News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 21, 2025: Haitian-American rapper Pras Michel, a founding member of the legendary hip-hop group the Fugees, was sentenced on Nov. 20th to 14 years in federal prison following his 2023 conviction on multiple charges including conspiracy, money laundering, and illegal foreign lobbying.

Michel, whose full name is Prakazrel Samuel Michel, received the sentence from Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly in a Washington, D.C. federal courtroom, according to Billboard. After completing his prison term, he will also serve three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had pushed for a much longer sentence spanning several decades, while Michel’s attorneys urged the court to impose no more than three years.

Michel is expected to surrender on January 27th, and his legal team plans to appeal both the conviction and the sentence.

“Throughout his career, Pras has broken barriers,” said spokesperson Erica Dumas. “This is not the end of his story. He appreciates the outpouring of support as he approaches the next chapter.”

Michel was first indicted in 2019 on charges of funneling illegal foreign donations into Barack Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign. In 2021, prosecutors expanded the indictment to include additional counts of bank fraud, witness tampering, concealing material facts, violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), and acting as an unregistered agent for China.

The case centered on Michel’s ties to Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, the fugitive at the center of the massive 1MDB corruption scandal involving the theft of $4.5 billion. Prosecutors said Michel helped route money connected to the scheme and participated in a covert lobbying effort aimed at getting the Trump administration to drop investigations into Low and to facilitate the deportation of a Chinese dissident.

After his conviction, Michel sought a retrial, arguing his former attorney used an AI-generated closing argument, which he claimed amounted to ineffective counsel – a request the court ultimately rejected.

Amid the legal turmoil, Michel briefly reunited with Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean for Fugees performances in 2023 but later distanced himself from additional reunion plans.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT PRAS

1: Pras was born in Brooklyn to Haitian parents. He was raised in Irvington, New Jersey and attended Columbia High School in Maplewood, New Jersey.

2. When he was 15, he met Hill in school. In 1988, Pras introduced Hill to Wyclef Jean. Pras, Jean, and Hill began to rehearse under the guidance of Kool and the Gang’s producer, Ronald Khalis Bell, and subsequently they formed a musical group called The Rap Translators in 1989 (also known as Tranzlator Crew).

2: They would go on to become one of the most influential hip-hop groups of the 1990s with Pras as the founding member of the Grammy-winning group, The Fugees.

3: Beyond The Fugees’ multi-platinum success with The Score, Michel built a solo career with global hits like “Ghetto Supastar,” and expanded into film, producing documentaries such as Skid Row and the award-winning Sweet Micky For President.

4: His political involvement grew over the years, including fundraising for Democratic causes – activities that ultimately became central to the federal case that led to his conviction and the 14-year prison sentence.

By NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 20, 2025: Several Caribbean contestants are proudly representing the region at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand tonight – but the celebration took a somber turn after Miss Universe Jamaica, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, suffered a shocking and dangerous fall straight off the stage during Wednesday’s preliminary show. Henry, an ophthalmologist and advocate for the visually impaired, was rushed out on a stretcher. As of press time, no official update has been released on her condition, and her Miss Universe journey remains uncertain. While Jamaica anxiously awaits news, here are other Caribbean contestants of Miss Universe 2025 tonight.

Miss Aruba – Hannah Arends

Arends, 24, launched her first business at just 13 — a kids’ sushi concept called “Kids Dushi Sushi.” She holds a bachelor’s degree in law and is completing her master’s in civil law while working as a paralegal.

A singer-songwriter who also plays guitar and drums, Arends dreams of creating businesses centered on culinary arts, entertainment, and community development. She also leads a financial literacy and life-skills initiative for teens.

Miss Bahamas – Maliqué Maranda Bowe

Miss Bahamas Malique Maranda Bowe walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Maliqué Bowe, 25, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in accounting and has graced the runway at New York Fashion Week.

Diagnosed with anxiety at age 10 and later high-functioning depression, Bowe says pageantry helped her regain confidence. Her platform focuses on mental health awareness, trauma recovery, and youth empowerment across the Bahamas.

Miss Belize – Isabella Zabaneh

Miss Universe Belize Isabella Zabaneh at the Los Angeles premiere of Footage Films’ “Run” at TCL Chinese Theatre on August 27, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images)

Zabaneh, 21, is pursuing a master’s in professional communication. At age 15, she founded Project Royalty, a nonprofit that provides prom dresses and mentorship to young women.

She has traveled to more than 20 countries and worked in reconciliation programs in a conflict zone during her time in the Middle East.

Miss Bonaire – Nicole Peiliker-Visser

Miss Bonaire Nicole Peiliker Visser walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

At 42, Peiliker-Visser is one of the oldest contestants this year. A mother of four, she once managed a bank and later returned home to focus on family before entering pageantry, inspired by her daughter’s success at Mini Miss Universe.

She uses her platform to promote confidence, representation, and community purpose.

Miss British Virgin Islands – Olivia Freeman

Miss British Virgin Islands Olivia Margaret Freeman walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Freeman, 22, is a standout academic who served as head prefect and head girl in school before earning an honors degree in economics from Georgia State University.

She supported herself through school by offering professional braiding services. Today, she works as a budget officer at the BVI Ministry of Finance.

Miss Cayman Islands – Tahiti Moorea Seymour

Miss Cayman Islands Tahiti Moorea Seymour walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Seymour, 22, holds a degree in politics and international relations from Queen Mary University of London and is an actress, model, and multilingual martial artist with a black belt in Purple Dragon Don Jitsu Ryu.

She partnered with the United Nations to launch the Zero Hunger Universe campaign.

Miss Cuba – Lina Luaces

Miss Cuba Lina Luaces walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Luaces, 23, was raised in Miami by her Cuban parents and is a professional model who has worked with brands like Victoria’s Secret. She became certified in nutrition after overcoming depression.

She collaborates with the Adolescent Wellness Academy to support teens recovering from substance abuse.

Miss Curaçao – Camille Thomas

Thomas, 26, attended a military academy in North Carolina where she held leadership posts, and later studied psychology, theater, and acting.

Back in Curaçao, she co-owns a restaurant and helps run her family’s farm, which donates food to underserved youth. She also leads a community project repainting homes for elderly neighbors. Thomas is fluent in four languages and is an experienced archer and freediver.

Miss Dominican Republic – Jennifer Ventura

Ventura, 27, holds dual degrees in civil engineering and a master’s in business management. She is CEO of her construction firm, Ventmar .Her advocacy for autism families is fueled by personal tragedy — she lost her mother in the Jet Set nightclub roof collapse earlier this year.

Miss Guadeloupe – Ophély Mézino

Mézino, 26, has found success as a model and actress, appearing in the Netflix hit “Lupin.”

Miss Guadeloupe Ophely Mezino walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

She learned sign language before speaking, as both her parents are deaf. She co-founded Un Mot, Un Signe, supporting the deaf community, and also champions survivors of domestic violence through her initiative, We Are HERd.

Miss Guyana – Chandini Baljor

Miss Guyana Chandini Baljor walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Baljor, 23, is simultaneously pursuing a medical degree and a degree in public health. Her goal is to expand equitable healthcare access across the region.

She also owns a baking business, Popalicious, and has been published for her poetry and photography.

Miss Haiti – Melissa Sapini

Miss Haiti Melissa Sapini walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Sapini, 22, is a model, broadcast journalist, and sports reporter who began appearing on-air at age 18. She has appeared on “Hell’s Kitchen” and in a Super Bowl campaign for Dunkin’.

Although born in the U.S., she proudly uplifts her Haitian heritage and co-founded The Two Queens Foundation to improve literacy and scholarships for Haitian children, inspired by her grandmother who learned to read at 78.

Miss Martinique – Célya Abatucci

Abatucci, 31, works in management and sustainable development and previously worked for L’Oréal. She advocates for women’s health, domestic violence awareness, and greater access to menstrual and healthcare products.

Miss Puerto Rico – Zashley Alicea Rivera

Rivera, 26, is a ballerina, gymnast, model, graphic designer, and social-media manager. She founded ElevArte, offering free dance and art programs for youth.

Miss Saint Lucia – Shianne Smith

Miss Saint Lucia Shianne Smith walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Smith, 21, is a neuroscience student who survived a life-threatening birth. She founded Mindfield, a digital mental-health platform, and has presented mental-health advocacy at the UN ECOSOC Youth Forum.

Miss Trinidad & Tobago – Latifah Morris

Morris, 32, is a mother, entrepreneur, and founder of the BBL Movement — Building A Better Life, supporting youth empowerment.

Miss Turks & Caicos – Bereniece Dickenson

Dickenson, 22, overcame discrimination, poverty, and limited access to education. She earned multiple scholarships and founded The Butterfly Effect Project to support young women.

Miss US Virgin Islands – Brittany Robinson

Robinson, 33, became a caregiver early in life and has worked in hospitality for 17 years. She is the founder of BARE Artistry and advocates for women’s entrepreneurship.

Despite the Drama, the Show Goes On

The 2025 Miss Universe pageant has already been marked by controversy — from onstage falls to viral confrontations — but the competition continues. A new Miss Universe will be crowned Friday morning in Thailand by reigning queen Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark.

HOW TO WATCH

Fans in the U.S. can tune in to the Miss Universe 2025 final on Telemundo, which will air the full show live in Spanish, or stream it via Peacock (Spanish) or The Roku Channel (English). Viewers around the world can also watch the event for free on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel.

The final airs November 20, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET.

Where to Watch:
English:
• The Roku Channel – Free for all Roku device users or through the Roku app.

Spanish:
• Telemundo – Live TV broadcast.
• Peacock – Live streaming on the platform.

Worldwide Free Stream:
• Miss Universe YouTube Channel – Available globally at no cost.

By ET Editor

News Americas, NY, NY, Tues. Nov. 17, 2025: Trinidad and Tobago–born rapper Nicki Minaj shocked many more today, publicly praising President Donald Trump and thanking him from the podium of the United Nations Headquarters. Her appearance — the first time a female rapper has addressed the UN — instantly raised eyebrows across the Caribbean, the African Diaspora and the immigrant and music world.

Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj speaks during the panel discussion “Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria” at the US Mission to the United Nations in New York City, on November 18, 2025. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

But Minaj’s sudden embrace of Trump is rooted in one specific issue: what she sees as the “persecution” of Christians in Nigeria.

The megastar spoke softly but firmly during a four-minute address ahead of a panel titled “Combating Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria.” She thanked Trump “for prioritizing this issue,” claiming Christians in Nigeria are being killed “simply because of how they pray.”

Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj speaks during the panel discussion “Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria” at the US Mission to the United Nations in New York City, on November 18, 2025. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

Her comments echoed Trump’s own narrative. And that is precisely where the controversy lies.

A Coordinated Appearance – Not an Organic One

According to reporting by TIME, Minaj’s participation was arranged by Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz. Before she took the podium, UN Ambassador Mike Waltz thanked her for being willing to “demand action” on behalf of Christians.

This follows a recent pattern: Minaj has repeatedly amplified Trump’s messaging online, including:

• reposting a Truth Social message claiming Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria
• sharing a White House pro-MAGA video soundtracked by her own hit “Beez In the Trap”
• promoting a xenophobic and anti-trans video praising Trump’s achievements — a move that cost her more than 100,000 followers

In each instance, Minaj publicly aligned herself with Trump’s framing of Nigeria’s violence as a one-sided religious war.

But Is Trump’s Claim True?

Research indicates otherwise.

Independent data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, (ACLED) and the Council on Foreign Relations, shows violence in Nigeria is complex — driven by overlapping factors including:

• extremist activity
• criminal banditry
• farmer–herder land disputes
• economic insecurity
• political instability

Not religion alone.

Experts interviewed by ABC, CNN, and Al-Jazeera agree: The violence is indiscriminate and affects both Christians and Muslims.

Nigerian officials have repeatedly pushed back on the “Christians only” framing. Gimba Kakanda, Senior Special Assistant to the Nigerian President, wrote in Al-Jazeera that conflicts often “unfold along regional or community lines, not strictly religious ones.”

Human rights lawyer Bulama Bukarti added that presenting the crisis as Christian persecution alone “distorts reality and inflames tensions.”

Why Minaj Aligns With Trump — The Real Answer

Based on the timeline, three factors explain her sudden praise:

1. She has increasingly embraced faith-based rhetoric.

Minaj has recently emphasized Christianity as central to her identity and public messaging. Trump’s narrative directly appeals to that shift.

2. Trump is elevating celebrity voices who amplify his foreign-policy messaging.

Her UN appearance was facilitated by Trump’s political team — not by the UN itself. This was a platform engineered to validate his claim.

3. Minaj may be stepping into political influence — intentionally or unknowingly.

By repeating Trump’s talking points, she instantly became a megaphone for his Nigeria narrative — even though the data behind it is contested.

Minaj Says She’s “Not Taking Sides” — But Her Speech Chose One

Late in her speech, she emphasized she was “not taking sides politically.” But thanking Trump first — and exclusively — contradicted that claim. Her remarks came after Trump threatened to “invade Nigeria guns-a-blazing” to stop supposed “Islamic extremists,” despite no evidence of a religion-only genocide.

What This Means Going Forward

Nicki Minaj — a Caribbean-born global superstar with massive influence — has now waded into one of Africa’s most misunderstood crises.
Her endorsement gives Trump’s Nigeria narrative celebrity amplification, even as researchers and Nigerian leaders warn that such framing can worsen division on the ground.

Whether Minaj intended to or not, she has become part of a geopolitical messaging war — one where data and politics often clash.

For now, the answer to the question: “Why is Nicki Minaj singing Trump’s praises?” is clear:

Because she has embraced his narrative on Nigeria – a narrative her team has not independently vetted, but which aligns with Trump’s strategy, messaging and political goals.

Watch The Speech Here

News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Thurs. Nov. 13, 2025: Toronto will come alive with powerful music and even more powerful purpose this Friday as fast-rising Canadian-Jamaican artist King Cruff brings his “Bantu Knot Butu” Tour to Adelaide Hall. All ticket proceeds from the Toronto Concert will be donated to Hurricane Melissa relief efforts in partnership with The Bob Marley Foundation and The Rita Marley Foundation.

The Toronto stop on November 14th will feature a rare and star-studded Marley family moment, with Skip Marley and Soul-Rebel Marley joining King Cruff on stage as special guests. Jamaican-Canadian reggae songstress Naomi Cowan will also perform, ensuring an unforgettable night of talent rooted in Caribbean culture and global impact.

KING CRUFF

A Concert With A Mission

King Cruff, whose real name is Solomon Marley-Spence, says the outpouring of support since announcing the partnership with his grandparents’ foundations has been overwhelming.

“Jamaica has had such a massive influence not just on me, but on culture worldwide. It’s only right that we pay it forward any way we can,” Cruff shared.

The Bob and Rita Marley Foundation teams are already on the ground in Jamaica, providing food, clean water, hygiene kits, and emergency supplies to communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. Funds raised from the Toronto show will directly support these ongoing relief efforts through the official Bob and Rita Marley Foundation Relief Fund.

King Cruff Drops New Single “6 MILLY”

The charity concert comes just as King Cruff releases his newest single “6 MILLY,” produced by The Boy Kam (Drake, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj). The track blends Toronto’s dancehall influence with the artist’s signature poetic grit.

“I wanted to take a stab at proper yearning music while keeping the badman energy,” Cruff explained. “It’s ‘Shotta In Love’ vibes.”

The single follows his summer hit “BUNCH,” recently highlighted by Billboard in its Reggae/Dancehall Fresh Picks. After a breakout year – including a JUNO nomination, festival stages, and touring with Stephen and Damian Marley – King Cruff is now stepping into his first-ever headlining tour.

Bantu Knot Butu Tour Dates

Nov. 14 – Toronto, ON – Adelaide Hall

Nov. 28 – Québec City, QC – District Saint-Joseph

Fans can join King Cruff’s mailing list for concert updates, new music, and exclusive merch drops.

A Night Of Music, Unity & One Love In Action

With the Marley family lending their voices and global supporters rallying behind Jamaica, Friday’s Toronto concert promises to be a celebration of culture, community, and collective healing.

As King Cruff says, this moment is about more than music: “United by #OneLoveInAction, we’re standing strong with the people of Jamaica.”

RELATED: YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: “I Love Jamaica” Global Telethon And Concert Series To Raise Funds For Hurricane Melissa Recovery

Jamaican Global Diaspora Pitches In: Here Are The Credible Organizations To Support Hurricane Melissa Victims

By NAN Entertainment News

News Americas, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Weds. Nov. 12, 2025: Jamaica’s creative and sporting communities are joining forces in a powerful show of unity and compassion under the banner of the “I Love Jamaica” Telethon and Concert Series – a national and global fundraising campaign to support recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, (MCGES), and spearheaded by Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange, the initiative will combine the strength of Jamaica’s music, sports, and diaspora communities to help rebuild homes, schools, and livelihoods across the hardest-hit parishes in western Jamaica.

The Telethon: Music, Hope & Giving

The “I Love Jamaica Telethon” in Kingston, Jamaica, presented by Red Stripe and powered by Digicel, will air live on Sunday, November 23, from 1 to 7 p.m. The six-hour televised event will be broadcast on TVJ and CVM TV, and streamed worldwide on multiple digital platforms.

The telethon will feature an all-star line-up including Chris Martin, Masicka, Alaine, Tarrus Riley, and others, alongside appearances by Jamaica’s sporting icons Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Asafa Powell, who will join the phone lines to take calls and pledges live on air.

“The need is great, and we must answer the call to show care, compassion, and love,” Minister Grange said. “We’re leveraging the power of our creative and sports sectors to bring relief to our brothers and sisters, particularly in the western parishes.”

Donations can be made through the official government portal supportjamaica.gov.jm, with oversight provided by ODPEM and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to ensure transparency and accountability.

Global Concerts Unite Jamaica And The Diaspora

British singer Ali Campbell, seen here with the reggae group UB40 during a concert of The Hits Tour at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on April 2, 2024, will perform at the UK Jamaica fundraiser on Nov. 13, 2025. (Photo by MARCEL KRIJGSMAN/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)

Beyond the telethon, the I Love Jamaica Concert Series will take the message of “One Love” worldwide, with major shows scheduled in London, New York, Miami/Miramar, and other key diaspora cities.

The series kicks off November 13 at KOKO Camden, London, hosted by Kane Brown and featuring an impressive lineup including Boy George, Ali Campbell (UB40), David Rodigan, Bitty McLean, Emeli Sandé, Carroll Thompson, General Levy, Robbo Ranx, Becca D, and Tippa Irie. A mega show at London’s O2 Arena is also confirmed for December 21, headlined by UB40 and Culture Club.

In the U.S., concerts are set for Miami (December 7th) and New York (December 12th at UBS Arena), produced by Bobby Clarke of Irie Jam, Jammins Entertainment, and Jamaica Strong NY Inc. The New York staging will feature Shaggy as headliner, supported by a powerhouse team including Roger Lewis (Inner Circle), Sharon Burke, and RoadBlock Radio.

Additional concerts are being explored for Toronto, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, and even Serbia, reflecting the global outpouring of love for Jamaica’s rebuilding mission.

“Jamaica’s culture has always been a source of strength, pride, and global influence,” said Minister Grange. “In times of crisis, it becomes a unifying force. This concert reminds us that our people and friends around the world can come together to rebuild lives and restore hope.”

Power of Music, Spirit of Resilience

During last week’s media launch, Christopher Martin, one of the headlining artists, spoke emotionally about the initiative.

“I’ve seen the devastation firsthand. Jamaicans don’t abandon each other — we rise together. Hurricane Melissa took a lot from us, but it did not take our spirit,” he said.

Minister Grange echoed that sentiment, challenging critics who dismissed the concert as trivial. “Anyone who sees the music and our entertainers doing something at this time as frivolous doesn’t understand the power of our music. Our music heals, uplifts, and unites.”

The goal is to raise at least US$1 million across the telethon and concert series – a target Grange believes is achievable given Jamaica’s history of solidarity.

“The last time we did a telethon, we raised $60 million in just 10 days,” she noted. “We can do it again.”

More Ways To Give

The Ministry is also in discussions with the Jamaica Football Federation to organize international friendly matches featuring the Reggae Boyz in the U.S. and U.K. for hurricane relief. Additionally, Damian Marley and Ghetto Youths International are staging a separate series of U.S.-based charity events, while the Caribbean Premier League, (CPL), and Chris Gayle are planning fundraising collaborations.

Minister Grange has also encouraged citizens to register on the National Registry of Volunteers to assist with on-the-ground recovery and counseling support being led by the Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches under Bishop Herro Blair.

“Hurricane Melissa may have shaken us, but it did not break us,” Grange said. “We will rebuild and emerge even stronger. Let’s show the world what ‘One Love’ truly means.”