Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Small conventional bands semis: Pan showdown on December 20

    Small conventional bands semis: Pan showdown on December 20

    Victoria Square in Port of Spain transforms into a vibrant battleground on December 20 as 31 elite small conventional steel orchestras compete for advancement in Trinidad and Tobago’s National Panorama competition. This preliminary showdown will determine which bands proceed to the grand finals scheduled for January 10, 2026, at Skinner Park in San Fernando.

    The musical festivities commence at 4 PM with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra, culminating with Nu Stars Steel Orchestra’s closing performance. Pan Trinbago president Beverly Ramsey-Moore characterized the 2026 Panorama opening as an electrifying demonstration of vibrancy and precision, describing small conventional bands as “the true engine of the steelpan movement.”

    Following rigorous regional adjudication between December 5-13, Southern Stars Steel Orchestra (D’South Band) emerged as the preliminary frontrunner with 272 points. Their arrangement of the late Merchant’s 1982 calypso “Let Us Build A Nation Together,” orchestrated by Duvone Stewart, secured a three-point advantage over joint second-place finishers Fascinators Pan Symphony and Uptown Fascinators Steel Orchestra.

    The defending 2025 co-champions face heightened competition this season. T&TEC New East Side Dimension tied for fourth position with Fusion Steel Orchestra and Defence Force Steel Orchestra at 269 points, while Golden Hands Steel Orchestra shared seventh place with Tunapuna Tipica and Arima Golden Symphony at 265 points.

    Despite these preliminary results, both champion arrangers have issued determined warnings to competitors. Tobago’s Kersh Ramsey of T&TEC New East Side Dimension declared: “We’re looking for a clear path to victory. Having won back-to-back in 2024 and 2025, we are going for the hat-trick in 2026.” His San Fernando counterpart, Vanessa Headley-Brewster of Golden Hands, remains equally resolved to retain their title despite time penalty setbacks.

    The competition unfolds against broader cultural significance, with Ramsey-Moore highlighting that Panorama has already engaged over 3,000 steelpan musicians across 94 bands, affirming Trinidad and Tobago’s status as the undisputed Mecca of the steelpan.

  • Experts: Tardieu’s abduction trauma could linger

    Experts: Tardieu’s abduction trauma could linger

    The recent abduction and subsequent release of 70-year-old Monos Island resident Derek Tardieu has exposed deep psychological wounds within both the victim and the broader community, highlighting the complex trauma associated with violent crime. While Tardieu was freed on December 17 after nearly two weeks in captivity, his wife Clarabelle, 47, remains missing—a circumstance experts say compounds the emotional devastation.

    Psychological experts are now detailing the severe impact such traumatic events inflict on survivors. Psychologist Kelly McFarlane explains that kidnapping typically triggers acute stress responses, potential PTSD development, survivor’s guilt, and depression. ‘Trauma manifests as shock and numbness, with difficulty processing the event,’ McFarlane stated in a December 18 interview. Victims frequently experience nightmares, insomnia, and hyper-arousal, where mundane sensory cues can trigger intense anxiety.

    The Tardieu case involved particularly harrowing circumstances, with abductors sending relatives a video showing the couple held at gunpoint with a grenade pressed against Tardieu’s chest. The kidnappers demanded a $2.5 million ransom, though it remains unclear whether payment was made.

    McFarlane emphasized that survivor’s guilt presents a significant hurdle in emotional recovery, particularly given Clarabelle’s continued captivity. ‘This creates a deep emotional conflict between relief and sadness,’ she noted, adding that unaddressed trauma can evolve into chronic PTSD characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviors.

    Attorney Lesley-Ann Lucky-Samaroo, SC, confirmed Tardieu’s release in a December 17 statement, indicating he was ‘seeking medical attention and care’ while the family requested privacy.

    The psychological impact extends beyond individual victims to affect entire communities. Psychiatrist Dr. Varma Deyalsingh observes that the brazen nature of this abduction has amplified collective feelings of fear, anxiety, and helplessness. ‘When senior citizens can be abducted, the nation questions its own safety,’ Deyalsingh explained, noting that such incidents can lead to changed behaviors, increased vigilance, and diminished trust in public safety measures.

    Both experts stress the importance of respectful recovery environments. McFarlane cautioned against media overexposure, noting that sensational coverage can re-traumatize victims. She advocated for respecting boundaries, allowing time for healing, and monitoring for signs of ongoing distress including withdrawal, sleep disturbances, and depression.

    Deyalsingh highlighted the role of law enforcement leadership in restoring public confidence, specifically mentioning Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro’s international security background. However, he noted that true security restoration requires coordinated efforts across law enforcement, judicial systems, and community support networks.

    As the Tardieu family grapples with ongoing uncertainty, experts recommend balanced vigilance without succumbing to fear, emphasizing empathy and support for those directly affected while maintaining normal daily routines.

  • SLS: Motto’s love song to riddim

    SLS: Motto’s love song to riddim

    St. Lucian musician Lashley ‘Motto’ Winter is positioning groovy soca as the Caribbean’s most viable export for achieving sustained international recognition. For the upcoming 2026 Carnival season, the established singer, songwriter, and producer has crafted the ‘SLS (Soca Love Story)’ riddim, a production deeply inspired by the musical traditions of Laventille’s rhythmic sections and Trinidad’s tassa culture.

    Winter’s artistic perspective is shaped by his St. Lucian heritage, French Antillean influences, and extensive experience within Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival scene. He argues that while the region produces multiple soca subgenres—from St. Lucia’s Dennery Segment to Dominica’s bouyon—the melodic and accessible nature of groovy soca holds the greatest potential for worldwide appeal. He notes its rhythmic similarities to already-globalized genres like Afrobeats and reggaeton, suggesting this familiarity could ease its acceptance by international audiences.

    The artist points to the successful crossover attempts of icons like Machel Montano and recent collaborations, such as Yung Bredda’s work with Chloe Bailey, as critical steps toward mainstream acceptance. Motto’s own strategy involves strategic partnerships with American artists; his recent single ‘Ego’ featuring Sean Kingston exemplifies this targeted approach to gaining exposure in the lucrative U.S. and European markets.

    However, Winter emphasizes that authenticity is paramount. His goal is not to abandon soca for pop but to intelligently introduce the genre’s core sound to new listeners through established international platforms. Based in Miami, he is actively working to position himself within the American music industry while staying true to his Caribbean roots.

    Looking ahead to Carnival 2026, Motto expressed hope for a successful season and urged a swift resolution to the ongoing impasse between the government and promoters’ association, noting that such stability is crucial for the international perception and commercial viability of the event.

  • Windies openers start brightly after Black Caps post 575 in 1st innings

    Windies openers start brightly after Black Caps post 575 in 1st innings

    In a display of resilient batting, West Indies openers Brandon King and John Campbell provided a much-needed response for their team on day two of the third Test against New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The Caribbean duo remained unbeaten with 55 and 45 runs respectively, guiding their team to 110 without loss at stumps on December 19.

    This strong opening stand came after New Zealand declared their first innings at a formidable 575 for eight, having dominated the crease for nearly two full days. The hosts’ innings was highlighted by Devon Conway’s magnificent 227 runs from 367 deliveries, marking his second double-century in Test cricket. Conway’s marathon innings finally ended when he was trapped lbw by Justin Greaves, who led the West Indies bowling attack with figures of two for 83.

    New Zealand’s batting lineup demonstrated depth and consistency throughout their innings. Captain Tom Latham contributed a solid 137 runs, while Rachin Ravindra remained not out on 72. The Black Caps’ lower order showed aggressive intent before the declaration, with Ajaz Patel contributing a quickfire 30 from just 30 balls.

    Despite New Zealand’s commanding position with a 465-run lead, the West Indies opening partnership provided hope for the visitors. The Jamaican pair combined for 16 boundaries in just 23 overs, offering the first substantial resistance from the Caribbean side in the match. Their unbroken century stand gives West Indies a foundation to build upon when play resumes, though they face the considerable challenge of overcoming New Zealand’s massive total amid the absence of white-ball captain Shai Hope, who missed the day’s play due to illness.

  • Josiah Hills, Christopher Khan progress to RBC Under-16 finals

    Josiah Hills, Christopher Khan progress to RBC Under-16 finals

    The National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua witnessed exceptional junior tennis prowess on December 17th as the RBC Junior Tennis tournament semifinals unfolded with commanding performances from top-seeded athletes across multiple age divisions.

    In the boys’ 16-and-Under singles category, tournament favorite Josiah Hills delivered a masterclass performance, dismantling fifth-seeded Oliver Harragin with a flawless 6-0, 6-0 victory. The top-seeded player demonstrated why he holds the premier position in the draw with his dominant display. Meanwhile, second-seeded Christopher Khan faced stiffer competition from third-ranked Jovan Garibana, ultimately prevailing through determined play with scores of 6-4, 7-5 to secure his championship berth.

    The girls’ 16-and-Under division similarly saw top seeds advancing to the final round. First-seeded Makeda Bain navigated past fourth-ranked Karissa Mohammed in a match that culminated 6-0, 7-6, earning her place in the championship match. She will face second-seeded Cyra Ramcharan, who demonstrated her competitive edge with a decisive 6-1, 6-4 victory over third-ranked Suri Ramcharan.

    Younger competitors in the boys’ 12-and-Under category mirrored the pattern of seed dominance. Top-seeded Dylan Frost secured his advancement with a 4-2, 4-2 win against Daniel Ward, while second-seeded Ethan Primus overcame Zachary Anthony 4-0, 4-2. Third-seeded Austin Ward recorded a comprehensive 4-1, 4-0 triumph over Zayden Alexis, and fourth-seeded Nicholas McLetchie completed the semifinal victories with a 4-1, 4-1 performance against Malik Bain.

    The tournament continues through December 18th with championship matches determining the ultimate winners in each competitive category.

  • New Zealand openers pummel Windies on first day of third Test

    New Zealand openers pummel Windies on first day of third Test

    New Zealand’s cricket team delivered a masterclass performance on day one of the third Test against West Indies at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, establishing overwhelming dominance through a historic batting display. The home team finished at 334/1, leaving the Caribbean visitors searching for effective bowling strategies throughout the proceedings.

    The foundation of New Zealand’s commanding position was built upon a monumental 323-run opening partnership between Devon Conway and Tom Latham, a collaboration that ranks tied for the 12th-best first-wicket stand in Test cricket history. Latham’s exceptional innings of 137 runs from 246 deliveries featured 15 boundaries and one maximum before veteran paceman Kemar Roach eventually broke through for his 294th Test wicket.

    Conway remained unbeaten at stumps with an impressive 178 runs from 279 balls, demonstrating remarkable consistency with 25 fours as he approached the 200-run milestone. Nightwatchman Jacob Duffy provided support with nine not out, contributing to New Zealand’s impressive scoring rate of 3.71 runs per over.

    West Indies assistant coach Rayon Griffith acknowledged the challenging day, stating: ‘It was a tough day. It’s cricket, that is how it goes. Sometimes you have tough times and sometimes you have easier days.’ He specifically commended the quality of batting displayed by the New Zealand openers.

    Roach emerged as the sole successful bowler for the visitors, finishing with figures of 1/63 from 19 overs. The match resumes on December 18 at 6 pm TT time for what promises to be another demanding day for the West Indies bowling attack.

  • SHINE 5K to benefit hurricane-stricken children in Jamaica

    SHINE 5K to benefit hurricane-stricken children in Jamaica

    Guardian Group’s annual SHINE 5K and 10K Charity Walk and Run has demonstrated remarkable philanthropic impact through its eighth edition held on November 29, 2025. The event, which originated in 2015, has evolved into a significant movement benefiting numerous organizations dedicated to children’s welfare across Trinidad and Tobago and beyond.

    During a December 15 ceremony at Guardian Group’s Westmoorings headquarters, over thirty child-focused organizations received substantial funding from the $780,000 raised through this year’s initiative. The distribution ceremony highlighted the sustained commitment of corporate Trinidad to social development through athletic philanthropy.

    Ayesha Boucaud-Claxton, Group Head of Marketing and Communication at Guardian Group, emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative. “SHINE has transcended beyond a mere event into a genuine movement characterized by generosity, unity, and collective care,” she stated. “Our dedication to community development remains sustained, deliberate, and deeply embedded in our organizational identity.”

    This year’s edition introduced a regional humanitarian component, with portions of the proceeds allocated to support Jamaican children affected by Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in October 2025. The storm particularly impacted western Jamaica, prompting Guardian Group to extend its philanthropic reach across the Caribbean.

    “Our assistance extends beyond national borders this year,” Boucaud-Claxton explained. “This allocation demonstrates our recognition of Caribbean unity—when one territory suffers, we collectively respond as a single family.”

    Corporate partners including One Caribbean Media, Liberty Business, and SM Jaleel received special recognition for their sustained support in amplifying the initiative’s impact. Beneficiary organizations spanned diverse focus areas including the Autism Support Network, Dyslexia Association of Trinidad and Tobago, Playable Caribbean, and Just Because Foundation, all providing essential services in safety, mentorship, education, and counseling for vulnerable youth.

    The funds will primarily strengthen existing programs, expand service capabilities, and create new opportunities for children facing significant challenges. Guardian Group officials encouraged continuing the “yeoman service” provided by these organizations in transforming obstacles into opportunities for the next generation.

  • Professional misconduct findings against 3 attorneys overturned

    Professional misconduct findings against 3 attorneys overturned

    In a landmark judicial ruling, Trinidad and Tobago’s Court of Appeal has vacated professional misconduct findings against three attorneys, delivering a stern rebuke of the Law Association’s Disciplinary Committee for fundamental procedural violations. The consolidated judgment, authored by Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh with unanimous support from Justices Nolan Bereaux and Maria Wilson, determined that attorneys Dinesh Rambally, Karina Singh, and Desiree Sankar were denied fundamental fairness during disciplinary proceedings.

    The case originated from December 2020 complaints filed by Michael Dhanoosingh, who alleged professional misconduct regarding the attorneys’ representation in property litigation involving family-owned land in Aranguez. Notably, Dhanoosingh appeared without legal representation before the disciplinary committee and did not participate in the appeal process.

    The appellate court identified multiple critical flaws in the disciplinary process chaired by committee vice chairman Ian Benjamin, SC. Justice Boodoosingh emphasized that the committee failed to adhere to the structured two-stage approach mandated by the Legal Profession (Disciplinary Proceedings) Rules, which requires preliminary assessment of prima facie evidence before proceeding to full hearing.

    ‘What occurred was a rolling discussion over six days that culminated in findings of misconduct without clear reasoning,’ Chief Justice Boodoosingh observed. The court noted the committee neglected to require particularization of allegations, failed to identify specific ethical breaches, and did not subject the complainant’s assertions to cross-examination.

    Justice Bereaux delivered particularly sharp criticism, characterizing the committee’s approach as ‘a masterclass in how a disciplinary tribunal should not conduct itself.’ He noted the committee had effectively formulated new complaints mid-proceeding that were not originally raised by Dhanoosingh, leaving the attorneys unaware of the specific allegations they needed to address.

    Justice Wilson concurred, emphasizing that while flexibility for unrepresented complainants is appropriate, it cannot justify abandoning fundamental safeguards. ‘This is a matter where the reputation of attorneys was at stake,’ she wrote, noting that disciplinary findings leave ‘a stubborn stain on his or her career, difficult to wipe away.’

    The court additionally recommended systemic reforms, suggesting that legal aid services, volunteer attorneys, or law school clinics could assist unrepresented complainants in properly framing complaints without compromising procedural integrity.

    Legal representatives for the appellants welcomed the decision. Kiel Taklalsingh, who represented Rambally, noted the ruling ‘is an important one for all professionals and in particular disciplinary bodies who may misuse their power of discipline.’

    The judgment establishes significant precedent for professional disciplinary proceedings, reinforcing that procedural fairness must be maintained even when dealing with unrepresented complainants, and that self-regulating professions must balance disciplinary efficiency with fundamental justice.

  • Cuba’s Yuray Preval lights up RABZ 9 with heavyweight crown

    Cuba’s Yuray Preval lights up RABZ 9 with heavyweight crown

    In a spectacular display of combat prowess, Cuban martial artist Yuray Preval emerged victorious at the RABZ 9: Boxing Day Come Early event held at The Sound Forge in Mucurapo on December 13. Preval claimed the inaugural RABZ heavyweight championship by defeating Trinidad and Tobago’s Liam “Shogun” Chin Choy through unanimous decision in the night’s main event.

    The international kickboxing showcase featured athletes from Cuba, St Lucia, Venezuela, and Trinidad and Tobago competing across eight thrilling bouts. Preval, representing RAMS Fight Club, demonstrated exceptional technique and relentless aggression throughout the championship match, maintaining his perfect RABZ record of 5-0 victories.

    Several other fighters delivered notable performances during the event. Nevin “Hazzard” Byer secured a unanimous decision victory against Aiden Rampaul in the 145-pound division, while Nicholas “The Executive” Elliott dominated St Lucian opponent Charles Greenidge in the 175-pound category. The women’s division saw Ariel Solomon achieve victory over Vanessa Sankar via unanimous decision in the 125-pound debutant matchup.

    Additional results included Marc Sargeant’s technical knockout win against Brayan Alfonzo in the 130-pound C-class bout, and Venezuelan fighter Samuel Negrin’s technical knockout victory over Emmanuel Jugmohan. Levi Salloum earned a unanimous decision against Varenyam Maharaj in the 165-pound class, while Aaimar John and Alexi McDeigan fought to a majority draw in their 145-pound contest.

    RABZ Fight Promotions has announced ambitious expansion plans for 2026, intending to provide enhanced opportunities for champions including welterweight titleholder Ronaldo Diaz, middleweight champion Le Shaun Moreno, and newly crowned heavyweight king Preval to compete on regional and international platforms.

  • Digicel gets CIPS accreditation

    Digicel gets CIPS accreditation

    In a groundbreaking achievement for Caribbean business standards, Digicel Group has secured the prestigious Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Corporate Ethical Procurement and Supply Kitemark, becoming the first Caribbean-based organization to receive this international recognition. The historic announcement was made during the inaugural CIPS Caribbean Conference and Awards 2025 held at Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain, Trinidad, where Digicel’s procurement leadership accepted the distinction.

    The telecommunications giant, operating across 25 markets throughout the Caribbean, Central America, and South America including Trinidad and Tobago, now joins an exclusive global consortium of enterprises recognized for exemplary ethical procurement practices and supply chain integrity. The accreditation follows rigorous independent audits that validated Digicel’s adherence to consistent ethical standards throughout its procurement operations.

    Arshad Ali, Director of Group Procurement, Supply Chain and Real Estate for Digicel, emphasized the significance of this milestone: “This accreditation fundamentally reflects our business philosophy. It showcases the substantial advancements we’ve achieved in implementing ethical, transparent, and accountable procurement methodologies across the Group while reinforcing our dedication to establishing new benchmarks for responsible sourcing and supply chain governance throughout the region.”

    The CIPS Kitemark serves as a powerful assurance mechanism for customers and business partners, confirming that Digicel maintains ethical and responsible operations throughout its extensive supply network. Procurement decisions are now demonstrably guided by both commercial merit and ethical considerations, ensuring all business interactions embody integrity and accountability.

    Michael Watson, Chief Compliance and Cyber Security Officer for Digicel Group, added: “This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to ethical business conduct and the continuous improvement of our ethics and compliance programs. It provides our customers, suppliers, and partners with concrete evidence that Digicel upholds the most stringent ethical standards in all operations.”

    This landmark achievement solidifies Digicel’s position as an ethical leader in the telecommunications sector while demonstrating the company’s dedication to responsible growth and sustainable value creation for the Caribbean region and beyond.