Mr. Boombastic Goes Symphonic: Shaggy Teams Up With San Diego Symphony

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 3, 2025: Jamaican music legend Shaggy is set to bring the heat of the Caribbean to the classical stage for one unforgettable night as he teams up with the San Diego Symphony for a genre-blending performance at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park.

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA – AUGUST 31: Shaggy performs on stage at PNE Amphitheatre on August 31, 2022 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Andrew Chin/Getty Images)

In a first-of-its-kind concert titled “Shaggy with the San Diego Symphony”, the multi-GRAMMY® award-winning artist will showcase the rich tapestry of Jamaican music—from mento, ska, and rocksteady to reggae and dancehall—all with the lush backing of a full symphony orchestra, under the baton of conductor Steven Reineke.

Set for one night only, the performance will also feature custom orchestral arrangements by acclaimed composer David Serkin Ludwig, creating a fresh sonic landscape for Shaggy’s chart-topping hits, including global anthems “It Wasn’t Me,” “Angel,” and “Mr. Boombastic.”

With his signature charisma and dancehall roots, Shaggy will be joined on stage by his full band, blending streetwise energy with classical elegance in a celebration of Jamaica’s musical legacy and his own boundary-pushing career.

“This isn’t just a concert—it’s a cultural fusion,” said organizers. “Shaggy’s artistry paired with symphonic arrangements redefines how we experience Caribbean music.”

The event is supported by the San Diego Symphony, which has become known for its innovative programming and dynamic use of its waterfront venue, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, located at 222 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA.

Tickets and Info:
theshell.org/performances/shaggy-wsdso

U.S. Declares Haiti’s Most Feared Gangs Terrorist Groups

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 3, 2025: The United States has officially designated two of Haiti’s most dangerous gangs — Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif — as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, (SDGTs), marking a significant shift in Washington’s efforts to combat violent instability in the Caribbean nation.

A person films himself with his telephone in front of people holding placards at a demonstration for peace in Haiti in Paris France on May 3, 2025. (Photo by Bastien Ohier / Hans Lucas / Hans Lucas via AFP) (Photo by BASTIEN OHIER/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images)

In a statement issued on May 2, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the designations are aimed at holding accountable those who fuel violence in Haiti and threaten the region’s security. “The age of impunity for those supporting violence in Haiti is over,” Rubio declared.

According to the U.S. State Department, Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif are at the center of escalating violence in Haiti. These armed coalitions are reportedly responsible for widespread killings, targeted attacks on Haitian citizens and security forces, and assaults against personnel of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission currently deployed in Haiti. The gangs are allegedly seeking to establish a gang-controlled state fueled by illicit trafficking and criminal activity.

“These gangs pose a direct threat to U.S. national security interests in our region,” the statement noted. “Terrorist designations are a critical tool in our counterterrorism efforts, aimed at restricting financial and logistical support to these groups.”

The U.S. government warned that any individual or entity, including lawful permanent residents and citizens, found supporting the groups could face criminal prosecution, deportation, or other sanctions.

The designation is also seen as a show of support for the Haitian National Police and international partners involved in the MSS mission. Rubio praised their courage and dedication to restoring order in the country. He also urged Haiti’s political leadership to come together, end the violence, and work toward democratic elections.

Additionally, Secretary Rubio spoke with Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader, reaffirming the strategic U.S.-Dominican partnership, especially in countering illegal immigration and addressing regional security challenges.

While gangs control at least 85% of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital, they have launched attacks in the country’s central region in recent years.

A UN-backed mission led by Kenyan police that began last year to help Haitian police quell violence has struggled in its fight against gangs.

More than 5,600 people were killed across Haiti last year, with gang violence leaving more than one million people homeless.

Reggae Icon Honored In South Florida

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 3, 2025: Reggae icon Ken Boothe, 77, was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Island SPACE Caribbean Museum during the 12th annual Rhythms of Africa concert. The event, hosted by Willie Stewart and the Embrace Music Foundation at the Miramar Cultural Center in Florida, celebrates the enduring influence of African and Caribbean musical traditions.

Island SPACE Caribbean Museum Executive Director Calibe Thompson with Ken Boothe and Willie Stewart during Lifetime Achievement Awards presentation at Rhythms of Africa 2025. (Photo by Steve James)

Boothe’s remarkable career spans nearly six decades, beginning in 1966 when Clement “Coxsone” Dodd signed him to the iconic Studio One label. That same year, Boothe also recorded for producers Phil Pratt and Sonia Pottinger, finding immediate success with songs like “The Train Is Coming” (backed by The Wailers), “You’re No Good” with the Soulettes—featuring Bob Marley’s future wife, Rita Anderson—and “Lonely Teardrops.” Promoted as “Mr. Rock Steady,” Boothe quickly rose to fame with classics like “Moving Away,” a rocksteady anthem that continues to be sampled and covered by generations of artists.

He toured the UK in 1967 alongside Alton Ellis and the Studio One Soul Vendors, further cementing his global appeal. In 1970, Boothe moved to Beverley’s Records under producer Leslie Kong, releasing hits such as “Freedom Street” and “Why Baby Why.” His biggest international success came in 1974, when his reggae rendition of “Everything I Own” soared to Number One on the UK Singles Chart, remaining there for three weeks. He followed that with another hit, “Crying Over You,” which reached No. 11.

Boothe’s influence transcended borders and genres, even earning a lyrical mention by Joe Strummer in The Clash’s song “(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais.” Despite shifts in the industry and label challenges, Boothe continued to record into the 1980s and 1990s, including a notable collaboration with Shaggy on a reimagined version of “The Train Is Coming” for the 1995 film Money Train. In 2003, the Jamaican government recognized his cultural contributions with the prestigious Order of Distinction.

During Rhythms of Africa, Boothe headlined both nights, captivating the audience with heartfelt performances of his timeless hits. The award presentation by Island SPACE Executive Director Calibe Thompson on April 28 was a highlight of the evening, marked by a standing ovation. “It’s collaborations like these that allow us to spotlight Caribbean excellence and ensure our cultural icons are honored as they deserve,” said Thompson.

Island SPACE Caribbean Museum continues to build meaningful partnerships across the diaspora, providing platforms to showcase and celebrate the region’s rich cultural legacy.

About Island SPACE:
Island SPACE (Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to advancing Caribbean arts, history, and culture. Located in South Florida, the museum is open Thursday to Saturday, 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., and Sunday, 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $7 for children. Visit www.islandspacefl.org to learn more.

Frances-Anne Solomon’s ‘What My Mother Told Me’ Screens At BFI Southbank

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News Americas, London, UK, Thurs. May 1, 2025: Caribbean heritage film maker and director, Frances-Anne Solomon’s seminal feature film ‘What My Mother Told Me,’ (1995), returns to the screen this May with special presentations at BFI Southbank and on CaribbeanTales-TV. Selected as part of ‘Black Debutantes: A Collection of Early Works by Black Women Directors,’ by the British Film Institute, the film is widely regarded as a landmark in Caribbean diasporic cinema. It explores identity, memory, and generational divides with a haunting poignancy that remains as vital today as when it first premiered.

Screening Dates at BFI Southbank:

Monday, May 5, 2025 – 14:50 (NFT3)
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 – 20:40 (NFT2)

Tickets available via BFI Southbank.

About the Film
‘What My Mother Told’ Me traces the emotional journey of Jesse, a young woman who travels from England to Trinidad to bury her father. Once there, she is forced to confront the mother who abandoned her, igniting a painful yet transformative reckoning with the past. Set against the lush backdrop of Trinidad, the film deftly navigates themes of loss, belonging, and reconciliation, capturing the personal costs of migration and cultural displacement.

What My Mother Told’ Me traces the emotional journey of Jesse, a young woman who travels from England to Trinidad to bury her father.

The film stars acclaimed actors, including BAFTA-nominated Adjoa Andoh, (Bridgerton), the late Jamaican theatre icon Leonie Forbes, Royal Shakespeare Company veteran Clarence Smith, and award-winning performer Nadine Williams. It features evocative cinematography and a rich, textured score that deepen its emotional resonance.

Completed in 1995, ‘What My Mother Told Me’ was a pioneering work in British-Caribbean independent cinema. Produced by Solomon’s company Leda Serene Films, the project was shot on location in Trinidad and the UK, combining both narrative storytelling and documentary
influences to portray the fragmented experience of the Caribbean diaspora.

The screenplay was developed through workshops at the National Film and Television School (UK) and supported by the British Film Institute’s Production Board. Upon release, the film was praised for its authentic voice and unflinching portrayal of intergenerational trauma within Caribbean families.

A scene from What My Mother Told Me.

‘What My Mother Told Me’ was officially selected for major international festivals including:

● Toronto International Film Festival – Planet Africa Programme
● Festival of Black International Cinema (Berlin, St. Louis, Paris) – Best Film Depicting the Black Experience
● Urbanworld Film Festival – Producer’s Choice Award
● Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival – HBO Best Feature Award

About Frances-Anne Solomon

Frances-Anne Solomon is an award-winning director, writer, and producer recognized internationally for her work across film, television, and radio.

Frances-Anne Solomon is an award-winning director, writer, and producer recognized internationally for her work across film, television, and radio.

Frances-Anne Solomon is an award-winning director, writer, and producer recognized internationally for her work across film, television, and radio. Born in England and raised in Trinidad, her career has been shaped by a transatlantic sensibility that infuses her storytelling with global resonance. Solomon’s credits include multiple award-winning productions and the founding of CaribbeanTales Media Group, a pioneering platform for

● Africa Movie Academy Awards – Best Diaspora Feature
● Sony Radio Academy Awards – Best Feature
● New York Festivals TV & Film Awards – Gold Medal for Performing Arts

She is also a leading advocate for diversity in media, with initiatives aimed at training and supporting new generations of filmmakers from underrepresented communities.

Following its BFI Southbank screenings, What My Mother Told Me will be available for streaming globally via CaribbeanTales-TV throughout the month of May.

BFI Tickets: https://bit.ly/42VWldf

Caribbean Countries Selected as Guest of Honour for Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025

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ABU DHABI, UAE, May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Caribbean Countries have been selected as Guest of Honour for the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), held from 26 April to 5 May 2025, under the theme ‘Knowledge Illuminates Our Community’.

By hosting the group, the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) aims to highlight the cultural diversity of the 25 Caribbean Countries, strengthening their cultural and intellectual exchange with the Arab region. A special pavilion will be dedicated for the Guest of Honour in coordination with these countries’ embassies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, celebrating their cultural diversity in literature, arts, music, and cuisine.

Spotlighting Caribbean countries as Guest of Honour forms part of the UAE’s efforts to strengthen the publishing and translation industries, enabling new partnerships to provide Arab readers with access to Caribbean literature. It also highlights similarities between Arab and Caribbean cultures, and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global cultural capital that embraces linguistically and culturally rich regions, promoting literary diversity beyond the traditional framework, which often focuses on Europe and the US.

A lively programme of activities was planned to showcase the Caribbean region’s culture, knowledge, and civilisation , underscoring its close ties with the UAE. The programme aims to strengthen the ALC’s collaboration with Caribbean cultural institutions, enriching the public’s culture with fresh creative content, while reflecting the UAE’s thriving and diverse landscape.

His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, said: “The Caribbean nations are home to one of the world’s most diverse cultures, shaped through centuries of interaction and influences from various nations, setting the stage for a distinct and unique cultural identity that we are pleased to highlight at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair this year.”

“Caribbean culture is characterised by its innovativeness and adaptability, where it has forged and maintained a strong identity of its own despite external influences,” H.E. added. “The region has succeeded in creatively showcasing its heritage to the world, ensuring its continuity and visibility. Its literary contributions address core human issues, and with that in mind, we sought to host the countries of the Caribbean region in this year’s fair to explore opportunities for cooperation in creative industries, bring the Arabic language and other cultures closer together, and highlight our values of brotherhood and dialogue among peoples and cultures.”

The Guest of Honour programme also features literary, artistic, musical, and culinary performances, along with events and discussion panels featuring ambassadors, publishers, and authors from the Caribbean. While cooking demonstrations by professional chefs highlight Caribbean cuisine and its rich blend of African, Indian, and European flavours.

The ADIBF Guest of Honour programme is multifaceted, offering a variety of cultural, intellectual, and creative events catering to all segments of the community, and bringing together prominent Arab and international creatives to share their experience and knowledge with an audience of intellectual and literary enthusiasts.

Haitian Woman Dies In ICE Custody At Broward Transitional Center

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 30, 2025: A 44-year-old Haitian woman in U.S. immigration custody has died at a Florida detention center, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has confirmed.

Marie Ange Blaise, a Haitian woman held in U.S. immigration custody, has died at a Florida detention center; ICE has launched an investigation into her death.

Marie Ange Blaise was pronounced dead at 8:35 p.m. on Friday, April 25, at the Broward Transitional Center in Pompano Beach, Florida, according to a statement issued by ICE on Tuesday. The cause of death remains under investigation.

ICE said it has notified the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Office of Inspector General, and the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility. The Haitian consulate in Miami was also informed of Blaise’s death.

Blaise had reportedly entered the U.S. without legal admission or parole. She first came into contact with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on February 12 at the Henry E. Rohlsen International Airport in Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, as she attempted to board a flight to Charlotte, North Carolina. Authorities issued her a Notice of Expedited Removal that same day due to her lack of a valid immigrant visa.

She was taken into ICE custody two days later and initially detained at a staging facility in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She was then transferred to the Richwood Correctional Center in Oakdale, Louisiana, before arriving at the Broward Transitional Center on April 5.

ICE policy mandates that in-custody deaths be reported to Congress, advocacy organizations, and the media within two business days. Additionally, a comprehensive report must be completed within 90 days as required by federal law.

The agency emphasized that all individuals in ICE custody are provided with comprehensive medical care, including 24-hour emergency services, throughout their detention.

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Reggae Icon Buju Banton To Headline Opening Night Of BET Experience 2025

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 30, 2025: Grammy-nominated reggae legend Buju Banton is set to bring his iconic sound and powerful stage presence to Los Angeles this summer as the headlining act for the opening night of BET Experience 2025.

Buju Banton seen here performing onstage during his Long Walk To Freedom New York on July 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

The Jamaican superstar will kick off the four-day celebration on June 5 with a high-energy performance at the Hollywood Palladium, marking a significant cultural moment for Caribbean music at one of Black entertainment’s most high-profile events.

Known for his deep catalog of hits and electrifying live shows, Banton’s appearance is expected to draw reggae fans from across the globe. His performance underscores the growing international influence of Caribbean music and its integral role in Black culture.

BET Media Group announced Banton as part of the first wave of performers for the annual BET Experience, which will take place from June 5 to 8, leading up to the BET Awards 2025 on June 9.

Tickets for Buju Banton’s June 5 concert are now available at BETExperience.com, where fans can also find access to other BETX events, including the legendary Roots Picnic Experience and BET R&B Night.

The full BET Experience 2025 weekend includes fan-favorite BETX FanFest at the Los Angeles Convention Center (June 7–8), and the WayMaker Men’s Summit (June 5–6), focusing on empowerment and leadership for men of color.

The Roots and Lil Kim are also expected to perform but Buju Banton’s presence is already generating buzz, reinforcing his legacy as one of reggae’s most influential voices.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Makes Historic Visit to Dominican Republic

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 30, 2025: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov made history this week as he arrived in the Dominican Republic for the first official visit by a top Russian diplomat, signaling a deepening of diplomatic and strategic ties between Moscow and Santo Domingo.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov arrived at the Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic on April 29, 2025. (Photo by EDDY VITTINI/AFP via Getty Images)

Lavrov landed at Las Américas International Airport at 10:10 p.m. on Tuesday and was welcomed by Russia’s designated ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Alexey Seredin, alongside Dominican Ambassador to Russia, Alexander Arias. The visit follows Lavrov’s participation in the BRICS foreign ministers’ summit in Brazil.

This morning, April 30, 2025, Lavrov held a closed-door bilateral meeting with Dominican Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX) in Santo Domingo.

According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, the discussions will center on strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including political dialogue, trade, economic and investment initiatives, tourism, cultural and humanitarian exchanges, and legal framework development. The ministers will also exchange views on current global and regional challenges, with analysts noting the ongoing crisis in neighboring Haiti may be included given Russia’s permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

“The Dominican Republic is a promising partner in Latin America and the Caribbean,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “We highly value our traditionally friendly ties based on the principles of mutual respect and constructive dialogue.”

The visit coincides with the inauguration of the Russian Embassy in Santo Domingo—a significant step forward in deepening Russia-Dominican Republic relations. Ambassador-Designate Alexey Seredin formally assumed duties on April 14, 2025, after presenting his credentials to Foreign Minister Álvarez.

Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation. Following the 2020 implementation of a mutual visa-free travel agreement, the Dominican Republic quickly became a favored destination for Russian tourists. In 2021, over 166,000 Russians visited the Caribbean nation, placing it among the top 20 destinations for Russian travelers, despite a nearly 38% drop due to global travel restrictions.

The partnership also includes educational collaboration. Each year, the Russian government awards scholarships to Dominican students to study at Russian universities, with a quota of 15 scholarships set for the 2024–2025 academic year. Today, more than 3,200 Dominicans are graduates of Soviet and Russian universities.

Moscow and Santo Domingo also collaborate on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations. The Dominican Republic supported several Russian-led resolutions during the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, including measures against the glorification of Nazism, advocating for a weapons-free outer space, and commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Additionally, the Dominican delegation backed the resolution titled “Eradication of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations.”

ISS Supports Parkland’s Experienced Directors; Raises Concerns with Simpson’s Control Effort

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CALGARY, AB, April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Parkland Corporation (”Parkland” or “the Company”) (TSX: PKI) today commented on the report1 issued by Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (”ISS”), a leading independent proxy advisory firm, regarding the election of directors at Parkland’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for May 6, 2025. In addition, Parkland’s Executive Chairman, Michael Jennings released a short video to all shareholders. It can be viewed here.

ISS affirmed that Simpson Oil Limited (”Simpson”) has failed to meet the high bar required to justify a control slate, stating explicitly:

“… the bar for a control slate is high, and the dissident has not cleared it outright.”

ISS also highlighted significant deficiencies in Simpson’s proposed business strategy, noting:

“The dissident’s plan is light on details regarding capital allocation and which businesses would be potential divestitures, where specific cost savings would be identified and what a potential timeline for realization would be.”

“…the lack of detail provided makes it difficult for shareholders to objectively assess the dissident’s execution of its plan, if it is successful in this campaign, and as such does not warrant full control of the board.”

Further, ISS has recommended withholding support from Simpson’s nominee Mark Davis, who is also their proposed interim CEO, illustrating concerns over Simpson’s lack of depth and clarity in leadership transition planning.

In contrast, ISS endorsed Parkland’s recent strategic initiatives, including the ongoing strategic review and the comprehensive CEO search, emphasizing that Parkland’s Board is appropriately structured to oversee these processes and deliver value to all shareholders.

The choice for shareholders is clear: a vote for Parkland’s nominees is a vote for an experienced, diverse, and independent Board stewarding a credible and thorough strategic review and acting in the best interest of all shareholders.

Reminder: Continue Voting ONLY the BLUE Proxy ‘FOR’ the Parkland Nominees

Regardless of the recommendations issued by the proxy advisors, Parkland urges all shareholders to continue ONLY voting ‘FOR’ Parkland’s nominees on the BLUE Proxy ensuring the Company continues to be led by directors committed to rigorous governance and maximizing value for all shareholders. The deadline for voting is May 2, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (Mountain Time).

Shareholders needing voting assistance may contact Kingsdale Advisors at 1-888-518-6832 (toll-free in North America), 1-647-251-9740 (text and call enabled outside North America), or email contactus@kingsdaleadvisors.com. Please visit www.ourparkland.ca for additional information about the Parkland Nominees and reasons to only vote the BLUE Proxy.

About Parkland Corporation

Parkland is a leading international fuel distributor, marketer, and convenience retailer with safe and reliable operations in twenty-six countries across the Americas. Our retail network meets the fuel, and convenience needs of everyday consumers. Our commercial operations provide businesses with fuel to operate, complete projects and better serve their customers. In addition to meeting our customers’ needs for essential fuels, Parkland provides a range of choices to help them lower their environmental impact, including manufacturing and blending renewable fuels, ultra-fast EV charging, a variety of solutions for carbon credits and renewables, and solar power. With approximately 4,000 retail and commercial locations across Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean region, we have developed supply, distribution, and trading capabilities to accelerate growth and business performance.

Our strategy is focused on two interconnected pillars: our Customer Advantage and our Supply Advantage. Through our Customer Advantage, we aim to be the first choice of our customers through our proprietary brands, differentiated offers, extensive network, competitive pricing, reliable service, and compelling loyalty program. Our Supply Advantage is based on achieving the lowest cost to serve among independent fuel marketers and distributors in the hard-to-serve markets in which we operate, through our well-positioned assets, significant scale, and deep supply and logistics capabilities. Our business is underpinned by our people and our values of safety, integrity, community, and respect, which are embedded across our organization.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained herein constitute forward-looking information and statements (collectively, “forward looking statements”). When used in this news release, the words “aim”, “continue”, “expect”, “will”, “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things: Parkland’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders and the expected timing thereof.

These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Parkland does not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements except as required by securities laws. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of numerous risks, assumptions and uncertainties including, but not limited to: general economic, market and business conditions; Parkland’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders and the results thereof, Parkland’s ability to execute its business strategy; action by other persons or companies; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Parkland. See also the risks and uncertainties described under the headings “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” in Parkland’s current Annual Information Form, and under the headings “Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” in Parkland’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the most recently completed financial period, each as filed on SEDAR+ and available on Parkland’s website at www.parkland.ca. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

World cultures and innovations converge in 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair

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ABU DHABI, UAE, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, has launched its activities, offering a platform for cultures and innovations of the world to converge, interact, and explore new horizons of knowledge.

Continuing until 5 May 2025 under the theme ‘Knowledge Illuminates Our Community’, the fair brings 1,400 exhibitors from 96 countries, offering a comprehensive programme of 2,000 activities that cater to all community members, while spotlighting Caribbean culture as Guest of Honour, in recognition of its intellectual distinction and impact on global culture.

Moreover, ADIBF 2025 celebrates Ibn Sina as its Focus Personality, marking the 1,000-year anniversary of his book The Canon of Medicine, and highlighting his legacy as one of the scientists that contributed most to humanity’s advancement. It also features One Thousand and One Nights as Book of the World, underlining its timeless, cross-cultural, and enduring influence.

The fair welcomes 20 countries participating for the first time. It also introduces the ‘On the Path of Knowledge’ initiative, honours pioneers of Arab publishing, and welcomes prominent writers, thinkers, publishers, and content creators from the Arab region and the world to present various activities under five themes: Society, Fantasy, Sustainability, Arab Sciences, and Artificial Intelligence & Innovation. The exhibition also hosts the Poetry Majlis, which celebrates diverse poetic experiences with prominent poets, authors, and experts for 10 days.

Additionally, ADIBF 2025 hosts the third season of Podcast from Abu Dhabi, presenting high-quality content that discusses the evolving literary scene, while launching its inaugural ‘Digitising Creativity’ conference, which explores where AI and art intersect and how emerging technologies affect content creation.

Visitors can enjoy arts, entertainment, photography, and the World’s Cuisine experience, while children and youth can join workshops that blend learning and fun, with scientific and creative activities that develop their skills and strengthen their connection to their cultural heritage.

Meanwhile, the Under the Ghaf’s Shade experience offers readings from selected books, followed by book signings with guest authors, whereas the Business Lounge connects publishers and content creators to encourage collaboration in the industry.

Furthermore, the ADIBF Professional Programme offers a platform for supporting the publishing and creative industries, embracing the latest trends including AI and digital technologies. Meanwhile, the Digital Square offers activities and initiatives aimed at developing the publishing sector.

The ADIBF will launch initiatives to promote reading and creativity, and support the Arabic language, in line with the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s vision to nurture emerging literary talent, enrich the Arabic library, and build a community of avid readers, capable of producing Arabic content for the digital era.