TerraPay and VM Money Transfer Services have Partnered to Expand the Remittance Market for Jamaicans

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KINGSTON, Jamaica, April 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In its continued thrust to improve financial inclusion and expand remittance services to Jamaicans across the world, VM Money Transfer Services (VMTS) has entered a strategic partnership with TerraPay, a global money movement organization.

VMTS facilitates money transfer services globally to customers sending money to Jamaica from Europe, the UK, United States, Canada, the Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos. With this new agreement, VMTS now gains access to TerraPay’s robust online platform, enabling hassle-free cross-border transfers for customers sending and receiving money across approximately 31 markets globally.

CEO of VM Money Transfer Services Limited, Michael Howard, welcomes the boost that this partnership will bring to the agency’s operations. He shared, “Purposeful partnership is an integral part of VM Money Transfer’s mission as we seek to continuously improve service delivery to our clients. We are excited about this recent collaboration as, with TerraPay’s extensive network, we have the opportunity to significantly broaden our reach and potentially tap into new markets, all while keeping our clients supported and empowered with convenient and secure channels for their money transfer needs.”

The agreement was signed between the two entities in March 2024, and Juan Luis Hernandez, TerraPay’s Senior Regional Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean, who visited Jamaica for the occasion, shares the enthusiasm. Hernandez commented, “We are delighted to partner with VM Money Transfer Services to drive innovation and efficiency in cross-border remittances. Together, we aim to provide a superior remittance experience for Jamaicans worldwide, strengthening connections with their loved ones and contributing to the economic development of Jamaica.”

Along with the expanded service through TerraPay, VMTS customers can continue to enjoy the flexibility and convenience of having their funds deposited directly to their Jamaican bank account through VMTS’ Direct to Bank Service. Clients can also collect their remittances in Jamaica from VM Money Transfer’s over 70 sub-agents, 8 VM Money Express locations and 16 VM Building Society branches Islandwide.

For queries, please reach out to Juveria Samrin at ju*******@te******.com

About TerraPay:

TerraPay simplifies global money movement – by providing a single connection to the most expansive cross-border payments network regulated in 31 global markets and enabling payments to 144 receive countries, 210+ send countries, 7.5Bn+ bank accounts and 2.1Bn+ mobile wallets. TerraPay is on a mission to connect a borderless financial world, making moving money everywhere instant, reliable, transparent and fully compliant. TerraPay pushes the boundaries for global businesses – ranging from banks, fintechs and money-transfer operators to travel businesses, creator economy platforms and e-commerce marketplaces – while driving financial inclusion in even the most inaccessible markets. Founded in 2014, TerraPay is headquartered in London, with global offices in Bangalore, Dubai, Miami, Bogota, Dar es Salaam, Kampala, Hague, Dakar, Joburg, Nairobi, Milan, Singapore and is expanding rapidly, having received funding from leading investors, including the IFC (the World Bank), Prime Ventures, Partech Africa and Visa. 

New Provisional Government Sworn In Amidst Turmoil in Haiti

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News Americas, PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Amidst the backdrop of a nation grappling with turmoil and unrest, a new provisional government was quietly ushered into power today in the French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member state of Haiti. This significant development comes nearly two months after a criminal insurrection threw the capital into chaos, exacerbating an already volatile situation.

New Haitian Prime Minister Michel Patrick Boivert speaks during the swearing in of a new transitional council in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on April 25, 2024. A long-awaited transitional ruling council was sworn in in crisis-torn Haiti Thursday, an official told AFP, the first step to forming a new government after months of gang violence in the Caribbean nation. (Photo by CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP via Getty Images)

The formation of a nine-person “transitional council” marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s trajectory, with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, currently in the United States due to the volatile conditions in Haiti, formally announcing his resignation in a letter. Henry, a former neurosurgeon turned politician, assumed power following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, navigating the country through turbulent times.

Smith Augustin (C), member of the new transitional council, speaks to the press after the swearing in of the council in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on April 25, 2024. A long-awaited transitional ruling council was sworn in in crisis-torn Haiti Thursday, an official told AFP, the first step to forming a new government after months of gang violence in the Caribbean nation. (Photo by CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP via Getty Images)

This morning’s early morning swearing-in ceremony was shrouded in secrecy, a precautionary measure taken in light of looming threats of violence. Reports hinted at the possibility of the event being held at an undisclosed government property, underscoring the delicate security situation gripping the nation.

Despite the challenges and risks posed by the prevailing unrest, the United States and a 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM)-backed council pressed forward with the inauguration, a testament to their commitment to restoring stability and order. Michael Patrick Boisvert, Henry’s former finance minister, assumed the role of interim Prime Minister, tasked with steering the nation through this tumultuous period.

The composition of the Presidential Transitional Council, including prominent figures such as Smith Agustin, Louis Gérald Gilles, Fritz Alphonse Jean, Edgard Leblanc Fils, Laurent Saint-Cyr, Emmanuel Vertilair, Leslie Voltaire, Régine Abraham, and Frinel Joseph, underscores a diverse array of voices tasked with guiding the nation forward. These individuals solemnly took the oath of office at the National Palace before proceeding to the Villa d’Accueil for the formal ceremony and subsequent address.

As the nation navigates its transition period, the selection of a President-coordinator for the Transition Council looms large. Names such as Louis Gérald Gilles, Lesly Voltaire, Edgard Leblanc Fils, and Fritz Alphonse Jean have emerged as potential candidates, though no official announcement has been made thus far.

Against the backdrop of heightened tensions and isolation, the capital city of Port-au-Prince finds itself cut off from the rest of the world, with its international airport and port shuttered due to ongoing gunfights. Meanwhile, roads connecting the city to neighboring regions have fallen under the control of armed groups notorious for their involvement in kidnapping and extortion.

In response to the escalating crisis, foreign governments have initiated evacuation efforts, ferrying hundreds of citizens to safety in the United States and the neighboring Dominican Republic. As Haiti grapples with the complexities of its transition, the international community watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis gripping this Caribbean nation.

Broadway World Award Winner, Jamaican David Heron, To Premiere Alwin Bully’s ‘McBee’ In NYC

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Celebrated Caribbean immigrant actor and producer, David Heron, winner of the Broadway World Award, is set to produce and direct the American Premiere of Dominican playwright Alwin Bully’s Caribbean drama “McBee,” in Jamaica, Queens, this June, Caribbean American Heritage Month in the US.

Jamaican-born actor David Heron and Patrice Foster as Lord and Lady Montague in  Romeo and Juliet. (Photo courtesy of Shakespeare Festival of St Louis.)

The play, inspired by Shakespeare’s Macbeth, will be staged as a one-night-only event at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) on Sunday, June 23 from 7 p.m., with a Caribbean cuisine reception starting at 5:30 p.m.

David Heron, c., flanked by Dominican playwright, the late Alwin Bully, l., and his wife, Anita Bully, r..

(Photo courtesy of David Heron.)

Heron, a Jamaican-born talent, recently received acclaim for his role in The Colonial Theatre of Rhode Island’s production of “The Tempest.” His decision to present “McBee” during New York City’s Caribbean American Heritage Month celebrations is a tribute to Bully, a renowned Dominican playwright and mentor to Heron, who passed away.

“McBee” tells the gripping tale of politician Allan McBee and his wife Alice as they navigate ambition and destiny in the backdrop of a Caribbean island. Written by Bully in the 1990s, the play makes its American debut following Bully’s passing in 2023. Heron, deeply influenced by Bully’s legacy, aims to honor the playwright’s vision by bringing “McBee” to American audiences.

“Sadly, Alwin transitioned before we could get any incarnation of the play on to an American stage,” Heron says, “So this American premiere production is really a celebration of him and his lifetime of amazing achievements, of which McBee is only one.”

“Along with another great Caribbean artist, the late Trevor Nairne, Alwin Bully has been the single greatest supporter, influencer and mentor in my entire career,” he added.  “I would not be the artist I am today without him. And several of the actors in our production feel the same way. So we are using Caribbean American Heritage Month and this event to share Alwin’s legacy with the world and to provide an evening of theatre that will be truly memorable for our audience, right in the heart of Jamaica Queens.”

Born in Roseau, Dominica, Alwin Bully was a cultural administrator, playwright, actor and artist who designed the national flag of Dominica. His association with Heron and many other major Jamaican artists flourished during his two decades in Jamaica as UNESCO’s Caribbean Cultural Advisor. In addition to McBee, his other plays include The Ruler, Good Morning, Miss Millie and The Nitebox. He received Dominica’s second highest national honor, The Sisserou Award of Honor, in 1985. Upon his passing in 2023, he was hailed throughout the Caribbean as a cultural icon and was accorded a full state funeral by the Dominican government.

In addition to his award winning role in The Tempest, Heron’s Shakespearean resume also includes Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Othello and Hamlet among others.

With an illustrious cast from stage, film, and Broadway, the production promises to be a memorable cultural experience. Casting announcements will be made soon, and tickets for the premiere will be available for purchase in early May. Don’t miss this exclusive theatrical event celebrating Caribbean heritage in the heart of Jamaica, Queens at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, New York, 11432.

Call Him ICC Cricket Ambassador Bolt

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt has been named as an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the West Indies and the USA from June 1-29, 2024. Bolt’s appointment adds to the anticipation surrounding the tournament, which promises to be the biggest cricket carnival ever seen, inspiring a new generation of fans.

Call him ICC Cricket Ambassador Bolt!

Bolt’s global appeal, coupled with his extraordinary athletic achievements and ability to transcend boundaries, makes him a natural fit for the prestigious role of ambassador. Renowned for his record-breaking performances at the Olympic Games, Bolt’s journey to worldwide stardom began with his historic ‘Triple-Triple’ feat at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

As an ambassador, Bolt will play a pivotal role in promoting the event, starting with an appearance in the official anthem music video alongside acclaimed artists Sean Paul and Kes. He will also attend T20 World Cup matches in the West Indies and participate in fan engagement events aimed at promoting cricket in the United States.

RELATED: Sean Paul and Kes to Craft Official Anthem for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Bolt emphasized the special place cricket holds in Caribbean culture and his excitement for the growth of the sport globally. He highlighted the significance of cricket’s expansion into the American market, noting the immense potential it holds, particularly in light of the sport’s inclusion in the LA Olympics in 2028. “I am thrilled to be an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Coming from the Caribbean where cricket is a part of life, the sport has always held a special place in my heart, and I look forward to attending West Indies matches at the World Cup and making a contribution to the growth of cricket globally,” he said.

ICC Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Allardice, hailed Bolt as a global icon and expressed delight in having him on board as an ambassador. Allardice noted Bolt’s passion for cricket and his energetic personality as valuable assets that will enhance the T20 World Cup experience for fans.

“Usain Bolt is a global icon, we are thrilled to have him on board as an Ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 to engage with a new generation of fans. His passion for cricket is well known, making him the perfect fit for this role. Alongside his world record breaking achievements and energetic personality, he will add another exciting element to the World Cup,” said Allardice.

With Bolt’s presence adding an extra dimension of excitement, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 promises to be action-packed. Fans can anticipate witnessing the world’s best teams compete for glory, with the tournament’s opening match featuring co-hosts USA taking on Canada at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas, Texas on June 1. For match fixtures, tickets, and hospitality packages, visit tickets.t20worldcup.com.

Jamaican Chef’s Eatery Named Among Top Fried Chicken Spots in America

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. April 25, 2024: Jamaican-born Chef Nicola Blaque’s culinary prowess has once again captured national attention as her acclaimed San Antonio restaurant, The Jerk Shack, secured a spot in Eat This, Not That’s esteemed list of the best fried chicken restaurants in America, ranking fourth.

Jamaican Chef Nicola of texas (Photo by Rick Kern/Getty Images)

This latest accolade follows the eatery’s recent feature on a popular episode of the Food Network series, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

Taking to Instagram to share the exciting news, The Jerk Shack humbly expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing their initial aim to simply share Caribbean heritage through culinary artistry and foster community connections. “Who would’ve thought our little Caribbean restaurant would be recognized on two national platforms for best fried chicken in America?” remarked Chef Blaque.

Highlighting Chef Nicola’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility, the restaurant’s owners shared insights into her culinary philosophy, emphasizing her mission to make Caribbean cuisine accessible to people from diverse backgrounds. The addition of fried chicken to the menu in 2022 further expanded their reach, reflecting Chef Nicola’s commitment to serving the local community.

Chef Nicola Blaque’s culinary achievements extend beyond The Jerk Shack, earning her recognition as a best restaurateur on the StarChefs rising star list for Austin-San Antonio. Moreover, her culinary empire expanded with the launch of Freight Fried Chicken in 2023, a venture rooted in homage to the resilience of southern Black women in post-Civil War America, who sold fried chicken to railroad passengers to sustain themselves.

With a steadfast commitment to preserving culture and history, Chef Nicola continues to inspire through her culinary creations, inviting patrons to savor not just delicious meals, but also the rich narratives embedded within them. Born and raised in Jamaica until she was five years old, Chef Blaque is passionate about introducing people to the flavors of the Caribbean.

For those eager to indulge in The Jerk Shack’s acclaimed fare, visit their locations at 10234 TX-151, Suite 103, San Antonio, TX 78251, and 312 Pearl Pkwy., Building 6, San Antonio, TX 78215.

Guyana President Among Caribbean Leaders Honored At American Foundation For The University Of The West Indies Event

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. April 24, 2024: The President of Guyana, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, was among six honorees at the recent American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) fundraising gala, held on April 18th in New York City.

Guyana President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, second from left, receives the AFUWI Legacy Award from UWI Vice Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles, second from right and Guyana born actress CCH Pounder, r.

Ali was presented with the Legacy Award by Guyana-born actress, CCH Pounder of  NCIS New Orleans fame.  In accepting the award, the President announced that a University of the West Indies Medical School will be built in Guyana.

He also reflected on the profound impact of colonization on the region and reiterated the imperative need for reparatory justice and praised the University of the West Indies and Vice Chancellor Sir Hillary Beckles, for its efforts in advancing this cause.

President Ali also emphasized the significance of investing in and leveraging indigenous resources as pivotal for fostering collective development amidst the region’s ongoing healing journey from colonial legacies. Underscoring Guyana’s commitment to regional and global obligations, the President, who is also the current chairman of CARICOM, the Caribbean Community, stressed that the nation’s prosperity is intertwined with that of the wider Caribbean.

The 27th annual legacy gala raises funds in the US Diaspora to open doors for Caribbean students from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue the dream of higher education.

The other honorees were:

Don Christian, a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, who received the Caribbean Luminary Award;

Antony Mark Desnoes Hart, the executive chairman of Caribbean Producers Jamaica Ltd., who was presented with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Business Leadership and Community Engagement;

Attorney Darren Skinner, the Jamaican born partner and co-general counsel of the Washington, D.C. office of Arnold & Porter, who received the Pinnacle Award;

Michele Chow-Tai, the managing director of Business Development at Fairview Capital Partners, who was presented in absentia with the Vice Chancelleor’s Achievement Award, and;

Rev. Patrick Perrin, who from Jamaica to New York, has dedicated most of his life to guiding his congregation and youth, received the Pelican Award.

University of Glasgow Repatriates Giant Galliwasp To Jamaica

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News Americas, GLASGOW, Scotland, Tues. April 23, 2024: In a landmark collaboration, The University of the West Indies (The UWI) and the University of Glasgow (UofG) have announced the repatriation of a Jamaican Giant Galliwasp specimen from The Hunterian collection at UofG in Scotland, UK. This significant event marks the first-ever repatriation of a natural history specimen in the Caribbean, symbolizing a pivotal moment in scientific research and cultural heritage preservation.

Zoologist Elizabeth Morrison (left) from the Institute of Jamaica (IoJ) receives the Jamaican Giant Galliwasp specimen from curator Mike Rutherford at the Hunterian Collections Study Centre in Kelvin Hall, Glasgow, ahead of its repatriation by the University of Glasgow to the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. The Jamaican giant galliwasp (Celestus occiduus) is thought to have been collected in the mid-19th century and became part of the University of Glasgow collections in 1888. Picture date: Monday April 22, 2024. (Photo by Jane Barlow/PA Images via Getty Images)

The joint effort, facilitated by a team comprising members from The UWI and the Institute of Jamaica (IOJ), underscores a commitment to rectify past injustices and ensure Caribbean ownership of its scientific and cultural treasures. The repatriation exercise is a tangible outcome of the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between The UWI and UofG, aimed at fostering collaboration in research and education while addressing the historical legacies of colonialism.

(left to right) Elizabeth Morrison, from the Institute of Jamaica (IoJ), Dr Shani Roper from Univeristy of West Indies (UWI), Desireina Delancy from UWI, Curator Mike Rutherford from The Hunterian, Dionne Newell from the IoJ and Dr Tannice Hall from the UWI with the Jamaican Giant Galliwasp specimen at the Hunterian Collections Study Centre in Kelvin Hall, Glasgow, ahead of its repatriation by the University of Glasgow to the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. The Jamaican giant galliwasp (Celestus occiduus) is thought to have been collected in the mid-19th century and became part of the University of Glasgow collections in 1888. Picture date: Monday April 22, 2024. (Photo by Jane Barlow/PA Images via Getty Images)

The Galliwasp, believed to be extinct, will return to its homeland, Jamaica, after being collected in the 1850s. Accompanied by a joint team from The UWI and IOJ, the specimen will be deposited in the Natural History Museum of Jamaica on permanent loan, ensuring its accessibility to all Jamaicans.

A drawing of the Jamaican Giant Galliwasp (Celestus occiduus) from Sir Hans Sloane, 1725, in A voyage to the islands Madera, Barbados, Nieves, St. Christophers and Jamaica. (UofG image)

Upon the specimen’s return to Jamaica, an official handover ceremony will be held as it will be deposited in the Natural History Museum of Jamaica on permanent loan in the national flora and fauna collection for safekeeping and allowing it to be accessible to all Jamaicans.

Members of the public are invited to stay tuned to follow the repatriation journey of the Jamaican Giant Galliwasp from Scotland to its homeland.

This initiative reflects ongoing strategic collaborations between The UWI and UofG, including the Glasgow-Caribbean Centre for Development Research (GCCDR) and the joint Masters Programme in Reparatory Justice. The repatriation of the Galliwasp signifies a commitment to social justice and cultural equity, highlighting the importance of addressing historical injustices and fostering greater understanding of repatriation issues in the museum sector.

CardnPay and Turks and Caicos Banking Company launch Mastercard Black and Platinum Debit Cards in the Turks and Caicos Islands

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News Americas, COCKBURN TOWN, Turks and Caicos, April 23, 2024: We are pleased to announce that CardnPay newest affiliate, Turks and Caicos Banking Company (TCBC), will be issuing new international Mastercard Black and Platinum debit cards starting in April 2024.

The Mastercard Black and Platinum Debit Cards represent the pinnacle of sophistication and functionality, designed to cater to the discerning needs of individuals seeking superior payment experiences. With their sleek designs and advanced security features, these cards epitomize excellence in banking and elevate the standard of financial services in the region.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with TCBC in bringing the Mastercard Black and Platinum Debit Cards to the Turks and Caicos Islands,” said Mr. Barry Walsh, President of CardnPay Limited. “This partnership allows us to combine our expertise in payment processing with TCBC’s commitment to innovation, delivering unmatched value and convenience”.

“Turks and Caicos Banking Company is excited to launch Mastercard Black and Platinum Debit Card in partnership with CardnPay Limited”, said Mr. David Bee, Chief Executive Officer at TCBC. “This collaboration allows us to leverage our expertise in financial services and CardnPay’s cutting-edge payment processing technology to offer a truly elite banking experience.”

TCBC (www.turksandcaicos-banking.com) is a private Bank focused on efficient and convenient customer service. Established in 1980, Turks & Caicos Banking Company has been evolving alongside the Turks and Caicos Islands.

CardnPay Ltd. (www.cardnpay.com) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bevertec CST Inc. and a Mastercard principal member. The company offers a Mastercard Affiliate Program to financial service providers in the Caribbean. The program comprises Mastercard licensing, card issuing, ATM acquiring, 3D Secure, Tokenization, payment processing and other value-added services on a subscription basis. For more information please contact:

Nathaly Gutierrez
Business Development Manager
ng********@ca******.com  
Canada: Office : +1 416 695 7525 x2268

Cayman InStyle Fashion Week Lights Up Grand Cayman

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News Americas, GEORGE TOWN, Cayman, Mon. April 22, 2023: Cayman InStyle Fashion Week lit up Grand Cayman with a dazzling display of fashion, art, and music over the weekend.

Sponsored by The Fashion Life Tour and InnaStar, the event showcased the latest trends and talents in the industry. Models graced the catwalk in stunning designs, while artists and musicians added to the vibrant atmosphere. Attendees were treated to a sensory feast, experiencing the best of Cayman’s creative scene. The event marked a celebration of style, innovation, and cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

See the models from the event below.

Young models during a fashion show at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week presents A Weekend of Fashion, Art & Music sponsored by The Fashion Life Tour and InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

Model on catwalk with designer D-Marsh at fashion show at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week Presents A Weekend Of Fashion, Art & Music Sponsored By The Fashion Life Tour And InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

Male model at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week presents A Weekend of Fashion, Art & Music sponsored by The Fashion Life Tour and InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

Model on catwalk at fashion show at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week Presents A Weekend Of Fashion, Art & Music Sponsored By The Fashion Life Tour And InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

Model on catwalk at fashion show at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week Presents A Weekend Of Fashion, Art & Music Sponsored By The Fashion Life Tour And InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

A model at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week presents A Weekend of Fashion, Art & Music sponsored by The Fashion Life Tour and InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

Model on catwalk at fashion show at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week Presents A Weekend Of Fashion, Art & Music Sponsored By The Fashion Life Tour And InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

A young model rocks a fashion show at the Cayman InStyle Fashion Week presents A Weekend of Fashion, Art & Music sponsored by The Fashion Life Tour and InnaStar on April 20, 2024 in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. (Photo by Wilbert Roberts/Getty Images for Cayman InStyle Fashion Week)

Reggae To Make History at Penn Relays Carnival, Team Jamaica Bickle

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News Americas, PHILADELPHIA, PA, Mon. April 22, 2024: In a groundbreaking move, reggae and dancehall music will grace the Franklin Field stadium at the University of Penn for the first time in the 128-year history of the Penn Relay Carnival. This momentous occasion will unfold on Saturday, April 27, during the ‘TJB30 Pop Up Vibes’ event immediately following the Championships of America High School boys 4×400 meters final.

Irwine Clare Sn, of TJB receiving a proclamation from Jamaica’s Consul General (CG) in New York, Mrs Alsion Wilson. Looking on is Karen Wilson-Robinson Esq (R), co-chair of TJB.

Jamaican reggae singer Chris Martin, a Team Jamaica Bickle, (TJB), Ambassador, will take the stage at 6 pm, adding a vibrant musical dimension to the iconic sporting event. The Penn Relays Carnival, renowned as the oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States, has traditionally welcomed Jamaican high-school teams, drawing fervent support from across the diaspora.

Singer Chris Martin

The inclusion of reggae within the stadium is the result of a collaborative effort between the University of Pennsylvania, Team Jamaica Bickle, and its stakeholders. Irwine Clare, Sr., CEO of TJB, expressed excitement about this historic milestone, emphasizing its significance in promoting Brand Jamaica and the Caribbean.

The Jamaica Consul General in New York, Mrs. Alsion Wilson, played a pivotal role in realizing the ‘TJB30 Pop Up Vibes’ event, securing sponsorship from Reggae Sumfest to support the initiative. Consul General Wilson highlighted the synergy between reggae music and Jamaican athletics, underscoring their role as cultural ambassadors on the global stage.

Prior to Chris Martin’s performance, DJ Roy of Road International will set the stage with a dynamic selection of reggae, dancehall, ska, rocksteady, and soca hits spanning several decades.

For the past three decades, Team Jamaica Bickle has been instrumental in fostering engagement and support for Jamaican athletes at the Penn Relays Carnival. The organization’s enduring commitment has cultivated a network of volunteers and supporters from Jamaica and the Caribbean diaspora.

As the anticipation builds for this historic event, gratitude is extended to Scott Ward, Executive Vice President of the University of Penn, Reggae Sumfest, VP Records, Consul General Alsion Wilson, Jamaican Dave, and Hypa Sounds for their invaluable contributions.