These Are The Caribbean and Latin American Contestants In Miss Universe 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: The stage is set for the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, which will crown a new winner tomorrow, November 16, 2024, in Mexico City, Mexico. Among the 130 contestants from around the globe are a dazzling array of competitors from the Caribbean and Latin America, each vying for the prestigious title through events including personal statements, in-depth interviews, and the highly anticipated evening gown and swimwear segments.

Preliminaries and Final Selection Process

The journey to the crown begins with the preliminaries, where all 130 contestants will compete in swimwear and showcase traditional costumes representing their countries. Unlike previous years, the preliminary phase will not feature a gala runway show, focusing instead on the swimwear and costume presentations.

From this round, the selection committee will narrow the field to 25 finalists. Four additional finalists will be chosen regionally, representing Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe, Africa, and Asia and Oceania. A public vote will determine the 30th and final spot.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago Jenelle Thongs participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Guyana Ariana Blaize participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Cuba Marianela Ancheta participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Jamaica Rachel Silvera participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss Saint Lucia Skye Faucher participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Miss U.S. Virgin Islands Stephany Andujar participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition – Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

Caribbean and Latin American Competitors

The Caribbean and Latin America are well-represented this year with a diverse group of contestants:

Argentina – Magali Benejam, 29

Aruba – Anouk Eman, 32

Bahamas – Selvinique Wright, 32

Belize – Halima Hoy, 30

Bolivia – Juliana Barrientos, 27

Bonaire – Ruby Pouchet, 29

Brazil – Luana Cavalcante, 25

British Virgin Islands – Deyounce Lowenfield, 20

Cayman Islands – Raegan Rutty, 22

Costa Rica – Elena Hidalgo, 32

Cuba – Marianela Ancheta, 31

Curaçao – Kimberly de Boer, 19

Dominican Republic – Celinee Santos, 24

Guadeloupe – Coraly Desplan, 20

Guatemala – Ana Gabriela Villanueva, 22

Guyana – Ariana Blaize, 26

Honduras – Stephanie Cam, 32

Jamaica – Rachel Silvera, 25

Mexico – María Fernanda Beltrán, 24

Nicaragua – , Geyssell Garcia, 29

Paraguay – Naomi Mendez, 32

Peru – Tatiana Calmell, 30

Puerto Rico – Jennifer Colin, 36

Saint Lucia – Skye Faucher, 26

Suriname – Pooja Chotkan, 23

Trinidad and Tobago – Jenelle Thongs, 32

Turks and Caicos – Raynae Myers, 23

Uruguay – Yanina Lucas, 28

U.S. Virgin Islands – Stephany Andujar, 28

Venezuela – Ileana Márquez, 28

An Unexpected Disqualification

Miss Panama, Italy Mora, was disqualified ahead of the competition, reducing the number of contestants to 130.

The Grand Finale

The final event, held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, will culminate in the crowning of the 73rd Miss Universe. With the Caribbean and Latin American competitors bringing beauty, talent, and cultural pride to the stage, all eyes will be on the region to see if one of its representatives takes home the crown.

This year’s pageant promises to be a memorable celebration of global beauty and diversity.

U.S.-Sourced Guns Dominate Caribbean Crime Scenes -Report

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: The majority of firearms recovered from crime scenes in the Caribbean were traced back to the United States, according to a new report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office, (GAO). Between 2018 and 2022, Caribbean law enforcement agencies recovered 7,399 firearms, with 73% of them originating in the U.S.

A Persistent Challenge
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (ATF), which processes firearm tracing requests from Caribbean nations, found that most of the recovered weapons were handguns. Although Caribbean countries do not manufacture firearms, criminals obtain them through illegal markets and traffic them using air and sea routes, employing various concealment techniques.

A Regional Crisis
Caribbean nations like Haiti, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago continue to face high levels of violence, with six countries in the region ranking among the world’s top 10 for murder rates in 2021, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. U.S.-sourced firearms have been linked to many of these crimes, exacerbating regional instability and straining law enforcement resources.

The report comes on the heels of a lawsuit filed last year by Mexico. Mexico’s US$10bn lawsuit named several defendants including major gun manufacturers Smith and Wesson Brands Inc, Sturm, Ruger and Co, Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc, Beretta USA Corp, Colt’s Manufacturing Co, Century International Arms Inc, Witmer Public Safety Group Inc and Glock Inc.

Several CARICOM countries signed on to the anti-gun lawsuit filed by Mexico in the US. Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, The Bahamas, Jamaica, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago joined the amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief filed by Mexico appealing a decision in US court to hold gun makers responsible for facilitating the trafficking of deadly weapons across the border.

Combating Firearms Trafficking
The U.S. has launched several initiatives to curb gun trafficking to the region, including:

The Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, (CBSI): A U.S. partnership with 13 Caribbean countries that funds training programs like the Crime Gun Intelligence Unit to enhance intelligence sharing.
Transnational Criminal Investigative Units: Managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), these units aim to dismantle networks responsible for firearms trafficking.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Interdictions: From 2018 to 2023, CBP seized 535 firearms and 3,167 firearm components at U.S. ports intended for Caribbean destinations.

Room for Improvement
Despite these efforts, the GAO identified gaps in tracking the effectiveness of U.S. initiatives. The CBSI’s Results Framework lacks specific indicators for measuring success in combating firearms trafficking. The GAO recommended that the Department of State develop such metrics to better evaluate progress, a suggestion the State Department has agreed to implement.

The Path Forward
The report underscores the need for stronger international collaboration to address firearms trafficking and reduce violence in the Caribbean. Implementing better tracking systems and expanding interdiction efforts could help curb the flow of illegal firearms and improve security across the region.

The GAO’s findings are a call to action for both Caribbean nations and the U.S. to strengthen their collective resolve against gun trafficking and its devastating impacts.

Belize Born Rapper Shyne Opens Up About Diddy, Prison, And Redemption In New Documentary

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: Belize-born rapper-turned-politician Moses “Shyne” Barrow is finally sharing his side of the story about his decade-long prison sentence and his connection to Sean “Diddy” Combs.

In the upcoming Hulu documentary The Honorable Shyne, premiering on November 18th, the film delves into Barrow’s rise to fame, his fall from grace, and his eventual transformation into a political leader in Belize.

Shyne visits SiriusXM Studios on November 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

The Night That Changed Everything

Barrow, then a rising star in Diddy’s Bad Boy Records, recounts the fateful night in 1999 that led to his conviction. A nightclub shooting in New York City injured three people and resulted in Barrow’s arrest alongside Combs and then-girlfriend Jennifer Lopez. While Combs and Lopez made bail and Combs was later acquitted, Barrow was convicted and served eight years of a 10-year sentence before being deported to Belize.

Reflecting on that night, Barrow reveals in the documentary: “I went to Club New York with two weapons on me. A disagreement broke out, and I was caught in the middle. One of the men involved reached for his weapon, and that’s when I reached for mine.”

A Fallout with Diddy

In the documentary, Barrow accuses Combs of abandoning him during the trial and manipulating the legal process to secure his own acquittal. “When I was in The Tombs, Puff’s lawyers advised him to distance himself from me. I was left to rot in prison while he moved on,” Barrow says. He alleges that Combs’ lawyers orchestrated witness testimonies to ensure Barrow was convicted.

Barrow recalls confronting Combs years later about the incident, saying, “You apologized back then, and I’ve healed, but I won’t restate the facts. If it weren’t for you, I would’ve made the case. I would’ve walked just like you.”

A spokesperson for Combs has categorically denied these allegations, calling them “unequivocally false.”

Life After Prison

After his release, Barrow left the music industry behind, embracing his Jewish faith and turning to politics. He became the leader of the opposition in Belize, using his platform to advocate for his community. Despite making a public appearance with Combs at the BET Lifetime Achievement tribute, Barrow says their reunion was for Belize’s benefit, not personal reconciliation.

“When the allegations about Diddy assaulting Cassie surfaced, I had to distance myself,” Barrow explains in the documentary, referencing his condemnation of Combs following the release of disturbing videos.

A Story of Redemption

Barrow emphasizes that his story is one of integrity and resilience. “I didn’t betray my friends or snitch. I sacrificed my career, my life, and my family to uphold my integrity and humanity,” he says.

The Honorable Shyne showcases Barrow’s journey from a troubled youth in Brooklyn to a hip-hop sensation, and finally to a respected political figure. The documentary sheds light on his struggles, triumphs, and his ongoing mission to redefine his legacy.

Jamaica Reggae Boyz Fall To Team USA

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz suffered a narrow defeat on home turf on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, falling 1-0 to the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) in the first leg of their Concacaf Nations League quarter-final series. The match, held at the National Stadium in Kingston, saw Ricardo Pepi’s early goal secure a hard-fought win for the Americans.

Malik Tillman #17 of the United States is fouled by Isaac Hayden #14 of Jamaica during the second half at National Stadium on November 14, 2024 in Kingston, Jamaica. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

Early Lead for the U.S.

Pepi scored in the fifth minute, finishing a perfectly timed through ball from Christian Pulisic to give the visitors an early edge. It was Pepi’s 12th goal for the USMNT and his third against Jamaica.

Jamaica had a golden opportunity to equalize in the 12th minute when Demarai Gray was awarded a penalty following a foul by U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner. However, Turner redeemed himself with a decisive save, keeping the lead intact.

Malik Tillman #17 of the United States is fouled by Isaac Hayden #14 of Jamaica during the second half at National Stadium on November 14, 2024 in Kingston, Jamaica. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

Reggae Boyz Fight Back

Despite the early setback, Jamaica’s defense held strong, frustrating the U.S. attack. Goalkeeper Andre Blake made several critical saves to keep the match within reach, and the Reggae Boyz created key chances in the second half, including a close-range effort by Mason Holgate that was thwarted by the U.S. defense.

The match grew increasingly physical, with seven yellow cards issued in the second half. Jamaica’s Holgate was sent off in the 86th minute after receiving a second yellow card, leaving the Reggae Boyz to finish the game with 10 men.

What’s Next?

The loss puts pressure on Jamaica to overturn the one-goal deficit in the second leg of the quarterfinal, scheduled for November 18th at CITYPARK in St. Louis. At stake is a spot in both the 2025 Concacaf Nations League Finals and next summer’s Gold Cup.

While the Reggae Boyz’ hopes remain alive, they will need a focused and determined effort to advance in the series.

Final Score: USA 1, Jamaica 0

Caribbean Immigrant Novelist Elizabeth Nunez Dies at 80

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: Caribbean immigrant author and lecturer, Elizabeth Nunez, whose works masterfully explored themes of family, colonialism’s lingering effects, and the immigrant experience, has died. According to the New York Times, she passed away at her home in Brooklyn. She was 80. Her son, Jason Harrell, told the Times the cause was complications from a stroke.

Trinidad-and-Tobago born author Elizabeth Nunez is dead at 80.

Dr. Nunez was celebrated for her ability to weave the complexities of identity, belonging, and history into her novels, often with sharp commentary on American academia and the New York publishing world.

A Life Rooted in Stories and Scholarship

Born on February 18, 1944, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Nunez grew up in a prominent family of Portuguese and African descent. Raised under the British colonial education system, she developed an early love for literature, devouring works by English authors like Enid Blyton and Jane Austen. This literary upbringing shaped her identity, even as she sought to move beyond the Eurocentric narratives of her childhood.

Her first novel, When Rocks Dance (1986), marked the beginning of her literary journey. Initially planning to write about a modern academic in America, she instead delved into the historical and cultural tensions of her Trinidadian heritage.

Exploring Identity and Belonging

Dr. Nunez’s novels often reflected her personal journey as a Trinidadian navigating life in the United States. Beyond the Limbo Silence (1998) mirrored her own experience as a young student attending a small Catholic college in Wisconsin, where she confronted her ignorance of Caribbean history and colonialism’s harsh truths.

In Grace (2003), she portrayed the challenges of a Caribbean-born professor in Brooklyn, reflecting her own career at Medgar Evers College, where she encountered tensions with Black American colleagues.

Her critically acclaimed Prospero’s Daughter (2006) reimagined Shakespeare’s The Tempest in a Trinidadian setting, grappling with themes of xenophobia, power, and cultural clash.

Academic and Literary Contributions

Dr. Nunez earned her Ph.D. in literature from New York University and held leadership roles at Medgar Evers College, including chair of the English department and provost. She later joined Hunter College as a distinguished professor of English, retiring earlier this year.

A tireless advocate for Black literature, she co-founded the National Black Writers Conference, directing it for over a decade.

Despite her deep connection to the Caribbean, Dr. Nunez resisted being boxed in as a “Caribbean writer,” emphasizing her broader literary contributions. “I don’t mind being classified as a Caribbean writer,” she told The Miami Herald in 2006, “as long as it’s a subcategory in literary fiction.”

Legacy

Nunez authored 11 novels, including Now Lila Knows (2022). Her memoir, Not for Everyday Use (2014), offered a poignant look at her upbringing and the intricate relationships within her family.

She is survived by her son, Jason Harrell; 10 siblings; and two granddaughters.

Nunez leaves behind a literary legacy that transcends borders, championing stories that resonate with the complexities of identity, history, and the human spirit.

Canada Warns About Travel To The Bahamas

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 15, 2024: Canada has updated its travel advisory for The Bahamas, urging its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting the island nation, citing high rates of crime, particularly in Freeport and Nassau. The updated warning, issued on November 14, 2024, highlights several safety concerns for travelers, including violent crime, fraud, and safety risks related to water and road activities.

Crime and Safety Concerns

The advisory warns that violent crimes, often connected to gang activity, occur in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, and Nassau, and sometimes target travelers. Reported incidents include armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault. Tourists have been victims of burglaries, fraud, theft, and even crimes in cruise ship terminals and resort areas, sometimes during daylight hours.

Crime rates tend to rise during the holiday season, and Canadian authorities are advising travelers to:

Stay within tourist areas.

Always remain vigilant.

Avoid walking alone at night.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Women’s Safety

Sexual assaults remain a significant concern, particularly in Nassau and near tourist hubs like Paradise Island. Incidents have been reported at hotels, casinos, beaches, and even cruise ships. Authorities caution women to:

Avoid jet-ski rides with unlicensed operators, as several incidents of sexual assault have been linked to this activity.

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and drugs.

Never accept rides from strangers or unlicensed taxi drivers.

Exercise caution when accepting food, drinks, or other items from new acquaintances.

Fraud Risks

Credit card and ATM fraud are frequent in Nassau, with authorities advising travelers to:

Use ATMs in well-lit public areas or banks.

Monitor credit card transactions closely.

Cover PIN entry pads and avoid unfamiliar card readers.

Water Sports and Boating Hazards

Tourists are also advised to only rent water sports equipment from reputable and registered operators. Reports of injuries linked to poorly regulated water activities, such as jet skiing, are common. Boaters are warned about potential encounters with vessels operated by illegal drug traders and should use only official docking facilities.

Road and Public Transportation Safety

While roads in major cities are adequate, rural areas often have poorly maintained infrastructure. Drinking and driving is prevalent, and road accidents are frequent. Travelers are urged to:

Keep car doors locked and windows up.

Avoid leaving valuables visible in parked vehicles.

Be cautious when encountering road obstructions, which may be used as a tactic for robbery.

Travelers are also advised to avoid using public buses on routes outside of tourist areas after dusk.

Advice for Cruise Travelers

Several ports in The Bahamas are frequent stops for cruise ships. Visitors should remain vigilant when exploring local areas near ports and consider sticking to organized group activities.

The Canadian government encourages its nationals to stay informed of local conditions and remain cautious while enjoying their travels to The Bahamas.