Caribbean Stars Unite For ‘Jamaica Strong’ Benefit Concert To Raise $1 Million For Hurricane Melissa Relief

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BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 20, 2205: A powerhouse lineup of Caribbean music heavyweights will hit the stage in New York this December for the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert, a major fundraising event aimed at supporting the island’s recovery after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

Caribbean stars unite for the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert on Dec. 12 at UBS Arena, raising up to $1M for Hurricane Melissa relief and rebuilding efforts.

The concert — produced by Jammins Events as part of the “I Love Jamaica Concert Series” — is set for Friday, December 12, 2025, at UBS Arena in Belmont, NY, and aims to raise up to US$1 million for Jamaica’s official Hurricane Relief & Recovery Fund. Net proceeds will go directly toward rebuilding homes, restoring communities, and providing food, medical care, and long-term support to families hardest hit.

The effort brings together some of the biggest names in reggae, dancehall, soca, and Jamaican culture. The lineup includes:

Shaggy

Sean Paul

Kes

Inner Circle

Ky-Mani Marley

Tessanne Chin

Aidonia

Chronic Law

T.O.K.

Gramps Morgan

Richie Stephens

Mikey Spice

Marcia Griffiths

I-Octane

Kevin Downswell

More artists are expected to be added in the coming days.

The event is being staged in partnership with Irie Jam Radio, The Shaggy Make A Difference Foundation, The Sean Paul Foundation, and several Caribbean diaspora organizations, with the endorsement of the Government of Jamaica.

“This is a practical way for us all to support the response and get resources where they’re needed,” said Christopher Chin, CEO of VP Records, one of the coordinating partners behind the scenes.

Diaspora Relief Efforts Already Underway

The benefit concert follows an extraordinary show of diaspora-led humanitarian action earlier this month. On November 10 and 11, more than 100,000 pounds of critical supplies were flown to Jamaica through the Mission of Hope: Humanitarian Flights to Jamaica, spearheaded by Captain Barrington Irving, the Jamaican-born aviation pioneer and Guinness World Record holder.

The two-day mission – powered by Captain Irving’s nonprofit Experience Aviation – brought together a coalition of foundations, including:

The Buju Banton Foundation

Best of the Best Foundation

We The Best Foundation

The Miami-Dade County Commissioner’s Office

Other corporate, cultural, and diaspora donors

Supplies were delivered aboard a Boeing 737-800 cargo jet and Captain Irving’s personal aircraft, landing at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston before being dispatched to hard-hit communities across the island.

“We are incorporating and aligning ourselves as the foundations and working together to make a difference,” said Grammy winning Jamaican singer, Buju Banton, emphasizing the urgency of sustained support. “Remember Jamaica in your prayers, remember Jamaica in your giving.”

Captain Irving, known for leading past humanitarian missions in the Bahamas and the U.S. after major storms, said the Jamaica flights show what unity across borders can achieve.

Supporting Jamaica’s Recovery

With Hurricane Melissa leaving widespread destruction in its wake — from washed-out roads and damaged homes to dislocated families – the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert represents the next major push to fund recovery efforts.

Tickets are available now on Ticketmaster.

For the Caribbean Diaspora, it is another moment of collective mobilization – proof that even in the face of disaster, Jamaica and its people are never alone.

RELATED: Jamaican Global Diaspora Pitches In: Here Are The Credible Organizations To Support Hurricane Melissa Victims

Why Tourism Can No Longer Carry the Caribbean Economy — And What Must Come Next

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By Felicia J. Persaud

News Americas, NY, NY, Thurs. Nov. 20, 2025: The latest Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) report delivers the clearest warning yet: Caribbean economies must urgently diversify, deepen regional integration, and expand into higher-value exports as global trade undergoes a historic shift.

Tourism Can No Longer Carry the Caribbean

According to the International Trade Outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean 2025, U.S. tariffs – imposed and adjusted repeatedly this year – are reshaping global trade patterns. While major exporters in Asia now face tariffs as high as 100%, Caribbean countries face an average effective tariff of only ~10% when exporting to the U.S. This positions the region for potential export gains in key sectors like apparel, agribusiness, medical devices, and digitally delivered services.

But the report makes another point even more urgent: the region’s overreliance on tourism is becoming economically dangerous.

ECLAC notes that foreign direct investment (FDI) in the region has fallen 53% in 2025 – largely due to global uncertainty, new U.S. trade policies, and a geopolitical climate increasingly hostile to low-diversified economies. Caribbean service exports remain strong, but the bulk still comes from tourism, a sector ECLAC warns is “highly vulnerable to climate shocks, external demand fluctuations, and rising global risks.”

The call is clear: the Caribbean cannot depend on tourism alone in the era of climate change, global volatility, and rising trade uncertainty.

Tourism Can No Longer Carry the Caribbean

The region’s dependence on tourism has always been a double-edged sword – lucrative in good times, devastating in bad ones. Today, that fragility is magnified by a historic convergence of pressures:

Tourism alone cannot withstand:

Climate change – Stronger hurricanes, higher sea levels, reef die-off, saltwater intrusion, and chronic flooding.

Rising insurance costs – Premiums for hotels and coastal assets have more than doubled in parts of the region, threatening closures.

Extreme weather – Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic destruction in Jamaica underscores the regional vulnerability.

Airline disruptions – Higher costs, route rationalization, and climate-related flight impacts reduce visitor arrivals.

U.S. economic slowdown – The region’s largest tourism source market is tightening its spending.

Geopolitical tension – Tariff wars, instability, and shifting U.S. foreign policy all drive unpredictable shocks.

Cruise ship dominance – Mass tourism keeps growing while local earnings stay disproportionately low.

Each of these forces alone is problematic. Together, they make tourism structurally unreliable as a long-term development strategy.

And the evidence is already here.

Jamaica’s $10 Billion Warning

Jamaica’s government now estimates that damage from Hurricane Melissa will require US$10 billion in reconstruction funding. Hotels, roads, beaches, homes, farms, water systems, telecommunications, and energy infrastructure all suffered heavy losses.

This is not a one-off event – it is the new climate reality. Rebuilding the same tourism-centric model guarantees that:

the next extreme event will wipe out gains again,

governments will remain trapped in recovery cycles,

and long-term growth will be permanently constrained.

The Caribbean cannot keep rebuilding the same economic model that keeps breaking.

So What Comes Next? A Pivot the Region Can No Longer Delay

If tourism cannot carry the Caribbean through the next 20 years of climate and geopolitical volatility, what can? Three pillars now present the strongest path forward — and all align with ECLAC’s recommendations and emerging global market shifts.

1. Agri-Tech & Food Security

ECLAC highlights that the region imports over US$6 billion in food annually — despite fertile land, tropical conditions, and new technologies capable of boosting yields even in drought-prone zones.

A Caribbean agri-tech push can include:

climate-resilient greenhouses

controlled-environment agriculture

agro-processing for export

aquaculture + blue economy tech

digital supply-chain management

smart irrigation and water innovation

This is not theory – investors are already moving into these areas because the opportunity is massive and urgent.

2. Modern Services & Tech Exports

ECLAC’s most troubling statistic: The Caribbean represents less than 2% of global modern service exports. This is the region’s greatest untapped economic engine.

Key opportunities include:

digital outsourcing

fintech and compliance services

medical transcription + health IT

animation, design, digital creative industries

AI-enabled back-office services

These are sectors where:

hurricanes cannot cancel revenue,

diaspora talent is abundant,

and global demand is surging.

3. Nearshoring, Light Manufacturing & Logistics

The U.S.–China trade restructuring and rising tariffs have created a rare opening in Caribbean shipping lanes. The region can scale:

medical device assembly

electronics + small components

apparel and fashion manufacturing

pharmaceutical packaging

logistics hubs tied to Miami, Houston, and Panama

ECLAC estimates these sectors offer the highest potential for “productive transformation” in the next 5–10 years.

The Path Forward

The ECLAC report is both a warning and a roadmap.

The warning:

Tourism – long the Caribbean’s comfort zone—is no longer strong enough to withstand the coming storms, economic or climatic.

The roadmap:

Diversify now.
Strengthen trade links.
Move into higher-value sectors.
Mobilize investment differently.
Solve for resilience, not vulnerability.

The Caribbean can no longer afford to be a single-pillar economy. It must become a multi-sector, export-oriented, climate-resilient region capable of withstanding uncertainty – not collapsing under it.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The writer is a Caribbean-born journalist and entrepreneur, founder of Invest Caribbean, and CEO of ICN Group.

The Caribbean Contestants Of Miss Universe 2025

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By NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 20, 2025: Several Caribbean contestants are proudly representing the region at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand tonight – but the celebration took a somber turn after Miss Universe Jamaica, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, suffered a shocking and dangerous fall straight off the stage during Wednesday’s preliminary show. Henry, an ophthalmologist and advocate for the visually impaired, was rushed out on a stretcher. As of press time, no official update has been released on her condition, and her Miss Universe journey remains uncertain. While Jamaica anxiously awaits news, here are other Caribbean contestants of Miss Universe 2025 tonight.

Miss Aruba – Hannah Arends

Arends, 24, launched her first business at just 13 — a kids’ sushi concept called “Kids Dushi Sushi.” She holds a bachelor’s degree in law and is completing her master’s in civil law while working as a paralegal.

A singer-songwriter who also plays guitar and drums, Arends dreams of creating businesses centered on culinary arts, entertainment, and community development. She also leads a financial literacy and life-skills initiative for teens.

Miss Bahamas – Maliqué Maranda Bowe

Miss Bahamas Malique Maranda Bowe walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Maliqué Bowe, 25, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in accounting and has graced the runway at New York Fashion Week.

Diagnosed with anxiety at age 10 and later high-functioning depression, Bowe says pageantry helped her regain confidence. Her platform focuses on mental health awareness, trauma recovery, and youth empowerment across the Bahamas.

Miss Belize – Isabella Zabaneh

Miss Universe Belize Isabella Zabaneh at the Los Angeles premiere of Footage Films’ “Run” at TCL Chinese Theatre on August 27, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images)

Zabaneh, 21, is pursuing a master’s in professional communication. At age 15, she founded Project Royalty, a nonprofit that provides prom dresses and mentorship to young women.

She has traveled to more than 20 countries and worked in reconciliation programs in a conflict zone during her time in the Middle East.

Miss Bonaire – Nicole Peiliker-Visser

Miss Bonaire Nicole Peiliker Visser walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

At 42, Peiliker-Visser is one of the oldest contestants this year. A mother of four, she once managed a bank and later returned home to focus on family before entering pageantry, inspired by her daughter’s success at Mini Miss Universe.

She uses her platform to promote confidence, representation, and community purpose.

Miss British Virgin Islands – Olivia Freeman

Miss British Virgin Islands Olivia Margaret Freeman walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Freeman, 22, is a standout academic who served as head prefect and head girl in school before earning an honors degree in economics from Georgia State University.

She supported herself through school by offering professional braiding services. Today, she works as a budget officer at the BVI Ministry of Finance.

Miss Cayman Islands – Tahiti Moorea Seymour

Miss Cayman Islands Tahiti Moorea Seymour walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Seymour, 22, holds a degree in politics and international relations from Queen Mary University of London and is an actress, model, and multilingual martial artist with a black belt in Purple Dragon Don Jitsu Ryu.

She partnered with the United Nations to launch the Zero Hunger Universe campaign.

Miss Cuba – Lina Luaces

Miss Cuba Lina Luaces walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Luaces, 23, was raised in Miami by her Cuban parents and is a professional model who has worked with brands like Victoria’s Secret. She became certified in nutrition after overcoming depression.

She collaborates with the Adolescent Wellness Academy to support teens recovering from substance abuse.

Miss Curaçao – Camille Thomas

Thomas, 26, attended a military academy in North Carolina where she held leadership posts, and later studied psychology, theater, and acting.

Back in Curaçao, she co-owns a restaurant and helps run her family’s farm, which donates food to underserved youth. She also leads a community project repainting homes for elderly neighbors. Thomas is fluent in four languages and is an experienced archer and freediver.

Miss Dominican Republic – Jennifer Ventura

Ventura, 27, holds dual degrees in civil engineering and a master’s in business management. She is CEO of her construction firm, Ventmar .Her advocacy for autism families is fueled by personal tragedy — she lost her mother in the Jet Set nightclub roof collapse earlier this year.

Miss Guadeloupe – Ophély Mézino

Mézino, 26, has found success as a model and actress, appearing in the Netflix hit “Lupin.”

Miss Guadeloupe Ophely Mezino walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

She learned sign language before speaking, as both her parents are deaf. She co-founded Un Mot, Un Signe, supporting the deaf community, and also champions survivors of domestic violence through her initiative, We Are HERd.

Miss Guyana – Chandini Baljor

Miss Guyana Chandini Baljor walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Baljor, 23, is simultaneously pursuing a medical degree and a degree in public health. Her goal is to expand equitable healthcare access across the region.

She also owns a baking business, Popalicious, and has been published for her poetry and photography.

Miss Haiti – Melissa Sapini

Miss Haiti Melissa Sapini walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Sapini, 22, is a model, broadcast journalist, and sports reporter who began appearing on-air at age 18. She has appeared on “Hell’s Kitchen” and in a Super Bowl campaign for Dunkin’.

Although born in the U.S., she proudly uplifts her Haitian heritage and co-founded The Two Queens Foundation to improve literacy and scholarships for Haitian children, inspired by her grandmother who learned to read at 78.

Miss Martinique – Célya Abatucci

Abatucci, 31, works in management and sustainable development and previously worked for L’Oréal. She advocates for women’s health, domestic violence awareness, and greater access to menstrual and healthcare products.

Miss Puerto Rico – Zashley Alicea Rivera

Rivera, 26, is a ballerina, gymnast, model, graphic designer, and social-media manager. She founded ElevArte, offering free dance and art programs for youth.

Miss Saint Lucia – Shianne Smith

Miss Saint Lucia Shianne Smith walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Smith, 21, is a neuroscience student who survived a life-threatening birth. She founded Mindfield, a digital mental-health platform, and has presented mental-health advocacy at the UN ECOSOC Youth Forum.

Miss Trinidad & Tobago – Latifah Morris

Morris, 32, is a mother, entrepreneur, and founder of the BBL Movement — Building A Better Life, supporting youth empowerment.

Miss Turks & Caicos – Bereniece Dickenson

Dickenson, 22, overcame discrimination, poverty, and limited access to education. She earned multiple scholarships and founded The Butterfly Effect Project to support young women.

Miss US Virgin Islands – Brittany Robinson

Robinson, 33, became a caregiver early in life and has worked in hospitality for 17 years. She is the founder of BARE Artistry and advocates for women’s entrepreneurship.

Despite the Drama, the Show Goes On

The 2025 Miss Universe pageant has already been marked by controversy — from onstage falls to viral confrontations — but the competition continues. A new Miss Universe will be crowned Friday morning in Thailand by reigning queen Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark.

HOW TO WATCH

Fans in the U.S. can tune in to the Miss Universe 2025 final on Telemundo, which will air the full show live in Spanish, or stream it via Peacock (Spanish) or The Roku Channel (English). Viewers around the world can also watch the event for free on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel.

The final airs November 20, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET.

Where to Watch:
English:
• The Roku Channel – Free for all Roku device users or through the Roku app.

Spanish:
• Telemundo – Live TV broadcast.
• Peacock – Live streaming on the platform.

Worldwide Free Stream:
• Miss Universe YouTube Channel – Available globally at no cost.