GEORGETOWN, GUYANA – The champions of the International League T20 (ILT20), Dubai Capitals, have officially lit the fuse ahead of the 2025 edition of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) with a fiery squad announcement.
From the golden sands of Dubai to the emerald fields of Guyana, the Capitals are bringing a sizzling mix of international flair, Caribbean power, and pure cricketing firepower. The action explodes at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence from July 10 to 18, and the Capitals are out to prove why they wear the ILT20 crown.
Joining them is none other than Rovman Powell, the former West Indies T20 skipper and ILT20 Final MVP, known for detonating bowling attacks and lighting up scoreboards. He’ll be the heartbeat of the Capitals’ offensive, and fans can expect fireworks every time he steps to the crease.
Backing him up is Barbados’ brutal batting weapon Kadeem Alleyne, alongside the lightning pace and experience of Dominic Drakes, the left-arm quick who will lead the Capitals’ bowling blitz. Add Pakistani paceman Farhan Khan, Canadian left-arm quick Kaleem Sana-Ur-Rahman, and UAE’s Zeeshan Naseer to the mix, and this squad is a thunderstorm waiting to happen.
In the middle, the Capitals are bringing global precision with Sri Lankan gloveman Niroshan Dickwella, Afghanistan’s dynamic batter Sediqullah Atal, and South African spin magician Keshav Maharaj, who’ll turn up the heat with guile and grit in Providence’s spin-friendly conditions.
The Capitals’ campaign ignites with a blockbuster opening clash against the Hobart Hurricanes XI on Friday, July 11 – a matchup sure to rattle the stands.
This year’s GSL features five of the world’s finest franchises: Hobart Hurricanes XI (Australia), Rangpur Riders (Bangladesh), Central Stags (New Zealand), and the ever-dangerous hosts, Guyana Amazon Warriors (West Indies).
Dubai Capitals Squad (GSL 2025):
Farhan Khan, Aryaman Varma, Zeeshan Naseer, Rovman Powell, Kaleem Sana-Ur-Rahman, Said Shah, Ibrahim Masood, Sediqullah Atal, Kadeem Alleyne, Gulbadin Naib, Keshav Maharaj, Niroshan Dickwella, Jesse Bootan, Dominic Drakes, Jordan Johnson.
Angela Patterson, General Manager of the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP), addresses a group of seniors during the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The seminar was hosted by the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) at the Stella Maris Church Hall in Kingston on Friday, June 13, 2025.
CCRP, the seniors advocacy organization, joined forces with the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) to commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Friday, June 13, 2025. The forum, held at the Stella Maris Church Hall in Kingston, featured presentations from the NCSC, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and CCRP, focusing on abuse prevention, safety tips, and advocacy for improved quality of life for seniors.
Addressing the issue of elder protection, CCRP General Manager Mrs. Angela Patterson outlined key recommendations previously submitted to Parliament’s Special Select Committee regarding the proposed Elderly Care and Protection Act. “We recommend the establishment of a Commission for the Elderly, which would evolve from the current NCSC,” said Mrs. Patterson. “This Commission would be empowered to investigate and prosecute cases of abuse, as well as hold accountable organizations serving the elderly.” She emphasized that such legislation would not only protect today’s senior citizens, but also safeguard future generations.
Chairperson of the NCSC, Dr. Julian McKoy-Davis, underscored the importance of proactive planning in abuse prevention. She advised that developing and discussing care plans with trusted family and friends can help prevent neglect or mistreatment, especially in care homes. She also highlighted the impact of cultural norms and lifestyle habits on elder well-being, stressing the importance of maintaining positive mental health. In her closing remarks, Dr. McKoy-Davis urged mutual responsibility across generations: “Be your brother’s keeper: stay aware of the older adults around you.”
Deputy Superintendent Jacqueline Dillon of the JCF’s Domestic Violence Intervention Centres offered practical advice for ensuring the physical and financial safety of seniors. She noted that predictable routines often make elderly individuals more vulnerable to abuse and urged them to be vigilant and proactive about their security. “Many elderly persons become victims of abuse but are afraid to report it,” she said. “You have the right to protect yourself and we [the JCF] have a duty to protect you,” she asserted.
Following the presentations, attendees were invited to share their concerns, ask questions, and provide feedback. A plethora of issues continue to plague Jamaican seniors ranging from neglect to physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse, which underscores the need for greater care to be taken of this vulnerable group in the Jamaican society.
A key concern raised during the event was the challenge seniors face with digital banking. One participant shared her distress in accessing her money, citing the frustration caused by the discontinuation of traditional bank books and the forced transition to digital platforms. She noted that service providers often question the competence and intellect of older clients, and highlighted the lack of senior-friendly facilities in many commercial spaces.
The CCRP remains committed to advocating for the rights of older adults and is pleased to collaborate with the NCSC to enhance the safety, dignity, and well-being of Jamaica’s senior citizens.
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – The defending champions, Rangpur Riders have officially named their squad for the highly anticipated 2025 ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), set to take place at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence from 10 to 18 July.
In 2024, the Rangpur Riders were without a point after their first three matches but found their form and eventually won their last three contests to emerge champions.
With a combination of dynamic batting, disciplined bowling, and strong leadership, the Riders proved to be deserving champions of an action-packed competition.
The Rangpur Riders, one of the leading franchises in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), bring a rich pedigree to the GSL. Having won the BPL championship in 2017, the Riders have consistently been a playoff contender over the last three seasons, showcasing their reputation for excellence and resilience.
The Riders are eager to defend their GSL title and have retained key players to help their cause. The defending champions will once again be led by inspirational captain Nurul Hasan. The tournament’s leading run scorer in the inaugural season, Soumya Sarkar is back as is Kamrul Islam Rabbi who spearheaded the bowling attack.
To aid the local stars, the Riders have included West Indian top-order batter Kyle Mayers, South Africa’s left-arm wrist spinner bowler Tabraiz Shamsi, Pakistani all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed and Afghanistan’s top order batter Abrahim Zadran.
The squad reflects a good mixture of youth and experience with an eye on the conditions.
CCRP founder and Executive Chair Jean Lowrie-Chin (second left) applauds after a symbolic cake-cutting, supported by cheers from distinguished guest Lady Rheima Hall (second right) and board directors Vilma McDonald (left) and Patricia Reid-Waugh.
The Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) continued its year-long celebration for 15 years of dedicated service to Jamaica’s senior community with a vibrant Springtime Social and commemorative cake-cutting ceremony on May 22 at The Stella Maris Church Hall in Kingston. The milestone celebration, sponsored by Morgan White International insurance group, drew 75 members and distinguished guests including former Governor General Professor Kenneth Hall and Lady Rheima Hall, former Miss Jamaica World Joan McDonald, and board directors Patricia Reid-Waugh and Vilma McDonald. CCRP founder and Executive Chair Jean Lowrie-Chin, alongside newly appointed General Manager Angela Patterson, led the festivities while highlighting the organisation’s remarkable growth and impact. “CCRP focuses on the empowerment and upliftment of Jamaica’s seniors. We now have over 12,000 members and we are grateful for our scores of discount partners and health insurance benefits underwritten by Sagicor and Morgan White,” said Lowrie-Chin during her welcome. She also expressed gratitude to the special select committee of the Senate for the opportunity to present recommendations for elderly care and protection legislation, noting that “this will safeguard every elder, both present and future.” The event featured a colourful hat parade, uplifting music, and delicious fare, creating an atmosphere of joy and community among attendees. All hat wearers received prizes. The audience rocked to selections from DJ Hubie Chin and applauded beautiful songs by Eberle Dawes and Sandra Crawford and poetry from Jennifer Williams. CCRP will continue marking this significant milestone throughout 2025 with additional events and initiatives that honour the organisation’s journey of advocacy, community building, and empowerment for Jamaica’s elderly population. The organisation’s 15-year legacy demonstrates its commitment to ensuring seniors live with dignity, access essential services through extensive discount partnerships, and benefit from comprehensive health insurance coverage. The CCRP is Jamaica’s leading advocacy organisation for seniors, founded in 2010 by Lowrie-Chin. With over 12,000 members served through chapters in central, north-east, western, and south-east Jamaica, CCRP provides health insurance benefits, access to more than 100 discount partners, and actively advocates for legislative protections for Jamaica’s elderly population. The organisation continues to champion the empowerment and upliftment of seniors across the island.
Powered by an army of volunteers, Digicel Foundation Jamaica led a major Labour Day initiative at Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) and Victoria Jubilee Hospital (VJH) on May 23. Over 70 volunteers from Digicel, EdgeChem Jamaica Limited, Dutch Construction Limited, and Transcendence Holdings Limited combined to give KPH and VJH a welcome facelift. The volunteers repainted key areas and undertook renovation work to enhance the hospital experience for patients and staff. The project formed part of the foundation’s ongoing commitment to national development through community upliftment. Here representatives from Digicel Foundation and partner organisations gather for a photo opportunity during Labour Day activities.
Powered by an army of volunteers, Digicel Foundation Jamaica led a major Labour Day initiative at Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) and Victoria Jubilee Hospital (VJH) on Friday, May 23, 2025, in partnership with EdgeChem Jamaica Limited, Transcendence Holdings Limited and Dutch Construction Limited. The project formed part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to national development through community upliftment.
Over seventy (70) volunteers from Digicel, EdgeChem Jamaica Limited, Dutch Construction Limited, and Transcendence Holdings Limited combined to give KPH and VJH a welcome facelift. The volunteers repainted key areas and undertook renovation work to enhance the hospital experience for patients and staff. Digicel Foundation CEO Charmaine Daniels pointed out: “When we saw the request from Kingston Public Hospital and Victoria Jubilee Hospital, we knew we had to step in. As a company rooted in downtown Kingston, we’ve invested heavily in the community through initiatives like the Coronation Market, Kingston Art Walk, and the Ocean Cleanup projects. Supporting our healthcare heroes was a natural next step.” The work included the painting of the car park and entrance to the Accident and Emergency Department at KPH, as well as the curbside and parking lot at VJH. The complete renovation of a doctor’s office and bathroom at VJH also included the purchase and installation of new furniture.
It was not all about painting, noted Karen Mussington, Commercial Manager at EdgeChem Jamaica: “This Labour Day, we set out to do more than donate paint, we aimed to make a lasting impact. By partnering with organizations like the Digicel Foundation, we’re contributing to projects that uplift communities and inspire change. These initiatives resonate deeply with us because they’re not just about giving back, they’re about building the future of our nation, together.” Digicel Foundation’s Charmaine Daniels expressed her satisfaction at the end of the day: “We were initially approached to support with painting, but when we saw the condition of a doctor’s room, we knew we had to do more. Our healthcare workers deserve to rest comfortably in a space that reflects their dedication and hard work. We’re proud to have renovated the room, bathroom, and furnished it with new furniture. We’re thankful for our partners like EdgeChem and Dutch Construction who shared our vision.” CEO of Kingston Public Hospital, Mr. Barrington Graham, was delighted with the results of the project, noting that both hospitals “benefited immensely from the generosity of the Digicel Foundation.” He declared: “The Digicel team turned out in their numbers and performed a wonderful job…We thank the Digicel Foundation and their team for this generous display of support on Labour Day, 2025.”
Historic moment captured: Antigua & Barbuda’s first-ever Super Lotto™ jackpot winner “A.C.” (centre) celebrates his life-changing ECD $4.35 million victory alongside the team that made it possible. Joined by (from left) Caribbean Lottery Business Operations Coordinator Vonette Philips, IGT Antilles Director Shelly Ann Hee Chung, Bridgette’s Bar owner Bridgette Dixon—whose Cedar Grove establishment sold the winning ticket—and Antigua Senior Supervisor of Business Operations Chad Kelly. After 16 years of playing the same numbers given to him by his mother, A.C.’s unwavering dedication has finally paid off, marking a milestone moment in Caribbean lottery history.
Marubeni Power International managing director of Caribbean operations Mo Majeed (third left) speaks with scholarship recipients (clockwise from centre) Alician Lawrence, Martin Gentles, Theoden Ellis, and Breanna Bisnott at the Marubeni electrical engineering scholarship handover ceremony in the University of the West Indies, Mona campus, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Also present are UWI Development and Endowment Fund (UWIDEF) CEO Carla Seaga and Damian Obligio, senior vice president operations, Marubeni Power International.
Marubeni Power International’s latest educational investment underscores a strategic shift from traditional corporate philanthropy to targeted talent development, with nearly US$25,000 in scholarships awarded to five UWI Mona electrical engineering students positioned to transform Jamaica’s energy landscape.
Mo Majeed, managing director of Caribbean operations and chief operating officer of Marubeni Power International, distinguished this initiative from conventional corporate social responsibility during the ceremony at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus on Wednesday (May 28).
“At Marubeni, we do not view our scholarship program as charity. We view it as an investment in you, in this region, and in our shared future,” Majeed declared to the assembled recipients and dignitaries.
“As engineers in the power sector, your work will literally illuminate lives. This is both a tremendous responsibility and an extraordinary privilege. The energy challenges facing our region – from hurricane resilience to the excessive cost of imported fuels – are indeed global challenges. When you solve problems here, you develop solutions with worldwide relevance,” Majeed addressed the scholars directly, emphasising their global significance.
The partnership between the Japanese multinational and the UWI Endowment Fund represents a deliberate strategy to address regional energy challenges through local expertise development. Recipients Alician Lawrence, Theoden Ellis, Martin Gentles, Darren Passley, and Breanna Bisnott were selected through rigorous evaluation, including academic performance, professional references, and leadership interviews.
Japanese Ambassador to Jamaica Yasuhiro Atsumi reinforced the international dimension of this educational partnership, praising “Marubeni’s commitment to empowering the next generation of talented Jamaicans with engineering skills.”
The ambassador’s presence underscored Japan’s broader commitment to Caribbean development through strategic educational investments.
Dr. Venesse Morrison-Leon, project lead and transformation officer at the Ministry of Education, positioned the programme within national development priorities. “Marubeni is playing an active role in building a more knowledgeable, innovative and self-reliant society. The scholarship programme will assist the recipients in developing the systems, the technologies, and the solutions that our country and our region require,” she explained, before offering direct encouragement to the recipients: “To the five recipients, this moment should be a stepping stone for you, a reminder that you are seen, you are supported, and you are believed in.”
Carla Seaga, CEO of the UWI Development and Endowment Fund, demonstrated the transformative potential of such investments by sharing the inspiring story of Rochelle Stephen, a 2023 Marubeni scholarship recipient who became the first in her family to attend university.
“Education can change the trajectory of a life,” Seaga stated, illustrating how individual educational achievement creates broader social transformation and generational impact.
The collaborative approach extends beyond financial support to mentorship and professional development, creating pathways for graduates to contribute directly to Jamaica’s energy independence goals. Dr Lindon Falconer, deputy dean of quality assurance at UWI’s Faculty of Engineering, noted that Marubeni is “lighting the path” for future engineers, acknowledging the company’s role in bridging academic excellence with industry requirements.
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt gratitude from scholarship recipient Breanna Bisnott, who spoke on behalf of her fellow scholars. “This scholarship is more than just an award, it’s a vote of confidence in our potential,” she expressed, capturing the collective determination of all five recipients to honour this investment through their academic and professional achievements.
Majeed’s philosophy resonated throughout the ceremony as he articulated Marubeni’s long-term vision: “We recognise that the most valuable resource in the Caribbean is not bauxite or tourism or even sunshine – it is the brilliance and determination of the people.”
As these five exceptional students embark on their enhanced academic journeys, they carry with them not merely financial support but the hopes and expectations of a nation poised to achieve energy independence through its own intellectual capital. Their success will illuminate not just homes and businesses, but pathways for future generations of Jamaican engineers who will find that excellence, when nurtured and supported, knows no boundaries. In their achievements, Jamaica glimpses its own limitless potential.
Jamaica Highlights 