Costa Rican students Steven Alpízar, Sebastián Pastrana, Esteban Canales, and Luis Ureña, along with their teacher Jeisson Córdoba from Colegio Técnico Profesional Don Bosco, have been crowned Regional Champions of Samsung Latin America’s 2025 Solve for Tomorrow (SFT) educational programme. Their winning project, AgroTico Smart, is an advanced agricultural platform designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by farmers in the Chorotega and Huetar Norte regions. Utilizing IoT sensors, AI, and satellite data, the system delivers personalized recommendations to farmers via SMS and web applications. It also includes a distribution model, technical support, and training for local technicians, making it a comprehensive solution for agricultural innovation. The announcement was made on November 13 during a ceremony attended by Jason Kim, President of Samsung Electronics SELA, who praised the students for their creativity and dedication. María Fernanda Hernández, Samsung’s corporate citizenship manager for Central America, the Caribbean, Ecuador, and Venezuela, highlighted the programme’s success in fostering youth innovation and building a brighter future for the region. Over 3,000 project ideas were submitted from 12 countries, with more than 10,000 participants involved. The programme also provided over 12,000 hours of training in essential 21st-century skills and cutting-edge technologies. Among the finalists was the team from Marabella North Secondary School in Trinidad and Tobago, whose solar-powered flood early-warning system, Doh Get Wet, demonstrated significant potential in addressing community flooding risks. Samsung also awarded special recognitions to Ecuador and Paraguay for their outstanding contributions.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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High Court rules in ANSA Merchant Bank’s $30m fraud case
In a landmark ruling, the High Court has adjudicated on the $30 million fraud case involving ANSA Merchant Bank (AMB) and its former employees. Justice Frank Seepersad, in a comprehensive 100-plus page judgment, dismissed claims against four former employees but found former business development officer Dwayne Rojas guilty of breaching contractual and fiduciary duties. Rojas was implicated in a fraudulent loan scheme, colluding with roll-on/roll-off car dealers to defraud the bank of $30 million over two and a half years. The scheme involved falsified job letters and fabricated vehicle documents, with non-existent vehicles listed as loan collateral. Justice Seepersad ruled that Rojas knowingly processed fraudulent applications, causing substantial financial loss to AMB. The court also dismissed cases against Zaria Sankar, Reyvaan Rampersad, Kerry Ramsaroop, and Adriana Ramsingh, citing insufficient evidence of wrongdoing. However, summary judgments were granted against five roll-on/roll-off companies, ordering them to repay $24 million. Justice Seepersad criticized AMB for targeting junior staff while neglecting to hold senior officers accountable. He highlighted the bank’s inadequate internal controls and risk management practices, which facilitated the fraud. The judge recommended that the case be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Commissioner of Police for potential criminal charges. Additionally, he urged the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Tourism to review the operating licenses of the implicated dealerships. The ruling underscores the need for stricter financial oversight and accountability in the banking sector.
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Molino: I gave my all for the badge
Trinidad and Tobago’s senior men’s football team captain, Kevin Molino, has officially concluded his international career after a 2-2 draw against Bermuda in their final FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier on November 18. The match, held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, Port of Spain, marked the end of a remarkable journey for the 35-year-old playmaker, affectionately known as ‘Nash.’ Molino, who initially retired from international football in September 2023, made a brief return last October to participate in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the World Cup qualifying campaign. Despite the team’s inability to secure a victory in his farewell match, Molino expressed profound gratitude for his 15-plus years representing Trinidad and Tobago. Over his career, he earned over 70 caps and scored 27 goals, leaving an indelible mark on the national team. Molino and veteran goalkeeper Marvin Phillip, 41, were honored by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) and the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs for their contributions. In a heartfelt social media post, Molino thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support, stating, ‘Playing for TT has been one of my greatest blessings – an honor and privilege that I will forever be proud of.’ Molino’s career highlights include two appearances at youth World Cups and a pivotal role in leading the Defence Force team to the TT Premier Football League title in the 2024/25 season. As he closes this chapter, Molino reflected on the highs, lows, and lessons of his journey, expressing pride in representing his country with ‘heart, respect, and fire.’
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Speyside win, Mucurapo West into SSFL premier division
While the national men’s football team captured the spotlight on November 18, the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) showcased the future stars of the sport in a series of intense matches. The First Citizens Boys’ ‘Big 5’ championship division playoffs and zonal intercol games provided thrilling action, with young athletes demonstrating their skills and determination. In the Big 5 tournament, Speyside Secondary secured their first win with a 2-1 victory over Palo Seco Secondary. Despite trailing after a goal from Kashaun Phillip, Speyside turned the game around with late strikes from Ajani Stewart and Shaquan Charles. This win propelled Speyside to third place in the standings, with Hillview College leading the pack with a perfect record and Mucurapo West Secondary in second. Speyside still has two matches remaining, facing Mucurapo and Presentation College Chaguanas, with the top three teams earning promotion to the premier division. Meanwhile, in a rescheduled premier division match, Trinity College Moka and Scarborough Secondary played to a 2-2 draw, leaving Scarborough fighting to avoid relegation. The league’s disciplinary committee is set to address St Augustine Secondary’s no-show against Signal Hill Secondary, which could impact their premier division status. In zonal intercol action, Chaguanas North Secondary avenged their earlier loss to Presentation with a 3-0 victory, while Carapichaima East Secondary advanced to the final with a 1-0 win over Carapichaima West Secondary.
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Steelpan and Powder Parade goes east
The Steelpan and Powder Parade (Eastern Region) unfolded in a burst of color and rhythm on November 15, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Tunapuna. The event commenced at El Dorado Road, Eastern Main Road, and culminated at the Republic Bank Exodus panyard, drawing crowds of enthusiastic spectators and talented performers alike. Among the standout bands were the Tunapuna Tipica Steel Orchestra, Simple Song Steel Orchestra, Bp Renegades Steel Orchestra, Massy Trinidad All Stars, Curepe Scherzando Steelband, Pamberi Steel Orchestra, and First Citizens Supernovas, each delivering electrifying performances that captivated the audience. Newsday photographer Faith Ayoung immortalized the festivities, capturing moments of joy, creativity, and cultural pride. From young pan enthusiasts reveling in the music to a moko jumbie tossing powder into the air, the parade was a testament to the enduring legacy of steelpan music in Trinidad and Tobago. Josiah Austin, chairman of the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating this unique art form. The event not only entertained but also fostered a sense of community and cultural identity, leaving attendees with lasting memories of a day filled with music, dance, and tradition.
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Senator Nakhid unveils DNA grassroots football league
The DNA East/West Corridor Football League has been officially launched as a groundbreaking nationwide grassroots football initiative, supported by government ministries, corporate sponsors, and state broadcaster TTT. Conceptualized by Senator David Nakhid and businessman John Aboud, the league aims to reconnect football with local communities, create development pathways for young players, and offer substantial prize money at the grassroots level. Scheduled to begin on December 6, the league anticipates participation from over 48 teams, with top prizes of $120,000, $75,000, and $50,000 for the top three teams. Post-tournament, an all-star team will be selected for an international exposure trip to Spain. Nakhid described the league as a modern evolution of the historic Eddie Hart League, which began in 1967. The initiative has garnered immediate support from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and features experienced personnel such as former national player Travis Mulraine as director of operations and entertainment producer Randy Glasgow. The league also serves as a crime prevention program, fostering community engagement and reducing crime through sports. Primary sponsor John Aboud emphasized the role of sports in uniting communities and pledged organizational and financial support. The league’s medical team will provide health screenings for players, addressing physical and mental health needs. Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge highlighted the league’s potential to combat gang recruitment by restoring a sense of belonging among young men. TTT, the official broadcast partner, aims to showcase untapped talent and promote community development. Organizers expect full registration by the end of the week and believe the league will serve as a model for reviving national community football.
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It’s that Simplex: Automotive Arts, Massy promote new refinishing products for cars
Automotive Art, in partnership with Massy Distribution, is revolutionizing the car refinishing industry with its innovative Simplex line of products. The company is leveraging hands-on training sessions to demonstrate the versatility and efficiency of its paints, targeting end-users directly. Erik Bishop, Business and Product Development Manager at Automotive Art, emphasized the importance of practical demonstrations to gain market trust. ‘The easiest way to advertise the product is by showing it in action,’ he stated during a training session at Massy Distribution in Morvant. Automotive Art, celebrating its 35th anniversary, operates in over 70 countries, including the US, Canada, and the Caribbean. The company specializes in refinishing systems, using advanced European manufacturing techniques to produce durable and UV-resistant paints. Their products, including the 82-400, 82-1600, and 92-2008 clear coats, have undergone rigorous testing in simulated environments, ensuring longevity and high performance. Bishop highlighted the synergy between Automotive Art and Massy, noting their complementary roles in the automotive market. ‘They have the market, and we have the product offering,’ he said, underscoring the strategic partnership.
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CoP: TTPS helping shape next generation of men
On November 20, as the world marked International Men’s Day, Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) Commissioner Allister Guevarro emphasized the organization’s commitment to molding the next generation of men in the nation. In a heartfelt voice message shared on the TTPS Facebook page, Guevarro highlighted the origins of the day, which was founded by Trinidadian academic Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh. He underscored the significance of the occasion as a reminder of Trinidad and Tobago’s leadership in global discussions on discipline, service, and leadership. Guevarro pointed to the country’s rich legacy of producing influential men in academia, culture, and sports, citing figures like Dr. Eric Williams, Sir Ellis Clarke, and ANR Robinson, whose contributions have left indelible marks on the world. He also celebrated icons such as Hasely Crawford, Brian Lara, Dwight Yorke, Ato Boldon, and Nobel laureate VS Naipaul, who have showcased the nation’s excellence on international stages. Guevarro emphasized that International Men’s Day is more than a celebration for the TTPS; it is a call to action. He noted that the TTPS’s motto, ‘to protect and serve with pride,’ provides young men with a sense of belonging, a positive identity, and a pathway away from crime. By instilling values of discipline, respect, and service, the TTPS aims to shape men who will serve their families, communities, and nation with integrity. Guevarro urged citizens to recommit to fostering men of discipline, service, and faith, ensuring every young man understands that greatness is not only possible but expected.
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Rain spoils Red Force Super50 opener
The opening round of the CG United Super50 Cup faced significant disruptions due to heavy rainfall in north Trinidad on November 19, 2023. Two out of the three scheduled matches were abandoned without a result, leaving teams and fans disappointed. At the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Grounds in St Augustine, the clash between TT Red Force and Barbados Royals was delayed multiple times due to a wet outfield. The match eventually commenced as a 20-over contest, but rain intervened again after just 5.1 overs, forcing a no-result. Similarly, at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, Guyana Harpy Eagles posted a strong total of 287/6 against Jamaica Scorpions, but persistent rain prevented any further play. Cricket West Indies confirmed that all teams involved in the abandoned matches would receive two points, along with any bonus points earned. Meanwhile, at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Leeward Islands Hurricanes set a formidable target of 324 against Windward Islands Volcanoes, with Kofi James scoring a century. The second round of matches is set to begin on November 21, with teams hoping for better weather conditions.
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Strengthening the village that supports Trinidad and Tobago small businesses
Small and micro-businesses are the lifeblood of Trinidad and Tobago, driving innovation and sustaining communities. Yet, these enterprises often operate with minimal support, bearing immense responsibilities. Lara Dowell, a Committee Member at NOVA SME Development, highlights the challenges faced by entrepreneurs during the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s 2025 Champions of Business gala. This year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week theme, ‘Together We Build,’ underscores the need for a collaborative approach to bolster small businesses. Entrepreneurs in TT juggle multiple roles—from operations to compliance—while navigating unclear regulations and securing financing. The journey of a small business owner is not one of failure but of resilience in a system that demands too much from individuals. Dowell emphasizes the importance of professional networks, large institutions, and community support in creating a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. Professional networks provide shared knowledge and mentorship, while large institutions offer procurement power and market access. Communities and families form the emotional backbone, celebrating small wins and offering encouragement. Leadership development is crucial for business sustainability, as emotionally intelligent leaders foster resilient teams. Public-private collaboration is essential to simplify regulations, improve access to financing, and support digital transformation. Dowell calls for a national effort to strengthen the village around small businesses, ensuring their growth and success. By standing together, we can build a future where every entrepreneurial idea has the opportunity to thrive.