CARIBPR WIRE, PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, September 10, 2025: International health experts are urgently advising for immediate policy reform in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, insisting on the adoption of life-saving tobacco harm reduction strategies. They point to a proven global blueprint that has already empowered more than 150 million people to quit smoking.

Analysis from Smoke Free Sweden shows that more than 14 million lives can be saved globally by 2060 if governments act decisively to integrate tobacco harm reduction into traditional control methods. For the Caribbean, this depends on the speed with which governments can act. Adopting safer nicotine alternatives like vapes and oral pouches will prevent thousands of needless, premature deaths, but only if the correct policies are enacted now.

This urgent call to action is set against a backdrop of stubbornly high smoking rates, with nearly one in three men in Trinidad and Tobago and 11% of men in Barbados still dangerously addicted to cigarettes.

“Policymakers face a clear choice: lead a public health revolution or fail their citizens. The strategies to make smoking obsolete by making less hamrful alternatives accessible, affordable and acceptable are proven,” said Dr. Delon Human, leader of Smoke Free Sweden and a former secretary general of the World Medical Association. “Act now to save thousands of lives. ”

For example, in the United Kingdom, smoking rates fell by 41% as vaping became a popular alternative. Japan saw cigarette sales plummet by more than 40% following the introduction of heated tobacco products. Meanwhile, Sweden, which adopted safer alternatives decades ago, is on the verge of becoming officially ‘smoke-free’ and has the lowest rate of smoking-related death in the European Union.

“Let us use the evidence we have at hand. A constructive, evidence-based approach in the Caribbean will yield life-saving results. We are not just urging, but demanding that policymakers look at this global blueprint and act decisively. Hesitation will be measured in funerals,” Dr. Human added.

This demand for a science-backed policy shift comes just ahead of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control conference (COP11), where Caribbean delegations have a duty to champion public health innovation over outdated, ineffective and ideological dogma.

“For too long, the debate has been crippled by misinformation that ignores a fundamental truth: people smoke for the nicotine, but they die from the tar in combustibles,” said Dr. Human. “By denying smokers access to products that are up to 95% less harmful, governments are actively protecting the lethal cigarette trade. It is past time to put public health first and implement policies based on science, not fear.”

About Smoke Free Sweden:

Smoke Free Sweden is a movement which encourages other countries to follow the

Swedish model when it comes to Tobacco Harm Reduction. Sweden’s smoke-free

success can be attributed to its open attitude towards regulated alternative nicotine

products.

For more information on Sweden’s successful approach to becoming a smoke-free

nation, please visit www.smokefreesweden.org

Notes to editors:

Contact:

Smoke Free Sweden

Jessica Perkins

info@smokefreesweden.org

www.smokefreesweden.org

CARIBPR WIRE, BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS, August 11, 2025: The Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF) and the Mellon Foundation today announced a key initiative of their groundbreaking partnership – The Ripple Effect – to elevate the Caribbean arts ecosystem.

The Ripple Effect exhibition, curated by Fresh Milk Barbados, is now open to the public at Caribbean Brushstrokes in Bridgetown through August 30. (Credit: Dondré Trotman)

The initiative represents a bold goal of building a future where artistry thrives not in isolation but as a shared, collective force. By empowering Barbadian artists through direct funding and support, CLF and the Mellon Foundation foster community-driven creative solutions and ensure broad access to art across Barbados and the wider Caribbean region. The partnership provides monetary support for cultural organizations like Fresh Milk Barbados, Operation Triple Threat, and Pinelands Creative Workshop to serve as regional arts hubs, while creating sustainable pathways to economic stability for artists and arts-focused organizations through specialized fellowships that allow artists to develop and market their work locally.

The Ripple Effect is marked by the public opening of a new exhibition in Bridgetown, Barbados. The exhibition, curated by Fresh Milk Barbados, is now open to the public and running through August 30 at Caribbean Brushstrokes in Bridgetown. It features works by various Barbadian artists, including CLF fellows Simone Asia, Russell Watson, Anna Gibson, and Ronald Williams. These artists are creating works that interact with CLF’s core pillars, spanning climate solutions to health access to women’s entrepreneurship and more, and intersecting these themes with authentic Caribbean cultural expression. The exhibition highlights how Caribbean voices are pioneering artistic innovation as a pathway to bolster economic development, drive career opportunities, and amplify cultural expression while creating avenues for Barbadian artists from diverse communities to showcase their talents locally, regionally, and globally.

“Thirteen years after CLF’s founding, our partnership with the Mellon Foundation represents a full-circle moment – amplifying the voices and talents that have always been part of our organization’s DNA, starting right here in Barbados,” said Jessie Schutt-Aine, Executive Director of the Clara Lionel Foundation. “What visitors will experience in this exhibition is the incredible artistry that has always existed here, now with the institutional backing to reach an international stage. This partnership honors CLF’s beginnings while leveraging our years of proven community-led impact across the Caribbean and beyond.”

“This partnership beautifully represents Mellon’s philosophy of cultural investment,” said Justin Garrett Moore, Program Director of the Mellon Foundation. “We’re recognizing Barbadian artists as essential voices in addressing the challenges that affect us all. These creators have been developing innovative, community-rooted solutions for generations, and our goal is to amplify their work to ensure it reaches the global stage it deserves.”

Building on CLF’s 13 years of experience delivering multi-year support to community-led innovators across five core impact areas, the CLF-Mellon partnership ensures local artists and cultural organizations have the support to build a self-sustaining creative ecosystem. The initiative supports Barbadian artists and creatives who push boundaries and reshape the meaning of Caribbean art, while ensuring all Barbadians can access and experience art regardless of their socioeconomic background. Organizations, artists, and community leaders now have the resources needed to imagine innovative climate solutions through art.

To learn more about the partnership between CLF and the Mellon Foundation and their ongoing efforts in the Caribbean, please visit claralionelfoundation.org.

About The Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF)

Founded in 2012 by Robyn Rihanna Fenty, the Clara Lionel Foundation builds thriving & resilient communities across the Caribbean, Africa, and US South by equipping community innovators to lead change from within. Taking a community-led and -centered approach, we create impact through five inter-connected pillars – climate solutions, women’s entrepreneurship, arts & culture, health access & equity, and future generations.

About The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is the nation’s largest supporter of the arts and humanities. Since 1969, the Foundation has been guided by its core belief that the humanities and arts are essential to human understanding. The Foundation believes that the arts and humanities are where we express our complex humanity, and that everyone deserves the beauty, transcendence, and freedom that can be found there. Through our grants, we seek to build just communities enriched by meaning and empowered by critical thinking, where ideas and imagination can thrive.

EDITOR’S NOTE: PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH THIS PRESS RELEASE HERE

Royalton CHIC Barbados

Royalton CHIC Barbados

CaribPR Wire ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, March 21, 2025: Blue Diamond Resorts is set to turn heads and set pulses racing as it redefines all-inclusive hospitality in Barbados. As of today, Royalton CHIC Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, is officially open for bookings, gearing up for a spectacular debut in Spring 2026. Nestled along Barbados’ glamorous Gold Coast, this stylish lifestyle resort is designed for trendsetters who crave excitement and sophistication in equal measure. Guests will indulge in electrifying experiences and effortless luxury, where every moment is unforgettable, vibrant, and unapologetically posh.

“The demand for adults-only, all-inclusive modern luxury has never been stronger, with travelers seeking more than just relaxation—they want engaging social experiences. With both Jamaica and Barbados joining our collection, we are introducing a bold new era of upscale travel, tailored for those who crave indulgence and energy in equal measure,” said Jordi Pelfort, President of Blue Diamond Resorts. “Barbados has long been a destination of distinction, making it the perfect setting for the Royalton CHIC Resorts experience.”

As Blue Diamond Resorts’ first property in Barbados, this addition reinforces the brand’s expansion into the Caribbean’s most vibrant and sought-after destinations. Coinciding with the company’s 15th anniversary of innovation in all-inclusive hospitality, Royalton CHIC Barbados marks another bold milestone in the company’s continued growth, delivering high-end indulgence infused with an undeniably social spirit. Much like Barbados itself, an island celebrated for its effortless elegance, lively culture, and jet set appeal, the resort is designed as the ultimate adults only escape, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement, all under the signature “Party Your Way” concept.

Designed for spirited, contemporary comfort, Royalton CHIC Barbados will feature 220 stylish suites, offering options such as oceanfront views, swim-out access, and private terraces. Guests seeking an enhanced stay can opt for the Diamond Club™ suite category, unlocking personalized butler service, exclusive amenities, and exclusive Diamond Club™ beach and pool areas. The resort’s culinary scene will be just as fabulous, with nine restaurants and three bars blending local flavors with global influences, including a vibrant steakhouse, the dazzling Level 18 Rooftop Cabana Lounge, and an enticing new French-Island-Fusion restaurant that will elevate classic flavors with a Caribbean twist.

Embodying the Royalton CHIC Resorts spirit, the resort will curate a dynamic mix of entertainment, wellness, and social experiences. Guests can unwind at The Royal Spa, join high-energy Royalton FIT classes, or revel in non-stop entertainment curated by the CHIC Angels. Whether basking in poolside luxury, enjoying the island’s most vibrant nightlife, or indulging in exclusive experiences, every stay will be designed for unapologetic indulgence and unexpected moments.

Following the buzz of last year’s launch of Royalton CHIC Antigua and the recent announcement of Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove, this latest addition strengthens Blue Diamond Resorts’ vision of reimagining the adults-only all-inclusive experience. The arrival of Royalton CHIC Barbados marks yet another bold step in its expansion—proving that adults-only luxury has never been more enticing.

Bookings are now open for Spring 2026 stays. For more information or to book your next vacation, visit royaltonchicresorts.com.

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 80 properties, exceeding 20,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury^® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity™, DreamBed™, and the Sports Event Guarantee™. To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star™ with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com

About Royalton CHIC Resorts

Royalton CHIC Resorts offer adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive experiences to Party Your Way and revel in the unexpected. Located in popular Caribbean destinations such as Punta Cana – Dominican Republic, Cancun – Mexico, and Antigua, this new adults-only generation of all-inclusive concept delivers unprecedented experiences where luxury and fun intersect in each idyllic location. Choose between relaxing and treating yourself or partying and having fun— Party Your Way.

Ideal for couples, groups, singles or friends, including modern rooms and suites featuring All-In Luxury™, the premium DreamBed™, a variety of culinary offerings, All-In Connectivity™ and exclusivity through the Diamond Club™ category. Guests can choose between relaxing and treating themselves in the spa or enjoy the resort’s unique events and theme parties at signature locations.

For more information about Royalton CHIC Resorts, visit www.royaltonchicresorts.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4985b83d-66a7-4ed1-b697-8c17458da2dc

ACTUALIZACIÓN — Ahora Disponible Para Reservas: Royalton CHIC Barbados Expande Su Presencia En El Caribe

Royalton CHIC Barbados

Royalton CHIC Barbados

CaribPR Wire, ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, March 22, 2025: Blue Diamond Resorts está listo para redefinir el concepto todo incluido en Barbados y cautivar a los viajeros con una propuesta vibrante y sofisticada. A partir de hoy, Royalton CHIC Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, abre oficialmente sus reservas y se prepara para una espectacular inauguración en la primavera de 2026. Ubicado en la exclusiva Costa Dorada de Barbados, este sofisticado resort ha sido diseñado para viajeros que buscan el equilibrio perfecto entre elegancia y emoción. Aquí, cada momento será una experiencia inolvidable, vibrante y llena de lujo absoluto.

“La demanda de resorts todo incluido de lujo solo para adultos nunca ha sido tan alta. Los viajeros ya no buscan únicamente relajación, sino experiencias sociales envolventes. Con la incorporación de Jamaica y Barbados a nuestra colección, estamos marcando una nueva era en los viajes exclusivos, diseñada para quienes buscan indulgencia y energía en igual medida”, comentó Jordi Pelfort, Presidente de Blue Diamond Resorts. “Barbados siempre ha sido un destino de distinción, lo que lo convierte en el escenario ideal para la experiencia Royalton CHIC Resorts”.

Como la primera propiedad de Blue Diamond Resorts en Barbados, esta apertura refuerza la expansión de la marca en los destinos más vibrantes y codiciados del Caribe. En el año en que la compañía celebra su 15.º aniversario de innovación en hospitalidad todo incluido, Royalton CHIC Barbados marca un nuevo hito en su crecimiento, ofreciendo un concepto de lujo moderno impregnado de un espíritu social incomparable. Al igual que Barbados, reconocido por su sofisticación natural, su vibrante cultura y su atractivo jet set, el resort ha sido concebido como el escape definitivo solo para adultos, donde la relajación y la emoción se combinan perfectamente bajo el exclusivo concepto “Party Your Way”.

Diseñado para ofrecer una comodidad contemporánea y con personalidad, Royalton CHIC Barbados contará con 220 elegantes suites, con opciones que incluyen vistas al mar, acceso directo a la piscina y terrazas privadas. Los huéspedes que deseen una experiencia aún más exclusiva podrán elegir la categoría de habitaciones Diamond Club™, que ofrece servicio de mayordomo personalizado, amenidades exclusivas y acceso a áreas exclusivas de playa y piscina de Diamond Club™. La propuesta gastronómica del resort será igual de espectacular, con nueve restaurantes y tres bares que combinarán sabores locales con influencias internacionales, incluyendo un vibrante steakhouse, el deslumbrante Level 18 Rooftop Cabana Lounge, y un nuevo y tentador restaurante de fusión franco-caribeña que elevará los sabores clásicos con un giro tropical.

Fiel al espíritu de Royalton CHIC Resorts, el resort ofrecerá una combinación dinámica de entretenimiento, bienestar y experiencias sociales. Los huéspedes podrán relajarse en The Royal Spa, revitalizarse con las clases de Royalton FIT y disfrutar de espectáculos y eventos diseñados para sorprender por los CHIC Angels. Ya sea descansando junto a la piscina, explorando la vibrante vida nocturna de la isla o disfrutando de experiencias exclusivas, cada estancia será sinónimo de indulgencia sin límites y momentos inesperados.

Tras el éxito del lanzamiento de Royalton CHIC Antigua el año pasado y el reciente anuncio de Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove, esta nueva incorporación refuerza la visión de Blue Diamond Resorts de redefinir la experiencia todo incluido solo para adultos. La llegada de Royalton CHIC Barbados representa un paso más en su expansión, consolidando su compromiso con el lujo elevado y las experiencias vibrantes.

Las reservas ya están abiertas para estancias a partir de la primavera de 2026. Para más información o para reservar su próxima escapada, visite royaltonchicresorts.com.

Acerca de Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts cuenta con un portafolio de más de 80 propiedades, que superan las 20,000 habitaciones en 8 países ubicados en los destinos vacacionales más populares del Caribe. Sus 9 marcas hoteleras líderes comprenden al galardonado All-In Luxury^® Royalton Luxury Resorts, donde Todos son Familia. Sin importar si son vacaciones entre amigos, padres e hijos, parejas, bodas, retiros corporativos o de incentivos o viajeros solos, todos son familia en estas propiedades que ofrecen servicios personalizados y amenidades exclusivas, tales como All-In Connectivity™, DreamBed™ y Sports Event Guarantee™. Para reenfocarse en relaciones y amistades valiosas, Hideaway at Royalton ofrece una experiencia sólo para adultos que incluye una exclusiva gastronomía y alojamiento preferencial para reforzar estar unido bajo el concepto Togetherness entre sus huéspedes. Disfrute a su manera en Royalton CHIC Resorts, una marca todo incluido que bajo su concepto “Party Your Way” brinda una vibrante y efervescente experiencia sólo para adultos para deleitarse con lo inesperado. A Millas de lo Ordinario, Mystique by Royalton ofrece a los viajeros la oportunidad de conectarse con su entorno en una moderna colección de resorts estilo boutique que muestran una vibrante belleza infinita. En Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril promete a huéspedes mayores de 21 años, unas vacaciones únicas Completamente al Natural con todo incluido y acceso a una costa exclusiva para máxima privacidad. Memories Resorts & Spa diseña las mejores experiencias para vacaciones familiares, reunión de amigos o simplemente para relajarse en pareja, mientras que Starfish Resorts ofrece un valor increíble, un entorno impresionante y una rica cultura y herencia. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invita a los huéspedes a vacacionar como las estrellas con Vacation Like a Star™, una experiencia atractiva e interactiva con elementos famosos de la cultura pop de películas, música y deportes icónicos, mientras Escape de los Paparazzi en Planet Hollywood Adult Scene donde sus vacaciones sólo para adultos serán el centro de la fascinación y la atención con glamour y exclusividad.

Para más información acerca de Blue Diamond Resorts, visite www.bluediamondresorts.com

Acerca de Royalton CHIC Resorts

Royalton CHIC Resorts ofrece experiencias vibrantes y efervescentes con todo incluido sólo para adultos para festejar a tu manera y deleitarte con lo inesperado. Ubicado en populares destinos del Caribe como Punta Cana – República Dominicana, Cancún – México, y Antigua, esta nueva generación de todo incluido sólo-adultos ofrece experiencias sin precedentes en las que el lujo y la diversión se encuentran en cada lugar idílico. Elija entre relajarse y darse un capricho o salir de fiesta y divertirse, festeje a su manera.

Ideal para parejas, grupos, solteros o amigos, incluyendo las modernas habitaciones y suites All-In Luxury™, la cama premium DreamBed™, una variedad de ofertas culinarias, All-In Connectivity™ y exclusividad a través de la categoría Diamond Club™. Sus huéspedes pueden elegir entre desconectarse por completo y relajarse en el spa o disfrutar de únicos eventos y fiestas temáticas del resort en cada lugar insignia del hotel.

Para más información sobre Royalton CHIC Resorts, visite www.royaltonchicresorts.com

Una foto asociada con este comunicado de prensa está disponible en: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4985b83d-66a7-4ed1-b697-8c17458da2dc

]]> https://caribpr.com/update-now-open-for-bookings-royalton-chic-barbados-expands-the-brand%e2%80%99s-caribbean-footprint/feed/ 0 https://caribpr.com/hollywood-actor-cch-pounder-joins-steering-group-for-2nd-annual-cross-continental-forum-in-barbados/ https://caribpr.com/hollywood-actor-cch-pounder-joins-steering-group-for-2nd-annual-cross-continental-forum-in-barbados/#comments Tue, 28 Jan 2025 16:00:22 +0000 caribpr https://caribpr.com/?p=15946

Under the theme, Decolonizing Co-Production, this groundbreaking forum is supported by the

Canada Media Fund (CMF), Invest Barbados, and the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CARIBPR WIRE, TORONTO, CANADA, Tues. January 28, 2025: Caribbean Tales Media Group is proud to announce that acclaimed actor and activist CCH Pounder has joined the Steering Group of its Cross Continental Forum, (CCF), bringing her visionary leadership to this successful global initiative. “I had been talking about turning my eye towards the Caribbean, then I took on films with  that theme or origin story,” explains Guyanese-born CCH Pounder, who is known for her roles in the Hollywood blockbuster Avatar, and acclaimed television series, NCIS: New Orleans and The Shield. “Then CCF asked me to join them. It seemed like a natural fit. We all want to see more of our stories.”

Set to take place from June 14–18, 2025, in the breathtaking island of Barbados, the second Cross Continental Forum aims to stimulate co-productions between Black and global majority producers from Canada, the Caribbean, the UK, and Africa, and is poised to become an unmissable annual event for industry leaders, storytellers, and change-makers from around the world. This event is supported by the Canada Media Fund (CMF) and Invest Barbados

CCF 2025 is now accepting submissions from experienced producers , including Documentary, Feature Film, and TV Series producers from the UK, Canada, Africa, EU, and the Caribbean eager to participate in this transformative experience.

“Under the theme Decolonizing Co-Production, the Cross Continental Forum is more than just a film industry gathering—it’s a strategic initiative to trigger co-ventures, and stimulate trade and economic opportunities that amplify historically underrepresented voices in the global film and television landscape, ” says Frances-Anne Solomon, CEO of CTMG. “By fostering cross continental co-productions, the forum sets the stage for global partnerships that will  generate quality content for international distribution.”

Building on the success of its inaugural 2024 event that featured luminaries like CCH Pounder  and producer Paul Garnes (Ava DuVernay’s Origin), attendees of the 2025 forum will enjoy an immersive and insightful experience, with activities including:

Co-Production Lab (May 2025) : A four-week online program covering:

●      Incentives and rebates across territories

●      Legal frameworks for multi-territory co-productions

●      Combined funding from UK, Canada, Africa, EU and the Caribbean

●      Co-production and distribution strategies

●      Co-producing storytelling

De-Colonising Co-Production Forum (June 14-18, 2025): A Market Access event in Barbados with:

●      Matchmaking for UK, Canadian, African, EU and Caribbean producers

●      Access to buyers, distributors, and financiers

●      Focus on sustainable partnerships

Pitch Showcase

●      Producers present their co-production ready projects to a panel of Film and TV Experts.

Who Should Apply?

The CCF is calling Documentary, Feature Film, and TV Series producers from the UK, Canada, Africa, EU and the Caribbean who meet the following criteria:

●      Applicants must be of Black/Caribbean/African diaspora/heritage, or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Colour)/Global Majority descent.

●      Have successfully produced at least one full-length project domestically and are ready to “level up” into international co-production.

●      Hold at least 51% ownership in a functional production company.

●      Have a project in development with international co-production potential.

How to Apply

Submit your application at HERE

Applications close on March 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST.

Apply now and be part of this extraordinary movement!

For inquiries and additional information, please contact: applications@ccf2025.com

CCH Pounder Headshot HERE and BIO

About the CCF – A Global Call for Innovation

The Cross Continental Forum serves as a dynamic space for global film and television co-productions. Specifically designed to bridge connections between the UK, Canada, Africa, the EU, and the Caribbean, this five-day forum aims to create a collaborative environment where high-level producers, experts and professionals explore synergies, share expertise, and build partnerships that will drive innovation and trade within the film industry.

About CaribbeanTales Media Group

CaribbeanTales Media Group is a multifaceted media organization dedicated to creating platforms and audiences for Caribbean-themed stories and talent globally. Their activities include film and television productions, film festivals, distribution networks, and training programs that support diverse filmmakers in reaching international markets.

CCF  2025 is brought to life by a distinguished Steering Committee, including Frances-Anne Solomon (CEO, CaribbeanTales Media Group), Andrew Millington (Head, Department of Creative and Performing Arts – UWI Cave Hill,), actor and activist CCH Pounder (Avatar, The Shield, NCIS New Orleans), Cultural Industries Specialist Dr. Keith Nurse (Founding Chair, CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution, and president of COSTAAT), Zikethiwe Ngcobo (CEO, Fuzebox Entertainment, South Africa), businessman John Reid (Corporate Executive / Small Business Entrepreneur), Agnieszka Moody (Head of International Relations at British Film Institute), and international event producer Diana Webley (Event Director, CaribbeanTales Media Group).

Notes for Media Professionals

Interested in covering the CCF 2025? Media passes and additional resources will be available closer to the date. Contact us for details at ccf@creatorsofcolour.com

Actor CCH Pounder and Producer Paul Garnes at the 2024 Cross Continental Forum

The real time payments (RTP) solution PayExpedite® will complement the current electronic payments ecosystem to allow for the creation of new payment services in Barbados.

ATLANTA and BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, April 26, 2023 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – PaySett Corporation, a global provider of payment solutions, and BACHSI announced today the launch of the new RTP platform based on the ISO 20022 messaging standard.

Natalie Garraway, immediate past chairman (2020-2022) and current deputy chair (2023) commented, “We are elated to have this platform launched in Barbados. This system will be integral in our digital journey as a country as it offers speed, convenience, and reliability. We are grateful to PaySett for partnering with us (BACHSI) to provide such a solution that covers all those key areas that our citizens and customers have been eagerly requesting in a banking solution.”

Jesus Garcia, VP of Business Development, added, “Our market proven PayExpedite® solution will integrate seamlessly into the Barbados payments ecosystem to serve the government of Barbados’ plans to reduce (and longer term eliminate) the number of cash and cheque transactions while reducing the costs of these traditional payment methods. Each participating financial institution will have at its disposal a robust real time payments platform capable of supporting new service offerings such as emergency payments, P2P payments, digital wallets, eCommerce, and others. The ease, speed, and security capabilities of the PayExpedite® platform will facilitate the country’s transition to a more digital economy.”

These same financial institutions will be able to process consumer, corporate and government payments in real time through a multitude of banking channels. PaySett’s PayExpedite® product has been deployed across multiple countries offering regional financial institutions the opportunity to manage real time payments across their entire geographical market.

About PaySett Corporation

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

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2062833/PaySett_Corporation_Logo.jpg
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2062834/PaySett_Natalie_Garraway_Deputy_Chairman_BACHSI.jpg ]]> https://caribpr.com/paysett-corporation-expands-its-payments-partnership-with-the-barbados-automated-clearing-house-services-inc-bachsi/feed/ 0 https://caribpr.com/actif-2022-opens-new-trade-and-investment-path-between-the-caribbean-and-africa/ https://caribpr.com/actif-2022-opens-new-trade-and-investment-path-between-the-caribbean-and-africa/#comments Fri, 16 Sep 2022 12:52:51 +0000 caribpr http://caribpr.com/?p=14965 CARIBPR WIRE, LONDON, Sept. 16, 2022: CS Global Partners, one of the world’s leading government advisory agencies, is the official representative of the governments of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Saint Lucia and St Kitts and Nevis all of whom took part in the first-ever Afri-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2022), which took place in Bridgetown, Barbados, from 1 to 3 September 2022. The forum opened a new chapter for the relations between the Caribbean and Africa. Held under the theme, ‘One People, One Destiny, Uniting and Reimagining Our Future’, the forum set in motion various initiatives to further deepen and build new trade and investment relationships between Africa and the Caribbean.

The three-day forum was convened by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the Government of Barbados in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Africa Business Council, the Caribbean Community Secretariat, and the Caribbean Export Development Agency.

The Prime Minister of Barbados – Mia Amor Mottley, expressed pleasure at being selected as the host country for ACTIF 2022. She asserted that Africa and the Caribbean share common roots and need to work and act together in various sectors. Participants committed to building a commercial bridge between the two regions for their prosperous future.

ACTIF 2022 was the first forum of its kind between the two regions and aimed to provide an opportunity for the Caribbean and African business communities, as well as governments, to establish new commercial and strategic relationships with the goal of expanding trade and investment between both the regions. The high-level support between the two regions is intended to boost bilateral cooperation and engagement in trade, investment, technology transfer, innovation, tourism, culture and other sectors. The forum also opened doors to effective business matchmaking between the two regions.

The three-day conference featured various panel discussions on several topics, which were based on business-to-business engagements. The delegates discussed topics such as: developing special economic zones (SEZs) and industrial parks; boosting industrialisation and manufacturing; improving infrastructure, financing and trade logistics, including regional integration, promoting trade and tourism, creating the environment to accelerate private sector investment, improving agricultural productivity and increasing agribusiness opportunities and food security.

Along with this, the forum also witnessed the signing ceremony of two partnership agreements, 10 MoUs and three finance facilities. The star document of the forum, which signified the success of the summit, was the partnership agreement between seven members of the Caribbean Community and Afreximbank to promote and finance South-South trade and investment between Africa and the Caribbean. Its ultimate goal is to promote and provide insurance and guarantee services covering commercial and non-commercial risks associated with African and Caribbean exports.

Caribbean countries such as Barbados, the Republic of Suriname, the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Saint Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda and St Vincent and the Grenadines signed the agreement with African Export-Import Bank.

The agreement will help to boost knowledge sharing between Africa and the Caribbean region with technical cooperation, research and several joint events. It also has the potential to accelerate the membership of CARICOM nations in Afreximbank as it will enable the bank to operate in the region and deliver on the new vision.

Over and above this, in order to mobilise trade and investment between the two regions, Afreximbank also signed a US$250 million Trade and Investment Agreement with the Central Bank of Barbados.

Further, Afreximbank outlined their aim to establish the export-import as they signed a MoU with the Caribbean Association of Banks. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of hundreds of delegates comprising African and Caribbean business leaders and government officials discussing how to improve trade and investment between the two regions. It was signed by the Chief Executive Officer, CAB, Wendy Delmar, and the Executive Vice President of Afreximbank, Denys Denya.

To sustain these efforts, Africa-Caribbean Business Council, CARICOM Private Sector Organisation and Afreximbank also signed another MoU. The rest of the memos included Ghana Export Promotion Authority and Barbados Investment and Development Corporation signed by BIDC’s Hill and GEPA’s Dr Afua Asare, and BIDC, GUTA’s Dr Joseph Obeng and BCCI’s Anthony Branker, Ghana Union of Trade Association and Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed by Hill.

Various senior government representatives, business leaders, representatives of business associations, prospective investors and buyers, project promoters, development agencies, multilateral finance institutions, think tanks and research institutions from Africa and the Caribbean were in attendance at ACTIF 2022 with more than 1,500 delegates representing 93 countries (comprising 48 African countries, 12 Caribbean countries, and 33 other countries).

The specific objectives of ACTIF2022 were:

• Promotion of inter-bank relationships, which includes financial flow and fostering payment.
• Development of cultural and creative engagements between two regions that can be commercially viable.
• Creation of a business case for a potential AfriCaribbean Free Trade Area.
• Creating a suitable platform which helps to disseminate trade and investment information and other products and initiatives of the bank, which will support trade between Africa and Africans in the diaspora.
• Help in the reduction of the counterpart risk perception among African and Caribbean businesses in dealing among themselves.
• Promotion of trade and investment between Africa and the Caribbean as the forum served as the platform for market identification, building business partnerships, exchange of trade and market information, and co-investments.
• The forum also facilitates Afri-Caribbean investments by fostering and bolstering cross-regional business and investment linkages.

CARIBPR WIRE, Bridgetown, Barbados, Aug. 26, 2022: Honorable Kay McConney, Minister of Education for Barbados and the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), the “#1 Science Museum in the Country” as voted by USA Today’s 10Best, are coming together to kick off a new initiative to deliver hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) kits, called Learning Lunchboxes, to inspire youth and families.

The Learning Lunchboxes are fun, hands-on kits that provide five, learning activities that showcase the diversity of STEM. COSI distributed over 400 NASA-themed Space kits, which have over 10 hours of content around space, at this event today and will distribute an additional 100 Virgin Hyperloop kits to high school students in the fall. The event featured fun, science experiments for both youth and families in attendance as well as members of the Ministry of Education for Barbados and leaders from the community.

“COSI’s mission is to engage, inspire and transform lives and communities. The importance of STEM education cannot be understated, and COSI is bringing access and exposure to STEM internationally with our STEM education kits and our Learning Lunchbox program,” said Dr. Frederic Bertley, president and CEO of COSI. “We are thankful for the partnership with the Barbadian Government, the Honorable Minister Kay McConney and the team at the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training. We are grateful for this first program towards a long-lasting partnership with Barbados, and hope to expand the program throughout the Caribbean, bringing science literacy and fun to more learners through COSI.”

“We have worked hard together smartly, but this partnership only started a few months ago. The partnership with COSI serves to demonstrate how quickly, with the right partners, we are able to make science happen for our students,” said Honorable Kay McConney, minister of education for Barbados. “It doesn’t take years, it only takes a willing government, competent partners and excited children to get you on your path to the next great thing.”

COSI has traditionally distributed kits at local food banks across the U.S. and around the world to help feed hungry lives and feed hungry minds. This innovative, community-based model brings together other informal and formal education leaders to highlight the importance of STEM and to help bridge the education gap.

COSI recently partnered with NASA and the U.S. State Department to showcase STEM innovation through the Learning Lunchboxes at the World Fair in Dubai. COSI has also distributed these kits in London, Paris and other countries.

For more information, please visit COSI.org/connect.

# # #

Media Link Only: To download high-quality images of the event, please click here. Credit all assets, “Courtesy of COSI.”

About COSI
COSI, the “#1 Science Museum in the Country” as voted by USA Today’s 10Best, is an esteemed science center that has delighted Central Ohio, with all things science for 58 years, inspiring interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) topics and delivering our experiential, “hands-on fun” brand of learning. As a trusted educational resource for families, schools and community partners, COSI is an essential element of our community, engaging more than one million people annually through onsite, offsite and online experiences.

Attachments

• Barbados Ministry of Education and Center of Science and Industry (COSI) Launch STEM Learning Lunchbox Initiative
• Barbados Ministry of Education and Center of Science and Industry (COSI) Launch STEM Learning Lunchbox Initiative

BARBADOS, April 5, 2022 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Following the successful launch of its Optimal Recruitment Advertising Campaigns and Recruitment Partner Programmes, the team at Caribbean Employment Services is introducing a new initiative to help the clients it works with support a sustainable approach to business in the Caribbean.

As a business based in the Barbados, Caribbean Employment Services is increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability in protecting the beautiful Islands and supportive of the focus that Governments, organisations and companies are placing on sustainability and its importance to everyone’s future.

Keen to work with businesses and organisations that recognise the importance of economic, social and environmental sustainability, both in the Caribbean and globally, the team at Caribbean Employment Services has developed a new initiative to help their clients reaches a wider audience who share the same ethos and ambitions.

Through their Recruitment Partner Programme, clients can communicate their commitment to sustainability, the programmes they’re running, initiatives they’ve launched and their contribution to the Islands. This ensures a consistent message that attracts talent who have the same vision on sustainability and want to work for a company that recognises the importance of its contribution to preserving the ecosystem, improving the quality of lives and safeguarding natural resources.

Employers on the Recruitment Partner Programme benefit from publication in Caribbean Employment Services’ widely distributed and popular news articles, as well as press releases written and distributed through their PR team, ensuring even wider exposure for their recruitment campaigns and sustainability initiatives.

Joseph Boll, CEO at Caribbean Employment Services, said “We’re proud to work with businesses in the hospitality and tourism industries who are committed to reducing their impact on the environment and protect our beautiful Islands and those who live, work and visit them. Using our experience, we’re delighted to have the opportunity to launch this initiative, developed to help our clients reach potential candidates and a wider audience who share the same vision and ambitions for sustainability.”

Caribbean Employment Services is one of the market-leading and most cost-effective recruitment advertising specialists in the Caribbean.  It offers a range of proven recruitment advertising solutions for clients with Caribbean-based roles, including an Online Job Board, Optimal Recruitment Advertising Campaigns and Recruitment Partner Programmes. 4.  For further information on Caribbean Employment Services, please visit https://caribbeanemployment.com/ and https://caribbeanemployment.com/sustainability/. ]]> https://caribpr.com/caribbean-employment-services-introduce-new-initiative-to-help-to-support-a-sustainable-approach-to-business-in-the-caribbean/feed/ 0 https://caribpr.com/renowned-caribbean-art-fair-returns-with-top-contemporary-artists-and-a-spotlight-on-nfts/ https://caribpr.com/renowned-caribbean-art-fair-returns-with-top-contemporary-artists-and-a-spotlight-on-nfts/#comments Fri, 18 Feb 2022 22:00:44 +0000 caribpr http://caribpr.com/?p=14796 CaribPR Wire, BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Fri. Feb. 18, 2022: The popular annual Caribbean Fine Art Fair, (CaFA), now in its 12^th year, returns virtually and in person to Barbados this March, with a spotlight on the works of over 40 Caribbean contemporary artists and a focus also on the hot topic of NFTs.

Art fans from across the world will be able to join CaFA 2022 at the NORMAN CENTRE, Broad Street in Bridgetown, Barbados, and without leaving their homes at caribbean.global/, from March 9th-23^rd.

“This year’s CaFA Fair Barbados presents a balanced selection of emerging and internationally known artists representing 14 Caribbean nations, Brazil, Ghana, the USA and the UK,” said CAFA executive director Anderson M. Pilgrim. “We are excited about our programming featuring an array of regional experts and talent.”

“With the incredible growth and interest in Caribbean Fine Art, the opportunity to present a broader vision of the cultural creativity from the region grows as well,” added Daniel Hort, the Executive Director of Onomatopoeia Art and a co-producer of the event. “This year’s presentation of costume designs by the renowned Barbadian artist Winston Jordan, offers a glimpse into the career of a national icon while providing the chance work with major pageant and fashion outlets to present the colors, style and artistry of carnival.”

This year’s fine art show will feature contemporary artists such as the renowned US-based Neo-African abstract expressionist painter, Danny Simmons, the older brother of hip-hop impresario Russell Simmons and rapper Joseph Simmons; as well as renowned Jamaican artist Bernard Stanley Hoyes and Barbadian Winston Jordan.

Jordan’s historical carnival costume design, constructed by Mahogany Bird and DHP, was recently part of New York Fashion Week on Feb. 13th at the Cosplay Runway produced by COSMODA at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square, NYC.  The costume is slated for CaFA this March and represents the first time in over 20 years that the work of this renowned artist has been seen.

Other Caribbean artists showcasing their works at CaFA 2022 are: Ademola Olugebefola and Cheryl D. Miller of the US Virgin Islands; Carl F. Anderson of Guyana; Earl Darius Etienne of Dominica; Diogenes Ballester of Puerto Rico; Gilberto Wilson of Aruba Marlene; Millon Desvignes of Imat’s Creationsof Martinique; Patricia Brintle and Gina Samson of Haiti; Narciso Polanco, Palen Obesa and Rene de los Santos of Coronado Print Studio of the Dominican Republic; Joachim McMillan of Grenada; Ras Ilix Heartman, Alfred Weekes, Arlette St. Hill, Cher Antoinette Corbin, Hedy Klineman, Nicole Metzger, Steve Reid, Sylvester Adelabu Clarke and Tariq Bailey of Barbados. In addition, Central American artists Norma Lithgow of Costa Rica and Denae Howard of Panama will also showcase their work.

US artists participating, apart from Simmons, will be Brian Cannady, S. Ross Browne, Sadikisha Sandra Collier, Shenna Vaughn and Ebony Art, representing: Ernani Silva and Vernon McCauley. UK artists will be David Emmanuel Noel and Josh Kidd, while representing Ghana and the continent of Africa, will be TAFA.

In addition, the Fine Art Fair will feature 8 non-traditional artists – Alex Gibson, Délyt (Deandra Daniel), Donné Haynes, John Alleyne, Malique Shorey and Sydney McConney of Barbados, as well Sasha-Kay Nicole and Bonito “Don Dada” Thompson of Jamaica. It will be curated by Zoe Osborne of Mahogany Culture and presented at the Norman Centre simultaneously with the virtual platform caribbean.global/

CaFA 2022 will also include conversations and panel discussion around topics of international interest for the Caribbean, Black and global art communities, including a segment on NFTs by Osborne, one of the early adopters of NFTs in Barbados and the Caribbean. She will dedicate a portion of her panel discussion to explore NFTs and clarify facts around the new digital option for artists, for the uninitiated.

Other panels will include ‘Printmaking as an Art Form: Opportunities for beginning collectors by Pepe Coronado, Participating Printmakers and AMP on March 13^th; a conversation with Occhi Arts and Cheryl D. Miller, a pioneer black graphic artist and visual artist from the USVI on March 16^th; a fashion presentation by Imat’s Creations of Martinique and FW Brooklyn, NY on March 18^th, and ‘Politics of Art: Contemporary Black Art in the Mainstream,’ featuring Danny Simmons, Ademola Olugebefola, David Emmanuel Noel, Dr. Daniela Fifi and Dr. Loris Crawford on March 20^th.

CaFA 2022 will also feature the 3rd Bridgetown International Arts Festival, featuring musical, spoken word and theatrical performances on March 19^th.

CaFA was founded in 2011 and has established itself as the premier art event in the Caribbean. For more visit https://www.caribbean.global/ today.

SOURCE: CaFA

EDITOR’S NOTE: A photo for use with this press release is available HERE

CAPTION: Non-traditional artist Délyt (Deandra Daniel’s) work will also be a part of CaFA 2022. (Contributed image/ Délyt (Deandra Daniel))

An exciting and important project has been approved by the Government of Barbados; the project, a cooperation between the Sanitation Service Authority (SSA) and Barbadian company Prosource Limited, will completely transform residential waste collection in the country.