Miss Jamaica’s Dreams Now Hang In The Balance After Terrifying Fall At Miss Universe 2025

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By NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Nov. 19, 2025: Miss Jamaica’s Miss Universe dreams now hang in the balance after contestant Dr. Gabrielle Henry suffered a shocking and frightening fall straight off the stage during the Miss Universe 2025 preliminary competition in Thailand.

Miss Jamaica Universe fell off the stage at the pageant.

Henry was confidently gliding across the runway in a shimmering evening gown on Wednesday night, Thai time, when she suddenly stepped off the front edge of the stage and vanished from view. The impact was so severe that viewers watching the livestream gasped in horror, with many saying they felt the shock through their screens.

Within seconds, what appeared to be medical staff rushed toward her. Henry was later seen being taken away on a stretcher. As of now, the Miss Universe Organization has not released an official update on her condition, leaving fans across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean anxiously awaiting news.

Rumors Swirl: Was There A Hole In The Stage?

Henry’s fall has ignited intense speculation online, with many questioning whether an unseen hole or platform gap caused the accident. Contestants typically rehearse every step of their walks, making such a sudden misstep highly unusual.

Her facial expression moments before the plunge suggested she encountered something unexpected, fueling the speculation. Miss Great Britain also fell earlier during the National Costume segment, though she quickly recovered and continued.

FLASHBACK – Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry 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)

A High-Pressure Miss Universe Competition Already Marked by Controversy

The 2025 Miss Universe pageant, held in Thailand, was already under intense scrutiny even before the accidents. This edition marks the historic debuts of Palestine, Saudi Arabia, and Mozambique, alongside the return of several nations — adding to the global excitement and pressure.

Contestants have been navigating a packed schedule of rehearsals, interviews, photoshoots, cultural activities, and the crucial preliminary gala — the very event where Henry fell. Prelims play a major role in shaping who becomes a frontrunner for the crown among the 120+ delegates.

Yet the pageant has also been overshadowed by controversy. Earlier this month, newly crowned Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig abruptly walked out of a live-streamed sashing ceremony after witnessing a senior official harshly reprimand Miss Mexico, Melissa Flores Bosch. The tense confrontation went viral, with fans calling it “chaotic,” “unprofessional,” and “humiliating.”

The Miss Universe Organization later issued a statement reaffirming that all events would continue as planned, emphasizing its commitment to diversity, empowerment, and inclusion.

A Heartbreaking Setback for Miss Jamaica

For Dr. Henry — who was steadily building momentum and capturing viewer attention — the timing of the fall is devastating. The preliminary show is where contestants begin to separate themselves from the pack and cement their place as semifinal contenders.

Now, instead of celebrating a strong performance, fans are praying for her health and hoping her Miss Universe journey can somehow continue.

Across Jamaica and the diaspora, messages of support have poured in — all urging Henry to recover quickly and reminding her that she has already made her country proud.

See the fall below.

ABOUT MISS JAMAICA UNIVERSE

Dr. Gabrielle Henry – Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 – is an ophthalmologist and passionate advocate for the visually impaired. She was crowned in August 2025 and is representing Jamaica at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.

She founded the See Me Foundation, dedicated to expanding educational and economic opportunities for people with reduced vision. Her inspiration comes from her mother and from witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by visually impaired patients during her medical training.

Henry won several sectional awards at Miss Universe Jamaica 2025, including Best Personality, Best Essence of Style, and the Media Challenge Award.

Her guiding belief: “Beauty is not just in what can be seen but what is felt when people uplift one another.”

Why Is Nicki Minaj Singing Donald Trump’s Praises?

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By ET Editor

News Americas, NY, NY, Tues. Nov. 17, 2025: Trinidad and Tobago–born rapper Nicki Minaj shocked many more today, publicly praising President Donald Trump and thanking him from the podium of the United Nations Headquarters. Her appearance — the first time a female rapper has addressed the UN — instantly raised eyebrows across the Caribbean, the African Diaspora and the immigrant and music world.

Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj speaks during the panel discussion “Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria” at the US Mission to the United Nations in New York City, on November 18, 2025. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

But Minaj’s sudden embrace of Trump is rooted in one specific issue: what she sees as the “persecution” of Christians in Nigeria.

The megastar spoke softly but firmly during a four-minute address ahead of a panel titled “Combating Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria.” She thanked Trump “for prioritizing this issue,” claiming Christians in Nigeria are being killed “simply because of how they pray.”

Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj speaks during the panel discussion “Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria” at the US Mission to the United Nations in New York City, on November 18, 2025. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

Her comments echoed Trump’s own narrative. And that is precisely where the controversy lies.

A Coordinated Appearance – Not an Organic One

According to reporting by TIME, Minaj’s participation was arranged by Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz. Before she took the podium, UN Ambassador Mike Waltz thanked her for being willing to “demand action” on behalf of Christians.

This follows a recent pattern: Minaj has repeatedly amplified Trump’s messaging online, including:

• reposting a Truth Social message claiming Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria
• sharing a White House pro-MAGA video soundtracked by her own hit “Beez In the Trap”
• promoting a xenophobic and anti-trans video praising Trump’s achievements — a move that cost her more than 100,000 followers

In each instance, Minaj publicly aligned herself with Trump’s framing of Nigeria’s violence as a one-sided religious war.

But Is Trump’s Claim True?

Research indicates otherwise.

Independent data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, (ACLED) and the Council on Foreign Relations, shows violence in Nigeria is complex — driven by overlapping factors including:

• extremist activity
• criminal banditry
• farmer–herder land disputes
• economic insecurity
• political instability

Not religion alone.

Experts interviewed by ABC, CNN, and Al-Jazeera agree: The violence is indiscriminate and affects both Christians and Muslims.

Nigerian officials have repeatedly pushed back on the “Christians only” framing. Gimba Kakanda, Senior Special Assistant to the Nigerian President, wrote in Al-Jazeera that conflicts often “unfold along regional or community lines, not strictly religious ones.”

Human rights lawyer Bulama Bukarti added that presenting the crisis as Christian persecution alone “distorts reality and inflames tensions.”

Why Minaj Aligns With Trump — The Real Answer

Based on the timeline, three factors explain her sudden praise:

1. She has increasingly embraced faith-based rhetoric.

Minaj has recently emphasized Christianity as central to her identity and public messaging. Trump’s narrative directly appeals to that shift.

2. Trump is elevating celebrity voices who amplify his foreign-policy messaging.

Her UN appearance was facilitated by Trump’s political team — not by the UN itself. This was a platform engineered to validate his claim.

3. Minaj may be stepping into political influence — intentionally or unknowingly.

By repeating Trump’s talking points, she instantly became a megaphone for his Nigeria narrative — even though the data behind it is contested.

Minaj Says She’s “Not Taking Sides” — But Her Speech Chose One

Late in her speech, she emphasized she was “not taking sides politically.” But thanking Trump first — and exclusively — contradicted that claim. Her remarks came after Trump threatened to “invade Nigeria guns-a-blazing” to stop supposed “Islamic extremists,” despite no evidence of a religion-only genocide.

What This Means Going Forward

Nicki Minaj — a Caribbean-born global superstar with massive influence — has now waded into one of Africa’s most misunderstood crises.
Her endorsement gives Trump’s Nigeria narrative celebrity amplification, even as researchers and Nigerian leaders warn that such framing can worsen division on the ground.

Whether Minaj intended to or not, she has become part of a geopolitical messaging war — one where data and politics often clash.

For now, the answer to the question: “Why is Nicki Minaj singing Trump’s praises?” is clear:

Because she has embraced his narrative on Nigeria – a narrative her team has not independently vetted, but which aligns with Trump’s strategy, messaging and political goals.

Watch The Speech Here

Will The Trump Administration Allow Temporary Protected Status For Jamaicans?

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By NAN Staffwriter

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Nov. 18, 2025: New York Attorney General Letitia James is urging the Trump administration to grant Temporary Protected Status, (TPS), to Jamaicans following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck western Jamaica on October 28 and killed at least 45 people.

In a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, (DHS), James called for an immediate TPS designation to ensure Jamaicans already in the U.S. can safely live and work here while their homeland begins the long recovery.

A man walks with a shovel in hand over rubble on Main Street in Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica on October 29, 2025. (Photo by RICARDO MAKYN/AFP via Getty Images)

“Hurricane Melissa has caused unimaginable damage… displacing tens of thousands of people and destroying vital infrastructure,” James said. “Forcing Jamaicans in the United States to return home to a devastated island would be dangerous and cruel. Situations like this are exactly what TPS was intended for.”

Melissa was the most intense storm to ever hit Jamaica, wiping out homes, schools, roads, businesses, and essential services. An estimated 30,000 households have been displaced, and many communities remain without electricity, clean water, or medical care. Early damage estimates exceed US$2 billion.

James noted that the U.S. has a long humanitarian precedent of granting TPS after major natural disasters. Honduras and Nicaragua received TPS after Hurricane Mitch in 1999. Haiti received TPS after the 2010 earthquake, and Nepal after its 2015 quake.

Elected officials representing New York’s Caribbean communities strongly backed the call.

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, who recently led 43 members of Congress in a letter to DHS urging TPS for Jamaica, said the devastation demands a swift humanitarian response.

“Stopping the forceful expulsion of Jamaican nationals into dangerous, unsafe conditions… is a moral and diplomatic obligation,” Clarke said. “These are the precise moments for which Congress established TPS.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., the son of a Jamaican immigrant, said the scenes coming out of Jamaica “break my heart.”

“The Trump administration must immediately extend TPS to Jamaicans as they begin the arduous, painstaking work of rebuilding their lives,” Richards said.

Assemblymembers Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, Brian Cunningham, and Alicia Hyndman also voiced support, noting the deep ties between Jamaica and New York and the unsafe conditions faced by returning nationals.

New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers said extending TPS is both a humanitarian duty and a reflection of America’s long-standing relationship with Jamaica.

“The devastation left behind by Hurricane Melissa is unimaginable,” she said. “Extending TPS is not only the right thing to do — it is a critical measure that honors our city’s deep ties to Jamaica.”

For now, the decision rests with the Trump administration. The question lingers: Will they act? The administration has so far ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 17 countries, front and center among them: Haiti, whose TPS will expire in February 3, 2026, short of the success of the current lawsuit against the termination. Other nations who have lost, or who risk losing, TPS in 2025, include Sudan, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, and Afghanistan.

ABOUT TPS

The Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the country’s nationals from returning safely, or in certain circumstances, where the country is unable to handle the return of its nationals adequately. USCIS may grant TPS to eligible nationals of certain countries (or parts of countries), who are already in the United States. Eligible individuals without nationality who last resided in the designated country may also be granted TPS.

The Secretary may designate a country for TPS due to the following temporary conditions in the country:

Ongoing armed conflict (such as civil war)

An environmental disaster (such as earthquake or hurricane), or an epidemic

Other extraordinary and temporary conditions

During a designated period, individuals who are TPS beneficiaries or who are found preliminarily eligible for TPS upon initial review of their cases (prima facie eligible):

Are not removable from the United States

Can obtain an employment authorization document (EAD)

May be granted travel authorization

Once granted TPS, an individual also cannot be detained by DHS on the basis of his or her immigration status in the United States.

TPS is a temporary benefit that does not lead to lawful permanent resident status or give any other immigration status. However, registration for TPS does not prevent you from:

Applying for nonimmigrant status

Filing for adjustment of status based on an immigrant petition

Applying for any other immigration benefit or protection for which you may be eligible

New Caribbean Music On This New Music Friday

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 14, 2025: It’s New Music Friday, and the Caribbean is serving fresh heat across dancehall, soca, reggae, and fusion. From Shaggy’s star-powered collaboration with Akon and Aidonia to a new riddim packed with carnival heavy-hitters, here are the top Caribbean tracks you need on your playlist this week.

Yung Bredda – “Inch By Inch”

Yung Bredda is back with Inch By Inch

Trinidadian sensation Yung Bredda returns with another viral-ready soca banger, “Inch By Inch.” Produced by hitmaker Jason “Shaft” Bishop and Scott Galt for Dream Team Productions, the track blends infectious melodies with clean, polished production.

Stream: https://lnkfi.re/yung_bredda-inch_by_inch/
Watch video

Shaggy ft. Akon & Aidonia – “Boom Body”

Dancehall icon Shaggy is back with a massive collaboration linking Akon and Aidonia. “Boom Body,” dropping today via VP Records and Ranch Entertainment, is a high-energy fusion of island swagger and global pop flavor—co-produced by Shaggy and Costi Ionita. A certified club and carnival hit in the making.

LISTEN NOW

Erphaan Alves – “Soca For Life”

Trinidad’s melodic master Erphaan Alves delivers pure vibes on “Soca For Life,” produced by Lunatix Productions. It’s upbeat, feel-good, and ready for the 2026 carnival road.

Stream: https://codegroupmusic.ffm.to/erphaan-alves-soca-for-life

Fay-Ann Lyons & GusBus – “Carnival Break-Up”

Soca powerhouse Fay-Ann Lyons teams up with GusBus on “Carnival Break-Up,” a fresh 2026 release exploring a relationship gone sour during the festival season.

Stream: https://smmlinkup.com/carnivalbreakup
Audio HERE

Protoje x Mortimer x Romain Virgo x Alaine – “Feel It (Deluxe)”

Reggae star Protoje elevates his smooth single “Feel It” with a deluxe EP featuring Caribbean vocals from Mortimer, Romain Virgo, and Alaine. With production from The Indiggnation and Winta James, the project blends romance, roots reggae, and lush instrumentation.

Stream: https://ineffable.to/feelitdeluxe

Speaker Boxx Riddim – XplicitMevon

A new riddim is here – and it’s loaded.

Tracklist:
1⃣ Patrice Roberts & Nailah Blackman – Bad Gyal
2⃣ Rome & Nessa Preppy – Wassi
3⃣ Lyrikal – Road Ting
4⃣ Xplicitmevon – Speaker Boxx Riddim Instrumental

Watch “Bad Gyal”

Stream riddim: https://lnkfi.re/Speaker_Boxx_Riddim/

Rane Blackman – “Carnival Baby”

Barbadian soca artist Rane Blackman drops her 2026 anthem “Carnival Baby.” Produced by BadJohn Republic, the track features live guitar, sweet harmonies, and that signature Crop Over flair.

Stream: https://foxfuse.ffm.to/rane-blackman-carnival-baby
Audio HERE

Imani Ray – “Big Truck” (Funday Riddim)

USVI native Imani Ray unleashes big energy with “Big Truck,” produced by Infamous and backed by high-quality visuals from JD Imaging. It’s bold, bass-heavy, and perfect for fete season.

Stream: https://foxfuse.ffm.to/imani-ray-big-truck and check out the video HERE

Caribbean artists continue to push boundaries and shape global sound. Add these new releases to your playlist and stay locked in for next week’s drops.

Toronto Concert To Raise Funds For Hurricane Melissa Relief With Special Guests Skip Marley & Soul-Rebel Marley

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News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Thurs. Nov. 13, 2025: Toronto will come alive with powerful music and even more powerful purpose this Friday as fast-rising Canadian-Jamaican artist King Cruff brings his “Bantu Knot Butu” Tour to Adelaide Hall. All ticket proceeds from the Toronto Concert will be donated to Hurricane Melissa relief efforts in partnership with The Bob Marley Foundation and The Rita Marley Foundation.

The Toronto stop on November 14th will feature a rare and star-studded Marley family moment, with Skip Marley and Soul-Rebel Marley joining King Cruff on stage as special guests. Jamaican-Canadian reggae songstress Naomi Cowan will also perform, ensuring an unforgettable night of talent rooted in Caribbean culture and global impact.

KING CRUFF

A Concert With A Mission

King Cruff, whose real name is Solomon Marley-Spence, says the outpouring of support since announcing the partnership with his grandparents’ foundations has been overwhelming.

“Jamaica has had such a massive influence not just on me, but on culture worldwide. It’s only right that we pay it forward any way we can,” Cruff shared.

The Bob and Rita Marley Foundation teams are already on the ground in Jamaica, providing food, clean water, hygiene kits, and emergency supplies to communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. Funds raised from the Toronto show will directly support these ongoing relief efforts through the official Bob and Rita Marley Foundation Relief Fund.

King Cruff Drops New Single “6 MILLY”

The charity concert comes just as King Cruff releases his newest single “6 MILLY,” produced by The Boy Kam (Drake, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj). The track blends Toronto’s dancehall influence with the artist’s signature poetic grit.

“I wanted to take a stab at proper yearning music while keeping the badman energy,” Cruff explained. “It’s ‘Shotta In Love’ vibes.”

The single follows his summer hit “BUNCH,” recently highlighted by Billboard in its Reggae/Dancehall Fresh Picks. After a breakout year – including a JUNO nomination, festival stages, and touring with Stephen and Damian Marley – King Cruff is now stepping into his first-ever headlining tour.

Bantu Knot Butu Tour Dates

Nov. 14 – Toronto, ON – Adelaide Hall

Nov. 28 – Québec City, QC – District Saint-Joseph

Fans can join King Cruff’s mailing list for concert updates, new music, and exclusive merch drops.

A Night Of Music, Unity & One Love In Action

With the Marley family lending their voices and global supporters rallying behind Jamaica, Friday’s Toronto concert promises to be a celebration of culture, community, and collective healing.

As King Cruff says, this moment is about more than music: “United by #OneLoveInAction, we’re standing strong with the people of Jamaica.”

RELATED: YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: “I Love Jamaica” Global Telethon And Concert Series To Raise Funds For Hurricane Melissa Recovery

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

Reggae Icon Maxi Priest Joins Marley Foundation & Intercept Music To Boost Jamaica’s Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts

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News Americas, New York, Thurs. Nov. 13, 2025: Reggae fusion superstar Maxi Priest has stepped forward in a major way to support Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, announcing a partnership with Intercept Music and The Bob and Rita Marley Foundation Relief Fund to mobilize urgent aid for affected communities.

Singer Maxi Priest is among those helping raise funds for Jamaicans devastated by Hurricane Melissa.

The initiative comes just as Maxi Priest celebrates the release of his comeback single, “Feel So Alive” featuring dancehall megastar Sean Paul – and now he’s channeling that energy into helping his homeland rebuild.

Supporting Sean Paul’s Matching Challenge

Sean Paul has pledged to match every dollar donated to his foundation – up to US$100,000 – in partnership with Food For The Poor Jamaica. Maxi Priest and Intercept Music have now joined that effort, helping expand fundraising through a dedicated GoFundMe campaign via the Marley Foundation.

Intercept Music has made its own financial contribution, while Maxi Priest recorded a heartfelt video appeal urging global fans to unite for Jamaica’s recovery.

“Jamaica has always gifted the world music – love, unity, and hope,” Maxi said. “But right now, our island needs us. Hurricane Melissa has left so many struggling. Music and unity can rebuild. Let’s make Jamaica ‘Feel So Alive’ again.”

See it below.

Corporate, Creative & Diaspora Support Grows

Maxi Priest’s label distributor Intercept Music praised the collaboration. “Jamaica has given the world so much through music, food, and culture,” said Intercept founder Ralph Tashjian. “Joining Maxi Priest, Sean Paul, and the Marley Foundation to support recovery is an honor.”

Beyond the GoFundMe partnership, Maxi Priest has been actively mobilizing relief across multiple fronts:

Partnered with Tropical Sun (UK) to send essential goods – including canned foods and rice – directly to Jamaica.

Co-led a BritCham Guyana fundraising auction with chairman Faizal Khan at Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge, raising over US$27,000.

Chartered a plane loaded with relief supplies, in collaboration with other charities.

Encouraged global fans and diaspora communities to join the Marley Foundation’s official relief campaign.

A Call to Action

Maxi Priest is urging fans worldwide – and especially lovers of reggae – to contribute to the official relief fund.

Donate to The Bob and Rita Marley Foundation Relief Fund: https://gofund.me/4c619748f

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

Guyana Oil Boom: ExxonMobil Hits 900,000-Barrel Milestone As Production Race Accelerates

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BY NAN BUSINESS EDITOR

News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Weds. Nov. 12, 2025: Guyana’s oil juggernaut, ExxonMobil, has hit another major milestone – 900,000 barrels of oil per day – solidifying the South American nation’s position as one of the fastest-growing petroleum producers in the world.

The announcement from ExxonMobil Guyana and its Stabroek block partners – Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Ltd. – marks a symbolic moment just six years after Guyana’s first commercial oil production began.

Yellowtail Boosts Output

The surge comes on the heels of the Yellowtail project’s successful ramp-up to its designed capacity of 250,000 barrels per day, joining the already robust operations at Liza Phase 1, Liza Phase 2, and Payara.

Together, the four projects have propelled Guyana to output levels that rival OPEC producers such as Ecuador and surpass every other Caribbean nation combined.

“Guyana’s story is one of continuous achievements,” said ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge. “Through close collaboration with the Government of Guyana, our co-venturers, suppliers, contractors, and employees, we are building a world-class energy sector that delivers significant value for the people of Guyana.”

A $60 Billion Energy Bet

The Stabroek block consortium has now committed more than US$60 billion in development investments — a staggering sum that underscores long-term confidence in Guyana’s offshore reserves.

Six additional government-approved projects are in the pipeline, including Uaru and Whiptail, both expected to deliver 250,000 barrels per day each by 2026 and 2027. The Hammerhead project will follow in 2029 with another 150,000 barrels per day, while Longtail – now under regulatory review – could push Guyana’s total capacity to 1.7 million barrels per day across eight developments.

Guyana’s Global Moment

This exponential growth is transforming Guyana’s economy and geopolitical relevance. Once one of the poorest countries in the hemisphere, it now boasts one of the world’s highest GDP growth rates and has become a central player in global energy markets.

But as production scales, so do expectations – from managing environmental risks and fiscal transparency to ensuring oil wealth benefits the broader population.

Still, ExxonMobil’s rapid progress signals an undeniable reality: Guyana’s oil era is no longer an emerging story – it’s a global force in motion.

“I Love Jamaica” Global Telethon And Concert Series To Raise Funds For Hurricane Melissa Recovery

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By NAN Entertainment News

News Americas, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Weds. Nov. 12, 2025: Jamaica’s creative and sporting communities are joining forces in a powerful show of unity and compassion under the banner of the “I Love Jamaica” Telethon and Concert Series – a national and global fundraising campaign to support recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, (MCGES), and spearheaded by Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange, the initiative will combine the strength of Jamaica’s music, sports, and diaspora communities to help rebuild homes, schools, and livelihoods across the hardest-hit parishes in western Jamaica.

The Telethon: Music, Hope & Giving

The “I Love Jamaica Telethon” in Kingston, Jamaica, presented by Red Stripe and powered by Digicel, will air live on Sunday, November 23, from 1 to 7 p.m. The six-hour televised event will be broadcast on TVJ and CVM TV, and streamed worldwide on multiple digital platforms.

The telethon will feature an all-star line-up including Chris Martin, Masicka, Alaine, Tarrus Riley, and others, alongside appearances by Jamaica’s sporting icons Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Asafa Powell, who will join the phone lines to take calls and pledges live on air.

“The need is great, and we must answer the call to show care, compassion, and love,” Minister Grange said. “We’re leveraging the power of our creative and sports sectors to bring relief to our brothers and sisters, particularly in the western parishes.”

Donations can be made through the official government portal supportjamaica.gov.jm, with oversight provided by ODPEM and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to ensure transparency and accountability.

Global Concerts Unite Jamaica And The Diaspora

British singer Ali Campbell, seen here with the reggae group UB40 during a concert of The Hits Tour at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on April 2, 2024, will perform at the UK Jamaica fundraiser on Nov. 13, 2025. (Photo by MARCEL KRIJGSMAN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)

Beyond the telethon, the I Love Jamaica Concert Series will take the message of “One Love” worldwide, with major shows scheduled in London, New York, Miami/Miramar, and other key diaspora cities.

The series kicks off November 13 at KOKO Camden, London, hosted by Kane Brown and featuring an impressive lineup including Boy George, Ali Campbell (UB40), David Rodigan, Bitty McLean, Emeli Sandé, Carroll Thompson, General Levy, Robbo Ranx, Becca D, and Tippa Irie. A mega show at London’s O2 Arena is also confirmed for December 21, headlined by UB40 and Culture Club.

In the U.S., concerts are set for Miami (December 7th) and New York (December 12th at UBS Arena), produced by Bobby Clarke of Irie Jam, Jammins Entertainment, and Jamaica Strong NY Inc. The New York staging will feature Shaggy as headliner, supported by a powerhouse team including Roger Lewis (Inner Circle), Sharon Burke, and RoadBlock Radio.

Additional concerts are being explored for Toronto, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, and even Serbia, reflecting the global outpouring of love for Jamaica’s rebuilding mission.

“Jamaica’s culture has always been a source of strength, pride, and global influence,” said Minister Grange. “In times of crisis, it becomes a unifying force. This concert reminds us that our people and friends around the world can come together to rebuild lives and restore hope.”

Power of Music, Spirit of Resilience

During last week’s media launch, Christopher Martin, one of the headlining artists, spoke emotionally about the initiative.

“I’ve seen the devastation firsthand. Jamaicans don’t abandon each other — we rise together. Hurricane Melissa took a lot from us, but it did not take our spirit,” he said.

Minister Grange echoed that sentiment, challenging critics who dismissed the concert as trivial. “Anyone who sees the music and our entertainers doing something at this time as frivolous doesn’t understand the power of our music. Our music heals, uplifts, and unites.”

The goal is to raise at least US$1 million across the telethon and concert series – a target Grange believes is achievable given Jamaica’s history of solidarity.

“The last time we did a telethon, we raised $60 million in just 10 days,” she noted. “We can do it again.”

More Ways To Give

The Ministry is also in discussions with the Jamaica Football Federation to organize international friendly matches featuring the Reggae Boyz in the U.S. and U.K. for hurricane relief. Additionally, Damian Marley and Ghetto Youths International are staging a separate series of U.S.-based charity events, while the Caribbean Premier League, (CPL), and Chris Gayle are planning fundraising collaborations.

Minister Grange has also encouraged citizens to register on the National Registry of Volunteers to assist with on-the-ground recovery and counseling support being led by the Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches under Bishop Herro Blair.

“Hurricane Melissa may have shaken us, but it did not break us,” Grange said. “We will rebuild and emerge even stronger. Let’s show the world what ‘One Love’ truly means.”

Guyana Signs Major Offshore Oil Deal With QatarEnergy, TotalEnergies and PETRONAS

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News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Weds. Nov. 12, 2025: The Government of Guyana has inked a new Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for shallow-water Block S4 offshore Guyana with a consortium led by global energy giants QatarEnergy, TotalEnergies, and PETRONAS.

The deal, signed through the Ministry of Natural Resources, marks another milestone in Guyana’s growing oil and gas industry. Under the agreement, TotalEnergies will serve as the operator with a 40% stake, while QatarEnergy and PETRONAS will hold 35% and 25% respectively.

The Government of Guyana has inked a new Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for shallow-water Block S4 offshore Guyana with a consortium led by global energy giants QatarEnergy, TotalEnergies, and PETRONAS.

Awarded under Guyana’s first-ever licensing round in 2022, the PSA includes a US$15 million signing bonus and underscores continued investor confidence in the country’s hydrocarbon sector.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, hailed the signing as a signal of Guyana’s global appeal. “We are pleased to welcome QatarEnergy, TotalEnergies and PETRONAS as new partners in Guyana’s petroleum sector,” Bharrat said. “This investment demonstrates continued international confidence in Guyana’s transparent and robust licensing framework, and it reflects our government’s commitment to ensuring that the development of our natural resources is done sustainably and for the benefit of all Guyanese.”

Block S4 covers roughly 1,788 square kilometers, located between 50 and 100 kilometers off Guyana’s coast, in water depths ranging from 30 to 100 meters. The Ministry said exploration will adhere to both national regulatory standards and international best practices for environmental protection.

TotalEnergies’ Vice President of Exploration for the Americas, Daniel Larrañaga, expressed eagerness to begin operations, saying:

“We want to go fast. We want to explore this basin as soon as we can.”

The Ministry of Natural Resources reaffirmed the government’s commitment to environmental stewardship, transparency, and maximizing local participation in all petroleum activities.

With this latest agreement, Guyana continues to solidify its status as one of the world’s fastest-emerging energy producers—balancing rapid sector growth with a pledge to responsible development and national benefit.

Jamaican Artists Pitch In To Help Hurricane Melissa Victims

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By NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Nov. 11, 2025: In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact across Jamaica – leaving at least 32 dead and an estimated US$7 billion in damages – some of the biggest Jamaican artists are stepping up to help.

From international hitmakers to reggae icons, members of Jamaica’s music fraternity have launched coordinated efforts to raise funds and deliver essential supplies to hard-hit communities.

Shaggy Leads Global Relief Effort

Grammy-winning entertainer Shaggy has activated his Make a Difference Foundation to collect and ship aid to Jamaica in partnership with Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) and 25 United Disaster Relief. Supplies can be dropped off or sent through GEM’s South Florida warehouses, where logistics teams are coordinating shipments directly to affected parishes.

Jamaican reggae star Shaggy on the scene in Blackriver, Jamaica, handing out supplies after Hurricane Melissa devasted the area. (Jamaica gleaner image)

“Now is the time for us all to pull together for Jamaica,” Shaggy said in a post. “Every item counts. Let’s rebuild stronger.”

Sean Paul Matches Donations for Recovery

Meanwhile, Sean Paul and his Sean Paul Foundation have joined forces with Food For The Poor Jamaica to raise US$100,000 toward recovery efforts. The initiative has already surpassed US$70,000, with Sean Paul pledging to match up to US$50,000 in donations personally.

Sean Paul packs supplies at Food for the Poor.

“Jamaica needs us right now,” the dancehall superstar said in a social media appeal. “Every dollar goes directly to families and communities trying to rebuild their lives.”

Buju Banton Supports Humanitarian Flights

Reggae legend Buju Banton has teamed up with the nonprofit Experience Aviation to back humanitarian flights piloted by Captain Barrington Irving. The airlift aims to deliver over 100,000 pounds of recovery supplies, including medical equipment, generators, food, and clean water to remote areas cut off by flooding and landslides.

“This is about action, not talk,” Buju said. “Captain Irving and his team are doing extraordinary work, and we’re proud to support that mission.”

Vybz Kartel Hurricane Relief

Dancehall star Vybz Kartel, through his Adidja Palmer Foundation, visited the Westhaven Children’s Home in Copse, Hanover, last week – continuing his foundation’s humanitarian work in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

The powerful Category 5 storm left widespread devastation across western Jamaica, severely damaging the children’s home, which cares for physically and mentally disabled children.

“When we went to the children’s home, that was a sad occasion for me. Heart-wrenching to say the least,” Kartel told The Sunday Gleaner during an interview at the Montego Bay Convention Centre. “The roof was gone, and the kids were basically rammed into one room. A room for like 20 kids now holds like 40 or 50. That was very touching for me.” Kartel said the focus of his foundation’s outreach is children and the elderly — two of the most vulnerable groups in disaster recovery.

“It’s not just one institution we plan to adopt,” he explained. “We plan to also adopt a basic school. We chose this specific children’s home because the kids are disabled — physically, mentally, and in some cases both. Dem need extra help, extra attention, extra resources.”
Rebuilding Hope After Hurricane Melissa The Westhaven Children’s Home, perched on a hill overlooking Copse, still bears the visible scars of Hurricane Melissa – damaged roofs, uprooted trees, cracked walls, and limited supplies. Yet, amid the wreckage, there was laughter.
Children smiled widely as they met Kartel, some holding his hands and proudly showing off their artwork. One ward even performed a short dance to lift spirits during the visit.

Kartel emphasized that this was not a one-time gesture but part of a long-term relief and development plan under the Adidja Palmer Foundation.

“We’re in it for the long run. We nuh in it just for hurricane relief,” he said. “This recovery will take years — at least a decade — and it will need unity from all sections of society, not just entertainers but everybody.” The Adidja Palmer Foundation, launched by Kartel to support youth empowerment and community welfare, has been expanding its scope to include disaster response and education. The artist says his goal is to use his influence to mobilize sustained assistance for vulnerable communities across Jamaica.

As recovery efforts continue, the foundation plans to provide rebuilding materials, educational supplies, and long-term institutional support for the children’s home and other affected schools in the region.

“The work never stops,” Kartel said. “Mi just a start give back in a bigger way – cause di people dem need we right now.”

Local Musicians Take Action On The Ground

On the island, reggae crooner Beres Hammond has opened his Harmony House headquarters, located at 67 Dumbarton Avenue, Kingston 10, as a local donation drop-off point. The center is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 12 to 6 p.m., and is currently accepting non-perishable food, bottled water, hygiene products, and clothing.

Dancehall stars Spice and Christopher Martin have also mobilized through their respective charities – the Grace Hamilton Foundation and the Christopher Martin Foundation – both of which have completed rounds of care-package distribution to displaced families in St. Elizabeth and St. James.

“We cyah watch our people suffer and do nothing,” Spice said. “Every hand, every heart, every little bit counts.”

How To Help

Fans and diaspora supporters can contribute directly to these ongoing efforts through the official donation pages:

Shaggy’s Make A Difference Foundation (partnered with GEM and 25 United)

Sean Paul Foundation + Food For The Poor Jamaica

Experience Aviation Hurricane Missions

Local drop-offs at Beres Hammond’s Harmony House HQ, Kingston 10

As relief flights continue and artists mobilize resources, Jamaica’s creative community is once again proving that its rhythm of resilience extends far beyond the stage.