Three Caribbean Nations Named Global Leaders In Financial Transparency

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 28, 2025: Three Caribbean nations are making waves globally for their leadership in financial transparency and crime prevention, according to the newly released 2025 Nasdaq Global Financial and Economic Crime Outlook from the Secretariat Economic Crime Index (SECI).

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, and Barbados have been ranked among just 19 countries worldwide labeled “Transparent Titans” — a distinction awarded for strong enforcement, global compliance, financial integrity, and proactive cross-border risk management.

Saint Vincent and The Grenadines ranked at number one for the Caribbean among global “transparent titans” in the 2025 Nasdaq Global Financial and Economic Crime Outlook from the Secretariat Economic Crime Index.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines secured the 14th spot globally, Dominica ranked 17th, and Barbados 19th. SECI scores for these nations ranged from 0 to 1.53, demonstrating their commitment to robust anti-financial crime frameworks, due diligence, and enforcement mechanisms.

These Caribbean countries stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global leaders such as Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Luxembourg, and Estonia, who top the 2025 list for their transparency and financial crime prevention efforts.

While governance and transparency typically lower financial crime risks, many financial hubs remain exposed due to the size and scope of their cross-border activity. Nonetheless, Saint Vincent, Dominica, and Barbados have risen to meet these challenges through proactive regulation and strict oversight.

Several other Caribbean nations also performed commendably, landing among the “Vigilant Players” — a category for countries actively strengthening financial crime regulations. St. Lucia, Grenada, The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica were all listed in this group, with SECI scores between 1.54 and 2.18.

Meanwhile, Guyana and Suriname were categorized as “Reactive Reformers,” highlighting the need for accelerated regulatory reforms to combat illicit financial flows and systemic economic crime risks.

“Countries must catch up to the rapidly evolving financial crime landscape,” the report urged. “By sharing transparency and working together, we can unmask criminal networks and hold bad actors accountable.”

The Secretariat called for stronger cross-border collaboration and reinforced regulatory frameworks to build a safer, more resilient global financial system.

Trinidad Born, US Based Forensic Expert To Lead Crucial Autopsy of 11-Year-Old Adrianna Younge

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 26, 2025: The Trinidad and Tobago-born, University of the West Indies-trained Chief Medical Examiner of the State of Delaware, Dr. Gary L. Collins, has been confirmed to conduct the autopsy on 11-year-old Guyanese pre-teen Adrianna Younge, whose tragic death has sent shockwaves across Guyana and the global Guyanese diaspora.

Dr. Gary L. Collins, the Trinidadian-born Chief Medical Examiner of Delaware, will lead the autopsy of Guyanese 11-year-old Adrianna Younge amid calls for transparency.

Dr. Collins, a highly respected forensic pathologist, was selected following the Younge family’s request for an independent post-mortem examination to ensure transparency and impartiality. With a distinguished career that includes serving as Deputy Chief Medical Examiner for the City of Philadelphia, Dr. Collins has certified the manner and cause of death in over 4,000 cases. He completed his medical education at the University of the West Indies before advancing his training at the University of South Florida and Drexel University College of Medicine. He is board-certified in anatomic, clinical, and forensic pathology.

As second-in-command of Delaware’s Medical Examiner’s Office for the past two years, Dr. Collins has supervised forensic operations, collaborating closely with investigators and autopsy technicians. His extensive experience and impeccable credentials bring renewed hope for a thorough, transparent process.

The autopsy is set to be conducted on Monday. Younge had disappeared during a family outing at the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, on Wednesday. Despite intensive searches that day, her body was not discovered until Thursday morning, floating in the hotel’s pool. The shocking discovery, coupled with visible signs of violence on her body, has fueled nationwide protests and calls for justice.

The tragic death of 11-year-old Guyanese pre-teen Adrianna Younge has sent shockwaves across Guyana and the global Guyanese diaspora.

President Irfaan Ali, addressing the grieving family directly, reaffirmed his administration’s full commitment to transparency. “All of us want the truth, and that is the only thing I’m interested in,” he said during his second visit to the Younge family, emphasizing that all their requests regarding the autopsy would be honored.

The Guyana Police Force has pledged cooperation and confirmed that both the independent pathologist and a police-appointed medical examiner will be present during the procedure. The police also announced that former Region Three Police Commander Khalid Mandall has been sent on leave as investigations intensify.

Public outrage escalated Thursday after irate villagers set fire to the Double Day Hotel and the home of its owner, underscoring long-standing frustrations tied to previous incidents at the property. The discovery of Adrianna’s body – with visible injuries – has revived chilling memories of a similar unsolved death at the same hotel over a decade ago.

Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and tracking a vehicle of interest as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, the Younge family and the broader Guyanese community await answers, hopeful that with Dr. Collins’ independent expertise, the truth surrounding Adrianna’s tragic death will soon come to light.

Vybz Kartel Set to Light Up Reggae Sumfest 2025

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. April 25, 2025: Dancehall’s undisputed king, Vybz Kartel, is officially set to headline Reggae Sumfest 2025, marking one of the most anticipated performances in the history of the iconic Jamaican festival.

Vybz Kartel, seen here performing during the MOBO Awards 2025 at the Utilita Arena on February 18, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, is set for Sumfest 2025. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

The 34th staging of Reggae Sumfest runs from Sunday, July 13 to Saturday, July 19 in Montego Bay, and this year’s buzz is sky-high thanks to the magnetic pull of Festival Night 1’s headliner – World Boss himself.

Fresh off two back-to-back sold-out shows at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, Kartel’s impact is undeniable. Reggae Sumfest’s CEO Joe Bogdanovich says the artist is a “one-man wrecking army” who’s electrified the dancehall scene and redefined festival expectations.

“Kartel has a larger-than-life, cult-like following among the 18–35 crowd who just can’t get enough of him,” said Bogdanovich. “He’s smart, strategic, and always delivers the unexpected.”

Set for Friday, July 18, Kartel’s one-hour performance promises to be a spectacle of lyrical power, showmanship, and surprise appearances—mirroring his jaw-dropping Barclays show where he brought multiple celebrity guests to the stage.

You’re going to see a true international superstar. This is no longer just an island thing,” Bogdanovich added.

Joining Kartel on Festival Night 1 are several of dancehall’s hottest names: Masicka, Tommy Lee Sparta, Skeng, Govana, Jamal, D’Yani, Laden, Shaneil Muir, and Jah Fabio—each bringing their own fire to the stage.

And it doesn’t stop there. Festival Night 2, on Saturday, July 19, features another blockbuster lineup, with ticket demand surging from the U.S., UK, Canada, Mexico, and France. Early Bird VVIP and Ultra VIP tickets have already sold out.

Sumfest 2025 will also debut a major format change: performances will now wrap by 5 a.m. – a move Bogdanovich says will keep the crowd energized and avoid “sunrise fatigue.”

“We’re compressing the energy for maximum impact,” he explained. “Sumfest is more than a show – it’s a movement.”

Now in its third decade, Reggae Sumfest continues to be the largest music festival in the Caribbean, known for spotlighting the biggest stars in reggae and dancehall while capturing the global heartbeat of Jamaican music culture. With early ticket tiers already gone and anticipation soaring, fans worldwide are gearing up for what could be Vybz Kartel’s most legendary performance yet.

Alborosie Drops Soulful New Single Ahead Of 10th Album

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. April 25, 2025: Roots reggae trailblazer Alborosie returns today with “Come My Way,” a soulful new single and the first taste of his forthcoming tenth studio album. Released via VP/Greensleeves Records, the track is accompanied by a vibrant new music video filmed in the colorful coastal town of Canoa Quebrada, Ceará, Brazil.

Alborosie Returns With New Roots Reggae Single “Come My Way”

“Come My Way” breathes new life into one of the most iconic riddims in Jamaican music history – first introduced on Jacob Miller’s 1974 classic “Baby I Love You So” and immortalized by Augustus Pablo’s dub anthem “King Tubby Meets the Rockers Uptown.” That version became the first dub track to headline as an A-side in the UK and was later ranked #266 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

The riddim’s legacy reaches beyond reggae fans—it gained cult status in pop culture after being featured on K-JAH West, the reggae station in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, introducing millions to foundational dub sounds.

With “Come My Way,” Alborosie approaches the riddim with deep reverence and originality. The result is a slow-burning lovers roots cut, layered with lush harmonies and authentic instrumentation. The track also nods to Dawn Penn’s “Night and Day” and sits alongside reinterpretations like Chronixx’s “Alpha and Omega.”

The release follows major career milestones for Alborosie, including his breakout hit “Kingston Town” surpassing 100 million streams on Spotify – a rare feat for reggae music.

“Come My Way” follows his acclaimed 2023 album Destiny, which featured collaborations with Buju Banton, Kabaka Pyramid, and Jaz Elise. Alborosie will also feature on the upcoming deluxe edition of Seun Kuti’s album, Heavier Yet (Lays the Crownless Head).

Fresh off a tour of Kenya and Ethiopia, Alborosie and his band, the Shengen Clan, are set to tour this spring and summer across Europe and the U.S. Dates include a debut show in Malta and a return to the renowned Summerjam Festival in Germany.

Listen to “Come My Way” now and watch the video shot in Brazil.

ABOUT ALBOROSIE:

Born in 1977 in Marsala, Sicily, Alberto D’Ascola, known worldwide as Alborosie, discovered reggae as a teenager and taught himself to play multiple instruments. He began his music journey by forming the band Reggae National Tickets in Italy before relocating to Kingston, Jamaica in 2003 to launch his solo career. Embracing the nickname “Borosie,” once used mockingly, he transformed it into a symbol of pride and artistry.

Over the past two decades, Alborosie has become a global ambassador of roots reggae, blending tradition with modern sounds across nine albums – including his 2023 release, Destiny, featuring reggae heavyweights Buju Banton and Kabaka Pyramid. Now, with the release of his tenth studio album on the horizon, he returns with “Come My Way” – a heartfelt reinterpretation of Jacob Miller’s “Baby I Love You So” and Augustus Pablo’s dub classic, “King Tubby Meets the Rockers Uptown.”

Alborosie’s rich harmonies, instrumental mastery, and unwavering authenticity continue to push reggae into new, soul-stirring territory.

Lovers Rock Icon Sanchez Drops Soulful New Album

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 24, 2025: Lovers rock icon Sanchez returns with a powerful new offering titled Jamdown, released April 11, 2025 via VPAL Music. The album is a heartfelt blend of reflection, romance, and reggae soul that continues the legacy of one of Jamaica’s most enduring voices.

Best known for timeless dancehall classics like “Never Dis di Man” and “Loneliness,” Sanchez describes Jamdown as “extremely intimate and something almost everyone can relate to.” The project features a rich tapestry of original tracks co-written with producer Kenneth Thompson, including “Hot Girl,” “Disloyalty,” and the emotionally resonant title track, “Jamdown.”

In the title song, Sanchez offers a deeply personal homage to his beloved homeland. “I relate to the lyrics of Jamdown deeply just because I am a true product of the place,” he shared, referencing both the challenges and the beauty of Jamaica, and the unbreakable spirit of its people.

Thompson penned several additional songs on the album, such as the playful “Clean Like A Whistle” and the heartfelt “Desperate Man.” The album’s lush production is rounded out with contributions from multi-instrumentalist Paul Gauntlett, while arrangements and harmonies were crafted by Wayne Armond of the legendary reggae band Chalice and singer Tafina Wilson.

Born Kevin Jackson in Kingston, Jamaica, Sanchez has long been considered dancehall royalty. His extensive musical catalog, spanning over four decades, includes beloved hits like “I Can’t Wait,” “Pretty Girl,” “Old Friends,” “One In A Million,” and “Fall In Love.”

Reflecting on his longevity in the music industry, Sanchez credits his faith. “God Almighty is the master of this universe. He has kept me thus far and staying true to Him allows me to be true to my music,” he said.

Jamdown is produced by Kenneth Thompson for Kenergi Music and stands as a testament to Sanchez’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his culture.

Listen to it HERE

Hotel Equities Strengthens Presence in Caribbean and Latin America

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News Americas, ATLANTA, GA, April 24, 2025: Hotel Equities (HE), today announced the appointment of Marilia Pergola as Vice President of Operations for the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) region. Pergola will be based in the company’s Miami corporate office.

“We are thrilled to welcome Marilia to the Hotel Equities family,” said Al Smith, President of Operations, Hotel Equities. “Her knowledge of the CALA landscape, coupled with her operational rigor and passion for people development, make her the ideal leader to inspire our associates and provide exceptional service to our guests and partners across the beautiful and dynamic CALA region.”

As Vice President of Operations – CALA, Pergola will lead operational strategy and execution across HE’s expanding portfolio in the region. With deep expertise in revenue management, brand compliance, financial performance, and pre-opening excellence, Pergola is poised to drive operational success, build strong owner relationships, and elevate guest experiences throughout the CALA region. Pergola’s appointment signals a major step in HE’s commitment to building an in-market leadership team that delivers elevated support and tailored solutions for owners and partners.

“Marilia’s arrival underscores our dedication to the region and our long-term strategy to support growth with experienced, boots-on-the-ground leadership,” said Michael Register, who oversees new development for the CALA region at HE. “As we continue to expand our portfolio and partnerships, her operational acumen and cultural fluency will be invaluable.”

Pergola has over 20 years of experience in hotel operations with deep market expertise, including the past 8 years at Marriott International, where she most recently served as Senior Director of Operations – Owner & Franchise Relations for the Caribbean & Latin America. She managed a portfolio of over 100 full-service and select-service hotels, led franchisee engagement efforts, and spearheaded critical integration projects, including the loyalty merger of Starwood Preferred Guest with Marriott Rewards and the operational transition of City Express. During her tenure, she achieved an industry-leading 86% owner satisfaction score, demonstrating her effectiveness in delivering value to ownership groups.

“I’m honored to join Hotel Equities at such an exciting time of growth in the Caribbean and Latin America,” said Pergola. “This region holds immense opportunity, and with HE’s people-first culture and commitment to in-market support, I’m confident we’ll continue to elevate the guest and owner experience across every hotel we touch.”

HE’s CALA portfolio is currently comprised of nine properties and nearly 1,000 hotel rooms under development in the region, including locations in Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Mexico, St. Thomas, and Trinidad & Tobago. As HE’s CALA footprint continues to grow, the company is actively investing in infrastructure and corporate resources to ensure best-in-class support for its properties.

For more information on partnering with Hotel Equities, visit hotelequities.com/cala.

About Hotel Equities
Hotel Equities (HE) is an award-winning hospitality management and development firm with a portfolio of approximately 300 hotels, resorts, and outdoor hospitality destinations throughout the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Latin America. With a diverse portfolio of premium-branded and independent properties, Hotel Equities delivers proven results and drives long-term value for its stakeholders through a comprehensive suite of services, a people-first and performance-driven culture, and a commitment to excellence rooted in servant leadership. To learn more, visit www.hotelequities.com.

Caribbean Nations Power Up Renewable Energy Push With $110M Regional Investment Facility

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 24, 2025: In a landmark step toward transforming the Caribbean’s energy landscape, the World Bank has approved a major new initiative designed to boost renewable energy across the region. The Caribbean Resilient Renewable Energy Infrastructure Investment Facility, officially announced on April 17, 2025, will provide US$110 million to strengthen clean energy systems in Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with additional countries eligible to join over time.

workers installing solar panels on a villa roof in the Caribbean. St. John, United States Virgin Islands

Developed in collaboration with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and regional governments, the initiative aims to reduce the Caribbean’s dependence on expensive imported fossil fuels, which currently power over 90% of the region’s electricity.

“Across the Caribbean, residents are paying some of the highest electricity prices in the world,” said Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Division Director for the Caribbean. “This project is about lowering costs, improving reliability, and investing in a more affordable and secure energy future for Caribbean communities.”

A Bold Shift Toward Energy Resilience

Between 2016 and 2021, fossil fuel imports in the Eastern Caribbean cost an average of $444 million per year, accounting for more than 15% of total imports. Despite growing demand for greener energy, renewable sources made up just 11.6% of the region’s electricity generation by 2022. The barriers have been considerable: small-scale projects, weak regulatory frameworks, under-resourced grids, and high vulnerability to natural disasters.

This new facility seeks to address those issues head-on. It will:

Aggregate projects across countries to reduce costs and attract private sector developers.

Modernize transmission and distribution infrastructure, including battery energy storage systems.

Mobilize up to $120 million in commercial credit using partial credit guarantees.

Launch a new insurance product to protect renewable energy infrastructure from natural disasters.

Training, Jobs, and Long-Term Impact

Beyond infrastructure, the initiative will invest in skills training, technical assistance, and educational scholarships to support a new generation of energy professionals in the Caribbean. This includes apprenticeship programs and regulatory support to streamline project development.

“This Facility is a game-changer,” said Timothy Antoine, Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. “It helps us strengthen capacity, enhance energy security, and lower electricity costs. We’re building the foundation for a cleaner, more competitive regional economy.”

The project is supported through the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), along with funding from the Climate Investment Fund, the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program, and the Canada Clean Energy and Forests Climate Facility.

As climate resilience becomes a global priority, the Caribbean is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy transition—turning today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities.

CNN’s Abby Phillip Honors Eric Williams’ Legacy in Texas with Powerful Call for Truth in Journalism

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 23, 2025: To a captivated audience of over 250 both in-person and online, CNN anchor Abby Phillip, proudly of Trinidad and Tobago heritage, delivered a powerful keynote recently at the 23rd Eric E. Williams Memorial Lecture, held at The University of Texas at Austin.

In a talk titled “Journalism in Challenging Times,” Phillip demonstrated the clarity, courage, and command that has made her a standout voice in U.S. media. She emphasized the urgent need for journalism that not only amplifies all voices – including those we may disagree with—but also stays rooted in facts, amidst a rising tide of misinformation on social media.

Drawing inspiration from Dr. Eric Williams’ legendary “University of Woodford Square” addresses, Phillip reflected on her own upbringing and her family’s journey from Trinidad and Tobago to the U.S. “His policies around free secondary and tertiary education shaped generations—including mine,” she said, noting how her parents, thanks to Williams’ vision, believed in limitless possibilities.

Phillip shared the challenges of moderating polarized discussions on her show, comparing it at times to managing a classroom of unruly students. Still, she holds fast to the principle that respectful, informed dialogue is essential—even when passions run high. “You have to be willing to listen, to check yourself, and to bring the facts,” she stressed.

A lively Q&A followed, with a standout moment coming from Eric Williams’ 15-year-old granddaughter, who asked how her generation could use social media for good. Phillip’s advice: “Seek truth. Be politically aware. Think before you post.”

The lecture marked its first year at UT Austin’s John L. Warfield Center for African and African American Studies, after 19 years at Florida International University. It continues to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Eric E. Williams – Caribbean scholar, author of the revolutionary Capitalism and Slavery, and Trinidad and Tobago’s first Prime Minister.

Notable past speakers have included scholars, heads of state, and icons like Angela Davis, Portia Simpson-Miller, and Mia Mottley. The Lecture series offers a platform for critical reflection on Caribbean and African Diaspora politics, history, and media—making Phillip’s voice this year a timely and resonant one.

To watch this year’s lecture and explore past editions, visit:
https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/caaas/events/ewml.php

The Countdown Begins: Caribbean Athletes Return To Penn Relays 2025

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 22, 2025: The countdown is officially on for one of the most anticipated track and field events in the United States — the 2025 Penn Relays — and this year, the Caribbean is showing up in full force.

Team Jamaica Bickle’s founder, Irwine Clare, Sr., OD and athletes and volunteers in the Palestra at the University of the Pennsylvania for Penn Relays 2023 and the Labor of Love TJB 2023 presentation. (TJB image)

From April 24-26, student athletes from Jamaica, The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will compete against some of the top high school teams from across the United States in what promises to be a thrilling three days of athletics at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

Among the many anticipated events, the High School Boys’ 4×800 and 4×400 meter relays will spotlight powerhouse Jamaican teams like Calabar, Kingston College, Jamaica College, Holmwood Tech, and Petersfield. Not to be outdone, Bahamian schools such as Bishop Eldon, St. Augustine’s, and Queens College will bring their best sprinters to the track, joined by top athletes from Belize’s Stann Creek, St. Vincent’s Thomas Saunders, and Grenada Boys’.

In the field events, Jamaican standouts like Joseph Salmon, Rajay Hemmings, and Shamir Kelly will battle for podium finishes in the discus, shot put, long jump, and high jump championships, alongside other Caribbean talents like The Bahamas’ Ethan North and Trinidad’s Tyrique Vincent.

TEAM JAMAICA BICKLE

Supporting these young talents once again is the tireless work of Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB) — the Jamaica, Queens-based nonprofit known for providing meals, medical support, and housing for Caribbean athletes at the Relays for over two decades. CEO Irwine Clare and his dedicated team are already on the ground at the event, offering crucial support to the young competitors.

Just days ahead of the carnival, TJB marked a milestone in its fundraising journey with a successful “Labor of Love Luncheon – Black Tie & Sneakers Gala” at the Cresthollow Country Club in Long Island on April 13th. The event was highlighted by a surprise US$15,000 pledge from keynote speaker Sandra Brunson — mother of NBA star Jalen Brunson and co-founder of the Second Round Foundation.

“Being the daughter of Jamaican parents is one of the greatest sources of pride in my life,” Brunson said. “They carried the spirit of Jamaica with them — its music, food, language, and culture — and poured it into my childhood home.”

Brunson emphasized the importance of organizations like TJB in nurturing young athletes, stating: “Meals, lodging, medical support — these are the quiet, powerful moments that allow talent to thrive.”

The gala also celebrated several notable individuals including four-time Olympian Dr. Nelson Christian Stokes, Karlene Largie of the Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations (USA), and Brunson herself.

Clare took the opportunity to thank longstanding partners like VP Records, Caribbean Food Delights, and Irie Jam Radio for their continued support, as well as artists such as Cocoa Tea, Johnny Osbourne, and Aza Lineage for their cultural contributions to TJB’s mission.

As the 2024 Penn Relays approach, Caribbean pride is running high — on the track, in the field, and in the hearts of those cheering these young athletes on. For tickets and more details, visit: The Penn Relays Ticket Portal.

Let the races begin!

Track Events for Thursday, April 23, 2025

High School Boys’ 4×800 Heats

Competing for a chance at the finals:

Calabar (JAM)
Alejandro Palmer, Kevaughn Richards, Justin Webb, Dujhaunti Lewis

Holmwood Technical (JAM)
Lerone Stewart, Antuwan Newland, Romario Lewis, Ricardo Griffiths

Kingston College (JAM)
Nahashon Ruto, Brian Kiprop, Christopher Anderson, Kamoi Tracey

Jamaica College (JAM)
Samuel Creary, Rasheed Pryce, Tyrone Lawson, Shemar Green

High School Boys’ 4×400 Heats

Bishop Eldon (BAH)
Alexander Coleby, Dishon Dean, Arcady Thompson, Takeo Stubbs

St. Augustine’s (BAH)
Jahcario Wilson, Shevano Nixon, Jireh Woodside, Dylan Simon

Queens College (BAH)
Zion Miller, Zion Davis, Leviticus Levarity, Andrew Brown

Temple Christian School (BAH)
Jason Ferguson, Ross Martin, Breck Kemp, Tieano Ferguson

Jack Hayward (BAH)
Shawn McFall, Zion Shepherd, Tyrone Conliffe, Lamorn Moxey

Stann Creek Ecumenical (BELIZE)
Francis Simon Arana, Silas Menelek Leslie, Kamron Alrick Gentle, Kenrick Wayne Avila Jr

Thomas Saunders Secondary (SVG)
Jod Baker, Jayden Wallace, Romarno Hector, Jahron Williams

Grenada Boys’ Secondary (GRD)
Josh Thomas, Jaylon St Louis, Nathan Hillaire, Kashay Stephen

St. Benedict’s College (TRI)
Jaleel Semper, Zaccheus Charles, Kyphm Richards, Jeremiah Joseph

Fatima College (TRI)
Qayshon Roberts, Elijah Gibbs-Clarke, Levi Smith, Tyriq Springer

Petersfield (JAM)
Devano Miller, Shoy Clayton, Alonzo James, Usain Bernard

Vere Technical (JAM)
Joshua Brown, Jhabarie Whyte, Shawn Palmer, Omar James

Denbigh (JAM)
Rayvon Black, Chanton White, Kingsley Hanson, Markland Williams

Jamaica College (JAM)
Omary Robinson, Makaelan Woods, Princewell Martin, DeAndre Gayle

Holmwood Tech (JAM)
Jaydon Collins, Omarie Williamson, Tiandre Downer, Shawn Walter

Cornwall College (JAM)
Zachery Cox, Matthew Webster, Mario Birch, Kemar Mclennon

Excelsior High (JAM)
Daniel Wright, Demarco Bennett, Kishawn Hoffman, Ricardo Carr

Munro College (JAM)
Oneil Brown, Nepaul Frater, Rasheed Buggam, Mickoy Curtis

St. George’s College (JAM)
Nathaneal Abrahams, Fransico Williams, Tajay Taylor, Nathaniel Robinson

Lacovia High (JAM)
Rosean Smith, Nicolas Blair, Nicholas Jones, Arron Senior

Rhodes Hall High (JAM)
Matthew Holmes, Derval Samuels, Dinardo Barnes, Richard Farrier

St. Jago High (JAM)
Tyreek Robinson, Rashad Buckle, Rushaine Richards, Brandon Harris

St. Elizabeth Technical (JAM)
Sawayne Kerr, Enrique Webster, Delano Brown, Joaqueem Miller

Calabar (JAM)
Keano Charles, Junior Gallimore, Micah Willis, Robert Miller

Titchfield High (JAM)
Tijan Blackett, Jamar Davis, Ajarie Bloomfield, Shavan Jarrett

Foga Road High (JAM)
Paul Henry, Denzel Carter, Javoy Green, Taijon Ricketts

Kingston College (JAM)
Tajh Marques White, Jabulani Mcleod, Marcinho Rose, Roshawn Lee

Maggotty High (JAM)
Zachary Wallace, Domonique Anderson, Gage Buggam, Yoshane Bowen

Alphansus Davis High (JAM)
Jerise Books, Jephton Campbell, Raheem Palmer, Tyrie Hopkins

Mona High (JAM)
Kimani Grant, Kevin Bliss, Daniel Peart, Antwon Smith

Muschett High (JAM)
Shavoy Thompson, Osmond Holt, Johan-Romaldo Smythe, Kevin Eccleston

St. Catherine High (JAM)
Paul Bent, Balfour Thomas, Shan-o Francis, Javaine Coore

Bridgeport High (JAM)
Jordan Johnson, Amani Williams, Joel Lunan, Xavier Bailey

William Knibb High (JAM)
Sebastine Ellis, Dejuan Green, Khimani Gordon, Rae’Jhaun Riley

Field Events for April 23, 2025

Discus Throw Championship

Joseph Salmon – Jamaica College (JAM)

Rajay Hemmings – St. Catherine (JAM)

Delon Smith – Calabar (JAM)

Daijon Budhai – Kingston College (JAM)

Rajeem Streete – Munro College (JAM)

Dylan Logan – Kingston College (JAM)

Shot Put Championship

Despiro Wray – Kingston College (JAM)

Devonte Edwards – Munro College (JAM)

Marlando Farquason – Cornwall College (JAM)

Javonte Smith – Munro College (JAM)

Triple Jump Championship

Michael-Andre Edwards – Jamaica College (JAM)

Nicardo Grey Clarke – Wolmer’s Boys (JAM)

Carlin Archer – St. Augustine’s (BAH)

Demian Brice – St. Augustine’s (BAH)

Javelin Throw Championship

Tarique Daley – Calabar (JAM)

Addison James – Edwin Allen (JAM)

Jayvoni Neckles – Jamaica College (JAM)

Ojay Ellis – Munro College (JAM)

Alexander Betancourt – Kingston College (JAM)

Ethan North – Queens College (BAH)

Long Jump Championship

Shamir Kelly – Kingston College (JAM)

Romaine Lewis – Calabar (JAM)

Rikoy Hunter – St. Elizabeth Tech (JAM)

Kenomar Jones – Cornwall College (JAM)

Tonies King – St. Mary High (JAM)

Edward Sterling – Wolmer’s Boys (JAM)

Tyrique Vincent – Fatima College (TRI)

Davon Davis – Queens College (BAH)

High Jump Championship

Chavez Penn – Jamaica College (JAM)

Aaron McKenzie – Kingston College (JAM)

Santino Distin – Herbert Morrison (JAM)

Tejahni Haynes – Kingston College (JAM)

Caribbean Scores Big! U.S. Drops $1M Port Fees After Bold Push by Private Sector & CARICOM Leaders

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 22, 2025: The Caribbean’s private sector is celebrating a massive trade victory after the United States Trade Representative (USTR) officially exempted Caribbean shipping from crushing port fees originally proposed on China-built vessels — a move that could have cost regional economies millions and triggered widespread shipping chaos.

Under the initial plan, ships constructed in China docking at U.S. ports would have been slapped with fees exceeding US$1 million per call. But thanks to powerful advocacy from the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation, (CPSO) and regional governments, Caribbean short-sea shipping is now off the hook.

“This tremendously beneficial outcome is the product of leadership and collaboration,” said CPSO Chairman Gervase Warner, giving credit to Caricom Heads of Government, particularly Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, for her diplomatic and strategic engagement — including direct conversations with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and written appeals to President Donald Trump.

Here’s What the Caribbean Won:

Short-Sea Shipping Exemption: All vessels operating within 2,000 nautical miles between the Caribbean and U.S. are now excluded from the fees.

Size-Based Exemption: Ships under 55,000 deadweight tons and 4,000 TEUs are in the clear.

Specialized Cargo Exemption: Tankers carrying energy and chemical products (up to 80,000 DWT) also avoid penalties.

The CPSO had initially asked for broader exemptions, but most of their requests made it into the final USTR ruling — a major diplomatic and economic win.

Warner emphasized that this decision shields the region from inflation spikes, product shortages, and shipping delays, calling it “a vital protection for Caribbean economies in a fragile global trade environment.”

The move is not just a policy reversal — it’s a testament to what unified Caribbean advocacy can accomplish on the world stage.