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Perenco Expands In Trinidad & Tobago

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 28, 2025: Perenco is set to expand its footprint in Trinidad and Tobago, having entered into an agreement with Woodside Energy to acquire its Greater Angostura producing oil and gas assets, along with key onshore facilities.

The acquisition, announced this week, includes two Woodside entities, their working interest, and operatorship of the 2(C) and 3(A) Production Sharing Contracts. The deal is expected to close by the third quarter of 2025.

Located in the shallow waters off northeast Trinidad, the Greater Angostura fields—developed through seven fixed platforms and additional subsea facilities—produce more than 300 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (MMSCFD) and approximately 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. These assets represent around 12% of Trinidad and Tobago’s national gas production.

The acquisition strengthens Perenco’s existing presence in the Columbus Basin, positioning the Greater Angostura fields just 40 kilometers north of Perenco’s Teak, Samaan, and Poui (TSP) assets acquired in 2016.

“We are delighted to be further expanding our portfolio in Trinidad & Tobago,” said Armel Simondin, CEO of Perenco. “Following the recent safe and smooth transition of the CAFI perimeter to Perenco operatorship in late 2024, Perenco has proven itself to be a partner of choice to safeguard the Greater Angostura gas production for Trinidad & Tobago. We welcome the transferring employees to the Perenco family and look forward to an exciting new chapter together.”

Following the transaction, Perenco will consolidate a gross gas production base exceeding 500 MMSCFD, allowing for significant operational synergies, enhanced value, and further investment opportunities.

Since entering Trinidad and Tobago in 2016, Perenco has undertaken major modernization efforts at its TSP fields, electrifying operations and boosting gas production. The company recently expanded further with the late 2024 acquisition of the Cashima, Amherstia, Flamboyant, and Immortelle (CAFI) gas assets.

Perenco’s growing footprint underscores its commitment to supporting Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector and enhancing local energy security.

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.

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

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.

NORTH AMERICA’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS ANNOUNCES SPECIAL AWARD CATEGORIES AND ACADEMY CHAIRS

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NEW YORK, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire- Hispanic PR Wire/ — 50 Best reveals North America’s 50 Best Restaurants’ special award categories and Academy Chairs for its premier year.

North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 Logo

50 Best NA 2025 Logo

Special Award Categories

Champions of Change Award: A celebration of unsung heroes of the hospitality sector who are driving positive action and creating a more inclusive society.
Art of Hospitality Award: A special recognition for excellence in restaurant service and dining experiences.
One To Watch Award: Identifying a rising-star restaurant which the 50 Best organization believes has the potential to feature in a future edition of the North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Icon Award: A celebration of an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the hospitality industry.
North America’s Best Pastry Chef Award: Highlighting excellence in the fields of desserts and pastry.
North America’s Best Sommelier Award: A recognition of an individual displaying innovation, knowledge and customer service in the world of wine.
Chefs’ Choice Award: A peer-voted accolade in North America’s 50 Best Restaurants program. It honors a chef who has had a positive impact over the last year, as chosen by the chefs leading the restaurants in this year’s list.
Sustainable Restaurant Award: This independently audited award champions a restaurant in North America which has demonstrated an outstanding effort towards sustainability.
Best in Destination Awards: The highest-ranked restaurant in each of the eight sub-regions will be named as The Best Restaurant in that respective region.
The Best Restaurant in North America: The No.1 restaurant in the ranking will be named The Best Restaurant in North America, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna.

Academy Chairs

The North America Academy Chairs are chosen for their expertise and networks and are tasked with selecting a panel that ensures a diverse culinary representation.

Adrian Brijbassi, Canada West
Jamila Robinson, USA Northeast
Lesley Chesterman, Canada East
Lyndsay Green, USA Midwest
Mike Jordan, USA South
Renée Suen, Canada Central
Virginia Miller, USA West
Nneka Nurse, Caribbean
More information on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants: https://www.theworlds50best.com/northamerica

Parkland Announces Management and Business Updates

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Bob Espey, President & CEO, Announces Decision to Step Down

Michael Jennings, Chair of the Board, Appointed as Executive Chair

Provides Preliminary Q1 2025 Results Amidst Macroeconomic and Regulatory Volatility

CALGARY, AB, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire- Hispanic PR Wire/ — Parkland Corporation (“Parkland” or the “Company”) today announced key management and business updates.

CEO Succession

Bob Espey has informed the Board of Directors that he will step down as President and Chief Executive Officer of Parkland.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Bob for his vision and leadership over the last fifteen years as President & CEO,” said Michael Jennings, Executive Chair of Parkland. “Bob has led Parkland through a period of exponential growth, transforming the Company from a small regional fuel retailer into one of Canada’s leading fuel and convenience retailers with international operations in twenty-six countries. We thank him for his unwavering commitment and dedication.”

“Serving as Parkland’s CEO has been the opportunity of a lifetime. I want to thank the entire Parkland team — past and present — for their incredible dedication and drive. I am proud of what we have built together,” said Mr. Espey. “Over the past few months, it became clear that stepping down and announcing my departure may help bring resolution to the situation with Simpson Oil Limited and benefit all shareholders. I remain deeply committed to Parkland and will support a smooth transition to new leadership. I look forward to working closely with Michael in his new role as Executive Chair.”

The Board of Directors has formed a CEO search committee (the “Search Committee”) comprised of independent directors to oversee an extensive executive search process to select a qualified candidate to replace Mr. Espey. Mr. Espey’s deep understanding of Parkland’s operations will provide continuity during the search process. He will stay on until the appointment of a new CEO, the completion of the strategic review, or December 31, 2025, whichever occurs first.

Update to Board Responsibilities

Effective immediately, Michael Jennings is appointed Executive Chair. In addition to providing continued leadership to the Board, Mr. Jennings will remain focused on the governance and delivery of a disciplined strategic review process which is being led by a Special Committee of experienced directors, supported by Goldman Sachs Canada and BofA Securities.

The strategic review aims to identify opportunities to maximize shareholder value by evaluating the current business strategy and optimization opportunities, while also considering alternatives including asset divestments, acquisitions, transformative business combinations and a sale of the Company.

In line with best corporate governance practices, James Neate is appointed Lead Independent Director of the Board.

Q1 2025 Preliminary Results

Parkland has a diversified and resilient business. Its base business is well positioned and retains significant operational flexibility to navigate macroeconomic uncertainty on the horizon, which is impacting fuel demand and unit margins.

Recent regulatory developments in Canada and the United States have created volatility and intensified market disruptions. These are curtailing the profitability and movement of refined products into the United States and creating structural shifts in climate and carbon compliance programs.

For the first quarter of 2025, Parkland expects to deliver Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $375 million.

Canada expects to deliver Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $110 million. While our base fuel retailing, convenience and supply business performed in line with our expectations, the quarter was impacted by a commercial decision to wind down our Californian compliance market position1. While these markets have historically benefited our strategy, and been profitable, given the broader shift in the macro and regulatory environment listed above, we chose to fully exit our positions in the first quarter, resulting in a charge of approximately $55 million.
International expects to deliver Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $181 million. This reflects strong underlying commercial and wholesale performance, and continued strength in our South American region, as well as the translation impact of a strengthening U.S. dollar.
USA expects to deliver Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $16 million. We continue to see macro pressures impacting fuel and convenience demand in line with broader industry trends, as well as competitive market dynamics which are impacting unit margins. Furthermore, a core tenet of our U.S. strategy, which is capitalizing on supply arbitrage opportunities moving refined product between Canada and the U.S., has been impacted by the macro-economic and regulatory developments noted above.
Refining expects to deliver Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $79 million, which includes the successful completion of a three-week planned maintenance event. The refinery performed safely and reliably in the first quarter which allowed us to benefit from favourable market conditions.
The 2025 Adjusted EBITDA guidance of $1.8 billion to $2.1 billion was purposefully broad to reflect the potential impact of ongoing macroeconomic volatility. Based on current market conditions, Parkland now expects results to be toward the lower end of that range.

Parkland will release its first quarter 2025 results after market close on May 5, 2025. The Annual General Meeting of Shareholders will be held at 9:00 a.m. MT on May 6, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta.

The financial information contained in this release is preliminary, unaudited, and subject to change based on completion of the Company’s quarter-end financial close process and final accounting review.

1 These positions are held within our integrated Canadian logistics business, which is reported within the Canada segment.

About Parkland Corporation

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

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

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained herein constitute forward-looking information and statements (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). When used the words “expect”, “will”, “could”, “would”, “believe”, “continue”, “pursue” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things: the expected first quarter 2025 consolidated Adjusted EBITDA of Parkland and the expected first quarter 2025 Adjusted EBITDA of each operating segment (each calculated consistently as set out in section 16.A. of the management’s discussion and analysis for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, and note 26(a) to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, each dated March 5, 2025); Parkland’s expectation of being within the lower end of the 2025 Adjusted EBITDA Guidance range of $1.8 to $2.1 billion; and Mr. Espey remaining President and CEO until the earlier of an appointment of a new CEO, the completion of the strategic review, or December 31, 2025.

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

PaySett Corporation expands its presence in the Dominican Republic via its regional payments partnership with JMMB Bank

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ATLANTA and SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire- Hispanic PR Wire — PaySett Corporation a global leader of payment solutions and JMMB Bank announced today an expansion of their regional partnership to include the Dominican Republic. This partnership is expected to continue to increase electronic payments adoption in the country.

PaySett Corporation Logo

PaySett Corporation
Jesus Garcia, Global VP of Business Development stated “For nearly two decades, PaySett´s solutions have been providing critical software infrastructure to power electronic payments in the Dominican Republic for consumers, businesses, and government agencies. This partnership is key for us, as we continue to grow in the Dominican Republic and represents our commitment to regional financial institutions, like the JMMB Group, that aim to better manage operational costs and facilitate the transfer of funds for their clients throughout their organizations.”

“At JMMB, we are constantly betting on innovation. We are committed to offering the best solutions for managing cash flow by bringing to our customers innovative tools to optimize their operations. This strategic alliance with PaySett Corporation represents a crucial step toward modernization of financial services in the Dominican Republic. Together we are driving access to payment solutions which facilitate financial inclusion to a large number of consumers while contributing to a sustainable growth in the country” according to Luis Bogaert, JMMB Bank CEO.

About PaySett Corporation

Atlanta Georgia based PaySett Corporation is a global provider of payment software solutions. PaySett provides products/services to assist global financial entities to effectively manage the way money moves throughout their organizations and for their customers. PaySett’s two decades of experience moving payments through national and international payment networks has allowed for the development of advance payment software for assisting global banks with the capability to enhance their regional and global payment network processing capabilities. Twelve of the top twenty global banks process payments through PaySett software.

Caribbean Born Congressman Denounces Trump’s Attack on Legal Community

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 1, 2025: Caribbean American U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), took to the House floor today to strongly denounce what he called former President Donald Trump’s “unprecedented attack on the legal community.”

Caribbean born Congressman, Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., conducts a news conference with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), during the House Democrats 2025 Issues Conference at the Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg, Va., on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Also appearing are, from left, Reps. Luz Rivas, D-Calif., Rob Menendez, D-N.J., Mike Levin, D-Calif., Gabe Vasquez, D-N.M., Pablo Jose Hernandez Rivera, D-Puerto Rico, and Teresa Leger Fernandez, D-N.M. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Speaking in defense of the nation’s judiciary and legal institutions, Rep. Espaillat, the first Dominican American elected to Congress, warned that Trump and his allies are engaging in a dangerous effort to intimidate law firms and undercut the independence of the judicial branch.

“The President and his cronies are shaking down the legal world in an unprecedented manner,” Espaillat said in prepared remarks. “He has targeted law firms he deems a threat to his illegal agenda and pressured them through executive orders that threaten security clearances and access to federal buildings.”

Rep. Espaillat pointed to high-profile law firms, including Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom and Paul Weiss, which he noted had agreed to provide $140 million in pro bono services to avoid potential sanctions. Others, such as WilmerHale, Jenner & Block, and Perkins Coie, continue to challenge the legality of the former president’s orders in court.

The Congressman also criticized House Republicans for echoing Trump’s rhetoric by promoting legislation that would restrict the judiciary’s ability to issue nationwide rulings. He argued this would severely undermine judicial independence.

“Trump is attacking the legal world and judicial branch because both conservative and liberal judges and law firms have stood up to his illegal agenda,” Espaillat said, citing Trump’s controversial efforts to fire federal employees and freeze federal funds.

Currently serving his fifth term, Rep. Espaillat represents a vibrant and diverse district that includes Harlem, East Harlem, Washington Heights, Inwood, and parts of the northwest Bronx. He is a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee, Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, and a Senior Whip in the Democratic Caucus.

In a further escalation of executive overreach, the Trump Administration recently moved to eliminate three critical oversight offices within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): the Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL), the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman, and the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO). These bodies, created by Congress to uphold accountability, transparency, and humane treatment within the immigration system, play an essential role in protecting civil liberties. Immigration advocates, including the American Immigration Lawyers Association, have warned that dismantling these offices opens the door to unchecked abuses and systemic inefficiency – leaving immigrants, families, and employers without recourse or oversight.

Florida Congresswoman Recognizes Caribbean-American Business Leader Felicia J. Persaud With 2025 Women in Leadership Award

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News Americas, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Mon. March 31, 2025: Florida’s Caribbean-American Congresswoman, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, (D-20th District), presented the 2025 Women in Leadership Achievement Award to Felicia J. Persaud, an award-winning, Guyana-born, U.S.-based Caribbean immigrant and trailblazing multi-media journalist, news editor, immigration columnist, advocate, and entrepreneur, during the prestigious second EmpowHER Awards to mark Women’s History Month, on Saturday, March 29th.

Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, (D-20th District), with this year’s Women in Leadership Achievement Award winner, Guyanese-born, Caribbean immigrant entrepreneur and advocate, Felicia J. Persaud. (Pamela DeFreitas image)

The ceremony took place at the Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, located at 999 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, as part of Women’s History Month celebrations. Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick said over 75,000 people voted to choose this year’s honorees in leadership, STEM, sports and human rights.

Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, (D-20th District), presents the award to this year’s Women in Leadership Achievement Award winner, Guyanese-born, Caribbean immigrant entrepreneur and advocate, Felicia J. Persaud. (Pamela DeFreitas image)

“Receiving the Women in Leadership Achievement Award at the EmpowHER Awards is a humbling reminder of the importance of using our voices to drive equity and inclusion,” said Persaud. “I share this honor with every immigrant, including the undocumented, who are breaking barriers and making space for others to thrive, especially in this challenging period of our history in these United States.”

As the dynamic CEO of ICN Group, she leads a portfolio of influential brands – CaribPR Wire, Invest Caribbean, Hard Beat Communications and News Americas Now – platforms positioned at the nexus of media and finance for the Caribbean and its global Diaspora.
A fearless voice for Caribbean immigrants, Felicia pens a widely read weekly immigration column for the historic New York Amsterdam News and serves as editor of Caribbean Today, a leading publication serving the Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

She is also the visionary founder of CARIB ID, the groundbreaking movement launched in 2008 that successfully lobbied for the inclusion of a Caribbean ancestry identifier on U.S. Census forms – a historic milestone achieved in 2020 after 12 years of unwavering advocacy.
Felicia remains a bold and tireless advocate for visibility, investment, and equitable representation of Caribbean and Black immigrant communities across the U.S. and around the world.

Her expertise on the Caribbean has led to esteemed recognition through interviews on major media platforms such as AP, CNN, BBC, and The New York Times, alongside a listing in the US State Department Speakers Database as an expert on the Caribbean.

Stay connected with Felicia J. Persaud on Instagram and Facebook at @iamfeliciapersaud or visit icngroup.vip to learn more about her brands.

Guyanese Social Media Activist Melly-Mel Granted Bond Amid U.S. Immigration Case

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 27, 2025: Guyanese-born social media activist Melissa “Melly-Mel” Atwell-Holder has been granted bond in the United States as she continues to resolve her immigration status.

Guyanese Melly Mel during the court hearing.

A U.S. immigration judge today approved a US$7,500 bond for Atwell-Holder, who was detained earlier this month and faced possible deportation. Judge Mwangi Francis noted that Atwell-Holder is married to a U.S. citizen and is actively pursuing an adjustment of status, a factor weighed in the decision to release her.

According to the Department of Homeland Security’s legal representative, Atwell-Holder’s status has been verified, and she is not considered a flight risk or a threat to the United States. The department did not oppose her release on bond.

Atwell-Holder, dressed in a brown jumpsuit and holding a book, appeared emotional during the hearing, reportedly shaking her head throughout the proceedings. Her attorney, Joyce Booth, confirmed that Atwell-Holder legally entered the U.S. in 2022, married an American citizen, and has been residing in New York for the past two years.

“She has no criminal history, is not a threat, and is not a flight risk,” Booth said, describing the case as “a regular case of overstaying.”

Judge Francis granted the bond with the understanding that Atwell-Holder could continue her adjustment of status application. If her application is denied, the Department of Homeland Security may resume removal proceedings. Her case has now been transferred to immigration court in New York for any future proceedings.

Atwell-Holder, known online as “Melly-Mel,” has developed a strong social media following for her outspoken commentary. Her detention sparked significant public interest and support, particularly among the Guyanese diaspora. A GoFundMe campaign has raised nearly US$40,000 to assist with her legal and living expenses during the process.

Her case also drew political attention in Guyana. Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) alleged that political pressure was involved in her detention, asserting that Atwell-Holder had exposed government wrongdoing. Norton announced plans to launch an international campaign for her release.

However, Guyana’s Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, dismissed the claims, stating the government had no involvement in her arrest or detention. “This is a matter of U.S. law enforcement handling immigration violations, not anything related to Guyana’s government,” he said.

Nandlall encouraged protesters to direct any concerns toward U.S. authorities rather than the Guyanese government.

Atwell-Holder now awaits further legal proceedings while continuing the process to resolve her immigration status in the United States.