Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Heartbreak in Peru as Trinidad and Tobago cricketers take double silver

    Heartbreak in Peru as Trinidad and Tobago cricketers take double silver

    In a groundbreaking moment for continental sports, cricket made its historic debut at the Bolivarian Games in Peru, culminating in dramatic finals that saw both Trinidad and Tobago teams securing silver medals after hard-fought battles against Caribbean rivals.

    The men’s team endured a heartbreaking 11-run defeat against Barbados in a tension-filled championship match at Lima Polo Club. Barbados set a competitive target of 138 runs, anchored by Shian Brathwaite’s pivotal 55-run innings and supported by Tennyson Roach’s aggressive 42 off 33 deliveries. Despite early breakthroughs from TT skipper Vikash Mohan and Mikkel Govia, Barbados built momentum through a damaging 65-run partnership.

    TT’s chase began cautiously but soon stumbled to 47 for four within nine overs. A mid-innings resurgence emerged through Crystian Thurton’s promising 31 and Teshawn Castro’s explosive late cameo of 22 runs. The match reached its climax with TT requiring 50 runs from the final 4.4 overs. Castro’s two massive sixes and Damion Joachim’s boundary brought the equation down to 12 needed from two deliveries. However, Castro’s dismissal by Shaquille Cberbatch sealed Barbados’ victory, leaving TT with silver.

    The women’s final witnessed Jamaica’s clinical six-wicket triumph chasing TT’s modest total of 94 for eight. Veteran off-spinner Anisa Mohammed provided the most resistance with a gritty 24 off 22 balls, but TT’s batting lineup failed to convert starts into substantial contributions. Jamaica’s bowling attack, led by Kate Wilmott’s impressive three for 14 and Chedean Nation’s two for 21, effectively contained the TT batters.

    Defending their total, TT’s experienced bowling duo of Mohammed and Karishma Ramharack initially maintained pressure, but Jamaica’s Chadean Nation delivered a match-winning unbeaten 35 off 44 balls, guiding her team to victory with 18 overs completed. Nation’s composed innings earned Jamaica the historic gold in cricket’s Bolivarian Games debut.

    This tournament marked cricket’s inaugural appearance in the 87-year history of the Bolivarian Games, signaling the sport’s growing prominence in multisport events. The success in Peru sets the stage for cricket’s upcoming debut at the 2027 Pan American Games and its highly anticipated return to the Olympic program at Los Angeles 2028, marking its first Olympic appearance since 1900.

  • Artist Liz Gardener bares her Soul, Joy & Love

    Artist Liz Gardener bares her Soul, Joy & Love

    Following a 15-year absence from public exhibitions, Trinidadian artist Elizabeth “Liz” Gardner has emerged with a vibrant collection aimed at injecting joy into the world through her solo showcase “Soul, Joy & Love” at Horizons Art Gallery. The exhibition, running from December 9-19 in St. James, represents Gardner’s deliberate shift from private creation to public sharing despite her previous preference for maintaining a low profile.

    The collection features 38 predominantly figurative works executed primarily in oil paint, accompanied by ink-drawn wooden houses and mixed media pieces combining colored pencils with oil on canvas. Gardner describes the exhibition as both a celebration of earthly beauty and a commentary on contemporary society’s inauthentic and disturbing elements. Through depictions of traditional bélé dancers observed across Caribbean islands, the artist explores how dance, music, and the sea serve as unifying forces within the region.

    Gardner’s artistic philosophy centers on love as the fundamental force in human existence, particularly emphasizing divine love. She expresses hope that her creations will “speak to someone’s heart” and counteract what she perceives as a growing absence of genuine love in modern society.

    The artist’s return to exhibition coincides with her decision to pause her teaching career, which included seven years at Point Cumana RC Primary School where she developed specialized art programs for underserved communities. Gardner has concurrently maintained a 12-year philanthropic initiative supporting children through essential provisions and educational projects, funded entirely by her art sales.

    A graduate of Canada’s Fanshawe College with a degree in painting and graphic design, Gardner brings 30 years of professional experience across multiple creative disciplines including film, theater, printing, and fashion. She describes artists as perpetual creators who “feast” on their respective mediums—whether visual, literary, or musical—interpreting the world through their artistic lenses.

    Looking forward, Gardner plans to expand her experimentation with mixed media techniques and water-based methods, continuing her artistic evolution while advocating for expanded arts education opportunities for Trinidad’s youth, whom she describes as possessing “blow-mind talent” capable of shining on international stages.

  • Into the Blue: Williamsville teen redefines freediving in TT

    Into the Blue: Williamsville teen redefines freediving in TT

    In an extraordinary display of athletic prowess and mental fortitude, 18-year-old Victoria Deonarine from Trinidad and Tobago has redefined the limits of national freediving. On November 21, during the Blue Element competition in Soufriere, Dominica, the St Stephen’s College student plunged to a breathtaking depth of 45 meters without breathing apparatus, shattering her previous national record of 40 meters and surpassing the men’s national record in the process.

    This remarkable achievement represents more than just a personal triumph—it marks a watershed moment for freediving in Trinidad and Tobago. The sport, which involves breath-holding until resurfacing rather than using scuba equipment, has historically flown under the radar in the twin-island nation despite its perfect aquatic environment.

    ‘Honestly, I’m still on a high from it,’ Deonarine confessed to Newsday. ‘It still feels surreal thinking about it because it is everything that I have been working towards and more.’

    The Williamsville native described entering uncharted territory during her record-breaking attempt. While she had reached 40 meters in training, the competition dive pushed her into entirely new depths. ‘I didn’t really know what to expect,’ she admitted. ‘In the past, I never would have dove as deep as that. So, I was a bit nervous.’

    However, Deonarine found her composure once she reached her starting position, surrounded by safety divers. ‘I felt calm, I felt capable because I knew that all of my training had prepared me for that specific moment,’ she recalled.

    Her triumphant resurfacing was marked by a heart-shaped hand gesture and the draping of the Trinidad and Tobago flag across her shoulders—a symbolic celebration of national pride. ‘I’m just really proud to be able to carry my flag to new depths, to represent TT by doing what I love,’ Deonarine expressed.

    The aftermath of her achievement has generated unexpected attention, with interview requests and messages from strangers sparking renewed interest in the sport. Deonarine sees this as an opportunity to promote freediving in her homeland. ‘We are an island surrounded by beautiful water, and so much can happen because people are just not really aware of freediving,’ she noted, highlighting the nation’s untapped potential for the sport.

    Her coach, Saif Mohammed of ‘Out and Under,’ attested to Deonarine’s rapid progression through intermediate freediver certification, advanced breath-hold training, and first responder preparation. Mohammed believes her capabilities extend beyond national records to potential world championship contention. ‘There is a possibility that she can even go up for world records and not just national records,’ he stated.

    Despite these aspirations, Deonarine remains grounded, prioritizing her academic commitments while maintaining training consistency. She envisions Trinidad and Tobago hosting international freediving competitions, particularly in Tobago, which could boost tourism and local participation.

    For now, the young athlete focuses on her examinations, but her historic dive suggests this breakthrough merely marks the beginning of an promising international career in freediving.

  • US donates computers to Tobago school

    US donates computers to Tobago school

    In a significant demonstration of international educational partnership, the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) has provided substantial technological resources to Roxborough Anglican Primary School in Tobago. The donation, valued at $25,000 USD, was formally presented on December 5th through the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain as part of SOUTHCOM’s Humanitarian Assistance Program.

    The comprehensive educational package included ten complete computer workstations with desktop computers, desks, and chairs, accompanied by uninterrupted power supplies (UPS) to ensure consistent operation. The contribution further encompassed a printer, ten whiteboards, a refrigerator, microwave oven, and various stationery supplies designed to enhance the learning environment and promote digital literacy among students.

    U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz personally delivered the equipment to School Principal Verlene John during a ceremony held at the Union Street institution. The event was attended by multiple dignitaries including Dale Hercules (representing Tobago East’s Member of Parliament), School Manager Fr. Shaquille Charles, Parent-Teacher Association Vice President Michelle Duke, along with faculty members and students.

    Dr. de Ortiz emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative, stating: “This contribution strengthens the enduring partnership between our nations while investing directly in Trinidad and Tobago’s future. Education serves as the fundamental building block for opportunity and prosperity, and we take pride in supporting the empowerment of coming generations.”

    Principal John expressed profound gratitude for the donation, confirming that the computer systems would be integrated across all grade levels, significantly expanding digital access and learning opportunities for the entire student body. This outreach initiative represents ongoing efforts by SOUTHCOM to support educational development and strengthen international relations through humanitarian assistance programs.

  • Yellow-level weather alert until 6 pm

    Yellow-level weather alert until 6 pm

    The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service has escalated weather warnings by issuing its second yellow-level alert within days. Effective from 11 pm on December 6 until 6 pm on December 7, this advisory signals a period of heightened meteorological instability for the Caribbean nation.

    According to official forecasts, the region is bracing for unsettled conditions featuring rainfall of varying intensities. Meteorological models indicate a 60% probability of isolated thunderstorm activity developing throughout the alert period. The Met Office specifically warned that gusty winds exceeding 55 km/h could accompany heavy showers or thunderstorms, potentially displacing unsecured outdoor objects and creating hazardous marine conditions.

    The advisory highlighted multiple risk factors including possible street and flash flooding from intense downpours, with additional concerns about localized ponding in vulnerable areas. Authorities particularly noted that saturated terrain increases landslide risks, especially in geologically susceptible zones.

    While the most severe weather is anticipated within the official alert window, meteorological officials indicated that showery conditions would likely persist both before and after the designated period. This latest warning follows closely on the heels of a previous yellow alert that was in effect from December 3-4, creating a pattern of persistent adverse weather despite the official conclusion of the hurricane season on November 30.

  • Couva Carnival begs for sponsors

    Couva Carnival begs for sponsors

    The Couva Carnival Committee has officially launched its 2026 celebrations with an urgent appeal for increased corporate funding to deliver what organizers promise will be “the best carnival ever.” Committee Chairman Ramchand Rajbal Maraj revealed the stark financial reality facing the festival during the December 6th launch event at Couva Joylanders Steel Orchestra’s panyard on Railway Road.

    Despite receiving an annual subvention from the National Carnival Commission, the committee faces a significant funding gap with its 2026 budget projected at $480,000. “We produce several marquee events leading up to the actual two days of carnival which increases our expenses substantially,” Rajbal Maraj explained to attendees. “As a result, we depend heavily on the goodwill and generosity of the corporate community.”

    The chairman emphasized that all Couva Carnival events remain free to the public, attracting thousands of patrons who enjoy what he described as “unforgettable experiences.” He made a compelling case for corporate investment, suggesting sponsors would “benefit tremendously by partnering with us and giving back to the community.”

    The launch event itself demonstrated the cultural vibrancy that defines Couva Carnival. Former medium-band Panorama champions Couva Joylanders delivered a spectacular performance, thrilling the audience with several of their hit arrangements. Richard Gill, the band’s executive manager, welcomed the initiative and confirmed the orchestra would play an expanded role in 2026 celebrations.

    Mas enthusiasts received an exclusive preview of 2026 costumes from children’s bands House of Jacqui (presenting ‘Come Fly With Me’) and Carivog Kids (with ‘Explorers’), along with double J’Ouvert champions Wall Brothers (featuring ‘Maljo J’Ouvert’). The entertainment lineup included popular performers Johnny Ramnarine, Blue Magic, and Wackerman, who kept the atmosphere electric with crowd-pleasing hits.

    The committee also announced an extensive calendar of events leading up to the main carnival days, including the Miss Central Trinidad Queen Pageant screening on January 3rd, calypso competition auditions on January 11th, and various showcases and finals throughout February. The grand finale will feature the traditional Parade of the Bands on February 17th, following J’Ouvert celebrations and Monday Nite Mas events.

  • Thompson steps down as promoters’ president

    Thompson steps down as promoters’ president

    The Trinidad and Tobago entertainment sector faces significant turbulence following the resignation of Robert Thompson as president and board member of the Promoters’ Association. Thompson confirmed his departure in a December 7 interview with Newsday, stating there was “no particular reason” for his decision to step down from the organization.

    The resignation occurs amidst escalating tensions between event promoters and the government regarding Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s recent prohibition of fetes and Carnival events at state-owned venues. The ban, implemented primarily due to noise pollution concerns, has sparked intense debate about balancing cultural traditions with community welfare.

    Current vice president Asha Green revealed that the association has received no response from government officials since their December 3 press conference, where organizers pleaded for reversal of the ban and requested stakeholder discussions to establish “clarity, fairness and workable parameters.” Green clarified earlier media misrepresentations, emphasizing that while legal action is not currently pursued, the organization is “weighing our options” regarding next steps.

    During the press conference, promoters presented comprehensive noise-mitigation strategies exceeding state recommendations, including responsible speaker orientation, real-time sound monitoring, certified acoustic oversight, and enhanced on-site management protocols. The association expressed willingness to collaborate with government agencies including the Environmental Management Authority and National Carnival Commission to implement these measures consistently and transparently.

    The dispute intensified when the NGO Citizens Against Noise Pollution of Trinidad and Tobago (CANPTT) issued a December 5 statement supporting the government’s position. The organization described the measures as “timely and necessary” for protecting vulnerable populations including the sick, elderly, infants, students, and residential communities. CANPTT argued that while consultation is desirable, immediate action was required after decades of excessive noise disrupting sleep, study, work, and overall quality of life.

    The advocacy group urged maintaining restrictions until enforceable national noise-control standards are implemented, recommending adherence to World Health Organization decibel limits and incorporation of noise management into long-term cultural planning. Both organizations have expressed willingness to collaborate with the government, leaving the door open for potential compromise despite the current impasse.

  • Minister: Motor Vehicle Accident Fund soon

    Minister: Motor Vehicle Accident Fund soon

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has announced the imminent operationalization of the long-awaited Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, with full infrastructure expected to be in place by the first quarter of 2026. The announcement comes amid heated political debate regarding recently passed financial legislation.

    During a December 7 interview, Minister Tancoo emphasized that the Financial Bill provisions were designed specifically to protect citizens, countering opposition claims that the measures simply imposed additional taxes. “The People’s National Movement is attempting to create the impression that this is a tax on people,” Tancoo stated, “when in reality it establishes crucial protections for accident victims.”

    The Minister explained that the current system leaves victims without recourse when involved in accidents with uninsured, unlicensed, or improperly documented drivers. The new framework establishes significantly increased penalties for traffic violations while simultaneously creating a safety net for those affected by such violations.

    “We have implemented substantially higher penalties for driving without insurance, operating overloaded vehicles, driving without proper permits, and using fraudulent insurance documentation,” Tancoo detailed. “Concurrently, we’ve established an Accident Victims Fund to provide compensation for those injured by uninsured motorists.”

    The fund’s history dates back to 2008, with significant development occurring during Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s first administration between 2010-2015. Cabinet approval for the fund was granted in 2015 with an initial $20 million allocation. The project faced delays due to legal challenges from the Motor Insurance Bureau Association, and as recently as last year, advocacy group Arrive Alive had questioned the ministry about the fund’s status, which was reported to contain approximately $1 billion.

    Tancoo directly addressed political opposition to the measures, asserting that only lawbreakers had reason to fear the increased penalties. “The PNM voted against these protections and apparently believe there should not be increased penalties for those who break the law,” he stated. “As far as I’m concerned, the PNM is encouraging violation of the law. They have never supported government anti-crime measures.”

    The Minister emphasized that the dual approach of increased penalties and victim compensation was designed to both deter unlawful behavior and provide protection for law-abiding citizens. “We are trying to encourage compliance with traffic laws while ensuring that victims have recourse when others choose to break those laws,” he concluded.

    The Financial Bill containing these provisions passed on December 5, 2024, during the 2025/2026 budget presentation, which also announced increased fines for dangerous driving, driving under influence, and driving while disqualified.

  • Tancoo: Landlord Tax is not property tax

    Tancoo: Landlord Tax is not property tax

    Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has explicitly distinguished the newly implemented Landlord Tax from the previous administration’s controversial property tax, asserting fundamental differences in their underlying principles. In a December 7th interview with Newsday, Minister Tancoo addressed what he characterized as misinformation being propagated about the fiscal measure passed within the Finance Bill, 2025.

    The Minister clarified that while the former People’s National Movement (PNM) government’s property tax targeted private homeowners based on assumed rental income that often didn’t exist, the current Landlord Tax specifically targets actual revenue generation. “The property tax was based on residential income which did not exist,” Tancoo stated. “Home owners were being asked to pay a tax on income that they were not generating. That, in itself, was manifestly unethical and unfair.”

    Tancoo emphasized that the new tax regime focuses exclusively on landlords engaged in commercial activity who have remained unregistered and non-compliant with tax obligations. “We are not taxing fake income, we are taxing real income which should have been taxed in the first place,” he explained, characterizing rental income as a legitimate revenue stream that warrants taxation.

    The Finance Minister revealed that according to former administration estimates, there are approximately 100,000 landlords operating in Trinidad and Tobago who would fall under the purview of this tax. He notably pointed out that some government ministers themselves, described as “substantial landowners” receiving rent from the government, had not been contributing fairly to public coffers.

    Tancoo defended the current policy as “much more equitable, just and legal” than its predecessor, noting that the administration had consistently opposed taxing private residences while in opposition. The Landlord Tax specifically exempts homeowners who do not generate revenue from their properties, distinguishing it fundamentally from the previous approach that assessed taxes based on potential rental value rather than actual income.

  • Vani Maharaj’s world of warmth – where Xmas is a way of life

    Vani Maharaj’s world of warmth – where Xmas is a way of life

    For interior designer Vani Maharaj, Christmas represents far more than seasonal decoration—it embodies profound emotional resonance, childhood nostalgia, and the very essence of her design philosophy. The creative force behind Trinidad-based luxury design firm Divine Living has transformed her lifelong fascination with the holiday into both professional inspiration and a personal mission to spread joy through intentional design.

    Maharaj’s journey into design began unconventionally. With academic credentials including a BBA in finance and a master’s in marketing from the Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business, she initially approached decorating as a hobby in 2010 before formally establishing Divine Living in 2019. The company now operates from two locations: a showroom on Stone Street, Port of Spain, and a design studio in Lange Park, Chaguanas, serving clients throughout Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean, and the United States.

    The designer credits her childhood environment—characterized by what she describes as ‘warmth, discipline, and quiet beauty’—for shaping her aesthetic sensibilities. ‘Our space was always warm, intentional and well cared for,’ Maharaj recalled. ‘It wasn’t about luxury, it was about the feeling a home could evoke.’ This early exposure to thoughtfully curated spaces nurtured an instinctive appreciation for beauty that would later define her career.

    Beyond aesthetic considerations, Maharaj emphasizes the importance of work ethic learned from her parents. ‘Through school, university, and my early career, I learned one consistent truth: the more effort I put in, the more I achieved.’ This philosophy continues to guide her approach to both business and creative endeavors.

    For Maharaj, the most rewarding aspect of her work lies in client reactions. ‘Handing over a completed home and seeing a client’s joy—sometimes tears, excitement and relief—is something indescribable,’ she shared. Particularly meaningful are messages received years later, especially during Christmas, showing homes maintained exactly as designed. ‘Knowing something I created continues to bring peace and happiness long after the project is finished makes every bit of effort worthwhile.’

    Her personal Christmas traditions reflect this same intentionality. Maharaj has developed elaborate family rituals, including theatrical Santa Claus experiences for her teenage son featuring handwritten North Pole scrolls and custom-made Santa sacks. ‘I would tell him Santa saved him for last because he was such a special boy,’ she laughed. These carefully crafted moments extend to an annual Gratitude Letter tradition, where family members document their thankfulness each Christmas season, preserving these letters in a keepsake box that has become ‘a beautiful archive of appreciation, growth and love.’

    Professionally, Maharaj approaches Christmas décor by focusing on mood creation through layered textures, neutral color palettes accented with festive sparkle, and strategic lighting. She incorporates signature elements like pearls and orchids while insisting decorations should be ‘playful, imaginative and full of little surprises.’ Even scent plays a role, with her favorite Fraser Fir candle from the Divine Living collection evoking immediate Christmas associations.

    Looking beyond seasonal design, Maharaj remains committed to mentorship and supporting women entrepreneurs through talks, forums, and informal guidance. She actively participates in charitable initiatives year-round, particularly during Christmas, believing that ‘giving back is one of the most powerful ways to use my skills, time, resources, connections and experiences to uplift others.’

    Future plans include expanding educational offerings through interior design classes and opening additional studio space in Port of Spain with certified in-house designers. For those seeking to build authentic, beautiful lives aligned with their passions, Maharaj advises beginning with self-understanding: ‘Begin with understanding yourself—your passions, values and the things that genuinely bring you joy. Don’t shy away from taking bold steps toward what excites you, even if it feels unfamiliar or unconventional.’

    Ultimately, Maharaj sees Christmas spirit as a year-round approach to living. ‘That feeling people get at Christmas—the warmth, the beauty, the sense of being cared for—that’s something I try to bring into everything I do, every single day. Christmas isn’t limited to one season—it is a way of living and expressing love throughout the year.’