Set your sights on conquering the unexplored. The Grand Vitara is for those with an adventurous spirit. Its bold yet sophisticated design lets you face challenges with style. A spacious cabin combined with cutting-edge features get you the most out of action-packed experiences in comfort. As you drive to new destinations, the ALLGRIP SELECT 4x4 system prepares you for various road or weather conditions. Go wherever you want and leave a grand trail.
At Caribbean Airlines, home is where the heart is, and our heart is proudly rooted in the Caribbean. We don’t just connect destinations; we connect people — to their families, their cultures, and their dreams. And this year, we’re making it easier and more rewarding than ever to do just that.
Our revamped Caribbean Miles loyalty programme is off to a great start. Now, your miles are earned based on what you spend, making it more rewarding and flexible. And with our expanding route network, there’s plenty of opportunity to use those miles to explore. Whether it’s a quick getaway or a long-overdue reunion with loved ones, we invite you to redeem your rewards and immerse yourself in the beauty of our destinations.
Speaking of connections, we continue to grow. Daily flights between Montego Bay and Fort Lauderdale begin on 11 March, with daily service between Kingston and Fort Lauderdale soon to follow. More flights mean more options, more convenience, and more opportunities to experience our Caribbean warmth — wherever you call home.
A Message from our CEO
Caribbean Airlines is about more than travel. We are a bridge to the culture, energy, and vibrancy of the region. This year, our Caribbean Culture programme kicked off in style with Culture In D Park, celebrating the essence of Trinidad Carnival with traditional mas and electrifying performances.
But the celebrations don’t stop there! We’re expanding our cultural experiences across the region, ensuring that no matter where you are, you can feel the heartbeat of the Caribbean.
One of the events I’m particularly excited about is the Caribbean Airlines Village Cricket T10 Tournament, which is growing. This year — in addition to Jamaica, Trinidad, and Guyana — we’re welcoming Antigua and Barbados into the competition. Team Guyana is ready to defend their title, and I can already feel the excitement building.
Cricket is more than just a game — it’s a celebration of community, passion, and the resilient spirit of the Caribbean. I look forward to you and your families joining us for what promises to be an exhilarating tournament.
And there’s more to come. 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year — with even bigger things ahead. In our next issue, we’ll reveal details of a community and wellness event that will bring people together across the region. You won’t want to miss it!
Until then, stay connected. Follow us on social media and download our free mobile app to keep up with the latest updates, travel deals, and exclusive experiences.
Wherever you’re headed, we’re happy to be part of your journey. After all, with Caribbean Airlines, you’re never far from home.
See you on board again soon!
Regards, Garvin
Welcome aboard, and welcome home.
St. Kitts is calling June 26–28, 2025
Dance to the vibrant rhythms of soca, Afropop, hip hop, and more as international artists - such as Vybes Kartel, Shenseea, Jennifer Hudson, and Ayra Starr - take center stage at the St. Kitts Music Festival.
Buy your tickets at stkittsmusicfestival.com
No. 187 • March/April 2025
20 EvEnt buzz
Exciting festivals and events around the region
26 Music & book buzz
Reviews by Nigel Campbell and Shivanee Ramlochan
30 Word of Mouth
Giselle Laronde-West takes us inside some of her favourite Caribbean traditions at Easter time; while Kellie Magnus looks ahead to the exciting Caribbean literary festivals across the diaspora this year
36 PanoraMa
Caribbean Grammy Glory
In the wake of the 2025 Grammys, Nigel Campbell looks at the Caribbean’s past and future at the celebrated awards show — and what significance these awards can or should have for regional music-makers
42 snaPshot
CatalysinG the Conversations
Marlon James’ Get Millie Black (set in Jamaica and London) and Steven Soderbergh’s Full Circle (set in Guyana and New York) are two series of Caribbean interest for your watchlist, suggests Caroline Taylor
46 backstory mas of a memory; memory of a mas
As Trinidad’s Carnival season peaks, Amy Li Baksh shares her love for cow mas, and how immersing herself in it led her to learn more about this dying tradition’s origins
52 thE dEal beyond the beaChes
The Caribbean offers enticing opportunities for astute investors seeking to diversify and maximise their portfolios.
Natalie Dookie guides us through this thriving investment landscape
58 discovEr how Coral reef restoration Could mean biG business
With Caribbean coral reef ecosystems currently listed as endangered, Erline Andrews explores why they are so important to our lives and livelihoods, and the urgent work being done to restore them
62 bE WEll defyinG the silenCe
There’s an ever-increasing risk of hearing loss in people of all ages from various causes (including exposure to loud environments), Shelly-Ann Inniss reports. Here’s what you need to know about prevention and management
66 on this day the last pirate of the Caribbean
Long after the Golden Age of Piracy, James Ferguson revisits the legend of Puerto Rico’s Roberto Cofresí — the Robin Hood-like figure executed in front of the El Morro fortress 200 years ago
68 GrEEn drivinG Climate resilienCe
As the planet approaches several critical climate tipping points, the Global Sustainable Islands Summit focusses on driving resilience and solutions from the Caribbean. Thaiz Maciel reports
72 PuzzlEs & brain tEasErs
80 last Word ready for mas aGain
A love letter to doing everything for Carnival, by Caroline Taylor
Beat Beat Caribbean Caribbean
An MEP publication
Editor Caroline Taylor
Designer Kevon Webster
Editorial assistant Shelly-Ann Inniss
Production manager Jacqueline Smith
Finance director Joanne Mendes
Publisher Jeremy Taylor
Business development consultant Halcyon Salazar
Business Development Manager, Tobago and International Evelyn Chung T: (868) 684–4409
E: evelyn@meppublishers.com
Business Development Manager, Trinidad Tracy Farrag T: (868) 318–1996
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Cover The colours of Phagwah or Holi are reflected on the face of a celebrant at the Hindu Prachar Kendra Phagwah celebrations in Chaguanas, Trinidad Photo Edison Boodoosingh
this issue’s contributors:
Erline Andrews is an award-winning journalist, with a master’s degree from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, and a particular interest in the environment and conservation.
Amy Li Baksh is a Trinbagonian writer, artist, and activist with a passion for Caribbean history, culture, and all things creative. She is a contributing writer for BBC Future Planet and UWI Today
Nigel Campbell is a Trinidad-based producer, music industry analyst, commentator and reviewer documenting Caribbean music in print, on TV, and on the Music Matters: The Caribbean Edition podcast.
Natalie Dookie is an experienced business writer, editor, and business intelligence expert who is passionate about showcasing the opportunities and challenges of doing business in the Caribbean.
James Ferguson is an Oxford-based publisher, translator and writer with a background in French culture and Caribbean history who’s written several books on Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica.
Shelly-Ann Inniss is a Trinidad-based Barbadian writer; community builder; self-appointed tourism ambassador for Barbados; and founder of Your Gluten- free Companion.
Giselle Laronde-West (Chaconia Medal Gold, and Miss World 1986) is a Conflict Women brand ambassador and Foundation for the Enhancement & Enrichment of Life board member, with bylines in MACO Magazine, Trinidad Weddings, and others.
Shivanee Ramlochan — a Trinidadian poet, essayist and book critic — is the author of Everyone Knows I am a Haunting.
Caroline Taylor is a writer, editor, performer, and producer, particularly interested in culture and the environment. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, The Guardian (UK), and others.
The Caribbean spirit of community: a treasure worth preserving
Growing up in Tunapuna, Trinidad, my formative years were shaped by the deep sense of commu-
nity that surrounded me. My maternal grandparents, aunts, and uncles were the pillars of my upbringing, offering invaluable guidance and wisdom that have stayed with me to this day.
My grandmother often told me, “If you work for a penny, save a cent” — a simple yet profound lesson that encouraged me to practise the habit of saving from an early age. My grandfather, on the other hand, had a tremendous influence on my work ethic. He would always say, “Be like water and find a way” — and he taught me that whatever role I pursued in life, I should do it to the best of my ability.
My eldest aunt, an island scholar and an avid reader, played an instrumental role in fuelling my love for books. She was a teacher of literature and always encouraged me to read widely and think critically. I looked forward to the monthly visits to the bookstore with my mother, where I would eagerly devour new books in a matter of days. My aunt’s extensive collection of literature was always there to satisfy my curiosity and further broaden my understanding of the world.
Beyond my immediate family, the wider community also played a significant role in my upbringing. One cherished memory is the tradition of the sou sou, a communal savings system that origi-
A Message from our CEO
nated in West Africa and is still practised across the Caribbean today. The sou sou thrived on mutual trust and cooperation, allowing people to achieve financial goals that might have otherwise been out of reach. It was a perfect example of how communities worked together to uplift one another.
Afternoons spent on my grandmother’s gallery were filled with warmth and connection. Almost every passerby would call out, “Ms. Beryl!” and stop for a chat. Neighbours were more than just familiar faces; they were extended family. There was no distinction of race or class — just a shared sense of belonging and camaraderie. My grandmother’s close friend, Ms Chudkee, would often take me to the old Monarch cinema to watch Indian movies, exposing me to different cultural experiences that enriched my understanding of the world around me. In those days, we knew our neighbours, and they knew us.
However, times have changed. Today, many people barely know their neighbours, and that sense of connectedness has somewhat diminished. While we acknowledge the need for personal space and privacy in our modern world, there are valuable lessons from the past that we can still apply to strengthen our communities. The spirit of togetherness,
mutual support, and collective pride in our neighbourhoods can offer solutions to many of the challenges we face today.
In the Caribbean, this strong sense of community is woven into our identity. It is reflected in our music, food, and daily interactions. Recognising the importance of preserving and nurturing this spirit, Caribbean Airlines is committed to playing its part through its culture programme and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
With improved connectivity across the region, including the French, Dutch, Spanish, and English Caribbean, we now have an opportunity to spread this feeling of community beyond our individual islands. As we travel and interact more, we can rekindle the values that once defined us — kindness, trust, and collective progress.
Whether it’s by supporting local initiatives, participating in cultural events, or simply taking the time to get to know our neighbours, we can each play a part in strengthening the bonds that make our region truly special. The past has shown us the power of unity, and by embracing it, we can build a stronger, more connected Caribbean for generations to come.
Dionne Ligoure is the Executive Manager, Corporate Communications at Caribbean Airlines. E-mail: dionne.ligoure@caribbean-airlines.com
wish you were here
pride of Guyana
Guyana’s unspoiled ecosystem produces large flora and fauna like its national flower, the Victoria amazonica, for instance. Native to South America’s freshwater lakes and the Amazon basin — including Guyana — this gorgeous lily pad grows up to 10ft wide and supports approximately 130lbs of weight. A sunset boat ride to ponds across Karanambu Ranch and Rewa’s Grass Ponds along the Rupununi River provides exceptional opportunities to witness the spectacular opening of the flowers. Hot tip: this experience has the potential to make a memorable date night …
Photo by Keren Su/China Span/Alamy Stock Photo
Shelly-Ann Inniss on the major festivals, holidays, and celebrations across the region this March and April
Let’s get festive!
We ready for the road! Experience the magic and merriment of pre-Lenten Carnivals with Trinidad & Tobago Carnival, Carnaval de Ponce, Puerto Rico and Martinique Carnival (all ending 4 March); and Curaçao Carnival and Guadeloupe Carnival (ending 5 March), to name a few. The carnival energy continues with St Maarten Carnival (21 April) and Jamaica Carnival (27 April).
March marks the beginning of turtle nesting season in the Caribbean (peaking in May and June for leatherbacks). Turtle-watching is awe-inspiring: females can lay up to 100 eggs (sometimes more) each time they nest, with the
hatchlings scurrying to the water approximately six weeks later. Special permits or guided tours might be needed, as part of conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable and endangered species.
In Barbados, March kicks off with international jockeys and trainers prepping their thoroughbred horses to compete for the prestigious Sandy Lane Gold Cup (1 March) amid spectacular fanfare and glamour, just as the monthlong Bridgetown International Arts Festival (1–31 March) gets underway. And at Easter, the popular oistins Fish Festival reminds folks why it remains a treasured Barbadian tradition.
Over 50 years — powered by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana — Carnaval Miami (19 February–19 April) has thrilled more than a million people. Highlights include dancing the weekend away at Carnaval on the Mile (1–2 March), and enjoying live music and food at Calle ocho Music Festival (9 March).
It’s regatta time! Sailboats take to the water for both the George Town Cruising Regatta (19 February–4 March) and the National Family Island Regatta (22–26 April) in Elizabeth Harbour on Exuma, The Bahamas, as sailing — the islands’ national sport — brings an adrenaline rush and heaps of fun.
Yachties also face off in Antigua’s windy waters for the Antigua Superyacht Challenge (5–9 March), Antigua Classic yacht Regatta (16–21 April), and Antigua Sailing Week (26 April–2 May).
There’s tonnes of action in St Maarten — from the St Maarten Regatta (6 March), to the SXM Music Festival (12–16 March), and St Maarten Carnival (21 April–5 May).
In Guyana, Trinidad, Suriname and Hindu communities across the region, no one escapes being lovingly showered (or sprayed) with colourful abir at Phagwah or Holi celebrations (18 March). Featuring rhythmic drumming, dancing, and singing, Phagwah — the Hindu “festival of colour”, also known as the Hindu New Year — celebrates love, renewal, and rebirth. People of all faiths are welcome.
Meanwhile, leading up to Easter in Guadeloupe, sate yourself at the Crab Festival (14–31 March) in Morne-à-l’Eau; while goat-based dishes feature at Fèt a Kabrit (19–20 April) on La Désirade. With such sustenance, finish strong at the Guadarun Island Marathon (19–27 April) along trails on each of Guadeloupe’s six inhabited islands.
On nearby Montserrat, St Patrick’s Day (17 March) celebrations run for 10 days prior to the big public holiday honouring the island’s Irish heritage — with a Caribbean twist! Festival highlights include early morning parties, an all-white affair, concerts — all climaxing with a large street parade.
In Puerto Rico, enjoy a range of competitions, seminars, cultural events, and delicious samples at the Taste of Rum: an International Rum & Food Festival (29 March) — while more culinary delights await at the Coffee & Chocolate Expo (29–30 March).
Swimming in the company of turtles — with shipwrecks below — adds to the adventure of the two-and-a-half mile Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim (29 March). More adventures on and near the water beckon at the British Virgin Islands (BVI) Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival (31 March–6 April) and the Governor’s Cup Race (26 April).
Gourmands also flock to the Anguilla Culinary Experience (30 April–5 May), which showcases talented global chefs.
In Trinidad, the 20th edition of Jazz Artists on the Greens (5 April) features outstanding regional and international talent, while Caribbean athleticism — at its finest — is on display at the CARIFTA Games (19–21 April).
The Miami Film Festival (4–13 April) and Curacao International Film Festival (9–13 April) offer tremendous opportunities for cultural exchange as they celebrate film, filmmakers, and storytelling with screenings, premieres, awards, discussions, and workshops.
Across the Caribbean, Easter brings kite-flying; Easter egg hunts; bonnet competitions; fish festivals like the Martinique Crab Festival (19 March) and Guadeloupe Fish Festival (30 March–9 April); the Rupununi Rodeo (17–21 April) and Bartica Easter Regatta in Guyana; and Tobago’s distinctive Buccoo Goat & Crab Race Festival (22 April).
The historical district of Pietermaai comes to life with blues music during the Curaçao International BlueSeas Festival (17–19 April), featuring free street concerts that lure music lovers back year after year.
The anticipated Tobago Rhythm & Soul Festival (17–20 April) and Tobago Fashion Coda (18 April) promise a sophisticated blend of high fashion, star-studded entertainment, and epicurean delights under the theme “Tobago Fashion CODA7: Where Runway Meets Rhythm”.
The St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival (30 April–11 May) boasts a diverse roster of performers and artists, transcending cultural boundaries. Whether you’re boogying to the live performances or admiring art, don’t miss out on one of the island’s gems.
this month’s listening picks from the Caribbean
Reviews by Nigel Campbell
braveboy
Las Lap (Bravehouse Music)
Cyndi Celeste
Love in My Language (self-released)
The juxtaposition of spoken word and music has been mined on records by legends like Gil Scott-Heron and Mutabaruka. Barbadian poet Cyndi Celeste — on this, her first full length album — uses oft-heard rising cadences and that feeling of missing punctuation to provide a stream-of-consciousness form of performance poetry that enchants. She calls her work “a dynamic blend of Bajan language and Caribbean storytelling, infused with R&B, soul, jazz, and hip-hop influences.” Ethereal music accompanies rhythm and metre, rhymes and metaphors to give listeners a view of her truth — internal monologues on identity and authenticity — and the endless possibilities of the English language as these islands’ gift to the world.
Braveboy is the “king” of international collaborators within the soca and island hiphop sphere. On this new EP he does not disappoint, linking with Venezuelan producer Jolemy and his countrymen LEXO, Abel and Corne to explore the evolving nature of the Soundtrack for CArnival — the modern incarnation of soca beyond Lord Shorty’s Soul of CAlypso genesis five decades ago. The easily identifiable rhythms meld perfectly with sexy Spanish language lyrics, pointing to potential crossover opportunities within the limitless Latin American market.
teneille young Wildflower (self-released)
Dreams often do come true. Just a couple of years ago, singer Teneille Young was doing cover songs on YouTube, now she has bagged the epic production skills of Jamaican hit-maker “Mikey” Bennett to helm this four-song EP of originals that show the range of what modern reggae can be. A lovers rock vibe is present in some of the compositions, giving the record a throwback feel. Young’s feathery, naive voice also evokes many late 1970s female reggae singers, making this a package of retro vibes done good.
ronald snijders
John G Agyei (self-released)
Trinidadian John G’s music has been referred to as “Caribbean roots” — an amalgam of the roots revival aesthetic that came to the fore in Jamaica in the early to mid-2010s, and the laid-back roots reggae of Bob Marley, all within a self-described “singer-songwriter/soulful Caribbean folk” style where lyricism is key to crossover. I’m a child of hate and slavery / I’m a soul that still needs saving. This short four-song EP’s superlative production creates a perfect bed for G’s voice — best described as a powerful rasp — to deliver calm affirmations of love and empowerment. Jah bless!
Penta (Night Dreamer)
Flautist Ronald Snijders is a hero of Surinamese jazz, rarely heard outside that diaspora (the Netherlands and its former colonies). His music on this new album continues his notable efforts over nearly five decades of layering modern jazz fusion music over the native kaseko rhythms, along with regional influences for global uptake. Marketing terms like “ethno-jazz” don’t do this album justice; its grander vision is placing the Caribbean heartbeat front and centre. And it does!
mical teja
Higher Power (Teja Music) • Single
Trinidad Road March 2024 winner Mical Teja returns in 2025 to cement his place as a major soca artist who understands the power of incisive lyrics to make generic riddims supercharged beyond the banal, and understandably unforgettable. Spirits combine, the body and mind / With the heart and soul / No, we don’t have control / Blame it on a higher power. Ancestral drums combine with modern soca beats to elevate this song. Teja has mastered the formula for hit soca music for Carnival fetes and on the road.
January
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA WELLNESS MONTH www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL 21st April www.facebook.com/CPKites
PETERS & MAY ROUND ANTIGUA RACE 26th April www.sailingweek.com/ roundantiguarace/
ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK 27th April – May 2nd www.sailingweek.com
May
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA CULINARY MONTH
DOCKYARD DAY 3rd May
FOOD, ART, AND BEVERAGE FESTIVAL 4th May www.antiguabarbuda restaurantweek.com
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA RESTAURANT WEEK 4th – 18th May www.antiguabarbuda restaurantweek.com
CHTA CARIBBEAN TRAVEL MARKETPLACE 18th – 22nd May
RUN IN PARADISE 25th May www.facebook.com/ runinparadise
June
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA ROMANCE MONTH www.antiguaandbarbuda romance.com
BARBUDA’S CARIBANA 4th – 9th June www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
ANNUAL ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA SPORTS FISHING TOURNAMENT 5th - 8th June www.antiguabarbudasports fishing.com
July
ANTIGUA CARNIVAL: THE CARIBBEAN’S GREATEST SUMMER FESTIVAL 25th July – 5th August www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
August
CARNIVAL MONDAY 4th August www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
CARNIVAL TUESDAY 5th August www.antiguacarnival.com
URLINGS SEAFOOD FESTIVAL 10th August
ANUCON 16th – 17th August www.anucon268.com
September
NELSON’S DOCKYARD CELEBRATES 300 YEARS WORLD WELLNESS WEEKEND CELEBRATIONS 19th – 21st September
DEJAM FESTIVAL 22nd - 29th September www.dejamfestival.org/ FRANCIS NUNES JR. MEMORIAL FISHING TOURNAMENT & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL 26th - 27th September www.antiguabarbuda sportsfishing.com
October
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA’S INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS
November
ANTIGUA
GEMONTIES
December
ANTIGUA CHARTER YACHT SHOW www.antiguayachtshow.com
VEGGIE ROOTS AND CULTURE FEST 7th December
NELSON’S
this month’s reading picks from the Caribbean
Reviews by Shivanee Ramlochan, Book Review Editor
Code noir by Canisia Lubrin (Knopf Canada, 360 pp, ISBN 9780735282216)
In St Lucian Canisia Lubrin’s Code Noir reside 59 of the most devastating, clarifying fictions you will read this year — or any other. As linked stories, they respond to, trouble, and subvert the original 59 racist declarations of Louis XIV’s Code Noir, created to dictate slavery’s functionality in all French colonies. In mesmeric styling, Lubrin reproduces the dead king’s codes, but slantwise: they appear between her fictions as greyscale interventions shaped by the artist Torkwase Dyson. What Code Noir presents, and represents, calls a limitless Blackness onto the page and simultaneously beyond it. We are summoned to imagine all states, all territories, all alertness that can be given up to Black imagination. We are, as readers of this visionary text, called upon to believe not only that all this might be real, but that it has always been occurring.
time Cleaves itself by Jeda Pearl (Peepal Tree Press, 80 pp, ISBN 9781845235888)
“Squash my ‘otherness’ back into your grandma’s old regency tin”, declares a poem in Scottish-Jamaican Jeda Pearl’s debut collection, Time Cleaves Itself. Of such fiery, impassioned salvos is this work composed, in verse that declaims its speaker’s right to be inscribed in Scotland’s soil despite insidious and extant hostilities. Alongside the rage of these poems abides a deliberateness of attention, delving into wells of childbirth, motherhood, disability, disenfranchisement, illness, pulling rich meanings to the surface. Summoning the tongues of Scots and Jamaican Patois, Pearl constructs language as a border-shifting, discrimination-crumbling powerhouse — one in which its poems’ speakers may roam thistledowncovered crags and wine on dancefloors with a matched, indomitable spirit. This is poetry that utterly convinces, singing its proud decolonial, intersectional song from island inlet to hospital bed, from the galactical gaze of the universe itself.
mother archive: a dominican family memoir by Erika Morillo (University of Iowa Press, 250 pp, ISBN 9781609389949)
Urgency ripples from the prose of this memoir, which reveals the apertures created when a core memory — a familial wound — is silenced, in action and in thought. After her father is disappeared under the brutal regime of the Dominican Republic’s Joaquín Balaguer, Morillo witnesses her mother erase her father’s photographs from their home. In this way, Mother Archive tends to the wounds at multiple sites, asking where trauma resides when it is denied its natural tributaries: what new pains spring from such eradication? Morillo writes of her life and her mother’s — not unflinchingly, but with a disarming awareness of her wounds, juxtaposing photographs from her family’s life alongside the searing, revelatory text. In a radical epistolary mode, the writing both addresses and eclipses the memoirist’s mother: a visionary decision in an already-impactful work.
looking for Cazabon by Lawrence Scott (Papillote Press, 80 pp, ISBN 978173930367)
How may we know a place, sonnet by sonnet?
Lawrence Scott’s Looking for Cazabon provides us with a sensory, devotional answer. These poems, written in creative pursuit of the influential 19th century Trinidadian artist MichelJean Cazabon, are as suffused with light, depth, and textural interplay as the painter’s landscapes themselves. Scott’s award-winning fictions have long been characterised by their sensitivity, the dual piquancy and gravitas they employ to scrutinise our historic and contemporaneous living. These qualities shine too in the author’s first collection of verse. Trinidad, as much as Cazabon, is the beloved, bedevilled subject of these sonnets (and one long-form free verse poem), which move across the near entirety of the island with an aching, reflective familiarity. No place could feel more alive, more blessed and fractured and incandescently active, than in the poems Scott creates.
Plaza Bwia bl . QUTIES-0 (East)
Land Plaza QUTIES-1 (Central) One Woodbrook Place QUTIES-2 (POS)
Come experience something new and different! Build your platter and grill your food on our mini hibachi coal pot.
Wings | Pepper Shrimp | Jerk Pork | Steaks
Baby Back Pork Ribs | Garlic Lobster Chunks
Pepper Jelly Lamb Chop | Burgers | Pasta | Salads
CARIBBEAN EASTER MAGIC
Giselle Laronde-West takes us inside some of her favourite Caribbean traditions at Easter time — including some of the most unusual!
The Easter weekend — a long weekend with public holidays in many parts of the Caribbean — is a delightful time across the region, with activities and traditions that excite the young and the young at heart.
In my home country, Trinidad & Tobago, an unusual tradition is the beating of the “bobolee” on Good Friday. The effigies — human-sized, stuffed caricatures — are created by members of the community, and hung or tied to a pole for all to see until time for the deed to be done. These bobolees typically represent (and resemble) people that
community members do not respect, or who they feel have betrayed them. The original bobolee, of course, was Judas Iscariot. The bobolees are eventually beaten or burned in public spaces.
Over in Tobago, goat and crab racing — held on the Tuesday after Easter in Buccoo Village — is a tradition that began as the “poor man’s version” of horse-racing in the early 1900s. Large crowds of locals and visitors look forward to this event where they can cheer on their favourite goat. The runners or trainers, who run alongside the goats, train hard with their charges all year in the hope of goat racing supremacy. As a bonus, crab races follow, where participants (including children) — equipped with a thin stick — gently nudge the crabs toward the finish line … with many of the crabs end up running in totally different directions!
Barbados has its own unique tradition: the bleeding of the Physic Nut Tree. The red sap which oozes from the tree’s bark when stuck on Good Friday symbolises the blood of Christ. This tradition involves making a small incision in the trunk of the tree and collecting the sap, which is usually applied to the skin, as it is believed that it is a traditional remedy for some skin conditions and a variety of ailments like arthritis and rheumatism.
The most common and popular Easter tradition in many Caribbean countries is kite-flying. Families and friends come together to design and make beautiful, colourful kites of various shapes, patterns, and sizes, and head to the parks, beaches, or any open space to show them off as they dance in the winds that are brisk and vigorous at this time of year. Some kites are made into unique shapes — like lions, ships and dragons.
Another hallmark of Eastertime? Delicious hot cross buns. These are spiced, sweet buns bearing the symbolic cross in white icing sugar. No Caribbean Easter celebration would be complete without them. In Jamaica, they are often made with nutmeg and cinnamon, and include raisins, currants, or mixed peel. In Trinidad & Tobago, they may be made with coconut milk, or grated coconut and spices. Some other islands adjust the recipe to include molasses, ginger, and even rum. Enjoy it plain, with some butter or cheese — and maybe a cup of hot local or regional cocoa.
Easter hat or bonnet competitions are also hugely popular — at schools, churches, and in larger community settings — while Easter egg hunts are a favourite at family gatherings, either at home or in parks. Some families also do egg rolling competitions — boiling and painting eggs, then having the children compete by going to the top of a hill and rolling their eggs down the slope. The person whose egg reaches the bottom first — most intact — wins.
A special experience in Curaçao is the Seú Harvest Easter Parade, which usually takes place early in the afternoon on Easter Monday. It is a spectacular display of creativity and craftsmanship by the locals who showcase their elaborately decorated floats through the streets of Willemstad, the capital, to the sounds of local marching bands, accompanied by dance groups and other cultural organisations.
Happy Easter! n
Kellie Magnus looks ahead to the exciting Caribbean literary festivals across the diaspora in 2025
Photography courtesy Bocas Lit Fest
TCELEBRATING CARIBBEAN LITERATURE
he best way to get to know the Caribbean is to visit as many countries as you can. The secondbest way? Experiencing the richness and diversity of the region through its literature.
There’s an increasing number of opportunities to do both. This year boasts a startlingly full calendar of literary festivals and book fairs that can keep you country-hopping and page-turning all year round.
The organising teams behind the festivals are as diverse as their literary offerings — from state-sponsored sprawling extravaganzas like the Havana International Book Fair, to volunteer-led initiatives like the newly minted Jamaica Book Festival.
uSvI Lit Fest and Book Fair
St Croix, US Virgin Islands
10–13 April usvilitfest.com
Bocas Lit Fest
Trinidad & Tobago 1–4 May bocaslitfest.com
Calabash International Literary Festival Treasure Beach, Jamaica
23–25 May calabashfestival.org
Book Fairy Festival
Kingston, Jamaica 11–14 July bookfairyfestival.com
Brooklyn Caribbean Literary Festival
Brooklyn, New York, USA 5–8 September bklyncbeanlitfest.org
The common bond lies in their origin stories: each event spurred by a commitment to celebrating Caribbean literature and a desire to connect writers in the region to larger audiences, local and international.
As Caribbean literature continues to gain worldwide recognition, the Caribbean concentration of writers in major festivals in the United States has grown larger and more consistent. Brooklyn, arguably the capital of the Caribbean diaspora, is home to its own Caribbean literary festival that draws readers and writers from across the US and the region.
Each festival has a style and flavour of its own, offering up a mix of Caribbean and international authors, panel discussions, musical events, workshops and seminars to suit the needs of aspiring writers and general readers alike.
Some have already taken place and should be on your radar for next year, like the Hay Festival Cartagena, Colombia (January–February); and the Havana International Book Fair, Cuba (February).
Dates noted here for those going forward are tentative, so check the organisers’ websites frequently for updated schedules and author confirmations. n
(L-R) St Lucian Poet Canisia Lubrin, Guyana academic D Alissa Trotz, NGC Bocas Lit Fest fiction, nonfiction and poetry winners Kevin Jared Hosein, Safiya Sinclair, Nicole Sealey, head judge Edwidge Danticat and novelist Rabindranath Maharaj
Brooklyn Book Festival
Brooklyn, New York, USA 21–28 September brooklynbookfestival.com
BvI Literary Festival
Tortola, British Virgin Islands 6–9 November bvilitfest.com
The International Book Fair Santo Domingo Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 6–16 November
Miami Book Fair
Miami, Florida, USA 16–23 November miamibookfair.com
Gimistory International Storytelling Festival 23 November–1 December Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Jamaica Book Festival Kingston, Jamaica 4–7 December jamaicabookfest.com
ST Jo HN ’ S , A NTIG u A
The charming waterfront at St John’s harbour on Antigua’s northwest coast is a gateway to the island’s capital city. Guarded by Fort James and Fort Barrington, most of St John’s attractions and historical landmarks are within walking distance from the Heritage Quay shopping complex. Day trips can include the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda (based in a courthouse constructed in 1750 and the oldest building on the island); St John’s Anglican Cathedral, designed with Baroque and Georgian architecture; and the Antigua Recreation Ground (home to the West Indies Cricket Team) — and a swim with the turtles on a nearby beach!
The Caribbean has a long history on the global music scene, with regional music having been recorded since the early 1900s:
Lovey’s Original Trinidad String Band was recorded in 1912, five years before jazz was first recorded. Since then, the music industry in these islands and the influence of music from them have impacted developing genres across the Americas. Jazz and hip-hop figure prominently, as explored in previous issues of Caribbean Beat (all available online).
Many island musicians look for ways to gauge
CARIBBEAN GRAMMy GLORy
Over the years, several artists of Caribbean heritage have taken home Grammy Awards — from the bestknown like the Marleys, Rihanna, Heather Headley, Angela Hunte, and Ralph McDonald, to countless artists from Jamaica and Puerto Rico, and Virgin Islander Theron Thomas last year. In the wake of the 2025 Grammys, Nigel Campbell looks at the Caribbean’s past and future at the celebrated awards show
the success of their music — their unique craft that can signal to the world that Caribbean people’s musical output deserves accolades beyond chauvinistic passion. Music awards are more than symbols of external validation; they act as markers for burgeoning island industries, for artists that acknowledge their Caribbean DNA in their music, and their influence in a global music marketplace. The Grammy Awards are one such marker.
The presenting body, the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS), was founded in 1957, just one year after Harry Belafonte’s Calypso album became the United States’ first million seller, outselling Elvis Presley that year and changing the musical tastes of Americans forever. The first Grammy ceremony was held in 1958. In the subsequent decades, a range of regional genres have been recognised with golden gramophone statuettes within specialised categories.
opposite page Theron Thomas has written songs for R-City, Ciara, and more Right Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny
Below Harry Belafonte popularised calypso music with international audiences in the 1950s and 1960s
Traditional and contemporary Spanish-language island music genres and styles — bachata and merengue from the Dominican Republic; salsa and Afro-Cuban music from Cuba — have Best Tropical Latin Album as a target. For reggaeton — Puerto Rico’s gift to the world — it’s the recently created Best Música Urbana Album.
Multiple winners — Puerto Rican Bad Bunny; Panamanian of St Lucian descent Rubén Blades; and Cuban Gloria Estefan; and others — define island excellence. (Note that more than 50% of the Caribbean’s 46 million people have Spanish as their first language, and 90% of all native Spanish speakers globally live in the Americas.)
“The Grammy remains the highest honour in music — bar none,” NARAS has declared, noting more recently that it “continues to embrace a truly global mindset and seeks to engage and celebrate the current scope of music from around the world”. Many Caribbean musicians take that sentiment to heart as annual music submissions towards nominations and awards increase, and new membership by Caribbean nationals grows.
“We now have a seat at the table … We aren’t just members, we are voting members. It is a step in the right direction”
In 2024, 75 projects were submitted to Grammy voters for Best Reggae Album consideration, up from 65 the year before. Beginning in 1985, NARAS gave an award for Best Reggae Recording, rebranding in 1992 to Best Reggae Album for newly recorded original vocal or instrumental reggae albums, including roots reggae, dancehall, and ska music.
In the 40 years these awards have been given out, Bob Marley’s children — sons Stephen (eight), Ziggy (seven), Damien “Jr Gong” (four) and Julien (one), and daughters Cedella and Sharon (each with three as members of the Melody Makers) — have amassed a significant haul of Grammy statuettes, making a statement about legacy. Wins by legends Jimmy Cliff, Burning Spear, and Bunny Wailer, and modern stars like Sean Paul and Koffee showcase the breadth of recognition and the continuing well of reggae talent enriching the world.
Trinidadian-American singer, songwriter, and actress Heather Headley
Below ziggy Marley — son of reggae icon Bob Marley and Rita Marley
In Trinidad & Tobago, there is an ongoing effort since 2021 to increase the membership of soca music producers regionally by carving out a space for submissions towards the new Best Global Music Performance Grammy — “reserved for performances with strong elements of global cultural significance that blend music forms and techniques found in pop, R&B, dance, rap, and folk with unique music forms, local expressions and techniques found among the global diaspora originating outside the United States.”
“If we don’t have people who rep the culture, we can’t make it past the first hurdle or round,” says soca superproducer Kasey Phillips, a leader in the push
to include soca music in the Grammys. “We now have a seat at the table … We aren’t just members, we are voting members — and it is important for local producers and creators to have that voice. It is a step in the right direction.”
Small steps, noting the history of native Trinidadian music presence at the Grammys. At the 14th Annual Grammy Awards in 1972, the Esso Trinidad Steel Band’s self-titled album (1971) was nominated for Best Ethnic or Traditional Recording — a singular pioneering achievement for the national instrument of Trinidad & Tobago.
Bahamian junkanoo band the Baha Men won a Grammy for Best Dance Recording in 2001 with their cover of soca song “Who Let the Dogs Out” (nonwinner Moby called it a “novelty” song, poor thing). However, Trinidadian composer and original singer Anslem Douglas was not eligible for a statuette. Neither was Trinidadian soca star Bunji Garlin, who was one featured artist on the 2016 Best Dance/Electronic Album winner, Skrillex Diplo Present Jack Ü
Not everyone, however, is a fan of Grammys. Some ask why we need validation from abroad, positing that we can have our own awards, and celebrate our own genres beyond reggaeton, reggae and dancehall — including calypso/soca, konpa, bouyon.
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In 2024, 75 projects were submitted to Grammy voters for Best Reggae Album consideration, up from 65 the year before
Two iterations of a Caribbean Music Awards show — initially 1990–1995, and re-established in 2023 — begin to fill that critical void. Others observe that in the competitive world of global music, a Grammy is a plus for any career. Islanders count Barbadian Rihanna’s nine awards, and Trinidadians Heather Headley’s and Billy Ocean’s (one each), and wonder when compatriot and “Queen of Rap” Nicki Minaj will win her first.
Theron Thomas of St Thomas (US Virgin Islands) won the 2024 Songwriter of the year, Non-Classical statuette for his body of work on songs by Lil Durk, Tyla, Chloe Bailey, Ciara and Chris Brown, Cordae, Big Boss Vette, and Jungkook. That momentous win, voted on by all NARAS members, made him a hometown hero with accolades from the Governor and Commissioners of the USVI.
“I from a small island, 22 square miles,” he said in his acceptance speech. That USVI Creole resonated widely as he ended with a bold affirmation:
Left Barbadian superstar Rihanna has won nine Grammys
Above Trinidadian-British singer and songwriter Billie ocean had a series of hit songs between 1976 and 1988
“Virgin Islands in this M******* — ayo done know how we does go on!” Island brio at its best.
“Coming from St Thomas we grew up with a non-genre radio,” Thomas has noted. “We grew up with hip-hop, R&B, pop, reggae, calypso, country music — all on the same radio station! We never grew up thinking of genres. We just loved music. We were just like ‘ yo I like music, and I like that song.’”
That foundation allowed him to sell his songs to Rihanna, Beyoncé, Lizzo, Adam Levine, and Miley Cyrus. Thomas follows in the legacy of Trinidadian-American songwriters Ralph MacDonald (1982 Best Rhythm & Blues Song for “Just the Two of Us”) and Angela Hunte (2011 Best Rap Song, “Empire State of Mind”), who had gone “beyond the confines of cultural heritage”.
The broader Caribbean presence outside of Latin music on the Grammy Awards stage is limited, despite the input of many. The vast output of the varied Latin music styles that constitute the fastest growing music ecosystem in the world is a template to follow. NARAS seeks a kind of levelling of the playing field with its embrace of global sounds and celebration of unique music cultures from these islands — beyond reggae and the Latin/Spanish-speaking categories.
The Grammys remain a bellwether of artistic accomplishment for many regionally. The roll call and tally of Caribbean achievements in recorded music continues. That golden gramophone statuette is still a desired mark of music merit. n
At the 67th Grammy Awards, held on 2 February in Los Angeles, Puerto Rican rapper Residente won Best Música Urbana Album for his album Las Letras Ya No Importan; while Best Reggae Album went to Bob Marley: One Love — Music Inspired By The Film (Deluxe), performed by various artists including Puerto Rican Farruko and Jamaicans Shenseea, Skip Marley, and Bob’s grand-daughter Mystic.
CATALYSING THE CONVERSATIONS
Marlon James’ Get Millie Black (set in Jamaica and London), and Steven Soderbergh’s Full Circle (set in New York and Guyana) are two series of Caribbean interest for your watchlist, suggests Caroline Taylor
If you try to think of TV series set in the Caribbean or putting Caribbean people at the centre, you probably can’t think of many. And if you can, there’s a good chance that the filming locations were not, in fact, anywhere in the region (therefore not benefitting any local industries or capturing any of the distinct local sights, sounds, nuances or textures); and the actors were not, in fact, anyone with Caribbean heritage — or even with any kind of meaningful relationship to the region or the people from it.
And then there are the accents. How many times have we watched people who are supposed to be “Caribbean” — whether Trini, Bajan, Jamaican, Haitian, Cuban, Dominican, etc — and cringed at the paltry attempts at conjuring an accent that often sounds like a muddled mix of sounds from across the African and Indian diasporas?
I must confess, some years ago, I ended up in a Twitter (I will not call it X) back and forth with a (defensive) American actor from Luke Cage ’s second season over my concern that no-one seemed to have been invested in ensuring the accents were authentic, or at least respectful. I was happy to see Marlon James felt the same during press for Get Millie Black : “Some of us think that a way to make a story universal is to make it as bland and generic as possible, flatten the accents, do some sort of Luke Cage kind of thing...”
I also remember doing the audition circuit in New york right out of college, and the unforgettable experience of seeing a breakdown featuring an actual Trinidadian role; auditioning for it; and then being told that, as a mixed-race woman, I didn’t “look Trinidadian enough” (the role went to a Black American who spoke in that aforementioned muddle of an accent).
So, you could be forgiven for first being surprised that there are not one but two recent series available on Max (formerly HBO Max) in the Americas which centre Caribbean people, places, and stories.
The most recent is Get Millie Black (late 2024) — the bold, poignant crime thriller from the mind of celebrated, prizewinning Jamaican author Marlon James (The Book of Night Women, A Brief History of Seven Killings), who writes several instalments of the five-episode first season. The other is Full Circle (mid-2023) — the limited series from decorated director Steven Soderbergh (Erin Brockovich, Traffic, the Ocean’s film trilogy) and writer Ed Solomon.
The two series share common DNA, despite being vastly different. Full Circle features a sprawling ensemble cast of well-known Hollywood heavyweights — from Claire Danes, Dennis Quaid, and Jim Gaffigan to Jharrel Jerome and Guyanese-American actress CCH Pounder. The series revolves around an investigation into a botched kidnapping, which unearths decades-old secrets connecting a range of characters, cultures, and communities in New york City — including a Guyanese community in Queens, where Pounder’s Mrs Mahabir looms large as a powerful player in the criminal underworld.
Playing a Guyanese character in this kind of prestige drama came as a surprise to the Avatar actress. “I was completely shocked,” Pounder told Collider. “I wondered about the Guyanese people going, ‘Finally, we’ve got a person who’s from Guyana and is talking about it, but she’s a horrible, mean woman.’
So, thank God, there’s Letitia [Wright] to quell all of that. We’ve got good ones and we’ve got bad ones, fat ones and skinny ones. It feels so grand and so freeing.”
She went on to describe her amazement that the production was also going to film in Guyana — not some other North American stand-in. “It was a real shock to me, and it was such a pleasure, the people that we worked with,” she remembered. “And it was a big talk of the town. We started something, and I have a feeling that they probably would want more.”
The series — inspired by the 1963 Akira Kurosawa film High and Low — is less successful on other fronts. While it looks beautiful and pays off in the end, there are perhaps too many subplots to flesh out in a satisfying way, leaving actors like Pounder almost criminally under-utilised.
And despite consultants working to ensure the authenticity of the Guyanese-American representation on the show (it’s a delight to hear a flurry of familiar expressions like “mouth open, story jump out”), the accent work is inconsistent, at best.
Get Millie Black , by contrast, is a British television series created by James (his first), developed by Motive Pictures, and with Jami O’Brien as showrunner. It premiered on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom and HBO/Max in the United States and other territories in late 2024.
opposite page Prizewinning Jamaican author Marlon James created Get Millie Black Left and below GuyaneseAmerican actress CCH Pounder (left) stars in Full Circle with Sheyi Cole, Gerald Jones, and Adia (below)
Given the country’s long history with the region, British stage and screen productions are far more likely to feature authentic Caribbean characters, and this is no exception. In fact, it’s difficult to imagine such a project being greenlit exclusively by an American streamer or television network.
James was emphatic that in Get Millie Black he wanted people to see a nuanced, complex representation of Jamaica that they hadn’t seen before. And his insightful, arresting prose shimmers even in this gritty, dark crime drama: “In this country, nothing haunts like history,” says title character Millie in a voiceover from the first episode. “Pick something ugly, bigoted, hateful, shameful, violent and you see a shadow reaching back 400 years.”
The series follows Millie, who returns to Jamaica from London (where she was sent after clashing with her violent mother as a child), joining the police force and confronting ghosts from the past that haunt her present — in both her life, and her work. So, like Full Circle, transnational crime and the legacies of old wounds and injustices drive the narrative.
James has spoken about “just how Jamaican the show is” with the team having hired “more than 200 Jamaicans”, and filming four of the episodes on the island (in Kingston and Hellshire)
The early seeds for the project began sprouting over a decade ago as notes on hotel stationery. Inspired in part by the “Gully Queens” (a community of ostracised queer Jamaicans who took shelter in the storm drains), and his own mother’s career in law enforcement — “Like my mom, Millie finds the invisible,” says James — the show doesn’t just place Caribbean and Jamaican people at the centre. It foregrounds marginalised Jamaicans: the queer and trans people that Caribbean societies too often still try to erase.
A significant majority of the series’ cast is Jamaican or of Jamaican heritage — some without having acted on camera before, but rising to the challenge — with the titular lead played by Jamaican-British actress Tamara Lawrance. And, unlike Full Circle ’s star-studded cast , the most recognisable face in this much leaner ensemble may be Joe Dempsie (perhaps best known for playing Gendry Baratheon on Game of Thrones).
James has spoken about “just how Jamaican the show is” with the team having hired “more than 200 Jamaicans”, and filming four of the episodes on the island (in Kingston and Hellshire). And just like James’ published writing, it’s a narrative experience not to miss.
So much of how the Caribbean is presented in film, television, and literature explores either the idyllic experiences created and curated for overseas tourists; or the violence bred by centuries of colonialism, capitalism, and inequality that simmers below the surface … beyond the brochures.
May series like these be the start of many more to come — that centre Caribbean lives and experiences; that capture our magic and our complexity, our struggles and our promise; that recognise the fullness of our humanity; and which honour the fact that we, as much as anyone, have meaningful stories to tell.
James has ideas for a possible season 2. Let’s hope that stories like this can continue; that voices like his can access the platforms from which to tell them; and that we have the courage and conviction to engage and reckon with what those stories bring to light. n
Jamaican-British actress Tamara Lawrance (right) and Jamaican actress Chyna McQueen (below) star in Get Millie Black
hen I was a child, driving through Santa Cruz was the most special journey — one my family regularly undertook. In that magical world (the backseat of the car), I could feel the rush of cool breeze as we entered the valley, driving through the green and red leaves of the cocoa trees, past the river and — if I was lucky — the herd of black buffalypso that often grazed on the gentle slopes along the road.
Something about those massive creatures always fascinated me — called to me. But as the years passed, I saw them less and less, until one day they disappeared for good. Maybe, like most
As Trinidad’s Carnival season peaks, Amy Li Baksh shares her love for cow mas, and how portraying this rare traditional Carnival character led her both to explore its origins — and see how many of T&T’s creations have faded into memory
MAS OF A MEMORy; MEMORy OF A MAS W
of the island’s buffalypso (a breed of water buffalo developed in Trinidad in the 1960s), they had been culled to curb the spread of brucellosis. Few remained of the wild and domesticated animals that first had been bred right here, and now only thrived in other countries (to which they’d been exported).
In Trinidad, creation seems to come so easily to us. Too easily, perhaps, for us to really cherish what we have made.
My first cow mas (short for masquerade) was a buffalypso. It seemed fitting — depicting a traditional character that hardly ever graced the streets of Trinidad Carnival anymore … a memory of a memory. That year, I was the only cow in Port of Spain amidst a sea of feathers and sequins, in my cloak of dried banana leaves and black buffalypso head. It was my first time crossing a stage in a costume I’d made myself, but it was far from my first foray into mas.
I was a Carnival baby. I loved every part of the festival. But traditional mas, with its distinctive characters, always had
Right Early sketches of Amy’s buffalypso costume
Below Amy’s grandmother Dorothy Johnson (bottom row, second from left) portraying milkmaid mas in the 1940s
my heart. At three, I was screeching down the streets chased by blue devils, hiding between my father’s legs, climbing up onto the stage of the Little Carib Theatre to tell the Pierrot Grenade how much I loved him, and then escaping back to my seat at the back when the Midnight Robber emerged. At school, I donned the Midnight Robber cloak myself, and tried out the Baby Doll bonnet, but nothing seemed to fit quite right. Until I found the cow. It called to me.
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, my grandmother played mas as a “milkmaid”, another portrayal that has died out over the years. In a way, my cow was a tribute to her — but in my typically gender-nonconforming fashion, I eschewed the femininity of the demure milkmaid for the animalistic anonymity of the cow.
Under the costume, I was free of my human identity, and I became something else — like so many others had before me. But to be a steward of this artform, I had to learn where it came from.
Cow bands were once a collective portrayal. In 1956, anthropologist Daniel J Crowley described “cattle or cow bands” as an “extinct” mas. “These bands no longer appear in Port of Spain, but are said to come out in a few country villages,” he wrote in an article for Caribbean Quarterly
He described the bands as wearing dried plantain leaves from neck to knees, with cow horns fastened around their heads — likely taken from the abattoirs where most of the cow masqueraders traditionally worked. This was on Carnival Monday. On the Tuesday, they were decked out in colourful yellow and pink ensembles, with fancy jackets and even stockings.
But cow mas was not extinct. It was holding on, just like the hardy buffalypso. The second year I played, I met Norris Noel after crossing the stage during the traditional mas competition. His cow seemed to be closer to the traditional Tuesday wear — a brightly coloured, full-body fabric suit (with cow’s head of course). It was my first cow sighting in the wild. I was ecstatic.
In Trinidad, creation seems to come so easily to us. Too easily, perhaps, for us to really cherish what we have made
Later on, I managed to get in touch with another masman who carried the legacy of the cow: Reish Baboolal. He no longer lives in Trinidad, so doesn’t have any outlet for what is clearly still his passion. “I still miss Carnival,” he told me. “There is a calling … Trinidad has a spirit.” He told me of a retired Jab Jab who had told him something similar. “He said that when it’s Carnival time, his mood changes … that there’s a spirit that calls you.”
I knew exactly what he meant. His story felt very familiar to me, although his childhood in Cedros Carnival would have looked different from mine in Port of Spain. Like me, he’d observed the animals he portrayed. Seeing a cow charging and bucking in a field near where he used to work later inspired the energetic “mad bull” performance he’d become known for.
In Cedros, they called the mas con boeuf (Patois for “cow horn”). He had vivid memories of a man covered in a straw suit with a crocus bag over his head and two horns attached, dragging a biscuit tin tied to his waist. “ you didn’t know who he was, or what he was,” Baboolal remembered.
Amy’s cow mas portrayal at Adam Smith Square, Trinidad in 2023
It was at Viey La Cou, hosted by the University of the West Indies’ Department of Creative & Festival Arts, where Baboolal’s mad bull came to life. He didn’t play the streets, he said, because of the risk of a drunken reveller lighting the costume on fire. I remembered reading in Jeff Henry’s book Under the Mas how Dominica’s traditional sensay mas, also with leafy ensemble and cow horns, was banned in the 1960s after three young men were fatally burnt. This was why, Baboolal told me, cows wore a cloak of leaves that could be easily thrown off if they caught fire.
People used to respect the mas, he said. But not as much anymore.
In local history books, I found sparse records of cow mas’ origins in Trinidad — from the Venezuelan workers of the abattoirs back to the beginning of Kambule (aka Canboulay). But before that, nothing. The existence of regional forms of mas with cow heads — or dried leaves, or both — led me to think there must have been a West African connection.
I had seen pictures of a cow-headed, vegetalcostumed dancer from the Dogon people in Mali and Burkina Faso, and I reached out to a few
But cow mas was not extinct. It was holding on
adorned garments from the Mandinka, Jola, Bainunk, Bagnun, Balanta, and Baga and Temne peoples, who were all stolen from their homes and brought to the Americas in significant numbers.
African Art museums across the world to see if they had any similar depictions in their collections. Unsurprisingly, I found an embarrassment of riches. Anywhere there was cattle, there were cow masks. Vegetal costumes were similarly widespread — particularly using raffia fibres, which had also found their way to the Caribbean in animal mas like the bull, the donkey, and the raffia bear.
I chatted with Jane Woolard from the Savannah African Art Museum who shared pictures from their collection of bush cow masks from Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Ghana/Côte d’Ivoire. “Many traditional African cultures use plant fibres to create their outfits and masks,” she said. “There are many subgroups of cultures that share practices.”
In Robert Wyndham Nicholls’ book The Jumbies’ Playing Ground, I found another assortment of possible sources: horn-
It’s difficult to pinpoint any specific group that brought what would become cow mas to the Caribbean; it could have been a blend of cultures. Nicholls describes “bush masquerades” and “horned masquerades” across Europe that could have been an influence as well.
What I thought was a deficit of information on a local tradition introduced me to a range of regional cousins, in the sensay bull, the cowhead, the Pai Bannan — and a wealth of information on the cultures our ancestors came from. They brought with them not only the first cattle to arrive in the Caribbean, but the story of cow mas.
I find myself compelled not only to play this mas but to find and collate as much of its history as I can, so that the next generation who hears it call to them will know where it comes from — where they come from. So that they can both preserve it, and create their own portrayals and stories that speak to their realities. Because culture moves, and breathes, and evolves to reflect the evolution of its people. n
Reish Baboolal during his mad bull performance at viey La Cou, hosted by the uWI’s Department of Creative & Festival Arts
Traditional wooden Dogon mask dancer in Mali
SS25
With the launch of its SS25 Carnival Collection, K2K Alliance & Partners became the first Trinidad Carnival band to host a fully AI-generated docufiction film and fashion show. K2K’s sister company NORMI (focusing on luxury cruise and resort wear) is also poised to create mixed media presentations.
“We see AI as a creative partner,” explained Kathy and Karen Norman, co-founders of K2K and NORMI. “We hope to keep both companies in a position to grow as tech evolves and accelerates. Blending storytelling, costuming, fashion, carnival, and AI is paramount — both for our strategic growth initiatives and continuing to raise the bar.”
On the heels of K2K’s 2025 Carnival Collection, Holy Trespasses — Life’s Sweet & Savory Sinful Indulgences, NORMI released a snippet of its complementary capsule pieces, Grace Before Meals — A Family That Prays Together, Stays Together.
It’s a vintage capsule reimagined with a modern-day twist. Many of the pieces are designed with voluminous detail to provide a dramatic flair. The NORMI woman wearing the SS25 Capsule will embody sophistication; a timeless, distinctive beauty; and a refined sense of heritage.
Photography: Gary Jordan Brands: NORMI (Luxury Cruise & Resort Capsules) | K2K (Carnival Collections)
For those resident in the region and those much further afield, the Caribbean offers enticing investment opportunities. Natalie Dookie guides us through the region’s thriving investment landscape, explaining why the Caribbean is an ideal location for astute investors seeking to diversify and maximise their portfolios
The Caribbean is rapidly emerging as a prime investment destination, with more than just its stunning landscapes and rich culture driving interest. Boasting a robust financial ecosystem, the region is home to diverse sectors such as financial services, oil and gas, renewable energy, and thriving stock exchanges.
Investment opportunities abound — from the region’s expanding bond market to the growth of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, and the role of institutions like the Trinidad & Tobago Unit Trust Corporation and Guardian Asset Management. The Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies also plays a key role in shaping the region’s investment future.
Capitalising on Caribbean wealth: strategies for success
“The Caribbean is a thriving hub of investment opportunities, ideal for those seeking to diversify their portfolios,” says Miguel Martinez, President of Guardian Asset Management & Investment Services Limited. “The English-speaking Caribbean has five established stock exchanges — in Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago — providing equity investors access to a diverse range of industries, including indigenous multinational conglomerates and financial institutions that are cross-listed on multiple exchanges and have successfully expanded their operations globally.”
The bond market comprises bonds from sovereign governments and corporations, both in local currencies and United States dollars. Most local currency bonds are arranged “over the counter”, with occasional listing on regional exchanges. Governments and well-established corporations issue USDdenominated bonds, some of which are facilitated and traded on international markets.
These securities markets are governed by robust legislation and regulation, ensuring transparency, investor protection, and market confidence. Listed companies and reporting issuers
adhere to strict disclosure requirements and financial reporting standards, making the region a reliable choice for savvy investors.
Guardian Asset Management leverages its extensive experience and expertise to offer global investment solutions for regional investors. “We provide a wide range of investment options, including institutional and private wealth management solutions, as well as an international and Caribbean series of mutual funds,” says Martinez. “Our wealth managers can access a suite of investment options tailored to meet diverse needs and risk profiles. With decades of expertise, we are committed to helping our clients achieve their financial goals through proven strategies and world-class services.”
Jamaica stock exchange: a gateway to Caribbean investments
As one of the five established stock exchanges in the Caribbean, the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) offers investors access to diverse industries. The key financial instruments traded on the JSE are ordinary shares and preference shares (JMD and USD), bonds (JMD and USD), and funds.
“In Jamaica, almost 20% of the adult population invests in the stock market,” explains Dr Marlene J Street-Forrest (the JSE’s Managing Director — Executive Office). “Financial services tend to be the main driver of the market. However, we have recently seen areas such as health, hospitality, and education taking their place in the market.”
Outside of the region, although there are no restrictions preventing foreign investors from investing in securities on individual or combined markets, their involvement has been limited. “The process has been made easy to allow overseas investors to participate,” explains Dr Street-Forrest. To begin trading, foreign investors simply need to open an account with a broker, who will perform the necessary due diligence and Know
Left Miguel Martinez, President of Guardian Asset Management & Investment Services Limited
your Customer (K yC) checks. Once completed, they can trade online via the JTrader Pro application portal.
“There are USD or JMD securities available, and the returns are paid in the currency of the security. The barrier to trade usually is liquidity, either on entry or exit,” says Street-Forrest. “At the JSE, security trading is quite buoyant, facilitating ease of access and exit. In Jamaica, there is no currency restriction. Therefore, overseas investors can undertake conversion at local banks or cambios.”
In terms of the overall performance of the JSE, Dr StreetForrest highlights its success. “Averaging the last 10 years, the JSE has had an average return based on the index of 10% per annum,” she says. “This yield surpasses most developed markets. In addition, over two thirds of all companies listed on the Exchange pay dividends, which are taxed at 15%. If you are not trading as a business but as a resident investor, there is no tax on capital gains.”
Based on the JSE’s index performance in 2024, the manufacturing and distribution sectors have experienced the most significant growth, accompanied by increasing interest in renewable energy. “Currently, three companies on the JSE focus on renewable energy,” she adds. “There is anticipation that in 2025 there will be more, as Jamaica recently launched its Green, Social, Sustainability & Sustainability-Linked (GSS+) Bond Guide, and it is expected that more companies will be keen to access the market for green bond financing.”
Below Dr Marlene Street-Forrest, JSE Managing Director — Executive office
Ready to invest? Trinidad & Tobago Unit Trust Corporation (UTC) Chief Operations Officer Natasha Davis shares three essential strategies to maximise your investment success in 2025:
1. understand regional markets: each Caribbean territory has unique economic drivers and regulatory landscapes. Research their strengths and align investments with your specific financial goals. For example, Trinidad & Tobago excels in the energy sector, while Barbados leads in renewable energy
2. l everage regional expertise: invest with regulated institutions, including investment management entities like the UTC, stock exchanges, investment and asset management firms, insurance companies, and banks
3. d iversify your portfolio: spread investments across multiple sectors and territories to manage risks. Seek opportunities for stable growth while contributing to regional development.
“UTC is the regional leader in investment management, with a proven track record of 42 years in successfully navigating Caribbean markets,” Davis explains. “Our recent expansion into Jamaica and St Lucia underscores the Caribbean’s immense potential for financial growth. Investing here is not just a financial decision — it’s a step toward sustainable prosperity in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.” n
Caipa: steering investment growth in the Caribbean
The Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA) is poised to play a transformative role in the region’s economic growth and global positioning. As a unified voice representing the region’s investment opportunities, CAIPA has consistently championed innovative strategies, fostered collaboration among member nations, and driven targeted investment initiatives.
“The future of CAIPA lies in its ability to adapt to emerging global trends such as digital transformation, green energy investments, and sustainable development,” says Dr Peter Ramsaroop, Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer, Office of the President, and the new CAIPA President. “By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and fostering deeper ties with international investment communities, this will enhance the Caribbean’s appeal as a competitive, investmentready region.”
Looking ahead, Dr Ramsaroop outlined the following investment opportunities as having strong potential for success: the twinning of tourism products, agro-processing, and business process outsourcing (BPO). He recommended the development of
collaborative regional tourism packages, such as “spending five days on the beach in Barbados and two days exploring the Amazon rainforest in Guyana.”
Similarly, in the BPO sector, he envisions a single provider servicing clients with a workforce strategically distributed across the region. In agritech, Dr Ramsaroop underscored the importance of reducing the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)’s food import bill. He suggested innovative approaches, such as creating a Caribbean-branded pepper sauce incorporating peppers from across the region.
Through strategic partnerships, enhanced policy frameworks, and an unwavering commitment to creating inclusive opportunities, CAIPA is not only shaping the future of investments in the Caribbean — it is laying the groundwork for a resilient, diversified, and thriving regional economy.
T&T unit Trust Corporation Chief operations officer Natasha Davis
Dr Peter Ramsaroop, CAIPA President and Guyana’s Chief Investment officer in the office of the President
I N THE WIND
From the north to the south of our beautiful Caribbean archipelago, glorious dry season weather — bright and breezy (if not also hot and dusty) — makes kite-flying an immensely popular pastime around Easter, especially for children and families. From organised competitions to informal displays in neighbourhood parks, colourful confections of paper and string take to the skies … some kite flyers aiming to outdo each other, others savouring the pure bliss of watching their kites dancing in the wind.
HOW CORAL REEF RESTORATION COULD MEAN BIG BUSINESS
With Caribbean coral reef ecosystems currently listed as endangered, Erline Andrews looks at why they are so important to our lives and livelihoods, what is being done regionally (and globally) to restore them — and why we need to do so much more
The Caribbean owes its very existence to coral reefs. The beautiful white sand on the beaches many Caribbean countries are famous for comes from bits of coral skeleton being consumed then excreted by parrotfish (the species gets its name from its hard, beak-shaped mouth). One parrotfish can excrete up to 2,000 pounds of sand a year. And the reefs themselves are also a tourist draw, providing popular scuba diving, snorkelling, or glass-bottom boat experiences.
Corals — tiny animals called polyps that bunch together into various colours, shapes and sizes — provide a nursery, home, and sustenance to many weird and wonderful species of sea life, which add to the reefs’ beauty.
Some species — like the parrotfish, grouper, snapper, lobsters, and conch — are important to the livelihood of fisherfolk. And reefs also protect the coasts and the human structures there from harsh wave action during hurricanes (and year-round).
Climate change; overfishing of species valuable to reefs; and pollution have brought the region shockingly close to losing this vital resource. Coral bleaching — when stresses cause them to lose their colour — and diseases are destroying large swaths of reefs in the Caribbean and other parts of the world.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has designated Caribbean coral reefs as endangered on its Red List of Ecosystems.
“The Caribbean has been hit pretty hard,” said Simon Dixon, aquaculture operations manager with the Bahamas-based Coral Vita, one of the many organisations working to preserve and restore reefs in the region.
Dixon, who’s done the same work elsewhere in the world, told Caribbean Beat during a Zoom interview: “I think the one thing that does set the Caribbean apart is the sheer volume of people that really care. The [number] of people pulling together to try and make a difference in this region alone is enough to give everybody hope.”
Last July, the BBC’s The Climate Question podcast highlighted the work of the Institute of Socio-Ecological Research across various parts of Puerto Rico — among the most successful and well-known reef restoration efforts in the Caribbean.
In Belize, the organisation Fragments of Hope say they’ve increased coral cover at Laughing Bird Caye National Park by 50% since they began operating there in 2009. They’re now working on reefs in three other reserves in the country.
The Nature Conservancy — the United States-based NGO that spearheads environmental projects around the world — launched CoralCarib in 2023 to restore reefs in Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. These countries combined account for most of the reefs in the Caribbean.
Coral Vita may be the most ambitious project. Started in 2019 on Grand Bahama by yale grads Sam Teicher and Gator Halpern, it won Prince William’s prestigious Earthshot prize when the prize was launched in 2021. The award, which comes with £1 million, recognises organisations and individuals who come up with innovative ways to work on environmental problems.
Coral Vita uses restoration best practices like micro-fragmentation, which involves slicing coral into small pieces and placing them close to each other on a disc. This encourages them to grow towards each other and fuse — a process that would have taken far longer under natural conditions.
They also practise what is called assisted evolution — subjecting the corals to increasing temperatures, therefore helping them become more resilient to those temperatures. The corals are kept on a “farm” in tanks filled with sea water. When they reach a certain size, they are transplanted to the reef that is being restored.
Coral Vita also uses corals’ ability to spawn to reproduce them in the lab — again, at a faster rate than in the wild.
opposite page Dead coral destroyed by bleaching and climate change Above and left Land-based corals are farmed at Coral vita through fusion structures. These allow multiple coral fragments to grow together, fusing them into one larger, stronger colony in a fraction of the time it takes in the wild
But what really sets Coral Vita apart are their commercial ambitions. They want to restore coral on a massive scale, and they believe the only way to do that is to make restoration a business enterprise. This will draw more talent and resources to the field.
“If you really want to make progress in this industry, this is a sort of direction that has the ability to really make a difference on a global scale,” said Dixon.
Coral Vita earned a contract in Saudi Arabia to help create what would be the largest land-based coral farm in the world. Coral Vita Chief Operating Officer Austin Martin explained the Saudi Arabia project at the Vodex World’s Top 50 Innovators event in London last year.
Ultimately, the only way to save coral reefs is to rein in climate change and other human-related problems affecting the reef. Restoration alone won’t be enough
“The vision the king has had there is to modernise by 2030, which has led to some of the world’s biggest infrastructure projects — the giga-projects,” said Martin. “With that comes potential damage for the reef ecosystem. So, we’re there prophylactically, being able to anticipate that and actually protect the coral ecosystems that are already there.”
Martin said US$18 billion from various sources is already committed to reef restoration projects around the world. But the field has the market potential for another US$500 billion. “We just have to think differently,” he said. “Thinking differently is really what sets Coral Vita apart.”
The company is looking for other projects like that of Saudi Arabia. “We’re looking at leveraging this sort of restoration,
becoming a part of governmental policy the world over,” said Dixon. “When we’re building ports, when we’re developing for cruise ships, when we’re establishing hotels or residential areas close to the ocean, close to the beach. If we’re doing anything around the ocean or indeed around the coastline, we want to be a part of that conversation.”
Back in the Caribbean, Coral Vita is exploring opportunities in Barbados. They’re doing the same in Florida, the Maldives, and Mexico. They have another Coral Vita operation in Dubai.
Giving a talk last year, founder Sam Teicher announced that Coral Vita qualified for Series A financing, which opens the company up to receiving many millions of dollars from investors. To qualify, a company must demonstrate that their product or service is viable. “It would be the first Series A for a coral restoration company, to my knowledge,” said Teicher.
Other ways Coral Vita makes money include offering tours of the farm for a fee, and operating a gift shop and cafe on the compound. People can also “adopt” a coral to help fund restoration.
As part of a deal between Coral Vita and Corona, the beer company is sponsoring a patch of reef in Grand Bahama that needs restoration. Corona is encouraging donations that they’ve pledged to match. In exchange, donors will have their names engraved on a plinth to be placed on the restoration site.
Despite all these efforts, ultimately the only way to save coral reefs in the Caribbean and other parts of the world is to rein in climate change and other human-related problems affecting the reef. Restoration won’t be enough.
“It’s better to do something than nothing. And right now, we need to do something until we find the answer,” said Dixon. “This is a snowballing problem, which is causing us a lot of issues the world over,” he said of coral reef decimation. “If we can do our small part to try and remedy some of this through our restoration efforts, then that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.” n
Left Acropora palamata or elkhorn coral colonies grow large antler-like branches, with some colonies growing over 10ft in length
Right Colourful tropical fish and coral
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DEFyING THE SILENCE
With World Hearing Day 2025 falling on Carnival Monday, Shelly-Ann
Inniss
explores the ever-increasing risk of hearing loss in people of all ages, from a range of causes — including exposure to loud environments — while offering expert recommendations on prevention and management
The Caribbean is alive with music, festivals and festivities — from the neighbours’ sound systems blasting tunes (sometimes disturbing the peace), to neighbourhood bars, in-season fetes and parties … sounds which reverberate far beyond the site of the action. Sweet music; stunning costumes; festive traditions; and letting loose generally take precedence over (urgent) considerations about noise pollution and ear protection.
Who can blame us? Caribbean carnivals are sweet for days. But, if proper care isn’t taken, one of the lasting impacts could be hearing loss — either temporary or permanent.
Think of it: have you ever left an event, bar or club and found yourself unable to hear properly because your ears were ringing or buzzing, and people’s speech sounded slightly muffled? Although this temporary threshold shift (a change in
the level of sound someone needs to hear clearly) could resolve quickly, frequent exposure to noise can cause tinnitus and difficulty understanding speech over time.
For World Hearing Day (3 March 2025 — or Carnival Monday)‚ the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced that over a billion people aged 12–35 are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud music and other recreational sounds.
Think noisy bars, concerts and parties; exposure to loud instruments in loud environments (musicians are at almost quadruple the risk of hearing loss); motorsports; shooting sports like hunting and target shooting; and maintenance activities involving lawnmowers, power washers, and other power tools can also have harmful effects in the long run.
So while people generally tend to think of hearing loss as impacting us as we age, younger people are being increasingly affected due to autoimmune conditions,
unsafe listening practices, environmental noise, viruses (including Covid-19, according to recent studies published in The Lancet), and other factors — and seldom receive consideration or compassion in their challenge to hear. Many also never realise that they may actually need help.
If this seems daunting, remember: hearing loss isn’t deafness, but can lead to it. Hearing loss may be mild, moderate, severe or profound, and can affect one ear or both. Lots of people with hearing loss can still hear some things and don’t know far less fully depend on sign language.
But imagine not being able to hear birdsong; or having sweet nothings whispered in your ear, but everything is muffled or distorted; or having someone want to softly tell you some juicy piece of bacchanal (if that’s your thing, of course) and you can’t quite make it out or get the details straight? Someone with moderate hearing loss wouldn’t be able to hear properly without actual lips to read or hearing aids.
The WHO announced that over a billion people aged 12–35 are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss
In all seriousness, some folks with hearing loss can’t hear daily sounds like a whistle during sports, the bell in public transport, and a doorbell/buzzer, depending on the frequencies lost. A microwave’s signal that your food is ready or the beep from an oven may be muted or muffled for some people too.
Dear readers, these aren’t just examples, they are my confessions. Sometimes, people don’t realise they’re not hearing until it’s pointed out to them. As weeks turn to months and years, there are sounds people with hearing loss will realise they can’t hear clearly or at all, unless they acknowledge and admit they suffer from hearing loss and seek treatment.
According to husband-and-wife hearing instrument specialists, hearing aid dispensers, and founders of ToneLab in Trinidad & Tobago, Arif Ali and Cherisse Constance-Ali, “We’ve noticed people admit to hearing a
ringing in their ears, but they wouldn’t say they’ve also not been hearing properly for a couple years.”
Hearing impediments, including deafness, are classified as “invisible disabilities” — a term for any condition (physical, mental, or neurological) affecting the ability to perform standard everyday activities, and often not functioning in ways that people can discern or detect from the outside. Genuine indicators of hearing issues would be someone constantly asking for something to be repeated, or standing uncomfortably close and possibly reading lips for accuracy.
Hearing loss affects all ages and has different causes. Sensorineural loss is very common, as it results from noise, diseases, injuries, certain medications, and can also be hereditary. Other types of hearing loss are conductive (where a blockage in the outer/middle ear prevents sound waves from reaching the inner ear); and mixed (both sensorineural and conductive).
If you’re experiencing any loss of hearing, it’s imperative to visit an ENT specialist or otolaryngologist who can refer you to an audiologist to determine the levels of hearing sensitivity and ability, then diagnose and treat.
Given the risk of noise-induced hearing loss, some might consider trying to protect their hearing by using noisecancelling headphones or other ear coverings. However, research shows that this has both pros and cons for tinnitus, since the most effective interventions are personalised not generic.
Arif Ali and Cherisse Constance-Ali, founders of ToneLab T&T
Younger people are increasingly affected due to autoimmune conditions, unsafe listening practices, environmental noise, viruses (including Covid-19), and other factors
“Constant use of noise-cancelling headphones can damage your hearing because it’s not specifically tethered to your hearing,” says Cherisse. “Noise-cancelling is a sound emitted at a frequency to cancel out other noises — meaning it’s a noise being played, and that can increase tinnitus.”
Arif, who is also a sound engineer, says minimising the risk of noise-induced hearing damage can be facilitated through ear plugs — “better yet, ear plugs created just for you from a mould of your own ear canal.”
So, what else can we do to prevent hearing loss? Two easy answers are: promptly treat ear infections, and remove excess earwax. But be careful, as using the ubiquitous cotton buds/swabs (what many just call Q-tips) is heavily frowned upon by professionals.
“you’re not supposed to put anything in your ear as it naturally cleans itself,” says Arif. “The more you put something in your ear, the more you’re impacting the wax and pushing it further into your ear canal, making hearing much more difficult.”
Ear care professionals suggest seeking professional assistance if the wax is hard and difficult to remove thus blocking sound.
Moving forward, we should all be more cognisant of the effects of untreated hearing loss. Experts warn that hearing loss also does not only affect hearing: it can increase the risk of dementia, depression, loneliness, and social isolation. The strain of these can also increase both mental and physical fatigue.
Being able to connect and communicate with others is one of the most invaluable parts of living and loving — intrinsically connected to our quality
Above Modern prescription hearing aids are customisable and available in various styles. They’re also discreet, comfortable and easy to use
of life. Obtaining hearing tests — and, if necessary, wearing prescribed hearing aids tailored specifically to your hearing loss — is vital, especially since hearing aids aren’t a one-size-fits-all type of device if you want an optimal hearing experience. Moreover, knowing how to interact with people suffering from the disability can help ensure that those we love and members of our community don’t feel disconnected or isolated. Things not to do include covering your mouth as you speak; starting a conversation in another room; or turning your back while talking to a hearing-impaired person. Conversations in noisy environments are also brutally complex. A little consideration and a spirit of inclusiveness (learning sign language too, if applicable) go a long way.
Ultimately, hearing aids help, but they’re only aids — they can’t replace ears. World Hearing Day is a chance to change mindsets, with experts, professionals, and other allies of the hearingimpaired community passionately doing their part. What about you? It’s a time to take action if you’ve been experiencing hearing loss. It’s also a time to cultivate patience, mindfulness, and compassion for the deaf and those with hearing loss — an invisible disability. n
THE LAST PIRATE OF THE CARIBBEAN
Long after the Caribbean’s Golden Age of Piracy, James Ferguson revisits the legend of Puerto Rico’s Roberto Cofresí — the Robin Hood-like figure who was executed for his crimes in front of the El Morro fortress 200 years ago
One of Caribbean history’s most enduring themes is piracy — starting from the 16th century when brigands first terrorised the region and acquired ill-gotten fortunes. Some 500 years later, pirates are still big business, but now they are mostly employed by the region’s tourist industry in a wide array of boat tours, treasure hunts, and yo-ho-ho jollity.
We seem to like pirates, if not piracy in its modern digital meaning, and the Jolly Roger is flown in almost every tourist venue as a symbol of harmless fun. yet what historians term the Caribbean’s Golden Age of Piracy is supposed to have ended in the mid-18th century. The European powers — who for 150 years had encouraged their sea captains and adventurers to attack the shipping and colonial settlements of rival nations
— grew tired of lawlessness and disruption to trade, and decided to get rid of the pirates. The predators became the prey, as European navies and colonial authorities began to purge the region of organised maritime criminality.
But far from disappearing into obscurity, piracy gained a mythologised glamour, and pirates became unlikely folk heroes. The international success of Charles Johnson’s A General History of the Pyrates (1724) revealed a widespread curiosity about the lives of individuals such as Edward Teach (aka Blackbeard) and Calico Jack (John Rackham) and their exploits.
Johnson’s book was the basis for a long tradition of colourful pirate depictions that includes Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island and, more recently, the acclaimed Pirates of the Caribbean series.
Something about pirates — or more specifically, a stereotype of historical piracy —
appeals to adults and children alike, and the paraphernalia of parrots, pieces of eight, and silly West Country accents remain a staple of fancy dress parties.
Today we are less likely to associate pirates with the murderous maritime predators still at large in the Red Sea than with charmingly inoffensive characters in a cartoon or pantomime.
The attraction of the pirate myth perhaps lies in its celebration of swashbuckling individuality as an antidote to conformism, of adventure as the opposite of drudgery. Add to this the exotic allure of the Caribbean islands and ideas of buried treasure and you have a successful formula for escapism. Their less attractive aspects tend to be downplayed, as pirates are reimagined as honourable Robin Hood types, sharing their loot and robbing the rich.
All this, alas, is nonsense, and the victims of piracy in the 17th and 18th centuries included modest sailors, traders, and settlers as well as the wealthy. The pirates did not have a code of honour, but willingly worked as bounty hunters for the authorities, targeting their brethren.
Henry Morgan gave up attacking Spanish ships to become a slave owner and Governor of Jamaica, with a mission to eradicate piracy. The great majority of pirates in the Caribbean were born in Europe, sought to make a quick fortune, and gave nothing to the region. Their exemplary violence was described in gruesome detail by Johnson and other historians.
And yet piracy’s positive image persisted even into the 19th century, when “the Caribbean’s last pirate” enjoyed a brief and eventful career. Indeed, his popularity remains intact, and this may be in large part because, unlike the earlier European buccaneers, he was a local hero — born in Puerto Rico where he plied his trade.
Very few pirates reached peaceful old age, and Roberto Cofresí was no exception. He and a number of his crew were executed by firing squad in front of El Morro fortress in the port of San Juan, Puerto Rico, on 29 March, 1825 — 200 years ago. In heroic style, he declined the offer of a blindfold and declared defiantly, “I have killed hundreds with my own hands, and I know how to die. Fire!” His reported final words, whether
historically accurate or not, fit into the narrative of the fearless outlaw.
The world into which Cofresí was born — on 17 June, 1791 — was very different from that of the Golden Age pirates. The Spanish Empire, whose treasure-laden galleons were plundered by previous generations of British, French, and Dutch brigands, was in terminal decline — and the newly independent mainland republics were no longer a soft target.
The remaining European-owned colonies had reinforced their naval capabilities and were prepared to work together
Cofresí has even been hailed as a champion of Puerto Rican independence, as well as a benevolent antiestablishment figure
to deter piracy. Puerto Rico, along with Cuba and Santo Domingo, were the last vestiges of Spain’s empire and were struggling economically in an age of regional independence.
Cofresí, though of mixed European aristocratic heritage, was raised in modest circumstances and was forced to work as a fisherman. Hurricanes, poor harvests, and political unrest worsened living conditions on the island, and it seems that he opted to join a criminal gang, was briefly imprisoned, and escaped.
By early 1823, Cofresí had turned to piracy, working with members of his
extended family. The gang operated from the western port of Cabo Rojo but also used the small island of Mona — some 43 miles from Puerto Rico — as a base and were known to frequent the Dominican Republic.
The pirate’s criminal enterprise was small-scale, but extremely busy. Cofresí is thought to have captured and plundered some 70 vessels in two years, but many of these were unarmed trading ships, carrying food and supplies between the Caribbean islands and the mainland.
Alerted by spies at ports, Cofresí’s mini-flotilla of sloops or schooners would intercept non-Spanish vessels, threaten or kill their crews, and steal cash and commodities such as coffee, flour, and leather. These goods were sold illicitly through criminal networks and — so the legend has it — distributed among the poor and needy.
The authorities in the French and British colonies as well as those in the United States were angered by the sudden reappearance of the pirate threat, and a manhunt was organised. yet Cofresí was seemingly fearless and repeatedly evaded capture, using a stolen six-gun sloop — Anne — as his flagship.
Searches of Cabo Rojo and the surrounding waters yielded nothing until, in early March 1825, a combination of Danish and Colombian sailors located Cofresí and forced him to flee ashore near the Puerto Rican city of Guayama, where he was wounded and arrested.
Cofresí is reputed to have offered a bribe of 4,000 pieces of eight to Guayama’s mayor in return for his freedom, fuelling the legend of a huge hidden treasure hoard.
Cofresí’s death signalled the last gasp of organised piracy in the Caribbean, but was also another step in the creation of a pirate mythology. Today, both Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are home to profitable Cofresí-themed industries, encompassing resorts, beaches and even a town, with many associated attractions of buried loot and ghostly apparitions.
He has even been hailed as a champion of Puerto Rican independence, as well as a benevolent anti-establishment figure. Little of this bears careful scrutiny — but then nor do the exploits of Jack Sparrow or Captain Pugwash — the latter being my own favourite pirate! n
Driving climate resilience
island nations worldwide face mounting environmental and socioeconomic challenges. last year, 2024, was set to be the hottest year on record, and the first calendar year to exceed 1.5c of global warming over pre-industrial temperature levels. With an ongoing, urgent need to implement solutions, the global sustainable islands summit (27–29 may) brings together leaders, experts, and changemakers to chart a resilient path forward.
t h is year’s edition — set against the scenic yet formidable backdrop of st K itts & nevis — is poised to drive critical conversations and action around sustainable development, showcasing the ca ribbean’s leadership in crafting innovative, community-driven solutions for islands everywhere.
co -hosted by the g overnment of st K itts & nevis, the summit builds on the successes of the 2024 conference held in Prince edward island (Pei), ca nada, where island representatives collaborated on approaches to resilience, climate adaptation, and energy sustainability. a rare opportunity for these underrepresented communities to share their knowledge in person and build capacity, the event in Pei was a great success.
“You always want to ask yourself in government, ‘a re we doing enough? a re we doing it the right way?’” posited Pei Premier Dennis King during the summit. “ t he best way to do that sometimes is to measure yourself against other jurisdictions, to say, ‘What are they doing? How are they doing it?’”
t h roughout the three-day event, panellists and attendees offered rich perspectives from small and large island communities alike, inspiring participants with examples of how even the smallest island nations can generate global solutions.
As the planet approaches several catastrophic tipping points in the earth’s climate system, the Global Sustainable Islands Summit 2025 — co-hosted by St Kitts & Nevis — focusses on driving resilience and solutions from the Caribbean. Thaiz Maciel reports
in 2025, the action shifts back to the ca ribbean, bringing discussions closer to home and highlighting the region’s unique strengths and commitment to sustainable development.
A regional perspective for global solutions
For those involved in sustainable development, this summit provides a unique platform where diverse stakeholders, from policymakers and scientists to community leaders and industry experts, can convene to tackle key challenges.
a s pressing topics such as water security, agricultural resilience, climate-health intersections, and renewable energy take centre stage, participants have the chance to dive deep into real-world strategies that can be implemented across island communities worldwide — regardless of their size.
“Our islands are sentinels of climate change and the proving ground for sustainable development,” said st K itts & nevis Prime m i nister Dr terrance Drew during his address at the United nations g eneral a ssembly (U nga) last september, where he announced his country’s hosting of the global su stainable islands su mmit 2025. “it is with this spirit of shared responsibility and urgent action that i extend a heartfelt invitation to all leaders of island nations gathered here to come, to engage, to commit to meaningful change.”
Celebrating Caribbean leadership
The location of the summit itself — a twin-island nation known for its proactive stance on environmental resilience — serves as a fitting example of how the Caribbean is at the forefront of the global sustainability dialogue.
At the heart of the summit is a focus on practical, hands-on learning. Interactive workshops engage attendees with new approaches to energy management and climate-smart agriculture, while collaborative sessions provide tools and insights to help communities integrate sustainable practices on the ground.
These exchanges of knowledge and best practices are invaluable for island representatives facing shared challenges and navigating the road toward sustainable development.
With its rich natural landscapes, from lush rainforests and mangroves to coastal habitats, St Kitts & Nevis offers a model of balance between economic development and environmental stewardship.
The nation’s emphasis on geothermal energy exploration and sustainable agricultural practices underscores the summit’s central themes, making it the ideal setting to further the discussion on resilience and climate adaptation in small island states.
With its rich natural landscapes, from lush rainforests and mangroves to coastal habitats, St Kitts & Nevis offers a model of balance between economic development and environmental stewardship
Attendees will also enjoy an authentic immersion into Kittitian culture — an experience that highlights the deep connections between community resilience and cultural heritage. This sense of unity and shared history is integral to the Caribbean’s approach to sustainability, where traditions often inform forward-looking solutions.
By focusing on these connections, the summit illustrates how island culture and sustainable innovation intersect to create a vibrant, viable future for the region and beyond.
looking ahead to st Kitts & nevis
The Caribbean is more than a region of stunning coastlines — it is a hub of climate-smart innovation and a powerful voice in the global movement for island resilience.
“[Small islands are] nimble, malleable. So it affords us the opportunities to test solutions, to test policies, and to come up with very quick solutions,” Dr Gale Rigobert, Dean of the University of Sint Maarten noted during the PEI summit.
Her sentiments were echoed by St Kitts & Nevis’ Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment & Climate Action, Dr Joyelle Clarke, during her address at the UNGA in September 2024. “Truthfully, our isolated action is but a drop, but every drop counts toward strengthening and improving multilateral action.”
The Global Sustainable Islands Summit 2025 invites attendees to witness firsthand how the region’s leaders are creating pathways toward sustainable development that align environmental priorities with economic growth.
As we look toward St Kitts & Nevis, this summit promises to be not only an exchange of knowledge but a celebration of Caribbean resilience and ingenuity. By convening in this incredible location, we are reminded that each step toward sustainability strengthens the bonds between our island communities, empowering them to build a thriving, sustainable future. n
Island Innovation is a social enterprise and digital media platform at the intersection of sustainable development and communications. Learn more at islandinnovation.co
The narrow south peninsula of St Kitts stretches towards Nevis opposite page Looking out from St Kitts’ Mount Liamuiga
rising up
Chalky Mount is a series of hills and rock formations overlooking the parish of St Andrew and the stunning Atlantic Ocean on Barbados’s east coast. Surrounded by other lush rugged hills in the Scotland District — including the island’s highest peak Mount Hillaby (1,120ft) — it has become known for its distinctive clay earth and pottery legacy dating back to the 1800s. As a salute to its picturesque setting and hilly highlands compared to the rest of the island which is mostly flat, Chalky Mount is a popular hiking spot for those seeking a gripping (no pun intended) challenge.
Lowlands Mall, Tobago
Lowlands Mall, Tobago
Piarco Plaza, Trinidad #15 Ariapita Ave, Trinidad
Piarco Plaza, Trinidad #15 Ariapita Ave, Trinidad
Duncan Village, South Trinidad
Duncan Village, South Trinidad
Hearthland Plaza, Central Trinidad
Hearthland Plaza, Central Trinidad
Across
1 People taking meaningful action to solve a social problem [12]
5 Sprints and such [5]
7 Types of taxes [6]
9 Complete removal [11]
10 Not just a sniffle [3]
11 Wealth, riches, jewels; or, items hunted [8]
12 Roberto Confresí was one [6]
14 Verbally expresses [6]
15 Exciting and impressive [8]
18 Add someone’s @ to a social media post [3]
20 Fearful of light [11]
21 The face of a building [6]
22 Unemotional person [5]
23 Troubling [12]
Down
1 State of being linked [12]
2 Cost of flight [7]
3 Young child (informal) [6]
4 Lacking in hearing [4]
6 Like a clear moonless night [6]
8 Made faster or more powerful [12]
13 They’re given marching orders [6]
Spot the Difference
16 It goes up in smoke [7]
17 A type of small grocery store [6]
19 Star of Easter races in Tobago [4] Spot the Difference answers
There are 10 differences between these two pictures. How many can you spot?
The skull and crossbones on one pirate’s hat; one pirate has a beard; one pirate has a necklace; the emblem on one pirate’s coat; the x on the pirate’s map; one ring is missing between images; one pirate has a -waist band; the details on the belt buckle differ; the shirts differ; one pirate has a star on his belt by James Hackett
Innovative
Buffalypso
Sensay
Cow
Motherhood
Dance
Shenseea
Tongues
Regatta
Sonnets
Painters
Mesmeric
Fishing
Veins
Rihanna
Easter
Kites
Fill the empty square with numbers from 1 to 9 so that each row, each column, and each 3x3 box contains all of the numbers from 1 to 9. For the mini sudoku use numbers from 1 to 6. by www.sudoku-puzzle.net
If the puzzle you want to do has already been filled in, just ask your flight attendant for a new copy of the magazine!
Caribbean Airlines ROUTE MAP
Dominica
Guadeloupe
Puerto Rico
Tortola
Martinique
Curacao
Ogle
Ft. Lauderdale
Caracas
St Kitts
Montego Bay
READy FOR MAS AGAIN
A love letter to doing everything for Carnival,
by Caroline Taylor
Picture it: Port of Spain, 2007. For a plucky 20-something, it is the first full Carnival season back in Trinidad after several years in the cold. Greedy (and hubristic), she looks upon the tantalising buffet of Carnival experiences, and resolves that none shall go unsampled. It started sensibly enough — a reasonably spaced series of mandatory Carnival activities. Panyards. Pan semis. Calypso competitions. Viey La Cou. Some fetes. But the week before Carnival is . . . different. The quasi-hermit who could be counted on to shimmy out of almost every social invitation was instead seeking out as many pre-Carnival activities as could reasonably be attended without physical expiration, linking up with seven different posses of friends on the final sprint to Ash Wednesday.
The ambitious pre-mas itinerary was Tribe Ignite; then the Kambule Riots re-enactment in town at 5am; traditional Carnival character competition at midday; then Soca Monarch backstage. And this was just until Friday night.
Saturday morning was the critical re-fuelling point before Panorama finals at the Savannah, immediately followed by Insomnia fete at MOBS 2. There would be no cat naps. And the friend who was joining me on my mother and her friends’ annual pan pilgrimage was also coming with me to Insomnia. Bailing was not an option.
I cherished the pan. Among the lime that night were All Stars, Phase II, Renegades, and Despers die-hards, all fiercely cheering and arguing for their bands, but with a magnificent camaraderie in celebration of our resplendent instrument, our defiant resilience and creativity. Listening to the pan, with a view of the lights flickering on the surrounding hillsides under that cool, crisp night air, has always been an experience that fills me with tremendous gratitude, no matter the victors.
Still high off the music, my friend and I persevered through the gridlock
entering Chaguaramas. I was grateful for the company, despite my hermit tendencies beginning to flare from lack of sleep, too many bananas (they’re so useful for hangovers), and having far exceeded my weekly peopling quota.
At some point, hours later, when the sun was well into the sky, I made my way happily but wearily back home. Not even black-out curtains could fool my body into believing this was sleeping time. All I could do was remain horizontal, giving my aching feet and sore back a chance …
That night, as I took in the final Dimanche Gras performances, I shut down a brief flirtation with the idea of making a last-minute J’Ouvert costume, settling instead for old clothes, lathering up in baby oil, and making the rounds to collect a couple of friends before heading to meet 3canal.
This was the first time I was driving myself to and from J’Ouvert, so my delight at successfully dodging the bands assembling on Long Circular Road and securing a park in Woodbrook was shortlived. Because Jesus knows the speed walk back to Ariapita Avenue after crossing the Savannah stage is a gauntlet when there’s no music truck, no alcohol, and the sun starts assaulting your weary body.
Later, I hosed down, showered, hydrated, closed my eyes for a five, and then readied myself for Monday mas. I hauled my behind to the car . . . which would not start. My battery was dead. It wasn’t until my dad gave me a jump that I could see why: one of the friends I’d collected for J’Ouvert (who’d been putting finishing touches on her costume) never switched the dome light off after we met the band. I had to laugh. I took it as a sign to ask my dad for a lift to be on the safe side.
Several groups of friends were playing in Island People that year, so with a few SMS messages I was able to link up with my section. We jumped the afternoon away, got some great photos (including blue paint still leaching out of my skin — several showers later — onto my white Monday-wear shirt). But I knew my limit. I needed to ice. And to hydrate. And to get one full night of sleep before the final push.
I met the band downtown early Tuesday. There’s one particularly sleepy-looking photo of me from that morning, somewhere near South Quay. The rest of the day was a blissful blur, right through to Last Lap by the Stadium — all powered by soca, salts, and spirits. There was a photo that came out in a Carnival magazine afterwards that took me years to figure out. And then I realised: Dip in de centre / Do de jumbie dance / Lean back and reverse / Do de jumbie dance …
It was that — the perfect immortalisation of the year I was fully (or almost fully) outta body, then back to myself. We ready for mas again? n
