标签： Trinidad and Tobago

The Rapidfire Kidz Foundation (RKF) is set to transport its guests back millions of years to the age of dinosaurs at its annual gala dinner on November 1. Held at the Achievors Banquet Hall in San Fernando, the event, aptly titled ‘Jurassic,’ will feature a unique Dutch auction of authentic dinosaur fossils, including a spinosaurus tooth and a megalodon tooth. These prehistoric treasures, sourced from reputable websites and accompanied by Certificates of Authenticity, have been artistically framed by Fine Art Ltd. The auction marks a creative departure from the foundation’s usual offerings of autographed sports memorabilia, aiming to raise both funds and eyebrows. RKF chairman Rissa Ramraj-Seepersad highlighted the novelty of the auction, while vice-president Rev Joy Abdul-Mohan emphasized the foundation’s commitment to innovative engagement. The evening will include entertainment by the Shiv Shakti Dancers, vocalists Joel John, Marvin Smith, and David Frank, and calypso and chutney soca artiste Daddy Chinee. A Latin dance competition and champagne giveaway will add to the festivities. RKF president Kevin Ratiram shared that the fossil auction idea was inspired by the TV show ‘Dino Hunters,’ sparking curiosity about the local response to such a unique fundraiser. Proceeds from the event will support the foundation’s charitable projects, including Christmas treats for underprivileged children, hospital donations, and playground maintenance. Ratiram underscored the foundation’s mission, stating, ‘Our main thrust is assisting underprivileged children.’ The Jurassic gala promises to be a groundbreaking event, blending fun, imagination, and philanthropy.

First-generation students at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine campus, have received a significant boost in their academic and social development, thanks to a $50,000 donation from the Unit Trust Corporation (UTC). The contribution is specifically aimed at supporting first-generation students and participants in the Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) mentorship programme, which assists first-year students in adapting to university life and laying the groundwork for long-term success. UWI deputy principal Professor Derek Chadee and manager of financial advisory services Kristy Mannette-Smith accepted the donation on behalf of the campus. Chadee emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that UTC’s support is an investment in student success and empowerment. He expressed gratitude for UTC’s generosity and praised their shared vision of fostering student growth. The donation includes $45,000 in renewable scholarships over the next three years and a $5,000 one-time bursary. UTC’s chief financial officer, Kerri Maharaj, highlighted that the STAR programme aligns with the corporation’s core values of providing individuals with the tools and guidance needed to build their own legacies. By supporting first-generation students, UTC aims to equip them with the confidence and knowledge to excel in university and become future leaders. Maharaj described the contribution as an investment in the nation’s future, emphasizing its role in cultivating the next generation of thought leaders, innovators, and professionals who will drive Trinidad and Tobago’s economic growth. Mannette-Smith added that the donation will provide life-changing resources for financially challenged students, enabling them to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles. She noted that such contributions not only fund tuition but also transform lives and open doors to brighter futures, expressing deep gratitude for the partnership with UTC.

Tobago has witnessed its sixth homicide of 2025 following the fatal shooting of Ronald Alleyne, a 44-year-old Trinidadian man, in Calder Hall on October 28. Known by the alias ‘Butcher,’ Alleyne was reportedly socializing near the intersection of Calder Hall Main Road and Friendsfield Road in Scarborough when multiple gunshots were heard around 11:15 pm. A relative discovered Alleyne lying on the road, severely wounded, and rushed him to Scarborough General Hospital. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at 11:42 pm. His body has been transferred to the hospital’s mortuary for an autopsy. Javon Thompson, President of the Calder Hall village council, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the personal pain of losing someone he knew well. Thompson urged the perpetrator(s) to reconsider their actions, highlighting the irreversible consequences of gun violence. He advised against succumbing to the allure of a reckless lifestyle and encouraged striving for a better future. Authorities are actively investigating the case.

Justice Minister Devesh Maharaj has provided updates on the ongoing investigations by the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) into two police-involved fatal shootings that occurred in Tobago earlier this year. The incidents, which took place on April 25 and May 30, involved the deaths of Ronell Marcelle, 34, and Frank Allen Sammy, 74, respectively. During a Senate session on October 29, Maharaj responded to inquiries from Opposition Senator Melanie Roberts-Radgman, detailing the progress of the investigations. In the case of Marcelle, the PCA has secured the police investigative file, which includes witness statements, video footage, and a post-mortem certificate, though some information remains pending. For Sammy’s case, the PCA has obtained extracts from police records and conducted interviews, including securing a witness statement, but additional details are still awaited. Maharaj emphasized the PCA’s commitment to thoroughness in these investigations, underscoring the importance of accountability and transparency in such sensitive matters.