Some Of Dancehall’s Richest Entertainers Today

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Oct. 22, 2024:  There’s no denying that dancehall music has firmly established itself in the mainstream music scene. Its influence captivates many, with some eager to collaborate with its artists, while others embrace its lifestyle, culture, and vernacular. Regardless of your perspective, one thing is clear: dancehall has propelled some of Jamaica’s top artists to significant wealth. Here are some of the richest dancehall artists we’ve discovered in 2024, and includes the net worth of stars like Sean Paul, spice & Mavado.

Sean Paul

Sean Paul performs during his “Scorcha” album celebration at The Novo on May 27, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tida Svy/Getty Images)

Grammy-winning dancehall star Sean Paul has achieved fame globally since his debut with the Dutty Cup Crew. The singer, born Sean Paul Ryan Francis Henriques, has seen his stocks rise due largely to cross over collaborations with several top global artists. His net worth is now put at USD 25 million.

Shaggy

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

Shaggy, born Orville Richard Burrell in Kingston, has come a long way since his first hit song “Oh Carolina” in 1993. Today, the Grammy-winning singer, who has had tremendous success in his cross over single and album with Sting and his three albums that have been certified Platinum, and one certified Gold, is worth a whopping US $14 million, making him one of the richest dancehall stars today.

Shenseea

Shenseea is a Jamaican singer and dancehall DJ with a net worth of $6 million. She rose to fame through her guest appearance on Kanye West’s 2021 track “Pure Souls” alongside Roddy Ricch, featured on West’s Grammy-nominated album Donda. In 2022, Shenseea released her debut studio album, Alpha, further establishing her presence in the music industry.

Born Chinsea Linda Lee on October 1, 1996, in Mandeville, Jamaica, Shenseea was raised by her Jamaican mother. Her father, of Korean descent, was estranged from her. She attended Mona High School in Saint Andrew Parish and later studied entertainment management at Excelsior Community College in Kingston. However, due to financial struggles, she dropped out to work and support her family.
Shenseea’s career took off in 2015 when she gained attention for her remix of Vybz Kartel’s song “Loodi,” which she performed at Reggae Sumfest. She returned to Reggae Sumfest in 2017 to perform on the main stage and toured Europe with Sean Paul. In 2018, she was featured on Christina Aguilera’s song “Right Moves” from the album Liberation. The following year, she signed with Interscope Records and released the hit song “Blessed,” featuring Tyga.
Shenseea’s breakthrough came in 2021 with her feature on Kanye West’s Donda album, appearing on the songs “Pure Souls” and “Ok Ok pt 2.” “Pure Souls” peaked at number 52 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified gold by the RIAA. For her work on Donda, Shenseea shared a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year. She also won the MOBO Award for Best Reggae.

Spice

Spice attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

Spice, whose real name is Grace Hamilton, has come a long way from the woman who some looked down on and frowned on as being too “vulgar” with her performance and lyrics. The Jamaican star, who crossed over by becoming part of the reality show, “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta,” has also seen her net worth rise. The star is now worth USD 5 million.

Spragga Benz

Spragga Benz, born in May 1969 in Kingston, Jamaica, is a renowned dancehall DJ with a net worth of $5 million. Originally nicknamed “Spaghetti” due to his tall and thin build, Spragga Benz began his music career in 1991. He released his debut album, Jack It Up, in 1994, followed by several other albums, including Uncommonly Smooth (1995), Two Bad DJs with Beenie Man (1999), Fully Loaded (2000), Thug Nature (2002), Live Good (2007), and Shotta Culture (2010).

His track “Oh Yeah” featuring Foxy Brown charted at #63 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart, while his collaboration with Kevin Lyttle on “Turn Me On” peaked at #4 in the U.S. and #20 on the same chart. Over the years, Spragga Benz has collaborated with numerous artists, such as Carly Simon, Wyclef Jean, Lady Saw, Shabba Ranks, Nas, and Stephen Marley. He also made appearances in the films Brooklyn Babylon and Shottas.

Beenie Man

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 30: Beenie Man performs at the MOBO Awards 2022 at OVO Arena Wembley on November 30, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

Beenie Man, who is considered one of the original dancehall stars, has also achieved Grammy fame by winning Best Reggae Album for the 2000’s Art & Life. Born Anthony Moses Davis in Kingston, Jamaica, the singer is worth USD 4 million.

Mavado

Mavado (C), Jamaican dancehall star. (Photo credit should read GEMMA HANDY/AFP via Getty Images)

Mavado, who made his debut studio album, Gangsta for Life: The Symphony of David Brooks, in 2007 when he was 26 years old, has seen his star rise with collaborations with artists such as Nicki Minaj, Future and Ace Hood, Lil’ Kim, Wyclef Jean, Laza Morgan, Junior Reid, Snoop Lion, and Iggy Azalea. Mavado, born David Constantine Brooks, has a net worth of USD 4 million.

By NAN ET Editor

Top Caribbean MMA Fighters You Should Know

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Oct. 22, 2024: Despite being relatively young in the sporting world, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has already produced some legendary fighters. Over the 28-year history of MMA as a professional sport, many athletes have stepped into the ring, including a growing number of Caribbean fighters (several Jamaican) who have made their mark on the UFC roster.

The rise of MMA and the introduction of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 1993 quickly positioned the sport as a competitor to boxing in terms of both audience and fighter recognition. MMA gained widespread attention in 2005 when it debuted on television, sparking a surge of global interest that extended to the Caribbean as well.

Today, the UFC reaches viewers in 165 countries through more than 60 global broadcast partners and is available in over 40 languages. With 40% of its audience made up of millennials, the UFC stands out as one of the most popular sports among younger generations. As the UFC continues its quest to crown the ultimate fighting champion, many Caribbean fighters have earned spots among the top MMA competitors of all time. Though thousands of athletes have competed in MMA and UFC since the sport’s inception, several Caribbean fighters stand out as particularly noteworthy.

Robelis Despaigne

Robelis Despaigne of Cuba poses for a portrait after his victory during the UFC 299 event at Kaseya Center on March 09, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Robelis Despaigne Sanquet is a Cuban professional mixed martial artist and former taekwondo practitioner who currently competes in the Heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Despaigne is a decorated athlete, having won a bronze medal in Taekwondo at the 2012 Summer Olympics in the Men’s 80 kg category.

Despaigne made his MMA debut on June 3, 2022, at Titan FC 77, where he defeated Katuma Mulumba via TKO at the end of the first round. He continued his rise in 2023, securing three knockout victories, each in under 20 seconds.

In December 2023, Despaigne was signed by the UFC. He made an impressive debut at UFC 299 on March 9, 2024, where he knocked out Josh Parisian just 18 seconds into the first round, earning him the Performance of the Night award.

Despaigne returned to the octagon on May 11, 2024, at UFC on ESPN 56, facing Waldo Cortes-Acosta but lost by unanimous decision. On October 19, 2024, he competed again at UFC Fight Night 245, where he suffered another unanimous decision loss, this time to Austen Lane.

Jairzinho Rozenstruik

Suriname born Jairzinho Rozenstruik of Suriname poses for a portrait after his victory during the UFC 305 event at RAC Arena on August 18, 2024 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Jairzinho Rozenstruik is a Surinamese mixed martial artist and former kickboxer, competing in the UFC Heavyweight division. Known for his explosive power, Rozenstruik holds the record for the second-fastest knockout in UFC heavyweight history, defeating Allen Crowder in just nine seconds at UFC Fight Night 154. A former WLF Super Heavyweight Tournament Champion, Rozenstruik has notable wins over fighters like Junior dos Santos and Tai Tuivasa. As of August 27, 2024, he is ranked #9 in the UFC heavyweight division.

Ode’ Omaani Osbourne

Ode Osbourne of Jamaica poses on the scale during the UFC 306 at Riyadh Season Noche UFC Ceremonial Weigh-in at Sphere on September 13, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Ode’ Omaani Osbourne (born January 9, 1992) is a Jamaican MMA fighter competing in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Osbourne began his MMA journey in 2013, training at a small gym in Waukesha, Wisconsin. He made his professional debut in 2015 at NAFC: Explosion, submitting Brent Lee in the second round. Over the next few years, Osbourne experienced a mix of wins and losses, including victories via submission and TKO at various promotions like Pure Fighting Championship and HD MMA.

Dana White’s Contender Series
In 2019, Osbourne earned a UFC contract after submitting Armando Villarreal via armbar in the first round on Dana White’s Contender Series 20.

Ultimate Fighting Championship
Osbourne made his UFC debut on January 18, 2020, at UFC 246 but lost to Brian Kelleher via submission in the first round. He bounced back with a knockout victory over Jerome Rivera in February 2021. In subsequent bouts, Osbourne faced both wins and losses, including a knockout win against Zarrukh Adashev in June 2022, which earned him a Performance of the Night bonus.

In 2023 and 2024, Osbourne had a series of tough fights, losing by submission to Asu Almabayev and Jafel Filho, and most recently dropping a unanimous decision to Ronaldo Rodríguez in September 2024 at UFC 306.

Eddie Gordon

Eddie Gordon (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Eddie Gordon is a Montego Bay, Jamaica born, mixed martial artist who most recently competed in the Middleweight division of the Professional Fighters League. A professional fighter since 2011, Gordon has also competed in the UFC and gained recognition as the winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Team Edgar vs. Team Penn.

Leon ‘Rocky’ Edwards

Jamaican Leon Edwards during the Welterweight title bout against Belal Muhammad at the Co-op Live Arena, Manchester. Picture date: Sunday July 28, 2024. (Photo by Richard Sellers/PA Images via Getty Images)

Leon Edwards is a Jamaican born professional mixed martial artist who competes in the welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is a former UFC welterweight champion and has been a professional competitor since 2011. Edwards previously competed for BAMMA, where he held the welterweight title. As of 30 July 2024, he is ranked #1 in the UFC welterweight division and #9 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings as of 27 August 2024.

Jason Jackson

Jamaican Jason Jackson celebrates after defeating Ray Cooper III during the 2024 PFL vs Bellator: Champs event at Kingdom Arena on February 25, 2024 in Riyadh. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Jason Jackson, born in Spanish town, Jamaica, is a Jamaican mixed martial artist competing in the Welterweight division of Bellator MMA, where he is a former Bellator Welterweight Champion. A professional since 2012, Jackson has also fought in Titan FC and Legacy Fighting Alliance, and appeared on The Ultimate Fighter: American Top Team vs. Blackzilians.

Jackson made his Bellator debut on August 17, 2018, defeating Jordon Larson via first-round TKO. After stints in other promotions, Jackson returned to Bellator, facing Ed Ruth at Bellator 231, where he lost via a controversial split decision. He followed up with victories over Kiichi Kunimoto, Jordan Mein, and former UFC champion Benson Henderson.

Jackson continued his winning streak, defeating Neiman Gracie and Paul Daley by unanimous decision. In 2022, he faced former Bellator Welterweight Champion Douglas Lima, winning the bout via unanimous decision.

In a major upset, Jackson captured the Bellator Welterweight Championship on November 17, 2023, at Bellator 301, defeating previously undefeated Yaroslav Amosov by third-round knockout. In 2024, Jackson won a non-title crossover fight against Ray Cooper III at PFL vs. Bellator but later lost his title to Ramazan Kuramagomedov on June 22, 2024, at Bellator Champions Series 3, via unanimous decision.

Up and coming Caribbean MMA fighters

Tapology, the online MMA ranking network, has also ranked some highly-rated Caribbean amateurs to watch on the MMA scene; from Jamaican Omar Smith, ranked number one in the featherweight class, to DR-born Rafi Peralta, ranked number one in the Bantamweight class and Luis De Jesus, ranked number one in the Flyweight class.

Looking to keep an eye on MMA rankings? Tapology is your go-to resource. It formulates real-time, current MMA rankings based on geographic eligibility, weight classes, match wins and losses, opponents, fight frequency, and experience.

In summary

Despite being a relatively new sport compared to the history of some others, MMA has brought a significant number of fighters and champions to the scene. MMA has proved its worth in the fighting realm, and Caribbean-born fighters are making a name for themselves amongst some of the sports’ greats. Keep an eye out for our top-named pros, but also the amateurs making their way up the rankings.

New Caribbean Flights To Know

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 22, 2024: As winter approaches, several airlines are enhancing their Caribbean routes, making it easier to escape the cold and enjoy an island getaway. JetBlue, Delta, interCaribbean Airways, and Caribbean Airlines are all introducing new flights that promise to boost connectivity and cater to rising demand for travel to the region.

JetBlue’s New Routes to St. Vincent and Bonaire

JetBlue is set to offer direct flights to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines from New York’s JFK Airport for the first time this fall, along with new service to Bonaire in the Netherlands, starting in November. David Jehn, vice president of network planning at JetBlue, highlighted the airline’s focus on “serving underserved routes” and enhancing access to top leisure destinations. On Wednesdays and Sundays, there is a round-trip service to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. With this new route, JetBlue becomes the first American airline to operate from JFK to St. Vincent. Starting on Nov. 5, there will be Tuesday and Saturday flights to Bonaire.

American Airlines Expands Service to Martinique

American Airlines has increased its service to Martinique, flying three times a week between Miami and the French Caribbean island. Known for its rich culture, rum production, and eco-tourism attractions, Martinique is gaining popularity as one of the Caribbean’s hidden gems. Flights now operate between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Martinique on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, making it more convenient for travelers to explore the island.

Delta Reinstates Flights to Barbados

Delta Air Lines is reinstating its seasonal service to Bridgetown, Barbados. Starting November 23, Delta will offer daily flights from Atlanta, followed by weekly flights from New York’s JFK Airport on December 21. These routes, operating through April 2025, will cater to the winter vacation crowd and boost tourism to Barbados, a destination celebrated for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture.

interCaribbean Airways Connects Grenada and Guyana

interCaribbean Airways is launching a new non-stop flight between Grenada and Georgetown, Guyana, beginning December 1, 2024. Operating twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays, this service will significantly improve regional connectivity between the Eastern Caribbean and South America. “We’re bridging cultures, fostering trade, and opening new possibilities for tourism and business,” said interCaribbean CEO Trevor Sadler.

Caribbean Airlines Links Suriname and Guyana

Starting November 3, 2024, Caribbean Airlines will introduce a twice-weekly service between Suriname and Guyana. The route, operating on Fridays and Sundays, will use ATR 72-600 aircraft and focus on improving regional connectivity. “This new service is an important step in our continued growth and dedication to serving the region,” said Caribbean Airlines CEO Garvin Medera.

These new flights will offer more travel options for those seeking to explore the Caribbean’s natural beauty, culture, and thriving tourism scene.

Datapro Inc. Unveils Brand Refresh and Launches New Website

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News Americas, MIAMI, FL, Oct. 22, 2024: Datapro Inc. (Datapro), a leader in financial services technology, is proud to announce a comprehensive brand refresh, marking a new chapter in the company’s evolution. This refresh is accompanied by the launch of a redesigned website, aimed at better serving customers and partners with an enhanced, user-friendly experience.

As Datapro continues to expand and adapt in a rapidly changing industry, the refreshed brand symbolizes the company’s commitment to innovation, agility, and forward-thinking solutions.

“While our company is embracing a more modern and dynamic identity, we remain grounded in the experience and expertise that have been the foundation of our success for more than 45 years,” said Ignacio Blanco, CEO of Datapro. “Our track record of hundreds of successful implementations is a testament to our enduring capability to deliver value to our clients.”

The refreshed brand includes a new logo, color palette, and design elements that are more reflective of Datapro’s innovative spirit and agile approach. The new isotype design was inspired from data and the cell replication process, embodying modularity, agility and flexibility.

“These changes are not just cosmetic; they represent our ongoing transformation into a company that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the future, while still honoring the heritage and reliability our clients have come to trust,” said Blanco.

In tandem with Datapro’s brand refresh, the company has also launched a new website at www.datapromiami.com . The redesigned site offers an improved user experience, with intuitive navigation, mobile optimization, and enhanced content that better reflects the company’s expanded capabilities and breadth of services. The new design enables visitors to more easily access resources, case studies, and insights, to help them make informed decisions in today’s fast-paced business environment.

“Today’s announcement is more than just a visual update—it’s a statement of our commitment to driving innovation and excellence in everything we do,” said Blanco. “Our refreshed brand and new website are designed to better reflect who we are today: a modern, agile, and innovative company with a strong legacy of successful implementations. We’re excited to continue our journey with a renewed focus on providing exceptional value to our clients.”

Datapro invites clients, partners, and the community to explore the new website and experience the refreshed brand that underscores its dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

About Datapro

Datapro is a leader in core banking and digital banking technology, with more than 100 customers in over 20 countries. Our vision is to be recognized as the architects of the banking evolution towards a digital world. We have been helping financial institutions across Latin America, the Caribbean, the US and the EU for the past 45 years to modernize their infrastructure and to deliver innovative digital solutions to their customers. In 2021, Datapro was acquired by Vencora, which is part of Constellation Software Inc. (CSU – TSE). www.datapromiami.com

Two Caribbean Athletes Among Nominees for 2024 World Athletics Track Athlete of the Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 21, 2024: Caribbean superstars Julien Alfred of St. Lucia and Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic are among the six athletes nominated for the prestigious 2024 World Athletics Women’s Track Athlete of the Year award.

St Lucia’s Julien Alfred celebrates after winning the women’s 100m final of the athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 3, 2024. (Photo by Martin BERNETTI / AFP) (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Alfred and Paulino will face stiff competition from Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet, the Olympic 5,000-m and 10,000-m champion, and Faith Kipyegon, who secured Olympic gold in the 1,500-m. Additionally, the USA’s Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the Olympic 400-m hurdles gold medalist, and Gabby Thomas, the 200m Olympic champion, are also in the running.

Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic wins the 400m during Athlos NYC at Icahn Stadium on September 26, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Athlos/Getty Images for Athlos)

Julien Alfred, at just 23, has had a stellar year, winning gold in the 100-m and silver in the 200m at the Paris Olympics, while also taking home the World Indoor 60m title. She capped off her incredible season by being crowned the 100-m champion at the Wanda Diamond League.

Marileidy Paulino, 27, was unbeaten in 2024 in the women’s 400-m, securing gold at the Paris Olympics and claiming victory at the Wanda Diamond League.

On the men’s side, Americans Rai Benjamin, Grant Holloway, and Noah Lyles, along with Letsile Tebogo of Botswana, Emmanuel Wanyonyi of Kenya, and Jakob Ingebrigtsen of Norway, have been nominated for the Men’s Track Athlete of the Year.

The winners will be decided through public voting on World Athletics’ social media platforms, with voting set to close on October 27, 2024.

D328eco™ ready to meet demand for regional connectivity across Latin America and the Caribbean

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News Americas, Nassau, Mon. Oct. 21, 2024: German aircraft manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, will attend this year’s ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum in Nassau, Bahamas to share further insights about the new D328eco. This commercial aviation conference is a leading forum for industry leaders and government representatives to discuss current challenges and promising solutions for aviation in Latin America.

Regional aviation in South America and the Caribbean is expanding considerably, fuelled by robust GDP growth, a significant increase in tourism activity and the emerging middle class. This has created a crucial need for a reliable and efficient regional air transportation solution that can connect remote areas across diverse geographical landscapes.

The D328eco is uniquely positioned to meet all these requirements with its 40-seat capacity, outstanding operational efficiency and flexible operational configuration. This next-generation turboprop is the right aircraft to fulfil the demands of the regional aviation market, allowing operators to establish new routes and support the continued expansion of airports and infrastructure.

The high-performing solution for regional aviation in Latin America

Regional aviation plays a pivotal role in boosting tourism, stimulating local economies and strengthening regional development. Tourism is one of the key markets in the region, with more than 117 million international tourists visiting Latin America in 2023 (a 12% increase from 2022). To maximise on this potential, regional airlines need to offer efficient and accessible transportation services, expand their network connectivity and prioritise passenger experience.

The turboprop from Deutsche Aircraft sets the bar for performance and efficiency in its class, making it a perfect match for this developing regional market. With a nominal range of 600NM, a high service ceiling of 30,000ft, a top speed of 324KTS and a climb rate of 2,355ft, the D328eco can handle the wide-ranging landscapes across this continent. Combined with its unpaved runway and 800m STOL capabilities, it is ideal for serving smaller, remote airports across the region.

The D328eco has elevated the concept of comfort with its contemporary cabin layout, which includes a spacious stand-up aisle. Passengers will enjoy plenty of room, including generous overhead bins for their belongings. Its modular galley can be tailored for both hot and cold service, ensuring that all passenger requirements are satisfied.

A path to profitability

Regional aviation in Latin America and Caribbean is crucial for connecting remote areas and providing essential transportation services. Served by numerous smaller carriers, the 30–50-seater aircraft market presents significant opportunities for growth and profitability.

The D328eco from Deutsche Aircraft sets new standards for operating economics, offering up to 50% improvement in operating costs compared to similar sized aircraft.

Versatility for any mission

The aircraft’s versatile payload capacity and ability to operate in extreme hot-and-high conditions and high -altitude runways, make it ideal for navigating the mountainous terrain and vast territories of Latin America under the toughest conditions.

Multi-role aircraft plays a vital role in addressing the diverse challenges faced by countries in the region. The adaptability and robustness of the D328eco allows it to be modified for different missions as required, offering remarkable operational flexibility and the capacity to adapt to a variety of special mission requirements, from emergency response and humanitarian aid to cargo, border patrol and ISR missions.

Talk to our team at the ATLA AGM

Curious about this state-of-the-art turboprop? Nils Heuer, Sales Director at Deutsche Aircraft, will be available to connect with potential operators and discuss how the D328eco represents the future of regional air travel in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Caribbean-Born Man Among 50 Accused In Shocking French Rape Case

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: A Caribbean-born man is among 50 men accused in a disturbing case in France, where a woman was allegedly drugged and raped by dozens of men over nearly a decade.

Defendant Gisele Pelicot (C) and her lawyers Antoine Camus (L) and Stephane Babonneau (R) leave the courtroom during a break in the trial of her ex-husband, along with 49 other accused, for drugging her and enlisting dozens of strangers, including a Caribbean immigrant, to rape her for nearly ten years, on October 16, 2024 in Avignon. (Photo by CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP via Getty Images)

Joan Kwai, 26, originally from French Guiana, is on trial as part of a group of men charged with sexually assaulting Gisele Pelicot, 71, after being invited to her home by her husband, Dominique Pelicot.

The case has captivated global attention due to the horrific nature of the crimes. According to court testimony, Dominique Pelicot, a retired electrician, drugged his unsuspecting wife between 2011 and 2020, allowing other men to rape her while she was unconscious. Kwai, who moved to France at the age of 16, first visited the home on the day his daughter was born in 2019. He admitted to visiting a second time and admitted to planning a third visit, which was canceled.

Prosecutors revealed that Kwai initially claimed he did not question whether Mrs. Pelicot had consented but later admitted that she was unconscious and that it was rape. Kwai, described as having depressive tendencies, is the first of the accused to give testimony in the trial.

Mrs. Pelicot has waived her anonymity to become a symbol of strength for rape survivors in France. She has bravely faced the courtroom proceedings in Avignon, where she is often met with applause from supporters.

The trial involves a total of 50 men, divided into smaller groups to manage court proceedings. Fourteen of the accused have admitted their involvement, while the rest, including men from various professions, deny the charges and claim they were deceived by Dominique Pelicot.

Dominique Pelicot was arrested in September 2020 after being caught filming women without their consent in a supermarket. A search of his home revealed thousands of incriminating photos and videos. In addition to this case, Pelicot faces charges for the rape and murder of a 23-year-old estate agent in Paris in 1991.

The trial is expected to run until December, with heightened security due to public outrage and tensions surrounding the case.

Here’s The Latest On What The Caribbean Immigrant Judge Has Said About The Trump Case

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: Caribbean immigrant and federal Judge Tanya Chutkan made headlines again on Friday, October 18th, when she ordered the release of over 1,800 pages of heavily redacted evidence linked to the case against former President Donald J. Trump. The materials were released despite objections from Trump’s legal team, who argued that making any information public ahead of the election would amount to interference.

Caribbean immigrant Judge Tanya Chutkan

“If the court withheld information that the public otherwise had a right to access solely because of the potential political consequences of releasing it, that withholding could itself constitute – or appear to be – election interference,” Judge Chutkan wrote in her October 17th ruling.

The evidence, tied to federal prosecutors’ claims that Trump sought to overturn the 2020 election, included a four-part appendix submitted by special counsel Jack Smith. Although much of the document remains redacted, Judge Chutkan defended the release, stating that withholding it could be seen as a form of election interference itself.

Trump has since reacted strongly, labeling Judge Chutkan, who was born in Jamaica, as “the most evil person” and accusing her of contributing to election interference by releasing the evidence. He criticized the decision during a podcast appearance, claiming the move was politically motivated and comparing the treatment of Capitol rioters to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

The newly released evidence mostly includes material already public, such as parts of former Vice President Mike Pence’s statements about not overturning the election results. While these documents do not appear to introduce major new allegations, they offer additional context to the case.

Judge Chutkan’s decision follows the Supreme Court’s July ruling that certain actions by a president may be protected under immunity. The court tasked Judge Chutkan with determining what evidence remains admissible, with Trump’s team set to respond by November 7th.

Despite the intense scrutiny, Judge Chutkan has maintained that legal decisions will not be influenced by Trump’s ongoing campaign schedule.

Here’s What You Should Know About Angelina Jolie’s British-Jamaican “Boyfriend”

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: British Jamaican rapper, author, and activist Akala is making headlines alongside actress Angelina Jolie, 49, as the two were recently seen at the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall. This sighting has fueled speculation about their relationship, following Akala’s appearance on Jolie’s Instagram just a month ago, hinting at a budding romance or is it just friendship?.

Akala seen here attending the “Maria” Headline Gala during the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall on October 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Neil Mockford/Getty Images for BFI)

Jolie and Akala first sparked romance rumors in August when they were seen leaving her hotel together during the Venice International Film Festival.

Angelina Jolie also attending the “Maria” Headline Gala during the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall on October 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage)

At the time, In Touch claimed the two had been dating for “more than a year” after Akala joined Angelina and her daughters Zahara, 19, and Shiloh, 18, at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica in May last year.

The duo was also said to have enjoyed dinner together in Milan six months later, sparking further curiosity about their connection. 

However, according to TMZ, the pair are just good friends and Akala is reportedly in a relationship with Chanelle Newman, the co-founder and executive producer of his music and the Hip-hop Shakespeare Company.

Despite being in the middle of a legal dispute with her ex-husband Brad Pitt, Jolie radiated confidence in a striking black blazer paired with a plunging waistcoat, tailored trousers, and heeled boots. Her elegant ensemble, paired with minimal makeup and gold earrings, captured the spotlight. Akala, meanwhile, looked dapper in a turtleneck sweater worn under a double-breasted coat, dark jeans, and smart sneakers.

Here are 10 things to know about Akala, the British Jamaican talent linked to Jolie:

Full Name: Kingslee James McLean Daley, professionally known as Akala, was born on December 1, 1983, in Crawley, West Sussex.

Family Roots: Akala’s mother is Scottish, and his father is Jamaican. His sister is Grammy Award-winning artist Ms. Dynamite.

Pan-African Influence: Raised in Kentish Town, London, Akala credits the Caribbean Pan-African community for shaping his education and intellectual development.

Educational Advocacy: Akala, who skipped university, went on to receive honorary degrees from Oxford Brookes University and Brighton University for his educational work.

Musical Career: Akala’s debut album It’s Not a Rumour (2006) brought him widespread recognition, winning the MOBO Award for Best Hip-Hop Act.

Social Activism: A vocal advocate for racial equality, Akala’s work spans beyond music. His 2018 book Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire tackles themes of race, class, and inequality.

Shakespeare Connection: Akala founded The Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company in 2009 to explore the cultural connections between Shakespeare’s works and modern-day hip-hop.

Global Performances: Akala has performed across the world, becoming the first hip-hop artist to headline a concert in Vietnam in 2007.

Romantic Speculation: The growing rumors about Akala and Jolie’s relationship began after his appearance on her Instagram, sparking interest in their dynamic.

Cultural Impact: Akala continues to influence not only the music industry but also literary and educational circles through his activism, writing, and public speaking.

As the two continue to make appearances together, the world is keeping an eye on this intriguing pairing.

Ironically, Madonna also made headlines recently for her apparent romance with a Jamaican 28-year-old man.

Valentine’s Day Romantic Getaways Americas

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News Americas, NEW YORK:: News Americas Now is offering the top 10 most romantic getaways in the Americas – Latin America and the Caribbean

1: Aruba: The number one most romantic in the Caribbean as chosen by readers is Aruba. The island is also a popular honeymoon destination. Aruba offers couples a mix of day-time and night-time activities that include romantic sunset walks on warm, sandy beaches and private coves as well as great fine dining options, or exploration of the natural beauty or cultural attractions in the day time.

2: Jamaica: The second most romantic getaway in the Caribbean is Jamaica. Couples can enjoy not only long stretches of beautiful beaches and waterfalls but great food, warm people, the rhythms of reggae and the natural beauty of this amazing island.

3: Puerto Rico: Chosen as the number three romantic getaway, Puerto Rico offers trails leading to dramatic waterfalls, cobblestone streets (Old San Juan) beautiful beaches and even casinos.

RELATED: The 10 Best Caribbean Hotels

4: St. Maarten/St. Martin: At number four, St. Maarten-St. Martin is a great two-for-one option since it offers a blend of European and Caribbean cultures that is both French and Dutch.  St. Martin boasts lavish elegance and secluded beaches featuring nude sunbathing or horse back riding while St. Maarten is a bustling center with casinos and clubs that offer up Zouk, calypso, reggae and jazz as well as some of the region’s best restaurants.

5: Barbados: Barbados, is at number five in the list & offers the beach, afternoon tea-British style, the pulsating sounds of reggae or calypso and a lot of chilling with a glass of rum under a star-studded sky.

MEXICO, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA

1: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: The number one most romantic spot in Mexico, Central and South America is Puerto Vallarta.  Banderas Bay was the site of Elizabeth Taylor’s and Richard Burton’s big romance and still offers fabulous beaches, top restaurants and boat rides to the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan.

2: Playa del Carmen, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Coming in at number two is Playa del Carmen, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, located on the beautiful Mexican Riviera. It is place where you can strolls or sunbathe on alabaster-white beaches; swim or dive in sparkling clear waters or explore ancient Mayan ruins in the day-time and enjoy quiet sunsets together.

3: Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Making the number three spot on the list is Cancun, Yucatan Peninsula. Here is a place that is blessed with a bounty of beaches while offering an energetic pulse or a laid-back ambiance to suit your taste.

RELATED: Top Americas Destinations Favored By the Wealthy 

4: Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: At number four is Cozumel, Yucatan Peninsula. Cozumel makes for a perfect romantic rendezvous for two with its Caribbean beaches surrounded by coral reefs, golden beaches and turquoise waters as well as Mayan ruins, duty-free shopping and colorful festivals.

5: Buenos Aires, Capital Federal District, Argentina: At number five is the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires. What is more romantic than the sensual tango and this city is the birthplace of this erotic dance. You can also explore the ambience of old neighborhoods or linger at the restaurants while enjoying varied nightlife options after a romantic meal out.

Read more: Romantic Caribbean Getaways: Discover the Most Romantic Hotels