Two Saint Lucian women, Examin Philbert and Dr. Natasha Innocent-Thomas, are making history as trailblazers in football administration. Their recent appointments to FIFA Standing Committees, alongside Lyndon Cooper, President of the Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA), mark a significant milestone for gender representation in global sports governance. The trio will serve from 2025 to 2029, following the FIFA Council Meeting in Zurich, Switzerland. While all three appointments are noteworthy, the inclusion of women in these decision-making roles is particularly groundbreaking, given the historical underrepresentation of women in sports administration. This development is expected to inspire greater professional growth in Saint Lucian sports and beyond. Philbert, currently the women’s football coordinator for the SLFA and president of the Vieux Fort Football League, has been appointed to the FIFA Women’s National Team Competition Standing Committee. This body plays a pivotal role in shaping women’s football globally, overseeing events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Dr. Innocent-Thomas, a respected medical professional with extensive experience in sports medicine, will serve on the FIFA Medical Committee. Her role is critical as the committee addresses health, medical, and player welfare issues in an era of increasing global football demands. Both women emphasized the transformative potential of their appointments. Philbert highlighted the opportunity to strengthen Saint Lucia’s global football network and enhance women’s football programs. Innocent-Thomas underscored the importance of improved health management for athletes, focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation. Their achievements serve as a powerful inspiration for young women and girls, demonstrating that careers in football extend beyond the pitch. Philbert and Innocent-Thomas encourage aspiring professionals to pursue diverse opportunities in the sport, from media and marketing to governance and medicine. Their journey to FIFA leadership exemplifies the rewards of perseverance, preparation, and passion for the beautiful game.
标签： Saint Lucia
圣卢西亚
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Jamaica braces for major impact as Hurricane Melissa strengthens
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a dire warning as Hurricane Melissa rapidly intensifies, posing a significant threat to Jamaica with destructive winds and torrential rainfall. The storm, currently located south of Jamaica, is moving westward at a slow pace of approximately 3 mph (6 km/h) and is expected to maintain this trajectory through the weekend. By October 27 and 28, the hurricane is forecast to turn north and northeast, potentially bringing its center near or over Jamaica and approaching eastern Cuba by midweek. Maximum sustained winds have already reached 115 mph (185 km/h), with higher gusts, and the NHC warns of continued rapid strengthening. Residents are urged to seek immediate shelter and remain indoors as conditions are expected to worsen significantly through October 26 and into October 28. A Hurricane Warning remains in effect, indicating that dangerously high water levels and exceptionally rough seas are anticipated within 36 hours, even if winds are below hurricane force. The storm’s impacts are expected to be severe, with the potential for widespread damage and disruption.
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Destang named Florida swimmer of the year
Antoine Destang, Saint Lucia’s most accomplished young swimmer, continues to make waves both nationally and internationally. As he gears up to represent his country at the upcoming Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Championships in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Destang is still basking in the glory of his high school achievements. Now a freshman student-athlete at the University of Michigan, he has already begun to carve out a promising collegiate career.
Destang’s recent accolades include being named Florida Swimmer of the Year for his age group at the 2025 Florida Swimming Annual Awards Banquet. This honor places him alongside swimming legends like Katy Ledecky, the most decorated female swimmer in history. His senior year at The Bolles School was marked by multiple top-ten national performances in the 15-17 age group, showcasing his ability to excel under pressure.
Earlier this year, Destang shone at the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships in Trinidad and Tobago, securing a bronze medal in the freestyle and a silver in the 100m butterfly. His performance in the latter event was the third fastest in CARIFTA history. Competing for the Bolles Sharks, he amassed five medals and eight top-ten finishes in the first quarter of 2025, including a silver in the 100-yard backstroke at the Florida Senior Championship.
Destang’s versatility was further highlighted at the French Elite Championships and the 22nd World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where he competed against seasoned professionals. At Michigan, he has already achieved a top-ten finish in the 100-yard butterfly, signaling his potential to become a world-class swimmer.
As the OECS Championships approach, Destang aims to help Saint Lucia improve on their previous fourth-place finish. Despite being overlooked for Saint Lucia’s Junior Sportsman of the Year award in 2023 and 2024, his consistent performances and record-breaking swims have cemented his status as one of the Caribbean’s brightest swimming talents.
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At the intersection of neuroscience and coaching, a Saint Lucian voice emerges
Sarah Joseph, a Certified Neuro-Behavioural Coach, has made significant strides in the field of mental health and brain function. Earlier this year, she was selected as the only Caribbean-based speaker at the International Association of Functional Neurology and Rehabilitation Global Annual Conference, where she delivered a keynote address titled ‘Rewiring the Stuck Mind: Leveraging Neuroplasticity to Overcome Emotional Avoidance and Overthinking.’ Her session received rave reviews, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
Joseph’s journey into behavioural coaching began in 2023 when she started blogging about her personal experiences with autoimmune, neuroimmune, hormonal imbalances, and chronic illnesses. Her blog, S.A.R.A.H Chronicles, evolved into a brand offering mindset transformation services rooted in cognitive neuroscience and behavioural psychology. Her mission is to help individuals rewire their minds, restore emotional balance, and build confidence.
Certified in neuroscience, behavioural change, and emotional mastery, Joseph transitioned from a 13-year career in finance and leadership to full-time behavioural coaching in 2024. She also serves as a facilitator for the Saint Lucia Employers Federation and lectures with the Youth Development and Empowerment Programme. Her work has earned her two nominations for the Caribbean Posh Icon Award.
Joseph’s coaching programmes have garnered widespread acclaim, with clients praising her professionalism and transformative methods. One client noted significant improvements in self-confidence and risk-taking abilities, attributing these changes to Joseph’s one-on-one programme.
Beyond private sessions, Joseph is expanding her reach through various platforms, including her YouTube podcast ‘Master Your Mindset,’ her LinkedIn newsletter ‘The CEO Mindset,’ and a free e-book titled ‘Mastering You.’ These resources aim to empower individuals to take charge of their mental well-being and navigate the often-stigmatised space of mental health.
Joseph’s approach to coaching focuses on the subconscious, addressing neural pathways and emotional triggers to facilitate lasting change. While her business does not provide counselling services, she offers a unique form of support that complements traditional therapy, focusing on restoration and future-oriented growth.
As one of the few behavioural coaches in the Caribbean, Joseph is charting new ground and making a profound impact on mental health in the region.
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Big scores as Under-13 cricket bowls off
The Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA) launched its much-anticipated Under-13 Grassroots Tournament this week, supported by Laborie Credit Union, with matches held across the island. The tournament saw enthusiastic participation from young cricketers, with victories for teams like Gros Islet, Choiseul, Laborie, Mabouya Valley, and Mon Repos. This event follows the grassroots festival held earlier this year at the Beausejour Gymnasium, where SLNCA affiliates have been preparing for months. In a notable change, Babonneau replaced Laborie in this year’s Saint Lucia Premier League, as the southwest district aims to revive its cricket presence through youth development. Laborie’s strong performance in their opening match against Vieux Fort South at Cross Over Park signals a promising future for the team. Meanwhile, Gros Islet showcased dominance at the Balata Playing Field, defeating Babonneau by 99 runs. John Michael Auguste led the charge with 34 runs, supported by Andrus Paul and Evan Gilbert. Ethan St Marthe’s remarkable bowling, including a hat-trick, sealed the win for Gros Islet. In the East Coast derby, Mabouya Valley triumphed over Dennery by a massive 112 runs, with Ethan Charlery scoring the tournament’s first century. Mon Repos also secured a 60-run victory against Micoud, thanks to Cyril Charles’ impressive 88 runs. Choiseul added to the excitement with a win over Anse La Raye. The tournament continues this weekend with matches at Mindoo Phillip Park, Dennery Playing Field, Desruisseaux Playing Field, and Canaries Playing Field. Sponsors Ackelles Holdings and Cool Breeze Jeep and Car Rentals have backed this developmental competition, which features 16 district teams. SLNCA Second Vice President Nerville Florence is overseeing the event as tournament coordinator.
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Graveyards are now last option shelters in Gaza for Palestinians amid ruins
Amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians, stripped of their homes by widespread destruction, have resorted to setting up makeshift tents in graveyards. This desperate measure underscores the severity of the situation, as the enclave grapples with the aftermath of conflict despite a fragile ceasefire agreement. Al Jazeera correspondent Hind Khoudary, reporting from Khan Younis in southern Gaza, highlighted the grim reality: ‘This graveyard wasn’t meant for the living. But today, it’s home to dozens of families who have nowhere else to go.’ Khoudary emphasized that these families are not choosing to live among tombstones but are driven by sheer desperation, as graveyards have become the only available free spaces. Rami Musleh, a father of 12 displaced from Beit Hanoon in northern Gaza, shared the emotional burden of raising children in such dire conditions. ‘For parents, the psychological trauma of war is made worse by having to raise children among tombstones,’ he told Al Jazeera. Another resident, Sabah Muhammed, lamented the loss of sanctity in these spaces: ‘Graveyards, once sacred for the dead, are now silent witnesses to a living crisis. No water, no electricity, and no privacy … only the bare minimum to survive.’ The poignant reality is that in Gaza, even the land reserved for the dead has become the last refuge for the living.
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Spreading ‘Mighty’ Dennery Segment vibes year round
For nearly a decade, Nevis Mighty Alexander has been a trailblazer in the Dennery Segment genre, a unique musical fusion that blends indigenous rhythms with African and Soca influences, enriched by lyrics in both English and Kwéyòl. While the genre is often associated with Lucian Carnival, Alexander’s work transcends seasonal boundaries, offering anthems for Jounen Kwéyòl, Solo, and Christmas celebrations. His discography includes chart-toppers like ‘Bad in Bum, Bum,’ ‘Two Clap,’ ‘Bagay,’ and the recent hits ‘Keh Dek Keh Dek’ and ‘Nuh Nuh.’
Currently based in the UK, Alexander recently embarked on a promotional tour in Miami with the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority to spotlight Lucian Carnival. In an exclusive interview with St. Lucia Times, he shared insights into his musical journey, the essence of Dennery Segment, and his commitment to preserving the Kwéyòl language.
‘Dennery Segment is a reflection of Saint Lucian culture—how we communicate, express ourselves, and celebrate our identity through music,’ Alexander explained. His passion for music ignited at the age of 12, inspired by artists like Yardie, Exodus, and LT. He credits Subance, a fellow Dennery Segment artist, for their collaborative hits, and Jaheim for producing his debut track, ‘Tout Cet Fanm La Matay La.’
However, it was ‘Bad in Bum, Bum,’ a 2017 collaboration with Subance, that catapulted Alexander to international fame. ‘That song put Dennery Segment on the global map,’ he recalled. Despite his carnival success, Alexander emphasizes the importance of year-round creativity. ‘I’m an artist first. I want to make people happy and honor our traditions, whether it’s Jounen Kwéyòl or any other occasion.’
Alexander also champions the use of Kwéyòl in his music, viewing it as a vital link to his heritage. ‘This is our language, our authenticity. I want to inspire others to carry it forward,’ he said. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his international reach, citing Cardi B’s recent appreciation for ‘Keh Dek Keh Dek’ as a sign of growing global interest. ‘More vibes, more collaborations—that’s what’s next for me,’ he declared.
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US axes website for reporting human rights abuses by US-armed foreign forces
The US State Department has recently taken down an online portal designed to report alleged human rights violations by foreign military units equipped with American weapons. Known as the Human Rights Reporting Gateway (HRG), this platform served as a formal “tip line” for the US government, offering the only publicly accessible channel for organizations or individuals to directly inform authorities of potential serious abuses by US-armed foreign forces. The removal of this portal has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates and a senior congressional aide who played a key role in drafting the legislation that mandated its creation. Despite the backlash, the State Department maintains that it continues to comply with the law. The HRG was established in 2022 under pressure to enforce updated provisions of the Leahy Law, named after former US Senator Patrick Leahy. This law requires the government to facilitate the receipt of information regarding alleged gross human rights violations by military units supported by Washington. Tim Rieser, a former senior aide to Senator Leahy who authored the 2011 amendment mandating such information gathering, expressed concern to the BBC, stating that the gateway’s removal indicates the State Department is “clearly ignoring the law.” Rieser warned that this move could lead to the US supporting foreign security forces involved in heinous crimes without accountability, thereby reducing the incentive for foreign governments to bring perpetrators to justice. In response, the State Department emphasized its ongoing efforts to receive reports of gross human rights violations and its engagement with credible organizations on a wide range of human rights issues, asserting that it remains committed to fulfilling its legal obligations.
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Digital menus set to transform hospitality, advertising landscape
A groundbreaking digital platform named ‘My Restaurant Menu’ is set to revolutionize the operational dynamics of restaurants and local businesses in Saint Lucia. Spearheaded by Abraham Sutherland, Founder of Quasland Media Group Ltd., this innovative solution addresses persistent challenges in menu management, customer engagement, and advertising. Sutherland shared with St. Lucia Times that the concept emerged from observing the difficulties businesses face in updating menus, controlling costs, and maintaining online visibility. Unlike traditional printed menus, which are expensive to reprint and lack flexibility, this digital system enables businesses to effortlessly update prices, incorporate photos, and directly engage with customers. Sutherland emphasized that the platform is more than a menu; it’s a comprehensive digital interface designed to save costs, enhance convenience, and amplify visibility. The platform’s unique dual functionality serves as both a restaurant management tool and a marketing hub. Customers can browse menus via a mobile-friendly interface, while businesses can integrate advertisements seamlessly within the menu layout. Sutherland highlighted that this feature transforms menu space into valuable digital real estate for advertisers, including beverage companies, event organizers, and local attractions. These ads are strategically placed to enrich the browsing experience rather than disrupt it. Sutherland noted that while digital menus exist elsewhere, this platform stands out due to its combination of functionality and opportunity, creating a unified ecosystem for restaurants, advertisers, and customers. He anticipates rapid adoption in Saint Lucia, citing the island’s increasing digital literacy and the platform’s proven success in other Caribbean regions. A significant advantage of the platform is its monetization potential, allowing restaurants to generate additional revenue through hosted ads. Sutherland explained that advertisers pay for featured placements, providing restaurants with a supplementary income stream. The platform is designed for practicality, requiring only an internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer for menu management. Sutherland revealed ongoing efforts to collaborate with local tech and media firms to facilitate onboarding and create employment opportunities. Looking ahead, Sutherland envisions the platform as the cornerstone of a broader digital ecosystem, aiming to establish a comprehensive hospitality engagement network where restaurants, advertisers, and customers interact seamlessly. He believes this initiative will significantly enhance business sustainability, online visibility, and customer experience across Saint Lucia.
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US jury finds man, 61, guilty of killing Saint Lucian man
In a landmark verdict, Timothy Timmons has been found guilty of second-degree murder by a Clinton County, New York jury for the December 2024 killing of Jahfari Joseph, a Saint Lucian resident of Plattsburgh. The decision, reached on Thursday after a 10-day trial, marks the culmination of a high-profile case that gripped the local community. Joseph, a 40-year-old who had lived and worked in the Plattsburgh area, was reported missing on December 29, 2024. The investigation gained momentum when authorities charged Timmons, 61, following a search of property linked to the case. Jurors deliberated for less than an hour before delivering a unanimous guilty verdict, swayed by compelling evidence presented by prosecutors, including witness testimonies, digital records, and phone call logs. In an emotional interview with NBC5, Joseph’s mother, Theresa John, expressed profound relief, stating, ‘I’m just happy as a mom that justice is served.’ Clinton County District Attorney Andrew Wiley confirmed that sentencing is set for January 2026. Under New York law, second-degree murder carries a penalty ranging from 15 years to life, with a maximum of 25 years to life in prison.