Haitian Born NFL Players Making Waves In 2024

News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: Despite much negative talk, Haitians, like many Caribbean immigrants continue to make remarkable strides in various fields, and the National Football League (NFL) is no exception. From remarkable college careers to becoming professional stars, Haitian-born and Haitian American players are showcasing their skills on the gridiron. Here are three Haitian-born NFL players currently making waves:

Haitian immigrant Mike Sainristil #0 of the Washington Commanders defends in coverage during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on September 23, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Mike Sainristil – Washington Commanders

Mike Sainristil, a talented cornerback for the Washington Commanders, has made a name for himself both in college and now in the NFL. Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on October 3, 2000, Sainristil’s family immigrated to Everett, Massachusetts, when he was just seven months old after political unrest in Haiti.

Sainristil excelled at Everett High School, where he was named Massachusetts’ 2018 Gatorade Player of the Year. After committing to the University of Michigan, he quickly became a standout player, contributing both as a wide receiver and later as a cornerback. His defensive prowess earned him first-team All-American honors in 2023, and he was instrumental in leading Michigan to a national championship that same year.

In the 2024 NFL Draft, Sainristil was selected in the second round by the Commanders. So far in his rookie season, he’s made an immediate impact, recording 22 tackles and two pass breakups in just five games.

Haitian born Junior Colson #25 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during an NFL football practice at Hoag Performance Center on June 13, 2024 in Costa Mesa, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)

Junior Colson – Los Angeles Chargers

Born in Mirebalais, Haiti, Junior Colson’s journey to the NFL is a testament to resilience. After losing his father at the age of seven, he lived in an orphanage in Port-au-Prince before being adopted by Steve and Melanie Colson, who brought him to Tennessee. Colson adapted to life in the U.S. while embracing his love for football, becoming one of the top recruits in the nation as a linebacker.

Colson went on to play college football for the University of Michigan, where he earned accolades such as the Lott IMPACT Trophy and a two-time All-Big Ten selection. His consistent performance helped Michigan win three consecutive Big Ten titles and a national championship in 2023.

Drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Colson has already proven to be a strong defensive presence, with high expectations for his professional career.

Haitian born Lewis Cine #36 of the Buffalo Bills is tackled during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on September 12, 2024 in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

Lewis Cine – Buffalo Bills

Lewis Cine, a safety for the Buffalo Bills, was born in Haiti on October 5, 1999, before moving to the United States as a young child. Cine’s family initially settled in Florida before relocating to Massachusetts, where he attended Everett High School and earned recognition as Massachusetts’ Defensive Player of the Year.

After completing his senior year at Trinity Christian School in Texas, Cine committed to play college football at the University of Georgia. He quickly became a standout player, helping Georgia win the national championship in 2021. Known for his speed and defensive acumen, Cine was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

However, a serious leg injury in his rookie season sidelined him. After being released by the Vikings in 2024, Cine signed with the Buffalo Bills practice squad, where he’s working towards making a strong comeback.

These three players represent the determination and resilience of Haitians in the NFL. Their stories not only inspire Haitian and immigrant communities but also show how far talent and perseverance can take you, no matter where your journey begins.

Victims of Robert Allen Stanford’s Ponzi Scheme Begin Recovering Losses

News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: Remember the infamous Robert Allen Stanford scheme that put Antigua & Barbuda in the global spotlight for all the wrong reasons? As Stanford serves a 110-year sentence in Florida’s Coleman II federal prison, victims of his company, Stanford Financial, are finally on the verge of recouping some of their losses.

Flashback – Convicted financier R. Allen Stanford, left, exits the Bob Casey Federal Courthouse in Houston, Texas, U.S., on Tuesday, March 6, 2012. Stanford was convicted of fraud in what prosecutors said was a $7 billion scheme involving bogus certificates of deposit sold by his Antigua-based bank. Photographer: Aaron M. Sprecher/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Stanford, a Texas financier, was convicted for orchestrating a $7 billion Ponzi scheme through Stanford International Bank Ltd., his offshore bank on the Caribbean island of Antigua. Now, 14 years later, progress is being made for the victims.

Ralph S. Janvey, the securities lawyer appointed as receiver in the case, is distributing significant payments following a settlement reached last year. So far, Janvey has returned approximately $609 million to former Stanford customers, with an additional $157 million ready for disbursement, adding to the $1.2 billion already set aside. While this is far short of the $4.9 billion in total claims owed to over 20,000 customers worldwide, it is more than many victims ever expected to recover.

Hedge funds and other investors in distressed assets have bought about $700 million in claims, according to Baker Botts, the law firm assisting Janvey. Victims like Annalisa Mendez, who lost $400,000, noted that many desperate people sold their claims to these funds for a fraction of their value. Others, like Jean Anne Mayhall, who held on to her $500,000 claim, expressed frustration at the long wait. Many victims, including Mayhall’s mother, sold their claims after years of delays, while some died before receiving any compensation.

Although there is no public list of hedge funds that bought the claims, firms such as Contrarian Capital, Whitebox Advisors, and Farallon Capital Management are believed to be among the largest purchasers. Hedge funds typically bought these claims at 14 to 17 cents on the dollar, with prices jumping to around 35 cents after the bank settlement announcement in early 2023.

Despite frustrations over the lengthy process, the market for claims remains active. Victims of other financial scandals, including the collapse of the cryptocurrency exchange FTX and Bernie Madoff’s infamous Ponzi scheme, have similarly sold their claims. Recovery rates vary; in Madoff’s case, nearly 90% of investor losses were recovered thanks to aggressive federal prosecution and settlements with big banks.

In the Stanford case, Janvey and his legal team faced criticism from victims over the time it took and the high fees paid to lawyers, which have totaled $463 million over 15 years, with another $38 million expected soon. Victim advocate Angela Shaw Alexander described the fees as excessive, given the slow pace of restitution.

Janvey defended the process, noting that the Stanford fraud was vast and complex, requiring years of costly litigation. While federal authorities initially expected to recover at least $2 billion from Stanford’s bank in Antigua, only $63 million in cash and some assets like real estate and private equity investments were ultimately seized.

For Robert Allen Stanford, now 74 and prisoner number 35017-183, the earliest possible release date is March 13, 2103.

Akon Drops New Single

News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 7, 2024: Senegalese-American international Grammy-winning superstar, Akon, is riding high on fan demand and critical acclaim after the release of a 30-second teaser for his highly anticipated new single, “Akon’s Beautiful Day.” The clip, shared on Instagram on October 4, 2024, via Konvict Kulture Records, went viral with over 100 million views and generated more than 100,000 fan-created videos, even before the song’s official release. Known for his uplifting music and global initiatives, “Akon’s Beautiful Day” is a testament to resilience and hope, encouraging listeners to find light amid life’s challenges.

Akon releases new single. (PHOTO CREDIT: ZEKARIA AL-BOSTANI

Complex perfectly captured the essence of the song, commenting, “Akon returns with ‘Akon’s Beautiful Day,’ a song the five-time Grammy nominee is hoping will serve as ‘the anthem the world needs right now.’”

Upon its release, the track instantly reached 27 Spotify New Music Friday playlists, spanning territories from Germany to the Philippines, France, Italy, and more, reaching a total of 3.9 million listeners on day one. Additionally, the single landed on Apple Music’s New Music Daily playlists in several countries and DEEZER’s top playlists in the UK and France. U.S. radio stations, including 102.7 KIIS-FM (Los Angeles) and WiLD 94.9 (San Francisco), have also quickly added the track to their rotations.

Akon’s career is filled with groundbreaking achievements, including being the first artist to hold both the number one and number two spots on the Billboard Hot 100 twice and amassing over 1 billion views on YouTube. “Akon’s Beautiful Day” builds on this legacy with its powerful message, featuring an interpolation of the viral hook written by Jamaican artist Jermaine Edwards and popularized by 10-year-old Rushawn Ewears, whose moving performance of the song touched hearts globally. Akon’s soulful vocals, backed by a choir of children’s voices, turn this melody into an uplifting anthem for the world.

Produced in collaboration with JKash, J.R. Rotem, and Phil Phever, “Akon’s Beautiful Day” combines acoustic guitar arrangements with an infectious beat, delivering a feel-good chorus that invites global singalongs. The release coincides with the 20th anniversary of Akon’s debut album Trouble, which launched his career with hits like “Locked Up.” Alongside his upcoming “Akon SuperFan Tour” across Asia, Akon is also expanding into film with a documentary, Headliners Only, produced by Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat Productions.

In a world facing numerous challenges, Akon’s positive message of unity and optimism is resonating more than ever. “Akon’s Beautiful Day” aligns with his broader mission to inspire through his music and humanitarian efforts, including the ongoing “Akon Lighting Africa” project, which aims to provide sustainable energy to millions across the continent. With this new release, Akon, 51, reclaims his place as a pop icon, delivering a song of hope and light that the world needs right now. Stream HERE

History Making CPL For St. Lucia Kings

News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 7, 2024: The St. Lucia Kings made history Sunday night by claiming their first-ever Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title, defeating the defending champions, Guyana Amazon Warriors, on their home ground at Providence Stadium, Guyana.

Faf du Plessis, captain of St.Lucia Kings lifts the CPL T20 trophy after the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 06, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

In a thrilling final, the Kings posted 139 for 4 after bowling out the Amazon Warriors for 138 for 8, securing a remarkable six-wicket victory. The win silenced the packed Guyanese crowd, marking a momentous achievement for St. Lucia cricket.

Daren Sammy (C), head coach of St.Lucia Kings celebrates with teammates after winning the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 6, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

The turning point came when the Kings were struggling at 51 for 4 in pursuit of 139 on a slow, tricky pitch. The Amazon Warriors’ spin attack dominated the middle overs, while Roston Chase battled illness, and Aaron Jones seemed out of form. At one point, captain Daren Sammy even considered retiring Jones. But Jones soon turned the game around, smashing 38 off his next 12 balls, and alongside Chase, forged an unbroken 88-run partnership that snatched victory from the Amazon Warriors.

Daren Sammy, head coach of St.Lucia Kings celebrates after winning the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 6, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

Chase, playing his fifth season for the Kings, was instrumental in both bowling and batting. He finished the week on a high, having also earned a Cricket West Indies (CWI) central contract.

Roston Chase, and Khary Pierre of St.Lucia Kings pose for a photo with the CPL T20 trophy after winning the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 06, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

Earlier, the Amazon Warriors struggled on a sluggish surface, managing just 27 runs in the powerplay. Despite valiant efforts from Shai Hope (22 off 24 balls) and the late big-hitting from Romario Shepherd and Dwaine Pretorius, who added 36 runs in the final two overs, their total of 138 was not enough to defend. Noor Ahmad’s stellar performance, taking 3 wickets for 19 runs, was a highlight, but it was not enough to stop the Kings’ march to victory.

Jones’ explosive performance in the 16th and 17th overs, combined with Chase’s steady support, sealed the win. The dramatic 27-run over off Moeen Ali and the subsequent 20 runs from Pretorius’ over put the game out of reach for the Amazon Warriors.

Jones, who has had a remarkable 2024 season, made his CPL return through his Barbadian passport and delivered when it mattered most. His six-hitting display echoed his standout performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup and capped a memorable night for both him and the Kings.

St. Lucia Kings coach Daren Sammy, known for his leadership and inspirational style, wrapped Jones in a celebratory embrace after the victory – an iconic moment that will be remembered as the Kings lifted their maiden CPL trophy.

Half A Decade Of Dance: Dance Grenada’s 5th Festival Honors Culture, Community and Innovation

News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. October 4, 2024:  The Dance Grenada Festival returns for its fifth season on the beautiful island of Grenada. Under the theme “From the Ground Up 5 Years and Beyond: Promoting Resiliency, Sustainability, & Freedom in the Arts,” this year’s festival honors this monumental milestone and the tenacity of dancers and creatives globally.

Dance Grenada Founder and Artistic Director Shola K. Roberts (center) joins teaching artist Keith Williams (fifth from right) and performers during the vibrant opening ceremony of the 2023 festival.

From October 17-21, 2024, Dance Grenada will mark its five-year anniversary with a vibrant five-day festival featuring eight immersive workshops and two engaging panel discussions led by renowned dance professionals.This year’s special events include the debut of the inaugural Dance Grenada concert and a tribute to Veni Vwai La Grenade, a revered Grenadian dance company celebrating its 50th anniversary. Attendees can also enjoy the return of the popular international vendor’s marketplace and the annual island tour, offering a rich fusion of culture, artistry, and authentic local experiences.

“As I reflect on where we started five years ago to now, I’m grateful to have created a community that can gather and exchange culture, creativity and connectivity through dance. This festival brings together talented artists from across the globe to engage in and share the value of African diasporic dances, which are often overlooked and rarely viewed as serious art forms when compared to their Western counterparts,” said Founder and Artistic Director Shola K. Roberts, a Caribbean dance expert and professor at Arizona State University.

Dance Grenada is crucial to uplifting and preserving African diasporic dance forms such as Grenadian Folk Dance like Shango, Afro-Cuban and Grenadian Masquerade. Through thoughtfully curated programming, the festival hosts international dancers to not only study these dances but also to partake in additional learning opportunities that speak to the importance of the creative economy in Grenada, the Caribbean, and beyond.

Dance classes will be led by renowned dancers, including Grenada’s own Keith Williams, who has led international masterclasses across the Caribbean and the United Kingdom; Grenadian Broadway star Oneika Phillips; Rene Arneaud, who has toured with soca music superstars Machel Montano and KES the Band; and Otis Donovan Herring, who just returned from a nationwide tour with R&B groups Xscape and SWV. The festival preserves the intangible cultural heritage of dance and attracts new travelers to the island who seek creative outlets alongside the island’s beauty.

“Dance has always been a vibrant part of Grenada’s cultural traditions and a reflection of our deep African heritage, which has been preserved and maintained through generations. The Dance Grenada Festival is a powerful celebration of this legacy, allowing us to showcase our cultural diversity and talent to the world,” said CEO of The Grenada Tourism Authority, Petra Roach. “The Grenada Tourism Authority is committed to supporting initiatives like this, as they not only enrich the lives of our people but also offer visitors an authentic glimpse into the soul of our island. We believe that nurturing such festivals helps sustain our heritage while enhancing Grenada’s appeal as a cultural tourism destination,” she said.

The Dance Grenada Festival is a central hub for dance innovation, scholarship, and entrepreneurship. It celebrates its fifth season at a pivotal time for the cultural and creative industries sector with the recent creation of the Grenada Office of Creative Affairs.

“As people of the diaspora, our existence is sustained through our interaction with others. When we commune, it creates a sense of belonging that feeds the vessel that goes into the global community to thrive. Regardless of age, race, or ethnic background, the feeling of home is palpable to all who step into Dance Grenada,” said Roberts.

For more information on Dance Grenada and how you can purchase tickets to this dance festival, please visit www.dancegrenada.com.

About Dance Grenada
Dance Grenada provides a platform for Grenadian and international dance artisans to share and increase their knowledge base of traditional and contemporary dance styles and techniques through dance workshops, performances, panel discussions, and symposiums while contributing to the larger Grenadian and international dance community.

Jamaican Entrepreneur and Minority Business Advocate Fritz-Earle McLymont Passes On

News Americas, New York, NY, October 4, 2024: The Black immigrant and business advocacy community is mourning the passing of Jamaican-born entrepreneur and business leader, Fritz-Earle McLymont. A pioneering expert in entrepreneurial development, McLymont leaves behind a remarkable legacy of over 50 years in fostering economic growth through private, not-for-profit, and quasi-government enterprises both in the United States and abroad.

Jamaican born, Black immigrant activist Fritz McLymont has died.

McLymont was a co-founder of the National Minority Business Council, Inc. and the founder and managing partner of McLymont, Kunda & Co., an international trade and business development firm based in New York. His firm boasted a diverse portfolio of clients and projects across the U.S., Africa, and the Caribbean. Since the 1970s, McLymont was known for creating innovative programs that empowered small businesses in industries ranging from chemicals to agriculture, transportation, energy, and media.

A passionate advocate for minority business, he implemented award-winning education and training programs across the U.S. and the Caribbean. McLymont’s leadership also saw him serve on numerous boards in both the private and not-for-profit sectors. His expertise was sought by the U.S. federal government, where he held a key position on a commission focused on minority business development.

McLymont’s academic achievements were equally distinguished, with an undergraduate degree in business from Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University) in Montreal, Canada, and graduate studies in Community Economic Development at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Throughout his career, he was recognized with numerous accolades, including induction into the Concordia University Sports Hall of Fame, the Malcolm X Unity Award in 2013, and the Bronx Frontier Development Corp. Order of the Pioneer Award. His international roles included being appointed Roving Ambassador for the Caribbean America Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as serving as an advisor to the Paramount Chief of Amiiru Songhoy.

One of McLymont’s most notable career highlights was founding a chemical specialty manufacturing company in New York, which earned “favored supplier” status for the U.S. federal government. His innovative business model and partnership with a major corporation garnered recognition in The Wall Street Journal. Additionally, Mc Lymont played a critical role in developing Montego Bay’s municipal bus transport system, a project that boosted the region’s tourism infrastructure. He also managed the Export Trading Company for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, representing over 100 regional firms in global markets. His efforts were instrumental in changing the Port Authority’s stance on business relations with South Africa.

McLymont’s passing marks the end of an era for the many whose lives and businesses were transformed by his vision and leadership. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and advocates for minority business empowerment.

The West Indies Just Got Its Second Set of Overwater Suites at Royalton Chic Antigua

News Americas, ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, Oct. 4, 2024: Blue Diamond Resorts proudly announces the official opening of its 12 exclusive Overwater Suites at Royalton CHIC Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, marking a significant milestone in luxury accommodations in the Caribbean. These vibrant, state-of-the-art suites represent the second-ever overwater accommodations in the West Indies, following the debut of Royalton Antigua’s iconic Chairman Overwater Bungalows in 2019.

The launch was commemorated with an elegant ribbon-cutting ceremony, welcoming the first guests to this one-of-a-kind luxury experience. Nestled above the crystal-clear waters of Antigua, these suites offer unparalleled privacy and indulgence, complete with stunning views, overwater hammocks, and personalized butler service.

With the opening of these breathtaking Overwater Suites, Royalton CHIC Antigua redefines adults-only luxury in the region, offering travelers the perfect mix of posh sophistication, modern amenities, and a vibrant vacation atmosphere.

“We are truly excited to unveil the new Overwater Suites, our second set on the island, which are poised to transform the Caribbean travel experience by offering guests the opportunity to enjoy overwater accommodations typically found in far-flung destinations like the Maldives,” said Jurgen Stutz, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Distribution for Blue Diamond Resorts. “This opening invites adult travelers from around the world to discover the charm of Antigua, one of the region’s trendiest and most accessible destinations.”

These Overwater Suites offer guests a personalized experience tailored to exceed every expectation. Each suite boasts panoramic year-round sunset views, mesmerizing crystal-clear glass floors, private plunge pools, and direct ocean access—perfect for those seeking privacy and luxury. Enhanced with Diamond Club privileges, including dedicated butler service, guests can indulge in top-tier amenities designed for their ultimate comfort. Available in three distinctive categories—Chairman, Presidential, and Junior Suites—each accommodation provides a tranquil yet opulent retreat, while seamlessly integrating the vibrant, upscale energy that defines the ‘Party Your Way’ concept of Royalton CHIC Resorts. Here, every moment is elevated, offering a luxurious escape like no other.

The ribbon-cutting event signified not only the debut of these highly anticipated suites but also the start of a new chapter in Caribbean all-inclusive hospitality. After the ceremony, a celebratory toast with resort executives, accompanied by dazzling entertainment from the CHIC Angels, set the tone for a memorable event. Guests were then treated to an exclusive tour of the Overwater Suites, led by the resort’s General Manager, who presented the first guests with a special certificate for a future stay, commemorating their role in this historic moment for the resort.

Blue Diamond Resorts continues to revolutionize the all-inclusive, adults-only segment, elevating guest expectations with these Overwater Suites that perfectly blend fun, relaxation, and exclusivity in an exciting destination like Antigua.

For more information, visit royaltonchicresorts.com

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 80 properties, exceeding 20,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee. To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, visit www.bluediamondresorts.com

Shaggy Drops Three New Tracks

News Americas, New York, NY, October 3, 2024: Grammy Award-winning and Diamond-selling reggae superstar Shaggy has just dropped three new tracks as part of his latest project, the Badman Riddim. The songs – “Selector Pull It” featuring Olaf Blackwood, “Rude Bwoy Sumthin” by Junior Cat, and “Sitt’n Fi Chat” by Spice – pay homage to legendary producer Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes and offer a fresh take on Michael Prophet’s classic track, Gunman.

FLASHBACK – Jamaican reggae singer and DJ, Orville Richard Burrell, known as Shaggy, seen here performing on stage as part of the ‘Coca-Cola Flow Fest 2023’ reggaeton music Festival at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, has released three new music videos. (Photo by Essene Hernandez/ Eyepix Group) (Photo credit should read Essene Hernandez/ Eyepix Group/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

The Badman Riddim brings a modern 2024 twist to the iconic reggae and dancehall sounds that Lawes pioneered in the 1980s. Shaggy, known for global hits like “It Wasn’t Me” and “Boombastic,” is not only celebrating Lawes’ influence but also collaborating with contemporary artists to keep that classic reggae vibe alive for a new generation of fans.

Shaggy teams up with Olaf Blackwood on the track “Selector Pull It,” a lively anthem that blends traditional reggae rhythms with modern beats. Junior Cat’s “Rude Bwoy Sumthin” offers a gritty, energetic performance that harkens back to the raw essence of dancehall, while Spice’s “Sitt’n Fi Chat” showcases her signature bold and confident style, bringing a powerful edge to the riddim.

Fans can also enjoy the official music videos for all three songs, now available for streaming on YouTube:

Olaf Blackwood ft. Shaggy – Selector Pull ItWATCH IT HERE

Spice – Sitt’n Fi Chat: Watch Here

Junior Cat – Rude Bwoy Sumthin: Watch Here

Shaggy’s career spans over three decades, with numerous chart-topping hits and awards under his belt. He gained worldwide fame in the 1990s with tracks like Oh Carolina and Boombastic, cementing his place in reggae and pop music history. His 2000 single It Wasn’t Me became a global sensation, reaching Diamond status for its sales and downloads. In addition to his musical success, Shaggy is known for his philanthropic work, especially through his Shaggy Make A Difference Foundation, which supports children’s hospitals in Jamaica.

With the release of Badman Riddim, Shaggy continues to evolve his sound while paying respect to the reggae and dancehall roots that shaped his career. The new songs are poised to be fan favorites, combining nostalgia with fresh energy.

Jamaican Suspense Drama Wins Best Caribbean Film at Toronto Nollywood Film Festival

News Americas, New York, NY, October 4, 2024: The Jamaican suspense drama Behind Closed Doors, produced by Kingston-based Yaad Boiiz Productions, has won the prestigious Best Caribbean Film award at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF). The film was honored during the festival, held from September 8 to 15 in Toronto, which showcased nearly 100 films from around the world.

Producer of Behind Closed Doors Orville Matherson accepts the Best Caribbean
Film Award at The Toronto Nollywood Film Festival.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF YAAD BOIIZ PRODUCTIONS)

Behind Closed Doors emerged as a standout at the festival, earning such positive reviews that an additional screening was added on September 14. The film was met with overwhelming applause, receiving a standing ovation at its final screening.

Orville Matherson, CEO of Yaad Boiiz Productions and producer of the film, accepted the award at the festival’s closing gala. “I’m accepting this award on behalf of my entire team from Jamaica who did an amazing job on this film. The reaction we’ve received has been incredible. As a producer, I’m in heaven!” Matherson said.

Matherson, also known for producing Jamaican Mafia, shared the perseverance it took to complete Behind Closed Doors, a project that spanned six years from its start in 2018. The film faced numerous challenges, including delays due to COVID-19, but Matherson and his team remained dedicated to finishing the project.

Shot entirely in Jamaica, Behind Closed Doors is directed by Marc Anthony Deacon and written by Tachelle Ferron. The film stars Shevrado Oliver, Rachel Seaton, Pepita Little, and Leroy ‘Tommy Lee Sparta’ Russell, and tells the gripping story of a young college student who, facing financial hardship, reluctantly accepts help from a wealthy entrepreneur, only to realize the danger that comes with it.

The film’s success at TINFF is part of an impressive run on the festival circuit in 2024. Behind Closed Doors has already won Best International Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Editing at the Switzerland Film Fest, as well as Best Caribbean Drama at The International Black Diversity Film Festival.

Matherson is now seeking distribution deals and recently represented Jamaica at Fame Week Africa in Cape Town, where he is in talks with major distributors and streaming platforms. A soundtrack for the film is also in the works, with premieres planned for Jamaica and several other countries.

10 Top British Caribbean-Roots Hollywood Actors You Should Know

News Americas, LOS ANGELES, CA: British Caribbean-roots actors are making a major impact in Hollywood with several currently on major U.S. television shows or on the silver screen. Here are ten famous Caribbean actors you should know:

1: Naomie Harris

Actress Naomie Harris’ roots extend to Jamaica and Trinidad. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)

Born in Britain in 1976, to a Jamaican mother and Trinidadian father, Harris became famous for her performances as Tia/Calypso in two of the wildly popular Pirates of the Caribbean movies. But she truly hit it out of the park when she landed the role of Eve Moneypenny in the James Bond films Skyfall and Spectre becoming the first black actress to play the role. On her Caribbean roots, the graduate of Cambridge University has said: “I was raised within the Jamaican culture in Britain. I was surrounded by these incredibly powerful women growing up — independent, opinionated, strong-willed women, like my mum and my aunt.” 

2: Lennie James

The Walking Dead’s Lennie James’ Caribbean roots extend from Britain to Trinidad.

Lennie James has appeared in more than 20 films, including Les Misérables, Snatch, and Colombiana (2011) as well as Robert Hawkins in the CBS series Jericho, Detective Joe Geddes in the AMC television series Low Winter Sun and Morgan Jones in the popular AMC series The Walking Dead.  James was born in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire to Trinidadian parents. He has professed to being the main cook for his family of four with a fondness for Caribbean cuisine. James also works as a mentor to black inner-city kids, and says he rejects the importance people attach to fame and celebrity.

3: Nathalie Joanne Emmanuel

British-born actress Nathalie Joanne Emmanuel of ‘Furious 7’ roots extend to St. Lucia.

Nathalie Joanne Emmanuel is known for playing computer hacker Ramsey in ‘Furious 7’ (2015). She was born in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, England, to a father of Saint Lucian and English descent and a mother of Dominican origin. She was also the interpreter Missandei on the HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones. FHM magazine ranked Emmanuel as 99th in their 100 Sexiest Women of 2013. In 2015, she appeared in the April 2016 issue of InStyle and GQ magazines.

4: Marianne Ragipcien Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean-Baptise who plays Bethany Mayfair in The Blindspot has St. Lucian roots. (Photo by: Giovanni Rufino/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images)

She is an English-born actress who plays FBI agent plays Bethany Mayfair in the popular series on NBC, ‘The Blindspot.’ Marianne Ragipcien Jean-Baptiste was born in London to a mother from Antigua and father from St. Lucia. She grew up in Peckham and was classically trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and performed at the Royal National Theatre. Jean-Baptiste gained international success from the Mike Leigh-directed social drama Secrets & Lies (1996), receiving both Golden Globe and Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress nominations for her performance, becoming the first black British actress to be nominated for an Academy Award, and the second black Briton to be nominated, succeeding Jaye Davidson. She has been married to Evan Williams since 1997. She is also a writer and composer and wrote the score for Mike Leigh’s “Career Girls.” Jean-Baptiste has also written and performed with British jazz musicians, including Jason Rebello, for whom she wrote and recorded four tracks on his album “Keeping Time.”

5: Naomi Elaine Campbell

Naomi Campbell was born in London to a Jamaican mother and father.

Of course many know this English born beauty for her super model fame but the 45-year-old is now an actress. Campbell, 45, was born to Jamaican parents in London and has established herself among the top three most recognizable and in-demand models. She recently had a recurring role as a cougar for a guest role in the hit US television show “Empire,” playing Camilla Marks the love interest of the youngest son Hakeem. Camilla is 20 years Hakeem’s junior in the show, and Campbell said at times she felt shy when filming the raunchy scenes. Campbell has a three-bedroom oceanfront property is in Oracabessa, Jamaica.

6: Eamonn Walker

Actor Eamonn Walker who plays Chief Wallace Boden on Chicago Fire has Trinidadian and Grenadian roots. (Photo by: Elizabeth Morris/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images)

He is a famous Caribbean actor who plays fire chief Firehouse 51 Battalion Chief Wallace Boden on NBC’s ‘Chicago Fire’ but few know that actor Eamonn Walker has Caribbean roots. Walker was born in London to a Grenadian father and a Trinidadian mother, in 1962. He also actually lived in Trinidad for six months when he was nine years old before returning to London to attend the Hungerford School in Islington and later the University of North London. Of his Caribbean roots he says: “My whole being and everything that I do has my British and Grenadian sides running through me. Until I went to grade school, I spoke with my Caribbean accent as my mother did but quickly received my first taste of discrimination when kids made fun of me and made my life pretty miserable, because we all know how cruel kids can be (laughs). So I learned to speak like everyone else with a North London accent. Again, my need to be connected with my people has always been in me and I recently returned from Grenada where I met my father’s side of the family for the first time and it was beautiful. In every fiber of my being, knowing my people has always been important to me and I’m glad I was able to meet my extended family.”

7: Alfred Enoch

Actor Alfred Enoch of ‘How To Get Away With Murder’ traces his roots to Barbados. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Trevor Project)

 Alfred “Alfie” Enoch plays the role of Wes Gibbins in the ABC legal drama series, ‘How to Get Away with Murder.’ He was born in London to but traces his roots to Barbados through his maternal grandparents. He made his big acting debut in 2001 as Dean Thomas in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.’ He has appeared in seven of the eight Harry Potter films and also voiced the character in the video game based on the first part of the film. For his portrayal of Gibbins, Enoch has received two NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series consecutive nominations. His father, William Russell, is a renowned actor who played Ian Chesterton in the original run of the BBC show, ‘Dr. Who.’’’

8: Delroy Lindo

Actor Delroy Lindo was born in the UK to Jamaican parents.

Delroy Lindo is perhaps best known for his roles in a trio of Spike Lee films, especially as West Indian Archie in Lee’s Malcolm X (1992) and Woody Carmichael in Crooklyn (1994), Catlett in Get Shorty, Arthur Rose in The Cider House Rules, and Detective Castlebeck in Gone in 60 Seconds (2000). Lindo starred as Alderman Ronin Gibbons in the TV series The Chicago Code (2011) and as Winter on the series Believe, which premiered in 2014. He was born in England to Jamaican parents. Lindo was recently cast as Dominic Fortune in ABC’s pilot of Marvel’s Most Wanted opposite Adrianne Palicki and Nick Blood.

9: Marsha Thomason

Actress Marsha Thomason roots extend to Jamaica. brecht/USA Network/NBCU Photo Bank)

Marsha Thomason is best known for playing Nessa Holt in the first two seasons of the NBC series Las Vegas, Naomi Dorrit on the ABC series Lost, and FBI agent Diana Berrigan on the USA Network series White Collar. She was born in Moston, Greater Manchester, England to Phyllis (née McCrae), a Jamaican electronics company employee, and Peter Thomason, who worked in politics.

10:  Adrian Lester, OBE

Actor Adrian Lester was born in in Birmingham, Warwickshire to Jamaican immigrants.

Adrian Lester is a multi award winning actor and director, known for seven seasons of the hit TV show Hustle (2004), The Day After Tomorrow (2004) and Primary Colors (1998) and his extensive classical work in the theatre playing Othello, Henry V, Rosalind and Hamlet to name but a few. He was born in Birmingham, Warwickshire, the son of Jamaican immigrants Monica, a medical secretary, and Reginald, a manager for a contract cleaning company. Lester was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2013 New Year Honours for services to drama.