Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Benedict’s go 2nd in SSFL premier division, ‘Naps’ lead cut to one point

    Benedict’s go 2nd in SSFL premier division, ‘Naps’ lead cut to one point

    The 2205 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division witnessed a series of intense matches on October 25, with significant implications for the title race. St Benedict’s College, the reigning Coca-Cola national intercol champions, secured a crucial 1-0 victory over St Anthony’s College at the Mahaica Sporting Complex in Point Fortin. The win propelled them from third to second place in the standings, just one point behind leaders Naparima College. The match was delayed due to a waterlogged pitch, but St Benedict’s made the most of their opportunity with an early goal from Elijah David, reigniting their title aspirations.

    Elsewhere, Naparima College, sitting atop the table with 28 points, were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by San Juan North Secondary. Meanwhile, defending champions Fatima College (26 points) slipped to third place after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Presentation College San Fernando (25 points). The match at Fatima Grounds saw both teams create numerous chances, with Isaiah Jacob of Presentation scoring his 14th goal of the season, while Jonathan Mason equalized for Fatima with a stunning long-range strike.

    The results have tightened the race at the top, with the top four teams now separated by just three points. In other matches, Arima North Secondary climbed to seventh place with a 4-2 victory over Trinity College East, thanks to a brace from Darren De Four. The SSFL premier division continues to deliver thrilling encounters as the season approaches its climax.

  • A shiver of ASMR

    A shiver of ASMR

    Long before Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) became a global phenomenon, many individuals, including myself, found solace in the subtle sounds of everyday activities. The gentle tap of a wooden spoon against a ceramic bowl, a sound rarely heard in real kitchens, became a personal favorite. This auditory fascination, amplified by microphones and sound stages, laid the groundwork for what would later be recognized as ASMR.

  • Such Things Exist shines spotlight on3 artists

    Such Things Exist shines spotlight on3 artists

    The exhibition *Such Things Exist*, currently on display at the LOFTT Gallery in Woodbrook, Trinidad, offers a profound departure from traditional Caribbean art. Featuring the works of Bianca Peake, Brian Ashing, and Aurora Honeywell, the exhibition delves into themes of identity, emotion, and personal introspection, challenging conventional expectations of Caribbean aesthetics.

  • US warship arrives in Trinidad and Tobago

    US warship arrives in Trinidad and Tobago

    The USS Gravely, a prominent US naval warship, arrived at the Port of Port of Spain in Trinidad and Tobago on October 26 for a five-day joint training exercise with the TT Defence Force. The vessel, escorted by two tug boats and Coast Guard vessels, docked at approximately 9:30 AM. The exercise, which includes members of the 22nd US Marine Expeditionary Unit, is set to conclude on October 30. This visit occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela. The US has recently intensified its military operations in regional waters, claiming to have destroyed 11 vessels and killed 49 alleged drug traffickers. President Donald Trump has labeled these traffickers as ‘narco terrorists’ and authorized covert military operations in Venezuela, with potential land-based attacks on drug-related targets. Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has expressed strong support for the US Navy’s presence in the region, praising their efforts to combat drug trafficking. She emphasized that the region is ‘not a zone of peace’ and advocated for the violent elimination of drug traffickers.

  • Foster care – is it worth it?

    Foster care – is it worth it?

    In a recent commentary, Denelle Singh, an attorney at law, highlighted the critical issue of the low rate of applicants for foster care in Trinidad and Tobago. The manager of the Foster Care Unit at the Children’s Authority had previously raised concerns about this alarming trend, pointing out widespread confusion between foster care and adoption. Many potential foster parents are deterred by the lengthy approval process, which spans four to five months, ensuring that applicants are both physically and emotionally prepared for the role. However, the need for foster care is urgent. Children’s homes in TT are often over capacity, leaving many children without a safe and stable environment. These children are often removed from their homes due to neglect, abuse, or socioeconomic challenges, and without foster care, they face an uncertain future. Foster care offers a temporary, family-based solution that provides individualised attention, emotional bonding, and a sense of normalcy, which institutional care often lacks. It also allows time for birth families to address their issues, with the goal of possible reunification. The foster care system not only benefits the children and foster families but also strengthens communities and contributes to national progress. By empowering ordinary citizens to take an active role in child welfare, TT can disrupt cycles of adversity and create a brighter future for its most vulnerable citizens. The Foster Care Unit provides comprehensive support to foster parents, ensuring that children thrive in a nurturing environment. Strengthening the foster care system is not just a moral imperative but a societal one, as it shapes future citizens who can contribute positively to national development.

  • Trinidad and Tobago queens shine in South Korea

    Trinidad and Tobago queens shine in South Korea

    Meguella Simon, a multifaceted talent from Trinidad and Tobago, has added another remarkable achievement to her illustrious career by securing the position of second runner-up at the 48th Mrs Woman of the Universe pageant held in South Korea on October 18, 2025. This prestigious event, which celebrates married, widowed, or single mothers aged 18-55, saw Simon break barriers as the first black woman to rank in the top five in the competition’s 48-year history. Alongside her pageant success, Simon was also crowned Mrs Superstar, a testament to her diverse talents and contributions to the arts, education, and community service. Simon, a teacher with two master’s degrees in education and Carnival studies, has previously made history as the first virtual Calypso Queen and has excelled as an actress, pannist, radio announcer, and model. She also served as the former president of the Lions Club of San Fernando. Reflecting on her journey, Simon described the experience as a transformative learning opportunity, emphasizing her commitment to using her platform to empower others. She expressed pride in representing Trinidad and Tobago and hinted at future participation in pageants, though her immediate focus is on preparing for Carnival 2026. This year’s event also featured two other Trinidadian delegates: Candace Picton-Friday, who earned the title of Mrs First Lady, and Aliana Seepersad, who won Best National Costume in the Miss Woman of the Universe category. Local director Alveada Meah praised the trio for their grace and excellence, highlighting their role in placing Trinidad and Tobago on the global stage. The pageant continues to inspire women worldwide, with applications now open for the next edition.

  • Tobago in the 1820s

    Tobago in the 1820s

    The island of Tobago, once a possession of the English monarch, faced a series of tumultuous events that shaped its history and socio-economic landscape. One of the most pressing concerns for landowners was the persistent threat of a French takeover, which haunted the island from 1763 and materialized in 1781 and 1802. This fear was finally laid to rest in 1815 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris, which solidified Tobago’s status as a British colony. However, this resolution did not alleviate all challenges, as the island grappled with the growing anti-slavery movement and the declining performance of its sugar industry, a cornerstone of its economy.

    In an effort to stabilize the island’s affairs, the administration appointed Charles Alfred Francklyn as the agent for Tobago in 1820. Tasked with overseeing sugar sales, procurement of essential goods, and legal matters, Francklyn’s role was pivotal. Yet, the changing ownership of estates amid the intensifying anti-slavery movement, exemplified by the 1823 rebellion in British Guiana, added to the instability. The plantocracy, burdened by economic realities and unable to sustain their lavish lifestyles, faced further decline.

    Another significant development was the construction of a courthouse in 1821, a project overseen by a committee of council and assembly members. This initiative highlighted the island’s efforts to establish a formal legal system. Meanwhile, the allocation of land to poor settlers, including figures like John Burnett and William Sloane Wilson, revealed the complexities of land ownership and social stratification.

    The labor of enslaved Africans played a crucial role in Tobago’s economy, not only in estate work but also in defense and other services. However, the compensation for their labor was paid to their owners, not the workers themselves, a practice that underscored the inhumane nature of slavery. After Emancipation, planters claimed a shortage of labor, yet the value of the work done by enslaved Africans far exceeded what they were willing to pay freed individuals.

    Despite efforts to address financial deficits through taxation on enslaved individuals, merchants, and alcohol, Tobago’s economy remained unstable. The decline in sugar production and the increasingly volatile atmosphere on plantations mirrored broader regional unrest, leaving the island’s future uncertain.

  • Man found not guilty of shooting at cousin in 2019

    Man found not guilty of shooting at cousin in 2019

    In a landmark verdict on October 21, Marcus Pollard was acquitted of all charges related to a 2019 shooting incident involving his cousin, Raquel Charles. The jury delivered a unanimous not-guilty verdict after nearly two hours of deliberation in the Hall of Justice, Port of Spain, presided over by Justice Sherene Murray-Bailey. Pollard had faced charges of shooting with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition. The prosecution alleged that Pollard fired a single shot at Charles near her head on Blanchisseuse Road, Arima, on March 19, 2019, following a verbal altercation. A spent 9mm casing recovered at the scene was confirmed by the Forensic Science Centre, but no firearm or ammunition was found on Pollard, his vehicle, or his home. Pollard maintained his innocence, claiming that Charles fabricated the story due to family tensions and jealousy. He admitted to being in the area but denied firing a weapon. The defense highlighted the lack of forensic evidence, including gunshot residue or fingerprint analysis, and inconsistencies in Charles’ account compared to first responders’ statements. Prosecutors relied on Pollard’s 2019 police interview, where he acknowledged being in the area but denied the allegations. The defense team, led by attorneys Suneesh Singh, Mikkell Samaroo, and Kimberly Mackhan, successfully argued that the state’s case was implausible due to the absence of physical evidence and inconsistencies. The jury ultimately returned not-guilty verdicts on all counts, clearing Pollard of all charges.

  • SSFL hit with sponsorship cuts, travel issues…league working to improve shortcomings

    SSFL hit with sponsorship cuts, travel issues…league working to improve shortcomings

    The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) has encountered significant hurdles this season, including financial constraints, sponsorship cuts, and logistical issues. Despite these challenges, SSFL President Merere Gonzales has reassured the public that the league is actively addressing these problems to maintain its integrity and competitiveness. The 2025 season began with over 100 schools registering, though some withdrew due to logistical difficulties. Gonzales emphasized that withdrawing before fixtures are released is the honorable approach, as post-release withdrawals can result in a two-year ban. The league has also faced issues with the quality of school home venues, particularly in the championship and lower divisions. In one instance, a team in the Central Zone attempted to mark their field with flour minutes before a match, which the referee deemed unacceptable. Many schools without corporate sponsorship struggle to prepare their grounds adequately. Gonzales highlighted the need for more support from relevant authorities to ensure playable and credible standards. Financial challenges have been exacerbated by the withdrawal of sponsorships from the National Gas Company (NGC) and Shell, which has impacted the league’s operations, including the planned inaugural girls premiership. The TT Football Association (TTFA) is collaborating with the SSFL to ensure the girls premiership launches in 2026. Additionally, First Citizens has narrowed its sponsorship to the boys championship, while Coca-Cola remains the title sponsor of the Intercol competition. Traveling schools, particularly those moving to and from Tobago, now have to fund their own travel, leading to postponed games and fixture congestion. The SSFL is also facing broadcasting hardships following the shutdown of SportsMax, but is forming partnerships with Digicel, Rush, and TT Television (TTT) to broadcast matches. In the interim, matches are being broadcast on Tiger Tanks International, 360TV, and Tobago Sports Live. Despite these challenges, the SSFL remains committed to building student-athletes across all divisions. The league has introduced monthly off-season activities, including nutrition, performance, and mental health workshops, to keep schools engaged and prepare student-athletes for the next season.

  • Scenes from J’Ouvert celebrations for Tobago carnival

    Scenes from J’Ouvert celebrations for Tobago carnival

    The streets of Scarborough, Tobago, came alive on October 25 as thousands of revellers gathered for the vibrant J’Ouvert celebrations, marking the largest street festival of the still relatively new Tobago Carnival on the global calendar. The event, characterized by its infectious energy and colorful displays, saw a mix of locals, returning Trinbagonians from abroad, and international visitors joining in the festivities. The standout band, Fog Angels, led the parade, while spectators and participants alike reveled in the lively atmosphere. Despite the large presence of police and defense forces, the event maintained its reputation as a clean and safe celebration, with revellers freely taking command of the streets. Soca music blared from speakers, and foam-covered partygoers danced with unbridled joy. The event also featured unique moments, such as a mas player being towed in a wheelbarrow and others proudly waving their national flags. Tobago Carnival, though new to the global stage, has quickly established itself as a must-attend event, drawing thousands to its vibrant and inclusive celebrations.