Carib Scope

标签： Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Antigua & Barbuda Swimmers Deliver Strong Performances at OECS Championships

    Antigua & Barbuda Swimmers Deliver Strong Performances at OECS Championships

    The 33rd OECS Swimming Championships have witnessed remarkable achievements from Team Antigua & Barbuda, as they continue to make waves in the competition. With multiple medals and record-breaking swims, the team has secured fourth place in the standings, showcasing their resilience and national pride. Despite facing challenges, including swimmers competing while unwell, Antigua & Barbuda has demonstrated exceptional determination. As of the second day, the team has amassed 732 points, trailing behind Grenada (836), St. Lucia (803), and St. Vincent (747.5).

    Ethan Stubbs-Greene and Jadon Wuilliez emerged as standout performers, setting new OECS records. Stubbs-Greene shattered the 200-metre freestyle record with a time of 1:51.24, while Wuilliez achieved dual records in the 50-metre breaststroke (27.89) and 50-metre freestyle. Wuilliez also clinched silver in the 200-metre freestyle (1:56.27), with teammate Stefano Mitchell securing bronze (1:56.37).

    The young swimmers of Antigua & Barbuda also made their mark, with nine-year-old Isabel Nicholas claiming gold in both the 200-metre freestyle (2:29.34) and 50-metre backstroke (37.14). Charlotte Gold and Anna Sukumaran joined her on the podium, earning silver and bronze in the 200-metre freestyle, respectively. Among the boys, Akasion Shepard took bronze in the 8-and-under 25-metre backstroke (21.56), while Alessandro Bazzoni earned silver in the 11–12 100-metre backstroke (1:09.51).

    In the Development Pathway Division, 13-year-old Anya DeGannes secured silver in the 13–14 100-metre backstroke (1:11.54), adding to her earlier gold medals in the 200-metre freestyle and 100-metre butterfly. Team officials lauded the swimmers’ perseverance, highlighting their ability to achieve personal bests despite illness. Coaches emphasized the performances as a testament to the nation’s growing talent pool across age groups.

    The OECS Championships continue through the weekend, with Team Antigua & Barbuda aiming to build on their momentum in the final sessions.

  • Rahkeem Cornwall Steps Down as Hurricanes Captain

    Rahkeem Cornwall Steps Down as Hurricanes Captain

    In a significant development for Caribbean cricket, Antiguan all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall has announced his resignation as captain of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes. The decision comes just ahead of the highly anticipated CG United Super50 Cup, set to commence in Trinidad on November 19. Cornwall, who also captains the Antigua and Barbuda Master Blasters, revealed that his choice followed the conclusion of the recent LICB Mixed Tournament in St. Kitts, where his team secured a commendable second-place finish.

    Cornwall, 31, emphasized that stepping down from the leadership role was a strategic move to focus on his personal performance. “I believe the team needs a fresh perspective and someone else to take up the mantle,” he stated. “I’ll continue to play, but my priority now is to enjoy my cricket without the added responsibilities of captaincy.”

    The seasoned cricketer admitted that the dual pressures of leadership and performance had taken a toll on his form in recent years. “Captaining the team and ensuring the well-being of other players often overshadowed my own game,” he confessed. “It’s time for me to rediscover the joy of playing cricket.”

    Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Cornwall expressed unwavering commitment to the Hurricanes and praised the young talents who showcased their potential during the recent tournament. “I’m proud of the emerging players and their contributions. The future looks bright for the team,” he added.

    West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph is widely expected to take over the captaincy as the Hurricanes gear up for the Super50 Cup. Cornwall’s decision marks a new chapter for both the player and the team, as they aim for success in the upcoming tournament.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission Announces the Launch of Night One of the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival

    Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission Announces the Launch of Night One of the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival

    The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has officially announced the launch of Night One of the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival, set to take place on January 10th and 11th, 2026, at the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in St. John’s, Antigua. This highly anticipated event promises to be a vibrant celebration of Caribbean music, culture, and unity, featuring a dynamic lineup of artists across genres such as Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Bouyon, and Benna.

  • The UWI Five Islands Campus to Celebrate World Quality Week 2025

    The UWI Five Islands Campus to Celebrate World Quality Week 2025

    The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus in Antigua and Barbuda is set to mark World Quality Week from November 10 to 14, 2025, aligning with the global theme ‘Quality: Think Differently.’ This annual event, spearheaded by the Chartered Quality Institute, emphasizes the importance of quality management across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The Five Islands Campus will host a series of engaging activities designed to foster a culture of continuous improvement and quality assurance within the university community.

    Key events include the digital launch of the ‘What Does Quality Mean to You?’ campaign, a Quality Forum titled ‘Thinking Differently at Five Islands,’ daily Quality Pop-Ups, and a Quality Circle featuring a commitment wall. These initiatives aim to encourage students, faculty, and staff to reflect on the significance of quality in education and beyond.

    Campus Principal Prof. C. Justin Robinson highlighted the importance of robust quality management systems in preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. ‘In an era dominated by AI and rapid technological advancements, it is crucial that we maintain the high standards UWI is known for while ensuring our teaching, learning, and research address the unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing States like Antigua and Barbuda,’ he stated.

    Established in 2019, the UWI Five Islands Campus is a cornerstone of Caribbean higher education, offering over 40 degree programs across four schools: Humanities and Education, Business and Management, Health and Behavioural Sciences, and Science, Computing, and Artificial Intelligence. The campus also houses the Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE), underscoring its commitment to marine science research and sustainable economic development.

    World Quality Week serves as a platform for UWI to reaffirm its dedication to continuous improvement and quality assurance, engaging the university community in meaningful initiatives that enhance the educational experience and address global challenges.

  • Claudette “CP” Peters Honoured in Toronto for 25 Years of Musical Excellence

    Claudette “CP” Peters Honoured in Toronto for 25 Years of Musical Excellence

    The Antigua and Barbuda Association of Toronto celebrated the 44th Independence Dinner and Dance on November 8, 2025, at the Toronto Grand Convention Centre, honoring Claudette ‘CP’ Peters, the renowned Soca Queen, for her remarkable 25-year contribution to music, culture, and community service. The event, a vibrant gathering of the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora and their Canadian friends, showcased national pride and cultural heritage. Peters, accompanied by the Disturbance Band, headlined the evening’s entertainment, which also featured performances by Drastic, Menace, Island Prince, and Soca Villain, the 2025 Carnival Road March champion. The event was co-presented by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s Canada Office, with Director of Tourism Tameka Wharton and Association President Selma Alincy emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural connections with the diaspora. Wharton expressed pride in sponsoring the entertainment for the second consecutive year, underscoring the value of promoting Antiguan and Barbudan talent globally. The program included a keynote address by Khan Cordice, Director of Culture and arranger for the Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra. Attendees enjoyed an elegant evening of live music, fine dining, and patriotic celebration, commemorating 44 years of Antigua and Barbuda’s independence in grand fashion.

  • Khan Cordice Honoured by Canadian Steelpan Federation for His Musical Contributions

    Khan Cordice Honoured by Canadian Steelpan Federation for His Musical Contributions

    Khan Cordice, a distinguished Antiguan musician and cultural ambassador, has been celebrated in Toronto for his exceptional contributions to the steelpan art form. Cordice, who serves as the Director of Culture and arranger for the Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, was honored by the Canadian Steelpan Federation and the Pan Arts Network during a special ceremony dedicated to Caribbean musical heritage. This accolade further cements Cordice’s reputation as a globally recognized steelpan educator, arranger, and advocate for cultural development. His visit to Canada coincided with the 44th Independence Dinner and Dance hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Association of Toronto, where he was a featured speaker alongside renowned performers, including Claudette “CP” Peters. The event highlighted the vibrant cultural ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the Caribbean diaspora in Canada. (Photo: Khan Cordice, second from right, with fellow honourees and event organizers in Toronto.)

  • COMMENTARY: Who Helps the Helpers?

    COMMENTARY: Who Helps the Helpers?

    In the aftermath of natural disasters like Hurricane Melissa, therapists, counselors, pastors, psychologists, psychiatrists, wellness coaches, and psychotherapists emerge as the unsung heroes, offering emotional support to countless survivors. However, these caregivers often carry the hidden weight of collective trauma, absorbing the pain of others while neglecting their own well-being. Research highlights that secondary traumatic stress and compassion fatigue can diminish the empathy and resilience that define their profession. Addressing the mental health needs of these helpers is not merely a luxury but an ethical, emotional, and professional imperative.

    The journey to healing begins with intentional self-care. Trauma psychology emphasizes that sleep, nutrition, physical activity, and hydration are not mundane routines but vital biological interventions for emotional recovery. Self-care should be redefined as sacred stewardship rather than selfish indulgence. Professionals are encouraged to incorporate ‘pause points’ into their weekly schedules—moments for prayer, mindfulness, silence, or nature walks—to regulate their overstimulated nervous systems. Group check-ins and reflective supervision sessions can normalize vulnerability and reinforce the idea that healing is a communal process.

    Peer-to-peer counseling and group debriefing sessions are equally crucial. These forums allow helpers to address personal challenges, whether related to family, finances, illness, or grief, in a supportive environment. Studies in positive psychology and organizational resilience demonstrate that sharing emotional burdens with trusted colleagues accelerates recovery from crisis work. Structured debriefings, story circles, or virtual ‘listening cafés’ provide safe spaces for open dialogue, fostering empathic witnessing and collective therapy. These shared rituals strengthen psychological resilience and dissolve feelings of isolation.

    Creativity also plays a pivotal role in healing. Music, art, journaling, and storytelling can transform vicarious trauma into meaningful experiences. Neuroscience confirms that creative expression activates restorative neural pathways, alleviating anxiety and emotional exhaustion. Faith leaders might compose reflections or poetry on resilience, while clinicians could participate in expressive arts or reflective writing groups. By rediscovering beauty amid brokenness, healers are reminded that hope is a powerful form of resistance.

    Ultimately, sustaining others requires helpers to embrace their own humanity. Self-compassion, born of experience, is essential. In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, caregivers must be afforded the grace to weep, rest, and recover. As the Caribbean rebuilds its physical and emotional foundations, its healers must also reconstruct their inner well-being. Tending to oneself ensures that the lamp of service remains lit for others.

    About the Author: Dr. Oswald Thomas is a distinguished clinical psychologist with over three decades of experience. He serves with the New Jersey State Department of Health and Addictions and Long Island City Psychotherapy Services. Recognized for his contributions to mental health and suicide prevention, Dr. Thomas integrates faith, science, and human resilience to help individuals and institutions thrive amid adversity.

  • PM Browne Denies Claim of Separate ‘YIDA State,’ Says Zone Only Has Satellite Government Offices

    PM Browne Denies Claim of Separate ‘YIDA State,’ Says Zone Only Has Satellite Government Offices

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has firmly refuted allegations that his government is considering the creation of an independent ‘YIDA State’ within Antigua, labeling such claims as baseless misinformation. Addressing the issue in a recent online statement, Browne emphasized that the Yida Special Economic Zone operates under a conventional framework akin to similar zones worldwide. He explained that the zone merely hosts satellite offices for government agencies, such as customs and civil aviation, to enhance service efficiency and support investment activities. These offices are funded by the zone’s operators, ensuring streamlined regulatory processes without granting any form of sovereignty or autonomy. Browne’s remarks were in direct response to an article by Real News Antigua, which had suggested that the Chinese-backed YIDA development might evolve into a self-governing entity exempt from Antigua and Barbuda’s laws. The report had further alleged that the zone could establish its own parliament, government, and currency while remaining under the country’s Constitution—a proposal reportedly opposed by some legal experts but allegedly endorsed by Attorney-General Sir Steadroy Benjamin. The Prime Minister’s clarification underscores that the government’s approval is strictly limited to administrative functions aimed at fostering economic growth and simplifying bureaucratic procedures. The YIDA project, initially approved nearly a decade ago, was designed as a private-sector initiative to stimulate tourism and industrial development in northern Antigua.

  • Prime Minister Gaston Browne Visits Museu Emílio Goeldi During COP30

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne Visits Museu Emílio Goeldi During COP30

    The Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, made a significant visit to the Museu Emílio Goeldi during his participation in the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Belém, Brazil. This historic museum, renowned as one of Brazil’s oldest and most prestigious research and cultural institutions, has been uniquely curated for COP30 to offer delegates and visitors an immersive experience of the Amazon rainforest’s biodiversity. The museum’s exhibits feature over 3,000 species of plants and animals, many of which are endemic to the Amazon and play a crucial role in maintaining global ecological balance. During his tour, Prime Minister Browne explored displays highlighting the region’s diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species and those exclusive to the Amazon basin. This experience reinforced the urgent need to preserve tropical forests and protect biodiversity, central themes of this year’s climate conference. The Prime Minister’s visit underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s unwavering commitment to climate action and environmental conservation, particularly as Small Island Developing States face heightened vulnerability to biodiversity loss and climate change impacts.

  • Prime Minister Attends Guyana’s Climate Resilience Meeting on the Margins of COP30

    Prime Minister Attends Guyana’s Climate Resilience Meeting on the Margins of COP30

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda participated in a high-level side event titled “Guyana’s Pathway to Climate Resilience: Scaling Low Carbon Leadership & Conserving Biodiversity” during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil. The event, organized by the Government of Guyana in collaboration with the Global Biodiversity Alliance, convened regional leaders, policymakers, and climate advocates to discuss strategies for enhancing low-carbon initiatives and preserving biodiversity in the Amazon region and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

    In his address, Prime Minister Browne praised the participants for their active involvement and constructive dialogue on climate action. He emphasized the importance of meaningful discussions on climate change, stating, “We have had a big debate about the issue of climate change. I know you have all had a very intensive conversation. I would like to thank you for allowing us to have a very meaningful discussion on this topic. It has a lot to do with our mission of providing dynamic information to the people of the world.”

    The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Guyana for hosting the event and reiterated his commitment to fostering regional collaboration to address the climate crisis. This engagement is part of Antigua and Barbuda’s broader participation at COP30, where the delegation is advocating for ambitious global climate action and financial mechanisms to protect vulnerable island nations.