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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.

U.S. Eyes Deeper Investment & Security Ties With Guyana

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 27, 2025: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio today praised Guyana as one of the most exciting places in the world right now, citing its transformational economic opportunities and strategic importance to the United States during a high-level meeting in Georgetown with President Irfaan Ali.

Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali (C) and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio walk as they meet, in Georgetown, Guyana, on March 27, 2025. President Ali said March 27 that Secretary Rubio promised US support for his oil-rich South American nation’s sovereignty in the face of threats from neighboring Venezuela. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Welcoming Rubio, President Ali commended him as “one of our strongest voices in the U.S.,” noting Rubio’s longstanding advocacy on issues crucial to Guyana, including democracy, security, and peace.

“You’ve always kept what is relevant to Guyana at the forefront – your voice is well-known, respected, and very loud,” Ali said with a smile, jokingly adding they had hoped to host him as a senator, “but we have you as Secretary of State – and in a very important role.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (2nd L) meets with Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali (R) in Georgetown, Guyana, on March 27, 2025. President Ali said March 27 that Secretary Rubio promised US support for his oil-rich South American nation’s sovereignty in the face of threats from neighboring Venezuela. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Rubio, who was sworn in just nine weeks ago, underscored the significance of Guyana as a vital partner in the region. “There is no other place with the kind of horizons you have over the next five to ten years,” he said. “We’re neighbors, we’ll always be neighbors, and we want to build on that partnership in a way that’s mutually beneficial.”

Rubio reaffirmed the U.S.’ commitment to supporting Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amid recent tensions, emphasizing that American companies stand ready to invest in alignment with Guyana’s laws and long-term vision.

“We want your country to be safe, secure, and prosperous for all your citizens… and to serve as an example,” Rubio stated. “The stronger you are, the stronger we are.”

The Secretary of State also acknowledged the growing U.S. cabinet-level interest in the South American nation, saying, “There’s an increasing team of us in the President’s cabinet who are excited about all the opportunities we have together.”

Rubio’s visit marks his first official trip to Guyana in his new role, reinforcing a deepening U.S.-Guyana alliance amid the country’s historic oil boom and expanding role on the global stage.

US Secretary of State Reaffirms Strong US-Jamaica Ties During Visit

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 26, 2025: News Americas, New York, NY, March 26, 2025: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrapped up a high-level visit to Jamaica today, underscoring the United States’ commitment to strengthening ties with one of its most steadfast partners in the Caribbean. Standing alongside Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness at a press conference, Rubio emphasized the deep-rooted connection between the two nations, stating, “The ties between the people of the United States and Jamaica don’t need to be explained — they’re incredibly strong.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shakes hands with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness during a joint press conference, in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 26, 2025. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The Secretary noted that between 800,000 and 1 million Jamaicans call the U.S. home, including many in his own home state of Florida. “We want to continue to build on that,” he said, while highlighting opportunities for expanded trade, manufacturing, and investment across the region.

Rubio identified Jamaica as a prime candidate for increased manufacturing relocation, saying it “makes more sense to have more manufacturing relocated to our hemisphere,” and emphasized America’s interest in exporting liquified natural gas (LNG) to the Caribbean. He also pointed to American aid helping Jamaica build the capacity needed to address security concerns and create sustainable economic opportunities.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, signs a guest book in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 26, 2025. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

“We’re not getting out of the aid business,” Rubio affirmed. “But we want to provide aid that is strategically aligned with our foreign partners.”

In that spirit, Rubio announced U.S. support for initiatives such as the Joint Operations for the Logistics and Technology (JOLT) Fusion Center, which aims to tackle lottery scamming and cyber-enabled crime. He also revealed plans to provide synthetic detection equipment for Jamaica’s forensic labs and software — including night vision technology — to aid in gang suppression efforts.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is greeted by Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 26, 2025. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

As part of the security-focused discussions, Rubio acknowledged the transnational nature of crime, including illegal gun trafficking and the growing influence of non-governmental criminal organizations. “We have to talk about security,” he stated. “It’s amazing how many of the threats are now coming from non-state criminal organizations.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio meets with Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness and local delegations, in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 26, 2025. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Turning to regional concerns, Rubio cited the crisis in Haiti, stressing the need to stem the flow of illegal firearms — many originating in the U.S. — and to support efforts that strengthen Caribbean states’ capacity to manage their own security.

On the question of foreign aid reform, Rubio stressed that U.S. assistance should “create opportunities to attract investment, trade, and build domestic intelligence capabilities.” He praised Jamaica as a “great partner,” adding, “We will work closer than ever before.”

Responding to a reporter from Nationwide News Network about the Cuban medical program, Rubio criticized what he called “forced labor” by the Cuban government. “The Cuban regime takes away their passports, determines how much they’re paid, and uses them as pawns,” Rubio said. “It’s trafficking in labor, and it’s egregious. While that may not be the case in Jamaica, we can’t support that system.”

Rubio also addressed concerns about U.S. immigration enforcement and residency status raised by a journalist from Radio Jamaica, making it clear that legal residents like green card holders have nothing to fear. “If you’re a green card holder and not involved in violence or criminal activity, you’re fine,” he said. However, he emphasized strict enforcement against individuals who misuse their visa status or engage in extremist behavior.

On Chinese investments in the Caribbean, Rubio explained that the U.S. does not oppose development but warned of “predatory practices.” He said China often “brings their own workers, doesn’t hire locals, and attaches loans that can’t be repaid,” which leaves nations vulnerable to long-term debt traps.

“We want countries that work with and partner with us — that leads to positive results,” Rubio concluded. “I can think of no better friend in the Caribbean than Jamaica.”

Rubio’s visit sets the stage for deeper collaboration between Washington and Kingston, particularly in areas of security, energy, economic development, and immigration policy. “They want a hand up, not a handout,” Rubio said. “Our goal is to restructure how we do foreign aid — with purpose and partnership.”

Rubio is also set to meet one-on-one with the prime ministers of Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago in Jamaica and the head of Haiti’s transitional council.

From Jamaica, Secretary Rubio will head to Guyana, which is on track this year to become the world’s largest per capita oil producer, surpassing both Qatar and Kuwait. Widely regarded as one of the greatest offshore energy success stories in recent years, Guyana is now a central focus for U.S. strategic cooperation.

Rubio is expected to emphasize the importance of Guyana’s security, particularly in light of threats from neighboring Venezuela and encroachments near ExxonMobil’s offshore operations. The U.S. aims to establish binding security cooperation with Guyana, similar to its partnerships with Gulf states, to safeguard regional stability and shared interests.

Following Guyana, Secretary Rubio will make a brief visit to Suriname, which is also emerging as a key player in offshore energy development.

Over $38K Raised to Support Guyanese ‘Melly Mel’ Ahead of Immigration Hearing

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 25, 2025: Over US$38,000 has been raised to support the legal defense of Guyana-born social media activist Melissa ‘Melly Mel’ Atwell, who is set to appear before a U.S. immigration judge on March 28, 2025, for the first hearing in her case.

Guyana born US-based influencer Melly Mel is now in US ICE custody in Louisiana.

A check of her GoFundMe page titled “Help Melissa Atwell Defend Democracy” shows a total of US$38,550 raised toward her US$100,000 goal, with 518 donations received to date. The largest single contribution – US$2,200 in total – was made by a supporter identified as Dexter McLennon through two contributions.

Atwell is scheduled to appear virtually before Judge Richard C. Jacobs at 8:30 AM, according to official U.S. immigration court records. While her court appearance was previously reported for June 25, updated records confirm the hearing will take place this Friday.

The outspoken activist, known for her critical commentary on social media regarding governance and alleged corruption in Guyana, was reportedly detained by U.S. Homeland Security officials last week. She is currently being held in a federal immigration facility in Louisiana, allegedly in connection with immigration-related issues.

Guyana’s Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, addressed public speculation about the government’s involvement, firmly denying that Guyana played any role in Atwell’s arrest. Speaking during his weekly program “Issues in the News,” Nandlall acknowledged serving Atwell with a libel suit in the past but maintained that her current detention is under the jurisdiction of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Government of Guyana did not arrest Melissa Atwell, the Government of Guyana is not detaining Melissa Atwell,” Nandlall emphasized, noting that ICE typically handles enforcement and investigation of immigration violations.

Supporters of Atwell in the Guyanese diaspora have staged protests, claiming political persecution, and are calling for her release. Despite the controversy, Atwell’s legal team and backers appear determined to mount a strong defense as she faces upcoming legal proceedings.

Haitian-American Republican Trailblazer Dead At 49

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 23, 2025: Haitian-American former U.S. Congresswoman Mia Love, the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. Congress, passed away on Sunday, March 23rd, at the age of 49.

FLASHBACK – Haitian American Representative Mia Love (R-UT) seen at Politico’s 6th Annual Women Rule Summit in Washington, DC. (Photo by Michael Brochstein/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Her family confirmed her passing in a statement posted to her official X (formerly Twitter) account, noting that she died peacefully at her home in Saratoga Springs, Utah, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Love had been receiving immunotherapy as part of a clinical trial at Duke University’s brain tumor center, but her daughter recently shared that she was no longer responding to treatment.

“With grateful hearts filled to overflowing for the profound influence of Mia on our lives, we want you to know that she passed away peacefully,” her family shared. “We are thankful for the many good wishes, prayers and condolences.”

Born Ludmya Bourdeau, Love was the daughter of Haitian immigrants who arrived in the U.S. with only $10 and a dream. Her father, Jean Maxime Bourdeau, instilled in her a firm belief in the American dream and the value of perseverance—principles that defined both her personal life and political career.

Love began her political journey in 2003 as a city council member in Saratoga Springs, later becoming the city’s mayor. She rose to national prominence in 2014 when she won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives for Utah’s 4th Congressional District, becoming the first Black Republican woman ever elected to Congress.

Though she did not focus on race in her campaigns, Love recognized the historic nature of her election. “There were so many naysayers who said that Utah would never elect a Black, Republican, Mormon woman to Congress,” she remarked after her 2014 victory.

Briefly seen as a rising star within the Republican Party, Love distanced herself from then-candidate Donald Trump during the 2016 election, aligning with the more moderate views of many Utah voters.

In an op-ed published earlier this month, Love offered a heartfelt reflection on her journey, her love for America, and her hopes for its future. She urged elected officials to lead with compassion and to communicate honestly with their constituents.

“In the end, I hope that my life will have mattered and made a difference for the nation I love and the family and friends I adore,” she wrote. “I hope you will see the America I know in the years ahead, that you will hear my words in the whisper of the wind of freedom and feel my presence in the flame of the enduring principles of liberty. My living wish and fervent prayer for you and for this nation is that the America I have known is the America you fight to preserve.”

Utah Governor Spencer Cox paid tribute to Love, calling her “a true friend” and praising her legacy of public service.

Love’s political journey exposed her to both the promise and the challenges of American democracy. But she remained committed to the belief that her story – and the stories of countless others – represented the best of what the country could offer.

She is survived by her husband and three children.

U.S. Secretary Of State For CARICOM Meeting; Guyana, Suriname Visit

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. March 24, 2025: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to travel to the Caribbean again this week, but this time its for a series of high-level meetings with regional leaders of the Caribbean Community, (CARICOM), as part of a three-nation tour aimed at deepening U.S. engagement.

FLASHBACK: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio gives a joint news conference with Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader at the National Palace in Santo Domingo on February 6, 2025. (Photo by MARK SCHIEFELBEIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

On Wednesday, Rubio will arrive in Kingston, Jamaica, where he will be hosted by Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and meet with a delegation of CARICOM leaders to discuss pressing regional issues, including U.S. foreign policy, security, trade, and migration.

Among the key participants in the Kingston talks will include Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who will represent CARICOM as a whole; Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Stuart Young, who leads regional security matters; and Fritz Alphonse Jean, the newly appointed head of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council.

Rubio’s visit comes at a pivotal moment, as Caribbean leaders express concern over worsening insecurity in Haiti, shifting U.S. immigration policies, false claims over Cuban doctors in the region, and potential economic fallout from a proposed Trump administration policy that would increase port fees on China-linked ships traveling to the United States.

“The meeting with Secretary Rubio presents a strategic opportunity to strengthen U.S.-Caribbean ties and ensure our concerns are addressed at the highest level,” said Prime Minister Stuart Young, who will be accompanied by Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Dr. Amery Browne.

Following his visit to Jamaica, Secretary Rubio will continue his diplomatic mission with stops in Guyana and Suriname, where he will meet with Presidents Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi. The two South American nations are both CARICOM members and emerging energy powerhouses.

Rubio’s meetings across the region aim to reinforce U.S. partnerships amid growing concerns that recent decisions – such as the termination of the Biden-era humanitarian parole program and the rollback of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians and Venezuelans- could destabilize vulnerable communities.

Rubio first visited the Caribbean in February when he stopped in the Dominican Republic. He has so far said nothing on the crisis in Haiti, which shares the same island with the DR.