Jamaica’s young talent to ensure future success. ‘There’s a lot we can take away from this match,’ she said. ‘The girls are really in a position to make adjustments as they get more experience.’
However, Daley expressed concern about the Caribbean region’s standing in global netball, urging greater attention to development and investment. ‘If we are not careful in the Caribbean, we could be in problems,’ she warned.
The tournament saw Australia clinch the title with a 63-48 victory over New Zealand, while England secured third place with a 55-35 win against South Africa. Despite falling to Australia in the quarter-finals and England in the group stage, Jamaica’s performance against these top-tier teams was a source of pride for Daley and her squad. ‘The two teams that beat us, one came first and one came third,’ she noted. ‘We are feeling proud of ourselves.’
As the team looks ahead, the focus remains on building a cohesive unit and leveraging the lessons learned from this experience to achieve greater heights in the future.
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Troubling suicide pattern JCF reports mid-year spike in cases
A recent report by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has unveiled a concerning mid-year spike in suicide cases across the country, despite an overall decline in numbers for 2025. Between January and September, Jamaica recorded 44 suicides, marking a 16.9% decrease compared to the 53 cases reported during the same period in 2024. However, the JCF has cautioned against interpreting this as a positive trend, highlighting a worrying reversal in the latter half of the year. July 2025 saw eight suicides, a 33% increase over July 2024, while August and September experienced rises of 20% and 25%, respectively. Geographically, the data reveals a shift in hotspots, with St Catherine north emerging as a significant area of concern, recording four cases in July alone. The JCF emphasized that suicide is not a uniform national issue but often reflects localized socio-economic or community pressures. Gender remains a critical factor, with men constituting the majority of cases. However, there are signs of a potential increase in suicides among women, as highlighted by the recent suspected suicide of 26-year-old Tyra Spaulding, a former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant. The JCF has called for urgent, gender-sensitive interventions, recognizing suicide as a broader public health and social challenge. The police force has urged stakeholders, including mental health professionals, social workers, educators, and community leaders, to intensify efforts to address the issue. The JCF reiterated its commitment to supporting national partners in strengthening community resilience and providing essential counseling and support services. Individuals struggling with mental health challenges are encouraged to seek assistance through various channels, including the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline at 888-639-5433.