Michelle Baptiste, a 48-year-old entrepreneur from Chaguanas, Trinidad, is redefining the future of women through her Caribbean shapewear brand, Selecfit. Her journey is one of resilience, independence, and self-belief, inspiring women across the region. Baptiste’s early life was marked by instability and hardship. Growing up in a single-parent household, she faced numerous challenges, including frequent relocations and emotional scars from abuse. Despite these struggles, she found solace in books, which nurtured her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Baptiste’s family background in tailoring and her early ventures into entrepreneurship laid the foundation for her future success. After years of selling internationally made shapewear, she identified a gap in the market for products tailored to Caribbean women’s unique body types. This realization led to the creation of Selecfit in 2009. Despite financial constraints and personal losses, Baptiste persevered, expanding her brand to multiple locations and introducing complementary products like Slim Tea and Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies. Her commitment to quality and authenticity has earned her a loyal customer base, and she now aims to manufacture locally and expand regionally. Baptiste also uses her platform to promote body positivity and mentor aspiring female entrepreneurs, encouraging them to embrace their potential and take bold steps toward their dreams.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Gui’s Garvin Cadogan celebrates first anniversary – Trinis get a taste for Korean food
Garvin Cadogan, a 61-year-old entrepreneur with a diverse career spanning stock trading in New York to owning one of Trinidad’s most popular Korean BBQ restaurants, exemplifies the art of seizing opportunities. His journey began in Brooklyn, where he taught a Korean student how to trade stocks. Grateful for his mentorship, she encouraged him to open a Korean BBQ restaurant in his homeland, Trinidad. With her support, including menu development and staff training, Cadogan launched Gui Korean BBQ in November 2024 at Ariapita Avenue’s Food Square. The restaurant quickly gained popularity, offering authentic Korean dishes like BBQ meats, rice bowls, and dumplings. Despite initial resistance, Cadogan introduced fried rice to cater to local tastes, leading to the creation of the Gui Fried Rice Factory. The open-concept kitchen allows customers to interact with chefs, customizing their meals. Cadogan’s success has spurred expansion plans, with a new branch in Valpark set to open in December and future locations in Chaguanas, South Trinidad, Arima, and Tobago. His philosophy of seizing opportunities and adapting to customer demands has been key to his thriving business. Cadogan’s daughter, Leah, plays a pivotal role in managing and marketing the restaurant, with plans to diversify into retailing frozen dumplings and wontons. Despite challenges, their commitment to consistency and innovation ensures Gui Korean BBQ remains a beloved culinary destination in Trinidad.
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Hadco offers Pasture Fresh lamb, prime cuts for Trinidad and Tobago market
Hadco, a leading food company, unveiled its new Pasture Fresh lamb range at a high-profile event held at The Forge in El Socorro on November 7. The launch aimed to highlight the superior quality of grass-fed lamb, sourced from New Zealand, and its potential to elevate culinary experiences. The event was attended by Hadco officials, restaurateurs, culinary partners, and media representatives. Marc Clarke, Hadco’s marketing manager, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering not just food but culture, joy, and quality. He described the Pasture Fresh lambs as pasture-raised, free-roaming, and naturally fed, ensuring tenderness and exceptional flavor. Brandon Harry, the brand manager for Pasture Fresh, likened the product to the ‘Wagyu of lamb,’ promising unmatched quality. Chef Khalid Mohammed, one of nine global brand ambassadors for Pasture Fresh, prepared six innovative lamb dishes for the event, showcasing the versatility of the product. The dishes included spicy lamb chorizo tacos, Persian grilled lamb burgers, and Trinitario cacao-crusted rack of lamb. The Forge’s state-of-the-art kitchen allowed guests to witness the culinary process firsthand. Hadco’s new lamb range will soon be available in various cuts, including lamb chops, sausages, and patties, catering to both professional chefs and home cooks. The launch reflects Hadco’s dedication to raising industry standards and providing consumers with responsibly sourced, high-quality products.
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Marinna Shareef takes audience into her inner world
Marinna Shareef, a 27-year-old full-time artist, fearlessly channels her inner world into her vibrant and surreal creations, often exploring themes of bipolar disorder and Caribbean identity. Her work, rich in color and symbolism, reflects her personal struggles and cultural heritage, offering a deeply intimate narrative. Recently, Shareef completed a one-week residency at York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change in Canada, where she engaged with students, delivered artist talks, and completed a painting in just three days. During her stay, she also showcased her collaborative piece, *God of Whimsy*, at the *Nature’s Wild with Andil Gosine* exhibition in Toronto. This work, part of her *God of Depression* and *God of Mania* series, marked her first collaboration with another artist. Shareef found resonance in Gosine’s book *Nature’s Wild: Love, Sex and Law in the Caribbean*, which explores themes of inherited trauma and identity. Her art often evokes mixed reactions, ranging from discomfort to laughter, mirroring her own experiences with bipolar disorder, diagnosed at 18. Despite the challenges, Shareef remains stable and uses her art to process her emotions, creating surreal and pop art self-portraits that delve into the highs and lows of her condition. Her work incorporates Trinidadian iconography, such as local snacks and nostalgic objects, blending comfort with metaphor. Shareef’s art is meticulously planned, rarely spontaneous, and serves as a form of advocacy for mental health awareness. She aims to destigmatize mental illness and inspire others to seek help. With a bachelor’s degree in visual arts from UWI, St Augustine, Shareef has already held solo exhibitions and won awards for her work. Mentored by artists like Christopher Cozier and Andil Gosine, she continues to refine her craft and aspires to exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. For now, she focuses on applying for residencies and grants, determined to share her message through her art.
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Malachi Joseph, a football prodigy in the making
At just eleven years old, Malachi Joseph is already making waves in the world of football, showcasing exceptional talent, discipline, and an unwavering passion for the sport. Hailing from San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, Malachi is being hailed as a future star, both locally and internationally. His recent performance in the Victoria Educational District’s Under-11 Primary School Football Tournament has solidified his reputation as a standout player. On November 4, Malachi led his team, St Paul’s Boys’ Anglican Primary School, to a decisive 3-0 victory against San Fernando Boys’ RC School at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium in Marabella, earning him the title of Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Malachi’s skills on the field are undeniable. As a midfield attacker, he demonstrates effortless ball control, sharp awareness, and remarkable confidence. His dedication to the sport is evident in his rigorous training regimen, which he balances seamlessly with his schoolwork. Inspired by football legend Lionel Messi, Malachi dreams of following in his idol’s footsteps by joining the FC Barcelona Academy in Spain. ‘Messi is my favorite player. I want to be a professional player and feel good when I play on the field,’ Malachi shared.
His journey began years ago, not on a formal pitch, but in the yard of his family home in Marabella, where he honed his skills by kicking bottles. Recognizing his natural talent, his mother, Nicole Peters, enrolled him in the Dunstan Williams Soccer Academy (DWSA) at the age of six. Since then, Malachi has remained a dedicated member of DWSA and continues to train under the guidance of coach Anthony Sherwood, who helps refine his technical and tactical understanding of the game.
At school, his coach, Rondell Renwick, praises Malachi not only for his skill but also for his attitude. ‘He is disciplined, and mark my words, he’s one for the future. He is special,’ Renwick said proudly. With his eyes set on a professional career, Malachi Joseph is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of football.
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US Embassy: US Military ties run deep in Trinidad and Tobago
As US military personnel arrived in Trinidad and Tobago (TT) for a week-long training mission with the TT Defence Force (TTDF), concerns over escalating tensions with neighboring Venezuela have surfaced. The US Embassy, however, has sought to allay fears, emphasizing the longstanding security cooperation between the US and TT, which it claims benefits both nations and the broader region. This marks the second visit by the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), deployed in the Caribbean since late August to combat suspected narco-trafficking. Their previous visit in October saw the USS Gravely, a guided missile destroyer, dock in Port of Spain, sparking accusations from Venezuela of provocation and collusion with US intelligence agencies. Foreign Minister Sean Sobers announced the return of the 22nd MEU for exercises in urban and rural settings, including nighttime helicopter operations. The rapid succession of US military activities in the region, coupled with recent airstrikes targeting drug smugglers, has raised eyebrows. While Washington frames its presence as a counter-narcotics effort, Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro views it as a threat. US President Donald Trump has hinted at further actions against Venezuela, though specifics remain undisclosed. TT’s government, led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has expressed strong support for US military actions, citing the country’s vulnerability to illegal drug and weapons trade from Venezuela. The US Embassy highlighted recent collaborations, including infrastructure upgrades and donations to a local school, as well as joint training exercises aimed at enhancing regional security. These efforts, the embassy asserts, underscore the enduring partnership between the US and TT, rooted in shared values and mutual defense goals.
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Career fair at Santa Maria RC School: A world of opportunities
In a landmark event for Santa Maria RC School in Moruga, students were introduced to a wide array of career possibilities during the school’s first-ever Career Fair, held on November 7 along Penal Rock Road. The event, aptly named ‘Community Helpers,’ was a significant expansion of the school’s traditional career day, which previously featured only three guest speakers. This year, the fair was organized by Principal Genevieve Gopaul-Francis and staff members in collaboration with the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), led by Choy Aping. The goal was to expose students to diverse career paths, spark curiosity, and bridge classroom learning with real-world applications. Professionals from various fields, including law enforcement, agriculture, healthcare, and sports, shared their experiences and insights. Representatives from the South West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) highlighted opportunities in the health sector, while community police officers discussed roles beyond traditional policing, such as legal officers and prosecutors. Fire and prison officers also spoke about their vital work. The Ministry of Agriculture, Land, and Fisheries demonstrated hydroponics, showcasing innovative agricultural practices. Esther Brereton, librarian from the Moruga Public Library, emphasized the importance of literacy through a read-aloud session. Former West Indies women’s cricket captain Merissa Aguilleira, a Moruga native, inspired students with her journey in sports. The event, supported by the Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago (SporTT), also revitalized the school’s cricket program, with nearly every student now involved. The fair left students inspired and eager to explore their future possibilities.
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Malabar Youngstars, Athletic Utd clash for EFA title
The stage is set for an electrifying finale in the 2025 Eastern Football Association (EFA) tournament as defending champions Malabar Youngstars FC and Athletic United FC prepare to clash on November 16 at the Phase 2 La Horquetta recreation grounds. The two teams secured their spots in the championship match following contrasting semifinal victories on November 9. Athletic United edged past FC Maloney with a narrow 1-0 win, courtesy of Terron Miller’s decisive 27th-minute strike. Meanwhile, Malabar Youngstars delivered a dominant performance, cruising to a 3-0 victory over CPC Athletic International Academy. Ronaldo Boyce opened the scoring in the 37th minute, followed by an own goal from CPC’s Khaden Caraby in the 61st minute. Substitute Shandon Llanos sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal. Malabar aims to secure back-to-back EFA titles after their 2-1 triumph over CG Poseidon last year, while Athletic United will look to thwart their ambitions. Earlier in the day, CPC Athletic International Academy and FC Maloney will compete in the third-place playoff for a $5,000 prize, with the tournament winners and runners-up set to receive $15,000 and $10,000, respectively.
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Emma Bhola: ‘My living shall not be in vain’
At 92 years old, Emma Bhola, née Latchmedial, remains a beacon of strength and inspiration, embodying a lifetime of dedication to education, faith, and community service. Known affectionately as a “tiny giant” by the Women of the Star of Bethlehem Presbyterian Church in Tabaquite, Bhola was recently honored with an appreciation plaque for her unwavering commitment to her church and community. The tribute, read on October 5, celebrated her “faithful service, legacy of love, and teaching,” drawing from Proverbs 31 to highlight her wisdom and devotion.
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Psychologist: Emotional pain if paternity test comes back negative
The revelation that a child one has raised and loved is not biologically their own can deliver a profound psychological blow, particularly for men. This discovery not only impacts the individual but also reverberates through the extended family and the child themselves. Counseling psychologist Sule Joseph, in an interview with Newsday, emphasized the extensive and enduring emotional fallout from such situations. This discussion followed a claim by the Fathers’ Association of Trinidad and Tobago that one in three men who underwent paternity tests between 2020 and 2025 at a judiciary-approved facility were not the biological fathers. However, Joseph cautioned that this statistic reflects a specific subset of individuals who already harbored suspicions and thus may not be representative of the broader population. He noted that while there is a subculture in Trinidad and Tobago that often rationalizes infidelity, the discovery of non-paternity through a test remains a harsh and traumatic experience, regardless of prior relationship status. The association has consequently renewed its call for mandatory DNA testing before courts issue maintenance orders. Joseph highlighted that while some men might feel relief upon confirming their suspicions, those who have formed deep emotional bonds with the child could face devastating psychological consequences, including feelings of confusion, betrayal, self-doubt, and anger. The emotional damage is often exacerbated by societal expectations and the perceived attack on male ego. Children, too, are significantly affected, potentially experiencing confusion, fear, anger, and insecurity, which can disrupt their sense of identity and belonging. Joseph advised that such information should be shared with the child at an emotionally stable time and in a supportive environment to minimize psychological harm. The ripple effects extend to the wider family, with relatives also grappling with feelings of confusion and betrayal. In the legal realm, paternity disputes can arise in court for various reasons. A Family Court lawyer explained that if a father’s name is not on the birth certificate, the mother must first apply for a paternity order. If the man denies paternity, the court will refer them for a DNA test. Even if the father’s name is on the birth certificate, the court may order a DNA test if the man expresses doubt. The lawyer emphasized the complexity of removing a name from a birth certificate, as it involves considering the child’s well-being. She supported the call for mandatory DNA testing in disputed cases, arguing that it could prevent long-term emotional and financial burdens. Ultimately, the court aims to balance the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved, ensuring that the child’s best interests remain paramount.