At the recent unveiling of Trinidad and Tobago’s Revitalisation Blueprint, Ansa McAl’s executive chairman, A. Norman Sabga, and his son, group CEO Anthony N. Sabga III, shared their optimism about the government’s ambitious plans. The blueprint, introduced by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, outlines over 100 construction projects aimed at creating more than 50,000 jobs and revitalizing key areas across the country. Sabga described the initiative as ‘huge’ and emphasized the importance of dreaming big to drive national progress. Speaking at the launch of Ansa McAl’s financial results for the year ending September 30, Sabga III echoed his father’s sentiments, calling the government’s vision ‘ambitious’ and ‘colourful.’ He highlighted the group’s commitment to supporting the government’s efforts, noting that Ansa McAl, which will celebrate its 145th anniversary next year, remains apolitical and focused on sustainable development. The blueprint includes projects such as transforming the Port of Spain waterfront, redeveloping Invaders Bay, and converting prisons into cultural centers and luxury resorts. The Sabgas’ matching yellow ties, coincidentally aligned with the ruling United National Congress’s color, sparked curiosity, but Sabga III dismissed any political connotations, emphasizing the group’s neutrality and dedication to economic growth.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Celebrating Kartik Snaan
On November 5, the Ganesh Utsav Foundation in Otaheite became a hub of spiritual fervor as devotees from various regions gathered to celebrate Kartik Snaan, a sacred ritual bath observed during the Hindu holy month of Kartik. This annual event symbolizes spiritual purification, aiming to cleanse the body, mind, and soul of sins and negativity. The two-hour service, led by Pundit Sunil Seetahal-Maharaj, included heartfelt prayers and the offering of personal gifts, reflecting the deep gratitude of the participants. Devotees expressed their thankfulness to God for the simple yet profound blessings of life through this water thanksgiving ritual. The celebration was marked by moments of unity and devotion, as individuals clasped hands in prayer and made offerings at the shoreline, embodying the essence of spiritual renewal and communal harmony.
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Trinidad and Tobago artistes miss out on Grammy nominations
Despite a robust presence of Trinidad and Tobago (TT) artists in the preliminary considerations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, none secured a nomination. The Recording Academy announced the nominees on November 7, revealing that 18 TT artists were in the running across various categories, including Best Global Music Performance, Best Reggae Album, and Best Jazz Instrumental. Notable contenders included Kes the Band, Machel Montano, and Freetown Collective, who were considered for multiple awards. Kes the Band was in contention for Best Global Music Performance with their track ‘Cocoa Tea,’ while Machel Montano was considered in four categories, including Best Global Music Album for ‘One Degree Hotter.’ Freetown Collective’s ‘Beyond the Machine’ was also a contender in the Best Global Music Album category. Other prominent names included Yung Bredda, Anika Berry, and Etienne Charles, who were considered for their contributions to global music, jazz, and instrumental compositions. Historically, TT has seen Grammy success with artists like Heather Headley and Billy Ocean, but this year’s nominations did not include any local talent. The extensive list of considerations highlights the vibrant and diverse musical talent emerging from TT, even though it did not translate into nominations this time.
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Pumpkin, spice makes baking nice
Pumpkin, a staple in many cuisines, is celebrated for its versatility and year-round availability. This humble squash, available in varieties like calabaza, rough skin, and rupee, is a traditional ingredient in dishes ranging from peas and pelau to veggie roti and pepper sauce. Its soft flavor makes it a perfect match for warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, and ginger, enhancing both savory and sweet recipes.
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Yandy Stafford cops Trinidad and Tobago’s first-ever gold at Pan Am Artistic Gymnastics Cup
In a historic achievement for Trinidad and Tobago, young gymnast Yandy Stafford clinched the nation’s first-ever gold medal at the Pan American Junior and Youth Artistic Gymnastics Cup held in El Salvador on November 6. Stafford triumphed in the vault event, delivering a flawless performance that earned her a score of 13.35 and a place in the record books. This milestone marks a significant moment for Trinidad and Tobago in the realm of international gymnastics.
Stafford was part of a five-member national team that traveled to El Salvador on November 3 to compete against some of the region’s most talented young gymnasts. The team included Shanika Joseph, Asia Ali, Zariah Gittens-Dopwell, and Caeli La Roche, representing both the Pan American Gymnastics Union (PAGU) hopes level two and level one divisions. All five athletes participated in the all-around competition on November 5, with Stafford finishing fifth in her division with a total score of 46.75.
On the second day of competition, Stafford showcased her versatility by qualifying for three event finals: vault, beam, and floor. While she placed sixth in the floor exercise with a score of 11.45, her defining moment came during the vault finals. Executing a Yurchenko pike vault with precision and a perfect landing, Stafford secured the gold medal, a first for Trinidad and Tobago in this prestigious event. She later concluded her day with a seventh-place finish on the beam.
The Pan American Junior and Youth Artistic Gymnastics Cup is a biennial event aimed at preparing young athletes for senior elite competition by the age of 16. Following their strong performances in El Salvador, Stafford and her teammates are now gearing up for their next challenge: the 2025 Carifta Artistic Gymnastics Championships, which will be hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Gymnastics Federation (TTGF) in Couva on December 6 and 7.
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Generating forex vital
The recent closure of Standard Distributors, a longstanding business at the corner of Western Main Road and Calcutta Street in St James, Trinidad and Tobago, after nearly 80 years of operation, underscores the severe economic and financial challenges the country is currently facing. This event serves as a stark reminder of the broader issues plaguing the nation, including a sharp decline in foreign exchange reserves, rising unemployment rates, and an increase in crime. These factors collectively signal a critical juncture for Trinidad and Tobago, necessitating immediate and innovative interventions to prevent further deterioration. To address these challenges, the country must diversify its economic strategies beyond traditional exports. This includes revitalizing local manufacturing sectors, encouraging investments in emerging industries, and leveraging innovative financial solutions such as regional tourism, fintech, and value-added agriculture. Additionally, the return of ExxonMobil and the potential exploitation of Venezuela’s oil reserves near Trinidad and Tobago’s waters could significantly impact the economy if negotiations lead to productive collaborations. Exploring offshore gas opportunities and positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a regional energy hub are also crucial steps. To attract foreign direct investment, promote eco-tourism, and develop human capital, the government must implement proactive policies and foster regional partnerships. Time is of the essence; delaying action in hopes of perfect conditions could be detrimental. The government must act decisively, embracing creative solutions to rebuild confidence, restore stability, and secure a prosperous future for Trinidad and Tobago.
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Trinidad and Tobago women’s football team to feature in Mayaro League opener
The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) women’s football team is intensifying its preparations for the upcoming 2025/26 Concacaf Women’s Qualifiers with a series of practice matches and exhibition games. On November 8, the team will participate in an exhibition game against the Mayaro XI, a men’s team, at the Mayaro Resource Centre. Although the TT team is not competing in the Mayaro Football League, this match serves as a crucial opportunity to fine-tune their skills ahead of the qualifiers. The team recently faced a 4-1 defeat against Jamaica in a practice match on October 28, despite a promising 1-1 tie at halftime. Jinelle James, the TT Football Association’s director of women’s football, revealed that the team has scheduled additional practice games against boys’ Secondary Schools Football League teams and is working to arrange matches against regional opponents. The qualifiers will kick off on November 30 with an away game against Barbados. TT is placed in Group F alongside El Salvador and Honduras, with matches scheduled against Honduras on March 4 and El Salvador on April 17. The top six group winners will advance to the eight-team Concacaf Women’s Championship, joining pre-seeded teams Canada and the US. Meanwhile, the team’s coaching situation remains under review, with Densill Theobald and Damian Briggs currently serving as co-coaches following the unexpected resignation of former coach Angus Eve last month.
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Meaning behind Mamdani
The election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s mayor on November 4 signifies a transformative moment in American politics and a beacon of inspiration in the global arena. At just 34 years old, Mamdani’s triumph is historic: he will become the city’s first Muslim mayor, the first of South Asian descent, the first born in Africa, and the youngest in over a century. His victory, securing 50% of the vote against Andrew Cuomo’s 42% and Curtis Sliwa’s 7%, underscores a significant shift in a traditionally Democratic stronghold, where past mayors like Eric Adams and Bill de Blasio enjoyed far more decisive wins.
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Trinidad and Tobago grouped with Costa Rica for Concacaf Men’s U-20 qualifiers
Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) men’s Under-20 football team has been drawn into a challenging group for the Concacaf Men’s Under-20 qualifiers, set to take place from February 23 to March 4, 2026. The team, led by coach Randolph Boyce, will compete in Group E alongside Barbados, Bermuda, Costa Rica, and Sint Maarten. The qualifiers, which include 32 Concacaf member nations, are divided into six groups, with the winners advancing to the 2026 Concacaf Under-20 Championship. This championship, scheduled for July 25 to August 9, 2026, will feature 12 teams, including six pre-seeded nations: Cuba, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, and the United States. The tournament will not only determine Concacaf’s representatives for the 2027 FIFA Men’s Under-20 World Cup but also serve as a qualifier for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Costa Rica, one of the host nations for the qualifiers, is expected to be the strongest contender in Group E. TT, placed in pot two based on the Concacaf Under-20 men’s rankings as of August 5, 2024, will need to overcome this formidable opponent to progress. Last year, the team, then coached by Brian Haynes, was eliminated in the first round after finishing second to Canada. With Boyce now at the helm, TT aims to improve on their previous performance and secure a spot in the championship.
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Carnival in the City launches on November 7
The National Carnival Commission (NCC) is set to kick off Carnival 2026 with a vibrant launch event at the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain on November 7. Titled ‘Yuh Go Love Dis,’ the event aims to foster greater inclusivity and accessibility, bringing the festivities directly to the people. NCC CEO Keiba Jacob Mottley emphasized the commission’s commitment to making Carnival a shared experience for all, stating, ‘The mandate of the NCC is to ensure everyone has access to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival because it belongs to all of us.’ The day-long event, running from 9 am to 6 pm, will feature live performances, traditional Carnival characters, and addresses by Minister of Culture Michelle Benjamin and NCC Chairman Peter Kanhai. Highlights include a lunchtime performance by reigning Panorama Champions Republic Bank Exodus and a children’s zone with cultural exhibitions and activities. The NCC has also partnered with the Port of Spain City Corporation and local police to ensure safety and smooth operations. Additionally, the event will support local commerce by hosting craft vendors throughout the day. This initiative is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate Carnival and measure its economic impact, with the government collaborating with the Inter-American Development Bank on a study to assess its contribution to GDP. Stakeholders, including TUCO president Ainsley King, have praised the launch as a step in the right direction, emphasizing its potential to engage new audiences and celebrate Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage.