This Caribbean Country Has Had Over 1,000 Murders So Far This Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 26, 2024: One Caribbean country has recorded over a 1,000 murders so far this year, and its not Haiti.

Jamaica has recorded over 1,000 murders so far this year, underscoring ongoing challenges with violent crime on the island.

As of November 23, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) reported a total of 1,039 homicides. This marks an increase from the 995 murders recorded during the same period last year. The deadliest week of 2024 occurred recently, with 44 murders in just seven days.

Despite the rise in total numbers, the JCF noted that the overall murder rate has dipped by two percentage points compared to 2023, bringing the year-on-year murder decline to 18%.

Among the 19 police divisions, St. James leads with 117 murders, followed by St. Andrew South at 107. Westmoreland, 94, St. Catherine North, 86, and St. Catherine South, 74, round out the top five divisions with the highest murder counts. Encouragingly, five divisions have recorded a decline in murders compared to last year. Additionally, other serious crimes – including shootings, injuries, rape, robbery, and break-ins – are down across the board.

The grim statistics come just days after Canada issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise extreme caution when visiting Jamaica. The advisory warns of violent crimes such as armed robbery and murder, particularly in urban areas like Kingston and Montego Bay. It highlights high-risk neighborhoods, including Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town, and Norwood Gardens, where gang-related activity and gun violence are prevalent. Tourists were advised to remain vigilant and avoid these areas.

The news also comes as the US recently said guns sent from America dominate Caribbean crime scenes.

Canada Issues Travel Advisories For Several Caribbean Nations

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 25, 2024: The Canadian government has issued travel advisories for several Caribbean nations, urging nationals to exercise caution due to violent crimes and safety concerns. Countries listed include The Bahamas, Jamaica, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

Canada warns nationals to avoid high-crime areas in Georgetown and tourist sites such as Stabroek Market and the Botanical Gardens.

The Bahamas

Travelers to The Bahamas are warned about violent crimes linked to gang activity, particularly in Nassau, Freeport, and Grand Bahama Island. Incidents such as armed robbery, sexual assault, and home invasions have occurred, even in tourist areas and cruise ship terminals. During the holiday season, crime rates tend to rise. Canadian authorities advise tourists to:

Stay in tourist areas

Avoid walking alone at night

Refrain from carrying large amounts of cash

Jamaica

Jamaica’s advisory highlights violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, in urban areas such as Kingston and Montego Bay. High-risk neighborhoods, known as “hot spots,” experience gang-related activity and gun violence. Tourists are also at risk of theft and robberies. Travelers are urged to avoid affected areas and remain vigilant, especially in Kingston and Montego Bay neighborhoods such as Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town, and Norwood Gardens.

Dominican Republic

Crime in the Dominican Republic, especially in major cities, includes theft, pickpocketing, and bag-snatching. Tourists are often targeted, particularly at resorts, beaches, and airports. Canadians are advised to:

Stay in secure accommodations

Avoid displaying valuables

Be cautious of hustlers and overly helpful strangers

Guyana

In Guyana, both petty and violent crime are prevalent. Foreigners are frequently targeted for pickpocketing, armed robberies, and carjackings. Visitors are urged to avoid high-crime areas in Georgetown and tourist sites such as Stabroek Market and the Botanical Gardens. Precautions include:

Avoiding large cash transactions

Staying in secure accommodations

Being vigilant when entering or leaving public places

Trinidad & Tobago

Non-essential travel is advised against certain areas in Trinidad & Tobago, including Beetham Estate Gardens and Laventille, due to gang-related violence. Travelers are urged to avoid these high-crime zones.

Belize

Southside Belize City is flagged for non-essential travel due to gang violence, murders, and shootings. Travelers should avoid this area entirely.

Additional Warnings

Canada advises against all travel to Haiti due to the threat posed by kidnappings, gang violence and the potential for civil unrest throughout the country. Travelers to Cuba are also urged to exercise caution as shortages of food, medicine, and fuel persist.

Canadian authorities recommend that all travelers remain vigilant, secure their belongings, and stay informed of local conditions while visiting these destinations.

Navigating the Taiwan-China Divide: A Caribbean Perspective on Diplomatic Balancing

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By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 25, 2024: The Caribbean’s diplomatic landscape is shaped by competing alliances with Taiwan and China, reflecting broader global geopolitical dynamics. As Caribbean leaders balance these alliances, the stakes for development, economic growth, and political autonomy are high. Navigating this divide requires careful strategy, with an eye on shifting power structures that could have profound implications for the region’s sovereignty and future growth.

FLASHBACK – Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te (L) escorts Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis Terrance Drew during a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Office in Taipei on June 24, 2024.(Photo by SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images)

The Taiwan vs. China Alignment: Benefits and Drawbacks

Caribbean nations aligned with Taiwan benefit from targeted financial aid, scholarships, and infrastructural support, particularly in healthcare, education, and agriculture. Taiwan’s “checkbook diplomacy” has helped fill development gaps, but its limited international influence often means these benefits don’t translate into substantial geopolitical leverage. Conversely, Caribbean nations with ties to China gain access to significant investments, infrastructure projects, and trade opportunities, notably through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, these partnerships come with the risks of mounting debt, economic dependence, and a political obligation to adhere to China’s One-China policy, which may diminish regional autonomy.

The Developmental Stakes

The diplomatic split poses significant developmental challenges. For smaller island economies, Taiwan’s focused aid offers manageable growth, while China’s large-scale investments can dramatically reshape economies but with potential long-term fiscal dependence. The divide also threatens the Caribbean’s collective voice, weakening regional cooperation through CARICOM, which could undermine the region’s ability to leverage its unified influence in global forums.

Leveraging Dual Partnerships for Mutual Benefit

Despite the divide, Caribbean nations can reframe this situation as an opportunity for dual partnerships. By encouraging both Taiwan and China to compete constructively for influence, countries can secure agreements that prioritize sustainable, region-focused development over geopolitical allegiance. Transparent agreements with both powers could help mitigate dependency risks while maximizing the benefits each offers.

A Shift in Political Sentiments

Electoral shifts in Taiwan over the next two cycles are likely to tilt the island towards pro-China policies, marking a significant turning point in its international relationships. This change is partly driven by pragmatic concerns: Taiwan’s increasing diplomatic isolation and the growing economic and political clout of China present a complex reality for Taiwan’s future. For the Caribbean, this realignment could necessitate a pivot in diplomatic strategies. Countries currently aligned with Taiwan might find it increasingly difficult to maintain exclusive ties, as Taiwan’s resources and global advocacy shift toward prioritizing relations with China. Rather than seeing this as a loss, Caribbean leaders should view the realignment as an opportunity to adapt, balancing continued engagement with Taiwan while forging new, strategically sound ties with China.

Embracing the One-China Policy?

As China’s global influence strengthens, Caribbean leaders face mounting pressure to embrace the One-China policy, particularly as the United States has formalized its support. Given the Caribbean’s limited diplomatic leverage and resources, maintaining a neutral stance may no longer be viable. A collective, regional approach focusing on development priorities could help Caribbean nations navigate these competing pressures while preserving their sovereignty and international standing. Strategic engagement with both Taiwan and China, focusing on national and regional interests, will be key.

The Path Forward

To manage these complexities, Caribbean leaders should adopt a pragmatic approach:
1. Diversifying Partnerships: Engage with both Taiwan and China while ensuring fair terms that align with national development goals.
2. Strengthening Regional Unity: Use CARICOM to craft a unified policy that enhances the Caribbean’s collective diplomatic voice.
3. Managing Risks: Ensure transparency and sustainability in foreign investments to avoid debt traps and preserve fiscal sovereignty.
4. Adapting to Global Trends: Stay attuned to shifts in international power dynamics and adjust policies accordingly.
5. Building Resilience Through Innovation: Invest in local innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable industries that reduce reliance on external powers. By fostering homegrown solutions, the Caribbean can increase its resilience to global shifts and preserve its economic sovereignty.

The Taiwan-China divide presents both challenges and opportunities for the Caribbean. By leveraging dual partnerships wisely, fostering regional cooperation, and preparing for shifts in global power dynamics, the region can navigate these complexities and secure sustainable development while maintaining political autonomy.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a globally recognized governance expert, foreign policy strategist, and leadership consultant with over 30 years of experience advising governments, international organizations, and corporate entities. Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia-trained, Dr. Newton specializes in crafting innovative solutions to complex geopolitical challenges, with a focus on leveraging diplomatic partnerships for sustainable development. His insightful analysis and strategic guidance have positioned him as a leading voice on Caribbean regional affairs and global power dynamics.

Petronas Steps Up as Exxon Exits Key Guyana Oil Block

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 22, 2024: Malaysian energy giant Petronas is emerging as a key player in Guyana’s energy landscape, taking center stage in a shallow-water oil block there after the Exxon Mobil-led consortium ended talks with the Guyanese government.

Exxon Mobil, along with Hess Corporation and China’s Cnooc, had secured the offshore Block S8 in a 2022 bidding round. However, negotiations faltered this year as Exxon reportedly sought to use the area for carbon capture and storage. “We don’t want to do that at this stage,” said Guyana Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.

This shift mirrors a similar development in neighboring Suriname earlier this week, where Exxon pulled out of an offshore oil block, leaving Petronas as the sole operator of what is considered one of the country’s most promising energy projects.

INVEST CARIBBEAN NOW

As Exxon refocuses its regional strategy, Petronas stands poised to strengthen its position in the energy sector across Guyana and Suriname.

Petroliam Nasional Berhad, known as PETRONAS, is Malaysia’s state-owned multinational oil and gas company headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. Founded in 1974, the company oversees all of Malaysia’s oil and gas resources and operates in over 100 countries, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.

Ranked 216th on the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list and identified by the Financial Times as one of the “new seven sisters” of influential state-owned oil companies, PETRONAS engages in a wide range of activities. These include upstream exploration, downstream refining, gas processing, LNG marketing, petrochemical production, shipping, and even property investments. From 2015 to 2020, it provided over 15% of Malaysia’s government revenue, underscoring its critical role in the country’s development.

India PM Gets Top Guyana Award

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 21, 2024: The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, has been honored with the Order of Excellence by Guyana’s President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The prestigious national award, established in 1970 under the Constitution of the Orders of Guyana, is reserved for only 25 living Guyanese citizens and is rarely bestowed on non-nationals.

India PM Narendra Modi is presented with Guyana’s top award by President of Guyana, r., Dr. Irfaan Ali.

The honorary ceremony, held earlier this week, was accompanied by a vibrant cultural display showcasing Guyana’s rich heritage. The award recognizes Prime Minister Modi’s exceptional leadership in championing the interests of developing nations on the global stage.

President Ali highlighted Modi’s pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic, when India donated 500,000 vaccines to the Caribbean region despite its own domestic challenges. Of these, 80,000 vaccines were sent to Guyana, a gesture Ali credited with saving thousands of lives.

“The greatest test of any member of the human family is to give of their very little when they are most in need. And Prime Minister Modi fulfilled this test with distinction,” President Ali remarked during the ceremony.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C) is welcomed upon landing for an official visit to Guyana, at the airport in Georgetown late on November 19, 2024. (Photo by Denis CHABROL / AFP) (Photo by DENIS CHABROL/AFP via Getty Images)

Ali also emphasized India’s longstanding support for Guyana, including contributions in training, scholarships, military exchanges, concessional loans, and cultural cooperation. He praised Modi for promoting technological innovation, digitization, and inclusive development that benefits the Global South.

“In every sphere of national development, we can point to physical, institutional, and systemic support from the government and people of India. We salute you, Prime Minister Modi, and the people of India. Continue to lead boldly and inspire in this complex global environment,” Ali declared.

The President also affirmed that Modi is, and will always remain, a member of the CARICOM family.

In his acceptance speech, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep gratitude to President Ali and the people of Guyana for the honor, noting the close historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He commended Ali’s leadership in strengthening bilateral relations, stating, “Under his leadership, we are continuously moving forward in every direction.” Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Guyana and the Caribbean region.

During his three-day state visit to Guyana, Modi participated in discussions aimed at bolstering partnerships and witnessed a vibrant showcase of Guyana’s diverse cultural heritage. His visit marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations.

Elon Musk Now Has His Eyes On Guyana

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 21, 2024: Elon Musk is now reportedly eyeing the oil rich CARICOM, South American nation of Guyana even as he positions himself to become one of the most powerful men in the Donald Trump administration.

Startlink, SpaceX, Tesla and X CEO Elon Musk raises his hands as he takes the stage during a campaign rally for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in November 2024. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

The SpaceX and satellite Internet service, Starlink founder, is eyeing a license to operate in Guyana, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo announced Thursday. The move could bring new connectivity opportunities to the country, particularly for remote hinterland regions.

Starlink, a satellite Internet constellation operated by SpaceX and founded by the billionaire entrepreneur, X owner, Trump campaign backer and newly appointed co-head of the Department of Government Efficiency, an entity Trump indicated will operate outside the confines of government, is currently under review by the Guyanese government.

Speaking at his weekly press conference today, Dr. Jagdeo said the proposal is “actively being considered” and highlighted the potential benefits of granting Starlink an official license, including tax revenue for the government.

Currently, Starlink services are informally accessed in Guyana, with private individuals importing the equipment to provide internet access to underserved areas. Dr. Jagdeo noted that this arrangement is inequitable for other companies offering similar services, as they are required to pay taxes. An approved license for Starlink would ensure the company adheres to the same regulatory standards.

Discussions about Starlink’s potential entry into Guyana were first revealed after a meeting in July between President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Elon Musk. The Office of the President described the talks as focusing on economic innovation, technological advancements, and opportunities within various sectors of Guyana’s rapidly growing economy.

If approved, Starlink’s presence could significantly boost Internet connectivity across Guyana, particularly in regions where traditional infrastructure has struggled to meet demand.

ABOUT STARLINK

Starlink is a satellite internet service operated by Starlink Services, LLC, a subsidiary of SpaceX, the American aerospace company founded by Musk. With coverage extending to over 100 countries and territories, Starlink aims to provide high-speed global mobile broadband, playing a pivotal role in SpaceX’s growth trajectory.

Since launching its first satellites in 2019, SpaceX has deployed over 7,000 small satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) as of September 2024. This figure is expected to grow, with plans for up to 34,400 satellites in the future. The network achieved a milestone of 1 million subscribers in December 2022 and reached 4 million by September 2024.

Starlink satellites are developed and controlled at SpaceX’s Redmond, Washington facility, where research, manufacturing, and orbit management take place. The ambitious project, estimated in 2018 to cost $10 billion, reported $1.4 billion in revenue in 2022. By 2024, that figure is projected to rise to $6.6 billion.

Starlink has also found critical applications in government operations, including its use in the Russo-Ukrainian War under a U.S. Department of Defense contract. SpaceX has introduced “Starshield,” a version of Starlink tailored for military and government use.

While Starlink has transformed internet access globally, it has faced criticism from astronomers over potential disruptions to ground-based astronomy and concerns about orbital congestion. SpaceX has implemented measures to reduce satellite brightness and equipped satellites with collision-avoidance technology and Hall-effect thrusters for safe de-orbiting.

Starlink continues to advance global connectivity, bridging digital divides and expanding its impact across industries and regions.

Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences announces its sponsorship of Dutch sailing team at 15th edition of St. Barth Cata-Cup

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News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Tues. November 19, 2024: Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences, a luxurious 280-room resort and residences that promises to redefine island living on the shores of Indigo Bay, St. Maarten, today announced its sponsorship of a Dutch team at the 15th edition of the St. Barth Cata-Cup Regatta, taking place from November 20th to 24th, 2024.  Set against the idyllic backdrop of Saint Barthélemy from November 20th to 24th, 2024, this high-profile catamaran regatta draws 55 elite teams from around the globe and stands as a testament to the Caribbean’s vibrant sailing culture.

The St. Barth Cata-Cup has grown into one of the region’s most iconic regattas, attracting sailors and enthusiasts alike for its blend of world-class competition and island camaraderie. Vie L’Ven is proud to sponsor a team that embodies these same values, underscoring the resort’s commitment to preserving and celebrating St. Maarten’s maritime heritage. Celebrating the island’s rich Dutch and French heritage, the vibrant resort and residence name is rooted in the essence of ‘life’ and ‘living’ through this unique fusion. As a property situated on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven draws upon this deep cultural connection by supporting a Dutch team that resonates with both island tradition and the international sailing community.

Through this sponsorship, Vie L’Ven aims to create an authentic experience for Cata-Cup attendees and prospective residents alike, highlighting the resort as a gateway to the island’s natural beauty and sailing spirit. Vie L’Ven’s upcoming on-property yacht dock, will make it easier than ever for residents and guests to explore the surrounding waters and islands, like St. Barthélemy and Anguilla—ideal for those drawn to the lifestyle of the sea.

The resort and residences is honored to support Team HorseRiding, composed of the father & son duo and Dutch natives, Ad Noordzij and Maarten Noordzij, who have been sailing together in the F18 class for over a decade. Their passion for sailing and dedication to the sport embody the spirit of community and excellence that Vie L’Ven champions as a proud member of Sint Maarten’s Dutch heritage. Their partnership was born out of a shared love for catamaran sailing that began with family adventures and grew into a serious pursuit. Ad, who rekindled his passion for catamaran sailing after years in South America, introduced Maarten to competitive sailing at age 15. Since then, their bond has deepened, evolving from father-son dynamics to a true team connection on the water.

Known within the F18 class for their hands-on approach, Ad and Maarten’s catamaran has been modified with custom innovations that improve their performance. From a Bluetooth-enabled communication system to lightweight line setups, their boat has become a reflection of their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to their craft. This spirit of ingenuity and resilience, paired with Maarten’s emerging tactical skills and Ad’s wealth of experience, embodies the essence of Vie L’Ven’s approach to luxury and personalized design.

“Vie L’Ven is proud to champion the Dutch Team HorseRiding at the St. Barth Cata-Cup, embracing the spirit of Caribbean maritime heritage alongside our Dutch roots,” shared Zev Mandelbaumm, CEO of  Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences. “This partnership reflects our dedication to excellence, creativity, and community as we look forward to our grand opening in the high season of 2027/2028.”

With the completion of the project on track for High-Season 2027/2028, Vie L’Ven is the vision of  Altree Developments, a leader in the international real estate landscape, rooted in a 70-year multi-generational family legacy in the development industry. Committed to redefining Caribbean luxury, the concept for Vie L’Ven has been brought to life by renowned partners Studio Munge, HKS Architects and Leading Hotels of The World, all of whom have been recognized globally for their dedication to creating world-class properties.

With luxurious amenities, including a dedicated Les Clefs d’Or concierge team, three distinct pools, the largest destination spa in the Caribbean, pickleball and tennis courts, on-beach water sports, children’s playroom and childcare services, a nature reserve and dining concepts led by Michelin-starred Chef Alain Ducasse, the resort is poised to become the Caribbean’s premier address.

Vie L’Ven’s residences, with sales being led by St. Maarten Sotheby’s International Realty, celebrates the natural beauty of the island with expansive layouts, oceanfront views, and private plunge pools, ready to welcome residents. Residences start from the $900,000s (USD).

Visitors to the St. Barth Cata-Cup are invited to stop by the Vie L’Ven booth, where the resort team will be on-site to share exclusive insights about the luxury experiences awaiting at Indigo Bay.

For sales inquiries contact +1-721-544-1545 | info@vielven.com or visit vielven.com or the presentation gallery on Indigo Bay Boulevard in Indigo Bay, St. Maarten.

About Vie L’Ven

Inspired by the Dutch-French heritage of St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences is a vibrant hideaway embodying the essence of ‘life’ and ‘living’. Nestled on the secluded shores of Indigo Bay, the 280-residence destination is an idyllic retreat where memories are made and each moment invites your return. Offering a curated lifestyle, amenities include a Beach Club, three outdoor pools, a private yacht dock, tennis and pickleball courts, and a destination spa with breathtaking bay views. Guests embark on a culinary journey with Michelin-starred Chef Alain Ducasse, whose menu celebrates the island’s rich natural bounty. Crafted by Studio Munge and HKS Architects, Vie L’Ven is more than a destination; it’s a living, breathing utopia where the island’s essence is savored in its most exquisite form.

About Altree Developments

Altree Developments is a leader in the international real estate landscape, rooted in a 70-year multi-generational family legacy in the development industry. Under the visionary leadership of Zev Mandelbaum, Altree is redefining urban living by transforming strategic residential and commercial sites into leading destinations. With an admirable portfolio that includes ultra-luxury condominiums and expansive master-planned communities, Altree’s influence stretches across some of the most coveted addresses in Canada, America, and now, St. Maarten. Driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation and luxury, Altree’s projects are designed to stand the test of time, offering unparalleled value, and shaping the future of urban living. For more information, visit altreedevelopments.com.

Three Caribbean Students Named 2025 Rhodes Scholars

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 16, 2024: Three outstanding Caribbean-born students have been named 2025 Rhodes Scholars, joining a prestigious cohort recognized for their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to making a difference. The students, hailing from St. Lucia, Bermuda, and Jamaica, will head to the University of Oxford in October 2025 to pursue graduate studies fully funded by the Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s most coveted academic awards.

The 2025 Caribbean Rhodes Scholars

1. Rehym Augustin-Joseph, St. Lucia

Rehym Augustin-Joseph, a political science and law student at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill campus, expressed immense pride in receiving the Rhodes Scholarship. He plans to pursue graduate studies in law at Oxford University.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to add value as part of the academic journey and give back to the region,” Augustin-Joseph said.

The St. Lucian scholar has excelled academically, graduating as valedictorian in 2023 with First Class Honours and a GPA of 3.80. His accolades include awards for best political science student and academic excellence, along with leadership roles such as President of UWISTAT and contributions to the Caribbean Court of Justice Mooting Competition, where he was named Best Oralist. He is also a Garvey-Nkrumah Fellow, a summer leadership and professional development initiative founded by Howard Professor and attorney John Woods, Jr. designed to train aspiring lawyers of African descent.

Passionate about regional development, Augustin-Joseph remarked: “Most of the issues we face on a national level are replicated across the region. Whether it’s crime, violence, income disparities, or deepening democracy, my goal is to tackle these shared challenges.”

2. Jayden Parker, Bermuda

Bermuda-born Jayden Parker, a Biomedical Sciences graduate from the University of Guelph, is passionate about biodiversity, animal welfare, and environmental conservation. He has worked extensively in exotic and marine animal care, including rehabilitation projects in the Galápagos Islands and Borneo.

Parker will study Biodiversity, Conservation, and Nature Recovery at Oxford. Reflecting on his journey, Parker said his work has prepared him for this opportunity to address critical global environmental challenges.

3. Aundrene Cameron, Jamaica

Aundrene Cameron, a former Miss Jamaica Festival Queen and Governor General’s Achievement Award recipient, is preparing to pursue a Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a Master of Philosophy in Law at Oxford. Cameron’s focus is on combating human trafficking and gender-based violence.

Growing up in Spanish Town, a community with a reputation for high levels of trafficking and violence, Cameron was inspired to act. Her project, “Girls Who Fight Back,” equips young girls with self-defense skills and awareness of dangerous situations. “I want to create a safer Jamaica for women and girls,” she said, describing her vision to transform the initiative into a nonprofit organization.

About the Rhodes Scholarship

The Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s most prestigious academic awards, was established through the will of Cecil John Rhodes, a controversial colonialist, mining magnate, and former Prime Minister of the Cape Colony, (1890–1896). Rhodes, instrumental in founding the British South Africa Company and the colonization of southern Africa, saw the territory of Rhodesia, (modern Zimbabwe and Zambia), named after him.

Born in England in 1853, Rhodes moved to South Africa as a teenager to improve his health. Entering the diamond trade, he founded De Beers in 1888, gaining a near-monopoly over the global diamond market. As Prime Minister, Rhodes implemented policies like the Glen Grey Act, expropriating land from Black Africans, and the Franchise and Ballot Act, disenfranchising Black voters.

Rhodes resigned in 1896 after the failed Jameson Raid on the Transvaal and died in 1902. His will funded the Rhodes Scholarship, which offers fully funded postgraduate studies at Oxford University. Notable recipients include U.S. President Bill Clinton and other global leaders.

Today, Rhodes’ legacy is highly debated, with movements like Rhodes Must Fall criticizing his colonial policies, including land confiscation and claims undermining African heritage. While the scholarship continues to shape future leaders, it remains tied to a divisive history of colonialism and exploitation.

The 2025 selection process saw nearly 3,000 students applying, with only 238 finalists interviewed by independent committees.

These three Caribbean scholars join a legacy of leaders making impactful contributions globally. Their achievements not only highlight the region’s talent but also underscore the transformative opportunities provided by the Rhodes Scholarship.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago Crowned Miss Congeniality 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 16, 2024: Trinidad and Tobago’s Miss Universe 2024 delegate, Jenelle Thongs, has been crowned Miss Congeniality at this year’s Nov. 16th competition, held in Mexico City, Mexico, a recognition that celebrates her warmth, kindness, and ability to connect meaningfully with others. The award is given to the contestant deemed most approachable and kindhearted by her peers.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago Jenelle Thongs Crowned Miss Congeniality 2024. (Miss Universe image)

Despite facing criticism on social media about her wardrobe, appearance, and age, the 32-year-old Thongs has stood firm, reminding everyone of her confidence and purpose.

Responding to Critics

In a post on the official Miss Trinidad and Tobago Facebook page, Thongs addressed the negativity with grace and determination:
“I’m sorry to disappoint the haters, but I am that girl! I will never dim my light for anyone else.”

In a heartfelt four-minute video, Thongs revealed that the social media backlash initially caught her off guard but became a source of strength: “Hearing things about yourself right before stepping onto the big stage can affect your psyche, but I chose to channel it into something positive. Your words don’t get to me; they fuel me.”

Her fellow contestants also rallied behind her, with Miss Cambodia and Miss Lebanon praising her authenticity. Miss Cambodia declared, “Yes, she’s the best, you guys don’t know.”

A Title of Warmth and Connection

Thongs’ authenticity and resilience shone through during the preliminary rounds, earning her the coveted Miss Congeniality title. Reflecting on the honor, she shared:“I am so blessed and honored to be given this award because it truly means I achieved what I set out to do—to make lasting connections and impressions with the girls, the team, and everyone involved.”

The Miss Universe organization shared her joy, posting:“We’re thrilled to announce Janelle Thongs as our Miss Congeniality winner! Her kindness and warmth have captured our hearts.”

Championing Empowerment Through ‘The Sprouting Onion’

Beyond the pageant, Thongs highlighted her personal project, The Sprouting Onion, which empowers individuals by addressing psychological and cognitive layers to promote personal and community growth. “This win is not just for me but for all of us as we champion women’s empowerment and respect for cultural differences,” she added.

A Message to Trinidad and Tobago

Thongs expressed gratitude to her supporters in Trinidad and Tobago, sharing a heartfelt message on social media: “Journeying with me to the universe has been nothing short of a dream. I bleed red, white, and black for you, living our national motto of unity every day on this global stage.”

The 73rd Miss Universe competition, which took place at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, was won by Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig. The first runner up was the first runner-up Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina while Miss Mexico Maria Fernanda Beltran was the second runner-up.

10 Things To Know About Puerto Rican Star Amanda Serrano

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 16, 2024: Last night, Puerto Rican boxing star, Amanda Serrano, 36 stepped into the ring for a historic rematch against Katie Taylor, 38, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with the undisputed super lightweight title on the line and on the same card as the much anticipated and promoted Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight.

Amanda Serrano (left) and Katie Taylor (right) and exchange punches during their super lightweight world titles of the Premiere Boxing Championship on Friday night at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, United States on November 15, 2024. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Despite a strong showing, Serrano narrowly lost by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 95-94 in favor of the Irish born Taylor.

The match, which was a headline event on a card that also featured Paul defeating Tyson, was characterized by high drama and controversy. Serrano suffered a significant cut over her left eye from an accidental headbutt, leading to a medical examination in the sixth round. The Puerto Rican star persevered and finished all ten rounds, landing more punches overall than Taylor, according to fight statistics. However, Taylor’s clean combinations and ring control swayed the judges.

After the fight, Serrano took to Twitter to share her thoughts with humor and pride: “Did I do that?! (Steve Urkel voice) Wow, HIGHEST PAID & MOST PUNCHES LANDED. I’ve Made My Own Lane. I’m 1 of 1.” Her words reflect her confidence and resilience, even in the face of defeat and as many netizens claims she was robbed.

Serrano, who holds a net worth of $5 million as of 2024, has made history as the first female boxer to win world titles in seven different weight divisions. Her earnings, coupled with her influence in boxing, have solidified her as one of the most successful and iconic female athletes of her time and her fan base undoubtedly grew on November 15, 2024.

As Serrano continues to inspire, here are 10 things to know about this legendary boxer:

Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor before the undisputed super lightweight championship fightat AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA. (Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

1. Trailblazer in Women’s Boxing

Amanda Serrano is the first female boxer, and the first Puerto Rican, to win world titles in more than four weight classes. She has achieved nine major world titles across seven weight divisions, earning a Guinness World Record.

2. Unified Featherweight Champion

Serrano has held the unified featherweight world championship for several years, including the WBO title since 2019, the IBO title since 2021, and the WBA title since 2023.

3. Puerto Rican Pride

Born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Serrano embodies the spirit of the Puerto Rican diaspora. Her heritage and culture remain a central part of her identity.

4. Historic Madison Square Garden Main Event

In 2022, Serrano made history as part of the first women’s boxing match to headline Madison Square Garden. Though she narrowly lost to Katie Taylor, the event was a landmark moment for women in boxing.

5. Award-Winning Boxer

She has twice been named the WBO Female Boxer of the Year (2016 and 2018) and was the first woman to receive the WBO’s “Super World Championship” title.

6. Multi-Division Champion

Serrano’s ability to compete across weight classes is unparalleled. She has won titles from super flyweight to light welterweight, demonstrating incredible versatility.

7. History-Making Fights

In 2023, Serrano participated in the first women’s world title fight with 12 three-minute rounds since 2007, advocating for equality in the sport.

8. Undisputed Champion from Puerto Rico

She became Puerto Rico’s first undisputed boxing champion of the four-belt era after defeating Erika Cruz in February 2023.

9. Mixed Martial Arts Competitor

Serrano has also competed in MMA, showcasing her adaptability and skill in multiple combat sports.

10. Advocate for Women’s Boxing

Serrano has been a strong advocate for improved conditions for female boxers, including equal pay and longer fight durations, ensuring a lasting impact on the sport.

Amanda Serrano’s legacy is one of perseverance, skill, and breaking barriers. Discussions of a potential trilogy with Katie Taylor are already circulating, promising more excitement from one of boxing’s all-time greats.