Seven Canadian Trailblazers To Be Honored at the 15th Annual University of West Indies Toronto Benefit Awards

/0 Comments/in /by

NEWS AMERICAS, Toronto, ON, March 7, 2024 (Toronto, ON) – The 15th Annual University of West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards celebrates the 2024 Honorees of its fundraiser in support of scholarships for Caribbean students on Saturday April 20th, 2024 at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 181 Wellington Street, Toronto at 5:30pm EST.  The sold-out gala affair is hosted by The University of the West Indies (UWI), top ranked among the world’s best universities, with Scotiabank as Lead Sponsor for the 15th consecutive year.

“The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards has provided 850 scholarships and bursaries to Caribbean students over the years” exclaimed Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind, Executive Director of University’s Institutional Advancement Division. “We know that education is the pathway to success as is evident with those who graduated and have gone onto great careers because they were able to attend The University of West Indies and get a world class education.”

Primary sponsors for this year’s event include Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Sprott Inc., The Hibbert Family Foundation, and BDO.

Under this year’s theme, Lighting the Way Together, this not-to-be missed night on the Toronto social calendar cultivates a high-profile guest list of corporate executives, public personalities and  community members committed to giving back to the Caribbean diaspora.

The distinguished 2024 Honourees are:

Luminary Award: The Honourable Mr. Justice Hugh L. Fraser, O.C., FCIArb., CollArb, OLY – Mediator, Arbitrator and Human Rights Activist

G. Raymond Chang Award: Mr. Raj Kothari, FCPA, FCA, MBA – Business Leader and Humanitarian

Chancellor’s Award: Air Canada – Global Organization serving the Caribbean

Vice Chancellor’s Award: Dr. Pamela Appelt, OD – Court of Canadian Citizenship Justice (Ret.), Humanitarian; Mr. Stanley J. Julien – Head, Special Accounts Management Unit – Canada, BMO Bank of Montreal, Business and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leader; Mr. Deland Kamanga, CFA – Group Head, BMO Wealth Management, Financial Specialist and Philanthropist; Dr. Claudette McGowan – Chief Executive Officer, Protexxa, Global Cybersecurity Leader and Human Rights Activist, Business Leader and Philanthropist

Left to Right (Top): Deland Kamanga, Dr. Pamela Appelt, Raj Kothari,
Left to Right (Middle): Stanley Julien, Dr. Claudette McGowan, Hon. Hugh L. Fraser
Bottom: Air Canada

The Patrons of the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards are Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Mr. Andrew Chang, Ms. Brigette Chang, and joining them this year are Mr. Kevin Hibbert and Mrs. Ann-Marie Hibbert, both passionate supporters of higher education and the UWI Student Scholarship Fund. Mr. Hibbert was a recipient of the 2023 Vice Chancellor’s Award. 

Lighting the Way Together demonstrates how together, community donations, financial support and inspiration provides a lifeline to students eager to fulfill their educational dreams.

Red Carpet Cocktail Hour – 5:30pm – 7:00pm – 2nd Floor

Dinner, Awards Program, Entertainment – 7:00pm – 10:00pm – 2nd Floor

Air Canada Lyme (After Party) – 10:00pm – Midnight

Website  | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Caribbean Born President of UN General Assembly Calls For Immediate Ceasefire In Gaza

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Mar. 4, 2024: The Caribbean born President of the United Nations General Assembly,(UNGA), Dennis Francis, today called for the implementation of “an immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in the Gaza where Israeli troops have been fighting members of the terrorist group, Hamas, since the October 7 last year incursion into Israel.

United Nations General Assembly President Dennis Francis (Photo by Vipin Kumar/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

“The bombardment must stop, now,” the Trinidad and Tobago diplomat said, as the UNGA plenary meeting on the use of the “veto.”

A screen grab captured from a video shows the civil defense teams working to rebury the bodies unearthed under the soil after the Israeli warplanes bombed a cemetery at the Jibaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza Strip, Gaza on March 4, 2024. (Photo by Stringer/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Francis said that from the inception of the United Nations in 1945, the General Assembly and the Security Council, both share a single overarching duty and that is “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.

“The purpose of our meeting today underscores the vital importance of that joint responsibility and the urgency for the two bodies to strengthen their collective efforts, within their respective mandates under the United Nations Charter, to preserve and promote global peace and security. In this context, I strongly urge member states to engage in today’s debate with a proactive, solution-oriented posture , mindful of all member states’ responsibility to exert every effort to avert further violence and to save lives,” he said.

There have been calls to do away with the “veto” mechanism used by the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council including the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, China and France.

Francis said that while he welcomes the the introduction and utility of the “Veto Initiative,” most especially in relation to the accountability it seeks to foster “it is nevertheless deeply regrettable that compliant with the rules of procedure, this General Assembly must use it at all, in connection with the current deepening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

He said thousands of children have been killed, others are scrounging for food and watching their childhoods evaporate into the horrors of war.

“Countless mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, nieces, and nephews, ll gone. As the French would say “disparu,”, disappeared. Their dreams extinguished, their potential lost forever, and their futures obliterated,” said Francis, while adding that 85 per cent of Gaza’s population, or 1.9 million people, are internally displaced and nearly 1.5 million of them now reside in Rafah – that is, more than six times the population prior to October 7th.

“I am deeply concerned about intensified Israeli airstrikes in Rafah, including in residential areas. In the words of UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, any ground operation in such a densely populated area would “leave an already fragile humanitarian operation at death’s door. I, therefore, urgently call for maximum restraint to prevail in order to save innocent civilian lives. Israeli restrictions on the humanitarian access have drastically reduced the flow of lifesaving aid to a mere trickle.”

Caribbean Star Rihanna’s India Performance Gets Mixed Reviews

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Mar. 4, 2024: Rihanna’s highly anticipated return to the stage at Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding party in India stirred up a whirlwind of reactions.

Rihanna’s performance in India.

After an eight-year hiatus from live performances, the Barbadian superstar took center stage to perform for the first time in India, delivering a setlist of 19 songs to over 20,000 fans at Jamnagar. However, her performance received mixed reviews, with some critics dubbing her as a “lazy performer” due to what they perceived as low energy.

Despite the criticisms, Rihanna’s comeback marked a significant moment in her career trajectory. Renowned for her chart-topping hits and groundbreaking style, the Grammy-winning artist’s presence at the lavish event garnered widespread attention. Known for her larger-than-life performances, fans had high expectations for Rihanna’s return to the stage. However, some expressed disappointment over what they perceived as a lackluster performance, citing her subdued demeanor and minimal engagement with the audience.

Speculation surrounding Rihanna’s performance intensified following her recent pregnancies. The singer welcomed her first son with rapper A$AP Rocky in May 2022, followed by another baby boy in August 2023. Fans pointed to her post-pregnancy recovery as a potential factor contributing to her subdued stage presence.

Nevertheless, Rihanna’s loyal fan base rallied behind her, vehemently defending the singer against detractors. Supporters emphasized her iconic status and celebrated her resilience in overcoming personal challenges while maintaining her place in the spotlight.

As rumors swirled about a possible third pregnancy, Rihanna’s representatives remained tight-lipped, fueling speculation about her future plans. Despite the mixed reactions to her recent performance, Rihanna’s enduring influence in the music industry remains undeniable. With a legacy spanning over a decade, the multifaceted artist continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her undeniable talent and unwavering authenticity.

As fans eagerly await her next move, Rihanna’s return to the stage serves as a reminder of her enduring impact on music and culture. Whether she’s performing at star-studded events or gracing the covers of fashion magazines, Rihanna’s presence continues to shape the zeitgeist, cementing her status as a global icon.

Nigy Boy Thrills Guyanese At Mashramani Concert

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Mon. Mar. 4, 2024: Fresh off the triumph of his chart-topping track ‘Continent,’ dancehall sensation Nigy Boy took flight to the CARICOM, South American nation of Guyana, headlining Guyana’s vibrant Mashramani festival.

Nigy Boy performing in Guyana on Feb. 23, 2024.

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere at Mash A-Rama, Nigy Boy enthralled over 20,000 enthusiastic fans with his energetic performance, declaring Guyana’s reception as nothing short of sensational. Joining forces with renowned music producer Rvssian and a stellar lineup of artists, including Rajah Wild, Brysco, and Matic Queen, Nigy Boy celebrated the contagious energy of dancehall music.

Amidst the festivities, the visually impaired artist had the honor of meeting Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali and First Lady Arya Ali, a humbling experience that underscored his growing influence in the music industry.

“Guyana was sensational! The ladies could not get enough of the ‘Continent Boss’” Nigy Boy declared moments after his performance adding, “I executed as best as I could, and the crowd showed me love and support. It was a wonderful experience.”

“Being able to perform side-by-side with the other artists on the ‘Dutty Money’ riddim was a special moment. The synergy was just unreal. Dancehall has found a new energy, a new force,” Nigy added.

With his hit single ‘Continent’ amassing over 6.7 million views on YouTube, Nigy Boy’s meteoric rise continues as he prepares to unveil his next release on Rvssian’s ‘Payment Plan Riddim.’

*Rewritten from Images Newsletter

Two Caribbean Athletes Make History At World Indoor Championships

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Mar. 4, 2024: Two Caribbean athletes made history over the weekend at the World Indoor Championships at the Emirates Arena, Glasgow.

Bahamian athlete Devynne Charlton showcased her exceptional talent at the World Indoor Championships, stunning the crowd by breaking her own world record in the women’s 60 meters hurdles. Clocking an astonishing 7.65 seconds, Charlton seized the gold medal with remarkable finesse. Reflecting on her outstanding performance, Charlton admitted to feeling like she executed the perfect race, emphasizing her focus on flawless execution.

“I drew a blank on that one so I can’t really tell you what happened,” Charlton said. “The thought going into it was just to execute and I think I did that. I knew I had that kind of time in me, it was just about putting my race together on the day.”

With her victory, Charlton not only secured the gold but also shaved two hundredths of a second off the world record she had set just last month in New York. This exceptional feat solidifies her status as one of the world’s premier hurdlers and brings immense pride to her home country of The Bahamas.

Bahamas’ Devynne Charlton celebrates setting a world record on the podium for the Women’s 60m Hurdle during day three of the World Indoor Athletics Championships at the Emirates Arena, Glasgow. Picture date: Sunday March 3, 2024. (Photo by Jane Barlow/PA Images via Getty Images)

Celebrating her historic achievement, Charlton expressed her joy and anticipation of returning home to share her victory with her fellow Bahamians. “It feels amazing. I can’t wait to get home and celebrate this,” she exclaimed.

In a show of Bahamian dominance, fellow hurdler Charisma Taylor finished sixth in the final, clocking a commendable time of 7.92 seconds. However, the day belonged to Charlton, whose electrifying performance captivated audiences and left an indelible mark on the world of track and field.

Thea LaFond

Meanwhile, in the triple jump event, history was made once again as Dominica’s Thea LaFond soared to victory, securing her country’s first-ever medal in a global track and field competition. LaFond’s monumental leap of 15.01 meters in the second round not only secured the gold but also established her as the world leader in the event.

Gold medalist Thea Lafond of Team Dominica poses for a photo during the medal ceremony for the the Women’s Triple Jump Final on Day Three of the World Athletics Indoor Championships Glasgow 2024 at Emirates Arena on March 03, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Overwhelmed with emotion, LaFond expressed her pride and gratitude following her historic win. “At some point, it’s going to hit [me], and I think right now I’m like just really, really proud,” LaFond shared with reporters. “I’m proud to have done what I did, I’m proud of Aaron [Gadson] and I – Aaron is my coach and husband – and I’m so proud to be from that small beautiful country, [that] powerful country in the Caribbean.”

LaFond’s triumph serves as an inspiration to her fellow Dominicans and athletes across the Caribbean, demonstrating that with hard work, determination, and unwavering support, anything is possible.

As the curtain falls on the World Indoor Championships, the remarkable achievements of Devynne Charlton and Thea LaFond will be etched into the annals of sporting history, serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence.

Gordon Brothers Offering for Sale by Private Treaty Royal Falcon One Superyacht

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, London, England, Monday, March 04, 2024: Gordon Brothers, the global asset experts, is exclusively offering for sale by private treaty the Royal Falcon One superyacht.

Royal Falcon One was built in 2019 and is the world’s only luxury catamaran superyacht created by Studio F.A. Porsche. The vessel is a generous four-deck, 10-berth catamaran benefiting from best-in-class design and artisanry.

The superyacht has a range of 1,200 nautical miles and boasts onboard facilities including five VIP suites, four crew cabins, 10-seat dining table, three bars and a relaxing sundeck featuring a lounge area and jacuzzi. A shallow draft enables the yacht to access and anchor in the most secluded coves.

“Royal Falcon One presents a unique opportunity for the discerning buyer to acquire a one-of-a-kind catamaran under 500 gross tons,” said Oliver Veart, Director, Marine & Valuations at Gordon Brothers. “The vessel is berthed in Genoa, Italy and available for prompt delivery in time for the Mediterranean summer season.”

For further details, please contact Oliver Veart at ov****@go************.com. For vessel specifications, please visit our website.

Gordon Brothers has established a dedicated marine services and valuations practice that leverages decades of experience buying, selling and valuing assets in the commercial and industrial economy across Australia, Brazil, Canada, the U.K., Europe, Japan and the U.S. The firm provides advisory services including fleet and vessel renewal analysis, disposition and investment strategies.

About Gordon Brothers

Since 1903, Gordon Brothers (www.gordonbrothers.com) has helped lenders, management teams, advisors and investors move forward through change. The firm brings a powerful combination of expertise and capital to clients, developing customized solutions on an integrated or standalone basis across four services areas: valuations, dispositions, financing and investment. Whether to fuel growth or facilitate strategic consolidation, Gordon Brothers partners with companies in the retail, commercial and industrial sectors to provide maximum liquidity, put assets to their highest and best use and mitigate liabilities. The firm conducts more than $100 billion worth of dispositions and appraisals annually and provides both short- and long-term capital to clients undergoing transformation. Gordon Brothers lends against and invests in brands, real estate, inventory, receivables, machinery, equipment and other assets, both together and individually, to provide clients liquidity solutions beyond its market-leading disposition and appraisal services. The firm is headquartered in Boston, with over 30 offices across five continents.

Caribbean Superstar Rihanna Set to Perform at Anant Ambani’s Pre-Wedding Bash in India

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Mar. 1, 2024: The pre-wedding festivities for billionaire heir Anant Ambani and his fiancée Radhika Merchant have kicked off in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, drawing a constellation of global celebrities, including Caribbean music icon Rihanna.

Barbadian singer-songwriter, actress Rihanna performing “Lift Me Up” from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” onstage during the 95th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 12, 2023. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP) (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)

The lavish three-day event, leading up to the couple’s wedding in July, is set to feature performances by Rihanna alongside Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh, with magician David Blaine also listed to entertain the distinguished guests. The celebrations are hosted at the opulent Ambani Estate, with attendees such as Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, Disney CEO Bob Iger, and former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

The star-studded guest list also includes Ivanka Trump, Bill Gates, and members of Bhutan’s royal family, all adhering to a detailed nine-page dress code spanning the event’s duration. Rihanna, spotted arriving in Gujarat with A$AP Rocky, is among the high-profile performers at the pre-wedding bash, highlighting the event’s grandeur.

The weekend’s agenda features visits to the Ambanis’ animal rescue under a “jungle fever” theme and a vibrant “Mela Rouge” celebration, culminating in a “tusker trails” experience, immersing guests in India’s natural wonders. The Ambani and Merchant families are extending their hospitality beyond the estate, serving traditional Gujarati meals to over 50,000 residents of the surrounding village, showcasing their commitment to community engagement.

Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of pharma magnate Viren Merchant, have captivated the nation with their upcoming nuptials. The Ambani family is renowned for their extravagant celebrations, previously spending $100 million on Isha Ambani’s wedding and hosting an elaborate pre-wedding bash for Akash Ambani in Switzerland, featuring global music stars.

As the festivities unfold, all eyes are on Gujarat for what promises to be an unforgettable prelude to one of the year’s most anticipated weddings.

Latest Caribbean Travel News and Special Deals This Week

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Feb. 29 2024: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Canada is still warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in the Bahamas due to high rates of crime, especially in Freeport and Nassau.

Jamaica has welcomed new non-stop air service flight from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) by American Airlines. The new non-stop service to Ocho Rios will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays and is the only U.S. carrier to offer nonstop service into Ocho Rios.

Wondering about the world’s best beaches? Well look no further than Grace Bay Beach in Turks & Caicos. The beach has been recognised by Tripadvisor’s® Travelers’ Choice® Awards No. 1 Beach in the Caribbean and Best of the Best for 2024, ranking No. 5 among the Top 25 Best of the Best Beaches in the world.

Spring into spring with these can’t miss cruise deals. For a limited time until April 7, Celebrity Cruises is extending its WAVE deal to include not just free 3rd and 4th but now also 5th guest cruise fares per stateroom. Get a last minute 8 nights cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao from USD $1,112 per person. Book now on Celebritycruises.com or HERE

Get an 11 night cruise to Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale from USD $1,550 per person from March 11 – 22nd. Book on Celebritycruises.com or HERE

Or Get a 9 Nights cruise from Tampa to New Orleans, Honduras, Belize and Cozumel, Mexico from March 2nd from US $1,013 per person. Book now on Celebritycruises.com or HERE

St Kitts And Nevis Unveils the Investment Gateway Summit

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, Basseterre, St. Kitts Feb. 29, 2024: The Government of St Kitts and Nevis proudly announces a landmark achievement in its ongoing commitment to realizing the Sustainable Island State Agenda. In a ground-breaking move, the nation unveils an unprecedented initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and investment to propel the twin-federation into a prosperous future. 

This pivotal moment not only signifies a significant stride towards sustainability but also underscores the Government’s visionary approach to uniting its global citizens. In an extraordinary display of inclusivity, St Kitts and Nevis extends its arms to every citizen worldwide, ushering them to partake in shaping the nation’s trajectory. 

The Government will host their inaugural event, “The Investment Gateway Summit” in May, marking a historical moment in the country’s journey towards fulfilling the Sustainable Island State Agenda. This momentous event presents an unparalleled opportunity to collaborate and invest in shaping the future of the twin-federation. It’s a personal invitation from the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, and his Government to engage citizens and investors to come to the country for this exclusive inaugural Investment Gateway Summit taking place from 11 to 15 May 2024! 

Through this forward-thinking endeavor, the Government unites individuals under a common banner – that of being a proud citizen of St Kitts and Nevis, while fostering opportunities for success as entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators. 

Each day of the five-day Summit promises unique events and interactions with the leaders of the country and global experts to ensure an engaging and interactive experience in the twin-island federation.  

Who will attend the Summit? 

This Summit is all about the St Kitts and Nevis citizens. The event also promises a mix of discerning investors, and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking prospects; prospective Citizenship by Investment (CBI) applicants and entrepreneurs, CEOs and C-Suite businesspeople and the wider investor immigration community.  

Why is this Summit not to be missed? This is an opportunity to connect with like-minded global citizens, investors, HNWIs and special guests, as well as identify potential new business opportunities in the idyllic twin-island federation. This unique platform will unlock new ventures for growth throughout various sectors of the country’s economy, including agriculture, information technology, renewable energy and tourism. From diverse panel discussions and networking opportunities to exclusive investment highlights and site visits, the Summit is crafted to connect, collaborate and celebrate the country and its global citizens. 

Investment Opportunities in St Kitts and Nevis To showcase St Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to the Sustainable Island State Agenda, the Summit will highlight initiatives that global investors can participate in to nurture community development, empower businesses and foster growth and development. The Government of St Kitts and Nevis together with the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) look forward to hosting this riveting event and opening their nation‘s doors to explore the twin federation’s active investment projects, spectacular beaches, distinct tourism amenities and luxury accommodation. Please click here to secure your exclusive spot at the Investment Gateway Summit. This is not just a unique investment opportunity in a tropical Caribbean country, it is a meeting of minds to form meaningful connections, through engaging workshops and insightful panel discussions. Additionally, the Government aims to build strong communities with shared values of excellence. 

Get Involved Should you like to promote your brand, business services or enquire about sponsorship opportunities, you can leave your comment here with your interest in the contact form, and you will receive a response with available packages. 

Attachment

St Kitts and Nevis

These Caribbean Countries Are Now Off The EU’s Blacklist

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Feb. 26, 2024: The European Union has updated its list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes, removing several Caribbean nations from its so-called Blacklist.

TCI is now off the EU’s blacklist.

The European blacklist, created in 2017 in the wake of scandals such as the Panama Papers and LuxLeaks, is meant to encourage other countries and jurisdictions to “adopt fair tax policies” and “increase tax transparency.”

The EU announced that these three Caribbean countries are now off its “Blacklist.” They are:

1: The Bahamas

2: Belize

3: The Turks and Caicos Islands.

Those still under scrutiny for their tax governance practices are:

1: Anguilla

2: Antigua and Barbuda

3: Trinidad and Tobago

4: US Virgin Islands

The EU encourages these jurisdictions to amend their legal frameworks to address identified tax governance shortcomings. Included in the list are countries that have either not participated in constructive dialogue with the EU regarding tax governance or have not fulfilled their commitments to enact necessary reforms. These reforms are expected to align with the EU’s objective criteria for tax governance, which emphasize tax transparency, fair taxation, and the prevention of tax base erosion and profit shifting.

The list is revised biannually, in February and October, to reflect changes and is overseen by EU finance ministers. Notably, recent assessments by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Forum of Harmful Tax Practices (FHTP) identified issues in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands related to enforcing economic substance requirements. However, subsequent recommendations were softened, leading to their compliance with standards for jurisdictions with minimal corporate income tax.

Additionally, Belize and Seychelles were previously flagged by the OECD Global Forum for deficiencies in information exchange but have since implemented rule changes that warrant further review. Meanwhile, Botswana and Dominica received positive evaluations for their information exchange practices, leading to their removal from the list.