Guyana Unveils Cash Grant And Free University Tuition As Part Of Major Economic Boosts

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, Oct. 11, 2024: Guyanese households are set to receive a significant economic boost through several new initiatives announced by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, including a cash grant of nearly USD 1,000 and free university tuition starting in 2025.

Guyana President Irfaan Ali making the announcement. (DPI image)

Speaking at a special session of the National Assembly held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Liliendaal on Thursday, October 10, Ali outlined the government’s plan to support every Guyanese household with a one-time cash grant of GY$200,000 (approximately USD 1,000). This includes tenants and “legitimate households” but excludes foreign nationals.

Ali also announced the return of free university tuition at the University of Guyana beginning in January 2025. This move is aimed at making higher education more accessible to all Guyanese citizens, helping to build a more educated workforce to meet the country’s growing economic demands.

In addition, Ali revealed that by the end of 2025, no public sector worker will earn less than GY$100,000 (USD 480) per month, ensuring wage improvements for thousands of workers. Families with children will also benefit from a GY$10,000 universal health care voucher for every citizen and a USD 50 per child income tax allowance, providing much-needed support to parents.

As part of efforts to enhance the country’s social security framework, Ali announced a GY$10 billion one-time injection into the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to assist those facing challenges in receiving their entitled benefits.

On the energy front, the president vowed to cut electricity costs by 50% before the end of 2025, addressing a long-standing issue in a country where power outages are frequent.

Highlighting the nation’s digital transformation, Ali noted that Guyana has already emerged as a regional leader in rolling out 5G technology and laying fiber optic cables nationwide. The government also plans to establish a ‘Guyana Digital School’ to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into the country’s economy, part of a broader push for digital modernization.

These sweeping measures are designed to ensure that every Guyanese citizen benefits from the country’s rapid economic growth, driven largely by the burgeoning oil and gas sector.

Caribbean-Born Judge Delays Release Of Evidence In Trump January 6 Case

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, Oct. 11, 2024: Caribbean-born US District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the federal January 6, 2021, criminal case against former President Donald Trump, has delayed the release of evidence exhibits, giving Trump’s legal team additional time to evaluate potential legal actions.

Caribbean immigrant Judge Tanya Chutkan

The exhibits, tied to Special Counsel Jack Smith’s ongoing prosecution, contain key pieces of evidence that Smith is using to argue that Trump is not immune from prosecution for his alleged role in attempting to subvert the results of the 2020 presidential election. Trump’s legal team has strongly opposed the release of these heavily redacted exhibits, arguing that disclosing them during the 2024 election cycle would be inappropriate.

In a court filing on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, Trump’s lawyers criticized the special counsel’s approach, stating, “There should be no further disclosures at this time of the so-called ‘evidence’ that the Special Counsel’s Office has unlawfully cherry-picked and mischaracterized—during early voting in the 2024 Presidential election—in connection with an improper Presidential immunity filing that has no basis in criminal procedure or judicial precedent.”

Judge Chutkan has agreed to the redactions proposed by prosecutors but paused her ruling on the release of the exhibits to give Trump time to consider legal options. The former president’s team requested this delay, citing the need to evaluate the redacted materials and prepare an appropriate response.

The decision comes after Smith’s office filed a 165-page brief outlining their case against Trump, which detailed significant aspects of their investigation, including grand jury testimony and FBI interview notes. The special counsel’s team previously indicated that many of the exhibits contain sensitive materials that have not been made public, and have taken further steps to ensure that even previously public information, such as the identities of individuals targeted in Trump’s tweets, remains confidential to protect witnesses from potential threats or harassment.

Judge Chutkan, originally from Jamaica, has become a central figure in the legal proceedings against Trump. She is also weighing how Smith’s arguments will hold up in light of a recent Supreme Court ruling that presidents have some degree of immunity for actions taken in their official capacity. However, Smith’s team contends that Trump’s conduct related to election subversion falls outside the scope of this immunity.

Trump has until November 7th, which is after the Nov. 5th election, to file his formal response to the special counsel’s arguments, at which point the court will consider the next steps in the case. The public remains eager to see how the case unfolds, as it plays a significant role in both legal and political spheres during the 2024 presidential election.

The Booming Online Casino Industry In The Caribbean

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Oct. 11, 2024: In recent years, the online casino industry in the Caribbean has been growing rapidly, and it has become a significant economic driver for various nations in the region. Both the continuous development of digital technology, the expansion of the tourism sector, and the supportive regulatory frameworks in the nations are facilitating the boom of the online casino industry in the region. The Caribbean has become a hub for online gambling services, making it an important player on the global online casino market. 

The historical context and the growth of the industry

The pivotal role of gambling in the Caribbean dates back several decades, both when it comes to land-based and online casinos. Countries like Antigua and Barbuda and Curacao has pioneered the regulation of online gambling in the region during the 1990s. Take for example Antigua and Barbuda, which was among one of the first nation in the world to legalize and regulate online gambling. This happened in 1994 with the Free Trade and Processing Act, which allowed the country to issue gaming licenses to operators. As a result of the act, the country to an influx in international online casinos. 

Curacao is another nation with a crucial role in the online gambling industry, as it introduced a licensing framework in 1996, which has since led to the nation growing into becoming one of the largest globally. The island issues more than one-third of the world’s gambling licenses. However, there are other major markets for online casino operators. One example is Zambia in Africa, where major online casino operators like Betway Zambia are popular for their large variety of online casino games. 

Key markets and revenue generation

With this regulatory approach, several Caribbean nations have capitalized from a thriving online casino sector. Some noteworthy examples include the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, which have all become key players on gambling markets. Take for example Puerto Rico, which has seen impressive growth, with the gaming and betting industry bringing in a revenue of USD 186 million in 2023. 

Bahamas is another example. The nation celebrated “100 years of gaming” in 2023, and in relation to this hosted the 10th Caribbean Gaming Show. The country is a big player when it comes to land-based casinos, but the country is also expanding its online gaming operations to meet a growing consumer demand, which also reflects the region’s broader digital shift. 

Regulatory frameworks

The online gambling industry in the Caribbean is enabled by a complex regulatory framework, which varies from country to country. Both Antigua and Barbuda and Curacao are known for their favorable business environments. Both countries offer low taxation and an easy licensing process for gaming operators. By providing these regulatory advantages, these countries have attracted major international operators. 

The Bahamas has an increased focus on strengthening the regulatory environment. This is happening through the Gaming Board, which has been initiating events such as the Caribbean Regulators Forum. This event was initiated to encourage collaboration between regional gaming regulators. The aim of this type of collaboration is to establish best practices and address challenges. 

The symbiotic relationship between tourism and gambling

Tourism and gambling are linked in the Caribbean, especially at destination such as the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. With idyllic beaches and luxury resorts, these nations attract millions of tourists every year. For many tourists, a part of the visit involves visiting one of the world-class casinos available in the nation. 

This tourism boom has also spilled over into the online gambling industry. Tourists often visiting physical casinos in the Caribbean have started to transition to online platforms, due to the easy access to casino sites hosted and licensed in the region. The Caribbean vibe has also found its way into online casino sites. There are many Caribbean-themed online casino games, which have made the region popular worldwide, as most people have a laid-back beachy picture of the Caribbean. This has helped further promoting the region’s brand in the global online gambling industry. 

Economic benefits and challenges

With the increasing popularity of online casinos, the Caribbean has seen various economic benefits as a result of job creation, foreign investment, and tax revenue. Take Curacao as an example, where the gaming sector provides employment, while it has also provided a boost to ancillary industries, including legal services, IT support, and payment processing. 

Despite the success of the Caribbean nations, the industry also faces some challenges, especially regarding regulation. For regulators, the main focus is to ensure player protection and the integrity of online gambling platforms. Another potential risk to the dominance of the Caribbean on the global market is the introduction of new taxation rules, or the competition from other global gaming hubs. This could for example be from Zambia, which is a growing hub for online casinos on the African continent, with operators like Betway Zambia taking the lead role on the market. 

The future of online gambling in the Caribbean

It is expected that the Caribbean will continue to be a hub for the online casino industry, as the combination of favorable regulatory frameworks, low taxes, a growing player base, and the continuous development of digital technology will make the region attractive to more operators. Hence, the sector will continue to expand and continue to play a crucial part in the economics of these nations, creating more jobs and bringing in tax revenues for the nations. 

Hurricane Milton Set To Reshape Property Catastrophe Insurance Market

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024: Hurricane Milton, which caused widespread devastation in parts of Florida on Wednesday night, Oct. 10th, is predicted to reshape the future of the property catastrophe insurance market, according to industry experts.

After Hurricane Milton hit Florida, the city of Clearwater was flooded. Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the area. (Photo by Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Chris McKeown, CEO of reinsurance ILS and innovation at Vantage Risk, believes the storm marks a significant moment for Florida’s already fragile insurance industry, which has faced premium spikes and insurer exits for years.

“This is an unprecedentedly large storm that defies many meteorological expectations,” McKeown stated at the ILS Bermuda Convergence 2024 Conference according to the Bermuda Royal Gazette reports. He explained that Hurricane Milton, which was at times classified as a Category 5 storm, will be a substantial event for both Florida residents and the state’s insurance industry. The hurricane, he added, underscores the increasing challenges facing insurers in covering losses as federal aid and underinsurance remain critical issues.

Capsized boats were seen at the marina after Hurricane Milton, in Punta Gorda, Florida on October 10, 2024. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

McKeown emphasized that early hurricane predictions have limited value for insurers, as they often arrive too late in the year to influence policy decisions. “Hurricane Milton is another reminder of the importance of securing sufficient capital to cover risk, and how unpredictable these events have become,” he said.

People walk in the water as the streets are flooded in the Southeast Seminole Heights section of Tampa due to Hurricane Milton on October 10, 2024 in Florida. (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images)

Mosaic Insurance co-founder and co-CEO Mark Wheeler echoed these concerns, noting that the insurance industry is evolving to meet complex risks but faces challenges in staying relevant. “The industry is in good shape overall, but we must adapt to emerging risks like cyber and environmental disasters,” Wheeler said, pointing to the growing demand for niche insurance products and managing general agencies in the U.S.

Caribbean Star Rihanna Models First Savage x Fenty x Diesel Collaboration

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024:The first-ever Savage x Fenty x Diesel collaboration has officially arrived, featuring a sizzling lineup of lingerie and loungewear with bold, lacy silhouettes, thanks to the collabo with Caribbean born superstar, Rihanna.

The collection seamlessly blends Savage x Fenty’s body-positive, sex-positive ethos with Diesel’s iconic edgy style. It includes unisex undergarments, dresses, and sleepwear, embodying the distinct aesthetics of both brands. And Rihanna made sure to model one of the hot pieces herself.

The debut made waves with its promo video last week, followed by a reveal of archival Diesel pieces that inspired the collection, featuring distressed denim and runway-ready leather. Bodysuits, stockings, and corset slips dominate the drop, with standout items like the Feaux Fade Longsleeve Top, featuring a faded denim print and textured flocking, and Distorted Denim Boxers offering a fresh take on Diesel’s signature style.

The ad with Rihanna was reportedly shot on the beaches of Tuscany. It was conceived by Savage X Fenty creative director Glenn Martens and by Rihanna with photographer Salvatore Matarazzo and videographer Jacopo Farina, shooting a cast of “real Italian characters” in Versilia “as a depiction of complete body acceptance and freedom.”

The 36-year-old singer and business mogul stunned her fans with a series of jaw-dropping images on Instagram featuring the brand’s new foiled fishnet design. Rocking the suspender bustier and foiled fishnet strings, Rihanna left little to the imagination, rounding out her look with matching thigh-high stockings and a plush faux fur blue coat.

Rihanna excitedly captioned the post, writing, “The highly anticipated @diesel collab is finally here,” as she showcased the sultry outfit. The Grammy-winning singer, who is known for her bold style and fearless attitude, continued to push boundaries with this ensemble, blending high fashion with provocative appeal. The combination of foiled fishnet and luxurious faux fur added an extra layer of drama to the eye-catching shoot.

It’s intended to portray “a judgement-free day in the Italian sun, showcasing people of all ages, body types, genders and ethnicities feeling confident in their outfits.”

“We want to make people look good and feel good,” Rihanna, whose entrepreneurial ventures helped cement the Grammy-winning singer as a billionaire on 2021, said in a statement. “We want you to feel sexy and have fun doing it.”

Check out the entire Savage x Fenty collection on savagex.com and diesel.com

Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy Pipeline Could Be Operational Soon

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024: A pipeline that will allow Guyana to transport natural gas produced by an Exxon Mobil-led consortium to shore has been connected to two of the project’s floating production platforms, according to Exxon’s Guyana head, Alistair Routledge, as reported on Wednesday.

The “Gas-to-Energy” project, spearheaded by the Guyanese government, is designed to supply a 300-megawatt power plant and a natural gas liquids (NGL) facility with gas from two Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels located in Exxon’s Stabroek block.

The 200-kilometer (124.3-mile) pipeline could be operational by the end of this year, Routledge told local reporters, according to Newsroom Guyana. The project, slated for completion next year, is expected to lower electricity costs and reduce emissions, marking the first use of associated gas produced in the country.

Guyana has invested approximately $400 million in the development of this project, which represents a significant step in the country’s efforts to diversify its energy portfolio and enhance sustainability.

The Exxon consortium, which includes China’s CNOOC and U.S.-based Hess, temporarily paused oil and gas output at the platforms during the third quarter to facilitate the pipeline connection. “Risers have now been successfully connected to the pipeline, and we have conducted several tests and de-watering exercises to ensure everything is functioning correctly,” Routledge added.

Once operational, the “Gas-to-Energy” project is anticipated to provide more reliable and affordable energy to Guyana, fueling industrial growth and reducing the country’s dependence on imported energy sources. This strategic move is set to further bolster Guyana’s growing status as a key energy producer in the region.

Here’s What The World Bank Is Urging The Caribbean To Do

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024: The World Bank has urged Caribbean nations to capitalize on key opportunities and implement structural reforms to drive sustainable economic growth. In its latest report, “Taxing Wealth for Equity and Growth,” released on Oct. 9th, the World Bank emphasized that the region must focus on fiscal reforms, increase investments, and harness the potential of nearshoring to break out of its low-growth cycle.

William Maloney, the World Bank’s Chief Economist for Latin America and the Caribbean, stressed that the Caribbean must improve its fiscal space, reduce tax burdens on productive sectors, and attract investments by enhancing government efficacy. He also emphasized the importance of wealth taxes as a tool to create fiscal space and promote equity.

“The region has made strides in managing inflation and stabilizing its macroeconomic environment, but more is needed to boost growth. This is a critical moment to attract investments, foster innovation, and create more and better jobs,” said Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Economic Growth for Selected Caribbean Nations – 2024-2026

Country2024 Growth (%)2025 Growth (%)2026 Growth (%)Barbados3.9%2.8%2.3%Belize4.3%1.2%0.5%Dominica4.6%4.2%3.2%Grenada3.2%4.7%4.4%Guyana43%12.3%15.7% (2028)Haiti-4.2%0.5%1.5%Jamaica0.8%2.2%1.6%St. Lucia3.4%2.6%2.3%St. Vincent and Grenadines5%3.5%2.9%Suriname2.9%3%3.1%Trinidad and Tobago2.2%2.3%0.9%

Key Recommendations from the World Bank Report

Wealth Taxes and Fiscal Space: The World Bank suggests that Caribbean nations should reconsider how tax systems can generate revenue while stimulating growth. Wealth taxes could be used to address income inequality and create fiscal space for investments.

Nearshoring Opportunities: Despite having competitive wages, the region has not fully capitalized on nearshoring opportunities due to high capital costs, weak education systems, and inadequate infrastructure.

Foreign Direct Investment: LAC has seen a decline in foreign direct investment levels, and the World Bank report notes that addressing infrastructure and social instability issues could help attract more investment.

With U.S. interest rates expected to decrease, the World Bank sees an opportunity for Caribbean economies to seize momentum and accelerate their development. However, this will require a concerted effort in governance and public investment reforms across the region.

Three Caribbean Islands Remain On EU Tax Haven Blacklist

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024: Three Caribbean territories, including one U.S. jurisdiction, remain on the European Union’s latest tax haven blacklist. The islands are Anguilla, Trinidad and Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI).

“The Council regrets that these jurisdictions are not yet cooperative on tax matters and invites them to improve their legal framework to resolve the identified issues,” stated the EU Council, which comprises the 27 member states of the European Union.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister, Colm Imbert, recently urged the Opposition to support legislation aimed at addressing the country’s inclusion on the EU’s blacklist. On September 13, Imbert introduced the Miscellaneous Provisions (Global Forum) Bill 2024 in the House of Representatives. He emphasized the importance of adopting recommendations from the EU Global Facility on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism, which reviewed T&T’s tax transparency legislation in March.

“We risk not getting off the blacklist if we don’t accept the EU’s recommendations,” Imbert cautioned at the time.

Similarly, USVI Governor Albert Bryan has been advocating for the territory’s removal from the list since 2019, arguing that the blacklisting is unjust. Anguilla was added to the list in 2022 due to concerns that the island facilitates offshore structures without substantial economic activity.

On a positive note, Antigua and Barbuda was removed from the blacklist on October 8, following updates to its legal framework. The Global Forum has granted the country a supplementary review, with further evaluations pending.

The EU’s tax haven blacklist was established in 2017 after scandals like the Panama Papers heightened pressure on the EU to combat tax evasion. The list is updated biannually, with the next revision scheduled for February 2025.

What are the listing criteria?

To be considered cooperative for tax purposes, jurisdictions are screened on a number of criteria, established by the Council.

The criteria have been designed to evolve over time, so that they are aligned with international tax good governance standards, developed notably in forums of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) such as the Global Forum on transparency and exchange of information for tax purposes, the forum on harmful tax practices and the inclusive framework on base erosion and profit shifting.

The listing criteria relate to tax transparency, fair taxation and measures against base erosion and profit shifting (‘anti-BEPS measures’).

10 Caribbean Born NFL Players Making An Impact In 2024

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: Caribbean immigrants have long contributed to the fabric of U.S. society, excelling in various fields from business to sports. This impact is evident in the National Football League (NFL), where several Caribbean-born players are making their mark in the 2024 season. Here are 10 standout players from the Caribbean who are making waves on the football field:

1. Rakeem Nuñez-Roches – Belize

Caribbean immigrant and Belize born Rakeem Nunez-Roches #93 of the New York Giants looks on against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on October 06, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Rakeem Nathan Nuñez-Roches, born in Belize, is a formidable defensive end for the New York Giants. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2015 and has since become a key player in the NFL. After stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he won Super Bowl LV, Nuñez-Roches joined the Giants in 2023, bringing his impressive skill set to one of the league’s most competitive divisions.

2. Matthew Peart – Jamaica

Jamaican born Matt Peart #79 of the Denver Broncos stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)

Jamaican-born offensive tackle Matthew Peart has steadily built his career in the NFL. Raised in The Bronx, Peart was drafted by the New York Giants in 2020 and, after overcoming several injuries, signed with the Denver Broncos in 2024. His imposing 6’6″ frame and agility have made him a valuable asset in protecting quarterbacks and opening lanes for running backs.

3. Danielle Hunter – Jamaica

Jamaican born Danielle Hunter #55 of the Houston Texans runs out of the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium on September 29, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Danielle Hunter, born in St. Catherine, Jamaica, is an accomplished defensive end currently playing for the Houston Texans. Known for his explosive speed and athleticism, Hunter was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015 and earned four Pro Bowl selections before signing a lucrative contract with the Texans in 2024. His story is one of perseverance, having moved to the U.S. as a child and worked his way to NFL stardom.

4. Corey Ballentine – Jamaica

Jamaican born Cornerback Corey Ballentine #26 of the Green Bay Packers stands on the field during the coin toss prior to an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, at Lambeau Field on September 15, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)

Born in Jamaica, Corey Ballentine plays as a cornerback for the Green Bay Packers. After being drafted by the New York Giants in 2019, Ballentine’s journey in the NFL has included stops with the Jets, Lions, Falcons, and Cardinals. His resilience has seen him re-sign with the Packers in 2024, where his speed and defensive instincts continue to be valuable assets.

5. Javon Kinlaw – Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago born Javon Kinlaw #54 of the New York Jets celebrates during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium on September 19, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Trinidadian-born defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Now playing for the New York Jets, Kinlaw’s journey from childhood hardship in Washington, D.C., to becoming a dominant force on the field is inspiring. Known for his size and strength, Kinlaw has been a key contributor on the defensive line.

6. Bayron Matos – Dominican Republic

DR born Bayron Matos #79 of the Miami Dolphins stands on the sidelines prior to an NFL preseason football game against the Washington Commanders at Hard Rock Stadium on August 17, 2024 in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)

Bayron Matos, originally a basketball standout from the Dominican Republic, transitioned to football through the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program. Signed by the Miami Dolphins, Matos’ 6’7″ frame and athleticism have quickly turned heads, making him one of the most exciting new talents to watch in 2024.

7. N’Keal Harry – St. Vincent and the Grenadines

SVG N’Keal Harry #13 of the Minnesota Vikings in action against the Philadelphia Eagles during the preseason game at Lincoln Financial Field on August 24, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Vikings defeated the Eagles 26-3. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

Vincentian-born wide receiver-turned-tight end N’Keal Harry currently plays for the Minnesota Vikings. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 2019, Harry’s size and skill have made him a versatile player. He transitioned to tight end in 2024, hoping to capitalize on his blocking ability and improve his impact in the NFL.

8. Mike Sainristil – Haiti

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, a cornerback for the Washington Commanders, has been one of the standout rookies of 2024. Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Sainristil immigrated to the U.S. as a child and went on to have a stellar college career at the University of Michigan, where he helped lead his team to a national championship in 2023. Drafted in the second round, he’s already making waves in the NFL with his defensive prowess.

9. Junior Colson – Haiti

COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 13: 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, a linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, was born in Mirebalais, Haiti, before being adopted and raised in Tennessee. Known for his tenacity and leadership on the field, Colson was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft after a stellar career at Michigan, where he was a key figure in their national championship team.

10. Lewis Cine – Haiti

MIAMI GARDENS, FL – SEPTEMBER 12: 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, a safety for the Buffalo Bills, is another Haitian-born player making his mark in the NFL. After being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, Cine’s career was disrupted by a severe leg injury. However, his determination has seen him bounce back, signing with the Bills in 2024 and working his way back onto the field with the goal of becoming a top safety in the league.

These Caribbean-born athletes embody the resilience and determination that characterize the region’s rich cultural history. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and hard work—proving that no matter where you come from, you can achieve greatness.

Canada Issues Travel Warnings For Five Caribbean Countries

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: The Canadian government has updated its travel advisories, urging nationals to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting several Caribbean nations due largely to rising concerns about crime and safety. The advisory, updated on Monday, applies to Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic as well as Cuba.

Jamaica

As one of the region’s top tourist destinations, Jamaica faces a particular spotlight in the advisory. Canada warns that “violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, despite the presence of police to counter criminal activity.” The advisory emphasizes that crimes tend to concentrate in what local authorities call “traditional hot spots” but can occur anywhere and at any time. Tourists are particularly vulnerable to theft and robbery, and there is an ongoing risk of becoming caught in gang-related crossfire, especially in urban areas.

Trinidad and Tobago

For Trinidad and Tobago, Canada is advising its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to certain areas due to the high levels of violence and gang activity. These areas include Beetham Estate Gardens, Cocorite, Downtown Port of Spain, Laventille, and Sea Lots. The advisory notes that gang violence and armed confrontations are common in these regions, posing a significant threat to both locals and visitors.

Guyana

Canadian nationals are being warned to exercise increased caution while visiting Guyana due to prevalent violent crime. The advisory highlights that criminal activity, often linked to illegal drug trafficking, includes homicides, assaults, armed robberies, and carjackings. Tourists are particularly vulnerable, with cases of foreigners being robbed at gunpoint, especially after withdrawing money from banks or shopping areas. To minimize risk, travelers are advised to avoid carrying large amounts of cash and refrain from walking alone after dark, especially in certain Georgetown neighborhoods like Agricola, Buxton, and Stabroek Market.

Dominican Republic

Punta Cana from the air, Dominican Republic.

While the Dominican Republic remains a popular destination, Canadian authorities caution travelers about rising crime levels, particularly in major cities. The advisory indicates that most incidents affecting tourists are opportunistic crimes such as theft and robbery, though violent crime is also a concern. Visitors are urged to be vigilant and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

Cuba

Canada’s advisory for Cuba differs slightly, focusing on shortages of basic necessities such as food, medicine, and fuel. While crime is not highlighted as a major concern, the advisory emphasizes the challenges travelers may face due to limited access to essential supplies.

Haiti

Canada continues to strongly advise against all travel to Haiti, where severe political instability and widespread gang violence have made the situation increasingly dangerous for foreign visitors.

The Canadian government urges all travelers to stay informed, remain vigilant, and take necessary precautions when visiting these Caribbean nations.