“Queen” Maxine Osbourne leads kids in a cultural dance performance at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. Photo by Eric Greaves.
Plantation, Florida (June 6, 2023): For a fun-filled finale to Caribbean American Heritage Month this June, families across South Florida are invited to enjoy a day of Caribbean cultural activities, storytelling, mischief and laughter as the annual Anancy Festival returns. On Saturday, June 24, 2023, in celebration of Caribbean-American Heritage Month, Island SPACE Caribbean Museum at the Broward Mall, in association with Jamaicans.com, will host festivities from 11:00am to 5:00pm.
During the Anancy Festival, children can participate in sessions of crafting, reading, costume-making, coloring, singing, dancing and poetry, while they learn traditional West Indian ring games and more.
As part of Broward Mall’s Colors of Caribe community festival, Island SPACE will also join the fun at the mall’s center court area, where a variety of other vibrant, Caribbean-themed activities will take place throughout the afternoon. Families can explore the museum’s pop-up featuring selfie stations and table games, like ludo and dominoes, for grown-ups. Guests are invited to join two free scheduled museum tours at 2:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Families play checkers and Ludo at the 2022 Anancy Festival. Photo courtesy of Island SPACE Caribbean Museum.
Anancy (also spelled Anansi or Ananse), the spider man, a character from West African folklore, is a trickster known for outsmarting formidable opponents. Popular across the Caribbean and African diasporas, stories of his escapades typically teach valuable life lessons.
The Anancy Festival was created by Xavier Murphy, founder of Jamaicans.com, educator Cathy Klein and Dr. Andrea Shaw, Dean of Nova Southeastern University’s Farquhar Honors College. Since 2008, the festival has connected children of Caribbean descent, and those who enjoy diverse cultures, with West Indian traditions through story, song, dance, art and other art forms. Register for this year’s Anancy Festival at islandspacefl.org/anancy2023.
Broward Mall, home to Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, is also celebrating the Caribbean diaspora on Saturday, June 24 with Colors of Caribe, a day of culture, fun and music, where the whole community can celebrate the spirit of the Caribbean. Colors of Caribe will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and will feature Caribbean entertainment and activities throughout the mall.
About Island SPACE
Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education (Island SPACE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of arts, culture, history, and educational initiatives that represent the Caribbean region, in South Florida and the broader diaspora.
The public is invited to visit the museum Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. General museum entry is $10 per adult and $5 per child. Visit islandspacefl.org to learn more.
Support for Island SPACE has been provided by Broward Mall, Florida Power & Light Company, Grace Foods, The Islands of The Bahamas, the Florida Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, Florida Humanities, the National Endowment for the Arts and the following Funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Mary N. Porter Community Impact Fund, Jack Belt Memorial Fund, Ginny and Tom Miller Fund, Stearns Weaver Miller Fund for the Arts, Harold D. Franks Fund.
Each year, Miami Swim Week brings designers from all over the world together to strut their summery stuff. The 2023 event is back and runs from July 3 to July 10, with the runway shows beginning on July 5. In addition to catwalks, there will be parties, talks with industry leaders, magazine launches and so much more.
There’s no time of year we’re more excited for than summer, and there’s no local South Florida event that matches our passion for tropical fashion as well as Miami Swim Week does! The event will feature over 100 designers, but here are the top 6 island-inspired brands we can’t wait to see walk the runway during Miami Swim Week 2023!
Tiare Hawaii
Get ready to be transported to a tropical paradise with Tiare Hawaii. Founded in 2011 by Jane Hoskins, a travel lover based in Hawaii, this brand captures the essence of island living.
Tiare Hawaii’s bohemian, sun-kissed aesthetic is rooted in the natural beauty of Hawaii. Each piece is meticulously hand-dyed and hand-printed in Bali using traditional techniques like batik printing, adding an artisanal touch.
With their wanderlust-inducing patterns, Tiare Hawaii offers a vibrant collection that embodies a free-spirited, laid-back lifestyle.
Southern Saint
Southern Saint is a Caribbean brand founded in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. This brand is all about luxury and leisure — comfortable fabrics that you “want to live in.”
Co-founders Matthew Ridgway, a U.S. Virgin Islands native, and Briana Casale Cox combine a classic island look with a particularly nautical flair. They pride themselves on sourcing materials responsibly, which includes using recycled materials.
With their commitment to sustainability, Southern Saint captures the delicate balance between carefree island life and ecological consciousness. They’re one of the most promising Caribbean swimwear designers to keep an eye on, even beyond Swim Week.
Agua Bendita
Agua Bendita was founded in 2003 by best friends and Colombian natives Mariana Hinestroza and Catalina Álvarez. In 2007, they became one of the first Colombian companies to export local fashion. They now have a presence in over 50 countries!
The brand’s signature look involves bright colors and bold, beachy patterns. They continue to impress with swimwear that is feminine, as well as having expanded to include men’s swimwear.
Hand-crafted by local Colombian artisan women, each Agua Bendita piece tells a story of tradition, artistry and empowerment.
Viosa Collection
Having been launched in 2020, Viosa Collection is a very new brand but definitely not one to be underestimated. After all, it made its way to Miami Swim Week in just three years!
A local Miami design brand, Viosa Collection is young and dynamic. It was founded by Aliey Martin, who also works as a fitness trainer and is a published fitness model.
Viosa Collection releases both swimwear and athleisure, both in sexy designs and various styles, ranging from sleek and minimal to beachy and tropical.
Yami Swimwear
Attendees of any body type will feel inspired to celebrate body positivity after seeing Yami Swimwear at Miami Swim Week.
This Israeli brand was founded out of a need for local plus-size swimwear and lingerie. They offer tasteful florals and playful patterns in island-inspired tones, making you feel as good as you look.
While the focus is on plus-size fashion, Yami Swimwear provides options for a wide range of sizes.
Maaji
Dive into the enchanting world of Maaji, a Colombian brand founded in the city of Medellin where the founders grew up.
Perhaps because they’re sisters, Manuela and Amalia Sierra’s brand has an emphasis on sisterhood — being one with each other and with the ocean. The brand’s tagline is, “We believe Maajic is to be shared!”
With tropical and ocean-inspired designs, Maaji captures the essence of a dreamy beach escape. All their clothes are made in Colombia from responsibly-sourced materials.
Ready to feel inspired this summer? Check out the Miami Swim Week 2023 calendar to see when your most-anticipated designers will be on the runway! And for even more swim inspiration, check out some of our favorite Caribbean designers that we have featured in the past!
There’s just something enchanting about the beach. The warm sand between your toes, the gentle sound of crashing waves, and the inviting embrace of the sun make it a haven of relaxation and joy. Whether you’re a local taking a leisurely stroll or a traveler exploring the pristine Caribbean shores, the beach is a place where memories are made. And what better way to cherish those memories than by collecting keepsakes you can bring home from the beach? Dive into the delightful world of beach souvenirs and learn more about some wonderful mementos you can discover during your sandy adventures.
Seashells
One of the most enchanting treasures the beach offers is an abundance of seashells. Take a leisurely walk along the shore and you’ll discover an array of intricately designed shells in various shapes, colors, and sizes. From delicate conch shells to vibrant scallop shells, each one holds a unique story. Gather a handful of these natural wonders and create a beautiful collection as a tangible reminder of the beach’s beauty.
Beach Glass
One unique keepsake you can bring home from the beach is beach glass. Smooth and weathered by the ocean, beach glass has a magical charm to it. Once discarded bottles and glassware, these fragments are transformed into polished gems over time. Scour the shoreline for these radiant treasures and string them into a necklace or create a dazzling mosaic to add a touch of seaside elegance to your home décor.
Sand
What could be more evocative of the beach than a small vial of sand? Each beach has a distinct character, and collecting sand samples from different Caribbean beaches allows you to capture a piece of paradise in a jar. Whether they contain the powdery white sands of Aruba or part of the golden shores of the Dominican Republic, these tiny vessels will transport you back to those tranquil locations whenever you need a moment of bliss.
Driftwood
As waves gently lap against the shore, they often carry remnants of trees and branches from distant lands. Smooth, weathered pieces of driftwood hold a rustic charm that can beautifully complement your home décor. Transform them into unique picture frames, candle holders or even small sculptures, letting nature’s artistry bring a touch of the beach into your daily life.
Metal Trinkets
For those with a taste for adventure, using a metal detector in the water can lead to thrilling discoveries! As you carefully sweep the sand and listen for the telltale beeps, you might uncover hidden treasures that have been lost to time. From coins to jewelry, these unexpected finds hold all the excitement of a pirate’s chest.
The beach contains countless treasures — both natural and hidden — waiting to be discovered. Collecting keepsakes from the shore allows you to encapsulate the warmth and beauty of the beach, bringing a small piece of paradise back home with you.
The President of the Jamaica Cultural Alliance at Caricon 2022
LOS ANGELES, CA (May 23, 2023) – The annual international literary event CARICON, in partnership with The FUNtastic Book Fair, will host a three-day conference at the University of Southern California (USC) on June 2-4, setting the stage for the start of Caribbean American Heritage Month. Presented by the grassroots non-profit organization Jamaica Cultural Alliance, CARICON 2023 will unite global scholars, writers, and literary enthusiasts to explore the rich history and notable contributions of Caribbean literature and culture.
Attendees at the last in-person Caricon conference in 2022
Themed “The Future is Now,” CARICON 2023 will provide extensive educational programming, keynote speakers, workshops, panel discussions with top leaders, a book expo, live entertainment, and special performances aligned with the multifaceted dimensions of Caribbean heritage. By day, attendees will enjoy a full day of curated programming and an evening of special guest performances by top artists such as KG Superstar.
International storyteller Dr. Amina Blackwood Meeks will kick off the weekend presenting to students at Marcus Garvey Elementary on June 2, 2023. Nestled in South Los Angeles, the school was named after Jamaica’s first National Hero and Pan-Africanist, Marcus Garvey.
We are thrilled to be back on the ground and to bring CARICON to the campus of USC,” said the conference Director, V. Steve Russell. “This is a great opportunity for emerging and established writers to share their stories, ideas, and experiences and to inspire the next generation of Caribbean voices.”
Free and open for all to enjoy, CARICON 2023 seeks to disrupt the narrative and bring all communities together for a dialogue that encourages the acquisition of cultural knowledge directly from the source.
Through the Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami (MOCA)’s continued efforts to include diverse voices and perspectives, the museum is offering a robust series of educational and public programming to commemorate Pride Month and Caribbean-American Heritage Month this June.
On view through Oct. 1, 2023, “Lonnie Holley: If You Really Knew” invites visitors to experience the work of prolific artist Lonnie Holley in his first major exhibition in the South. Also on view is the “South Florida Cultural Consortium” (SFCC) exhibition which showcases the work of 12 intergenerational South Florida artists.
“Lonnie Holley: If You Really Knew” provides an intimate and focused look at the career of Birmingham, Alabama-born artist and musician Lonnie Holley. The exhibition, curated by MOCA curator Adeze Wilford, features 70 works including foundational “sandstone” sculptures, new works on paper and large-scale quilt paintings that depict faces. Known for his unique style of art that draws inspiration from his life experiences, Holley often incorporates found objects and everyday materials, which he transforms into thought-provoking art.
Holley’s influence on Southern art is highlighted throughout “If You Only Knew,” including a section he curated featuring works from artists such as Miami native Purvis Young, Thornton Dial, Mary T. Smith and Hawkins Bowling.
The “South Florida Cultural Consortium” (SFCC) exhibition brings together 12 artists working across various media including, sculpture, film and site-specific installations. The exhibition, this year hosted and organized by MOCA, provides a snapshot of the breadth and depth of the artistic talent in the South Florida art scene.
On view outside the museum from late June through late August is MOCA’s most recent “Art on the Plaza” commission, LIZN’BOW (Liz Ferrer and Bow Ty)’s “El Mundo Es Magico.” The sculpture, “El Mundo Es Magico,”features displaced queer characters in a mix of reality and fantasy within Miami iconography, inviting conversations of fluidity, gender, class and identity. Central to the duo’s work is the feminist reimagining of each element towards a more inclusive, fantastical worldview.
On view through June 25, 2023, visitors will be able to step into MOCA’s Paradise Courtyard and discover “VictoryGarden,” an interactive sculptural community garden created by Miami-based artist Emmett Moore. Drawing inspiration from victory gardens of the past, which were planted during wartime to supplement rations and boost morale, Moore’s “Victory Garden” connects the local community with contemporary art and encourages visitors to reflect on their relationship with the built environment.
Starting June 12, MOCA is offering a contemporary art experience with its summer art camps. Children ages 6-13 may join the museum for in-person camps including Studio Arts Camp and Dynamic Design Camp. Each session will offer a different theme to introduce students to a variety of contemporary art or design techniques. The art camps will entail 10, one-week sessions through Aug. 18.
MOCA’s June programming includes:
MOCA Tours | Saturdays in June – 3, 10 , 17 and 24, 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
Details: MOCA North Miami invites guests to a public tour of its exhibitions, “Lonnie Holley: If You Really Knew” and “South Florida Cultural Consortium” (SFCC). The tour will be led by MOCA Exhibition Specialist Lauren Baccus.
MOCA miniMakers: Pride Month – Sculpture | Saturday, June 3, 2–4 p.m.
Details: MOCA is celebrating Pride Month through the captivating world of sculptural art inspired by Jean-Michel Othoniel. Known for his vibrant and whimsical sculptures, Othoniel’s work serves as the perfect muse for this workshop where participants will get the chance to create their own colorful sculptures using wire and pipe cleaners. This hands-on experience not only allows children to express their creativity freely but also introduces them to the power of art as a medium of self-expression and celebration of diversity.
MOCA miniMakers is MOCA’s free and inclusive series of art workshops for children ages six and up. Children will have access to a variety of art techniques, as well as an inclusive curriculum incorporating step-by-step guides, STEAM activation and creative free play. Taught by experienced artists and sponsored by the North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency, MOCA miniMakers aims to foster an accessible spirit of learning through the arts.
Sunday Stories: “Ho’onani: Hula Warrior” by Heather Gale | Sunday, June 4, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Details: Join MOCA as it celebrates Pride Month by learning about identity roles and Hawaiian culture by reading “Ho’onani: Hula Warrior” by Heather Gale. The story beautifully intertwines Hawaiian culture and the importance of being true to oneself. After the storytelling, children will engage in a hands-on lei-making activity, an artistic extension of the story that fosters creativity and mirrors the Hawaiian tradition of crafting lei as symbols of love, respect and hospitality.
Sponsored by the North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency, this early childhood art series engages toddlers and fosters reading, motor skill development and socialization. MOCA Sunday Stories is a great way for children to bond with their parents or guardians as they create together.
MOCA Makers: Printmaking with Artist Vinicius de Oliveria | Saturday, June 10, 1–3 p.m.
Details: Join MOCA this June for an exciting Printmaking making workshop. Inspired by contemporary queer artists such as Gio Black Peter and Christina Quarles, particpatns will create their own collagraph printing plates using items like cardboard, sticky foam and other found textured materials. Each one-of-a-kind print will be created using a variety of bold colors and graphic shapes reminiscent of expressionist art.
Art Insights – “South Florida Cultural Consortium” (SFCC)| Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Details: Join MOCA Curator Adeze Wilford in conversation with artists featured in this dynamic group exhibition presenting the work of artists exclusively from South Florida. The “South Florida Cultural Consortium” (SFCC) exhibition, brings together 12 artists working across various media including, sculpture, film and site-specific installations. The exhibition, this year hosted and organized by MOCA, provides a snapshot of the breadth and depth of the artistic talent in the South Florida art scene.
The Artisan Workshop: Celebrate Caribbean-American Heritage Month with Shop Zhuzh | Friday, June 30, 6:30–8 p.m.
Details: Embark on a journey into the captivating world of Haiti’s geographical and cultural history through the art of paper mache. Join MOCA for an immersive workshop hosted by Zhuzh, an empowering accessory brand that connects artisans from the diaspora. Led by experienced instructors, this hands-on workshop invites participants to channel their imagination, molding and shaping simple materials into sculptures and decorative objects that reflect the essence of Haitian culture. Limited spaces are available.
Jazz at MOCA: Featuring Leslie Cartaya | Friday, June 30, (Seating Starts at 7 p.m., Concert Starts at 8 p.m.)
Details: Join MOCA for an unforgettable evening of Jazz at MOCA, featuring Cuban-born, singer-songwriter Leslie Cartaya. Her unique sound – a dynamic blend of Caribbean, Afro-American, Afro-Latin and Latin American rhythms – first found voice in her debut album “No Pares,” and further evolved in her sophomore work “Llevame Contigo.” Not just a solo artist, Cartaya also brings her unique energy to the Afro-Cuban Funk band “Palo” and leads an all-female ensemble, Sexta Clave. With a new record and live concert on the horizon, Cartaya’s musical journey is one to watch.
Cost: Jazz at MOCA is free and open to the public. The gallery is open from 7-10 p.m. with museum admission. Admission to the museum is $10. Admission for students, seniors, and visitors identifying as disabled is $5. Admission is free for MOCA members, children under 12, North Miami residents, city employees, veterans, and caregivers accompanying people who are disabled.
“Lonnie Holley: If You Really Knew” is made possible with support from Blum & Poe, and is funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture. We are also grateful to The N’Namdi Family. Special thanks to guest curator Alison M. Gingeras, for her contributions conceiving this exhibition.
“The South Florida Cultural Consortium” is funded in part with support from The National Endowment of the Arts, The Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council, the Boards of County Commissioners of Broward, Miami-Dade, Martin and Monroe Counties, and the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County.
“Art on the Plaza” is presented by MOCA, with major support from the North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (NMCRA). Additional support was provided by The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.
“Welcome to Paradise” is made possible with major support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Additional support was provided by The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.
MOCA miniMakers, Sunday Stories and MOCA Makers are funded by the North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (NMCRA).
Jazz at MOCA is made possible with lead support from the North Miami Mayor and Council and the City of North Miami.
MOCA North Miami is generously funded by the North Miami Mayor and Council and the City of North Miami; the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation; the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes).
MOCA is supported in part by an American Rescue Plan Act grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support general operating expenses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and The Wege Foundation. Additional support is provided by the Fine & Greenwald Foundation; The Nathan Cummings Foundation; and the Sol Taplin Charitable Foundation. Founding support for the MOCA Sustainability Fund provided by the Green Family Foundation Trust. Major support provided by Shirley and William M. Lehman, Jr. We also thank our Board of Trustees, Curator’s Circle, and MOCA Members for their meaningful support.
About the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami:
MOCA North Miami presents contemporary art and its historical influences through exhibitions, educational programs, and collections. Inspired by its surrounding communities, MOCA connects diverse audiences and cultures by providing a welcoming place to encounter new ideas and voices and nurturing a lifelong love of the arts. MOCA developed from the Center of Contemporary Art which was inaugurated in 1981. The establishment of the permanent collection coincided with the institution’s move into their current building designed by Charles Gwathmey of GSNY in 1996.
Denzil Forrester wants you to look at his paintings, feel like you can enter them and “walk into the dance hall.”
Color and movement blend with themes of dancehall music, Rastafarian faith and police brutality on his canvases. The Grenada-born Britton’s new exhibit is currently at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) in Denzil Forrester: We Culture. The collection features a comprehensive and in-depth overview of his works from his earliest years to his recent pieces.
Born in 1956 on the picturesque island of Grenada, Denzil Forrester was only three years old when his mother moved to London, leaving him, as so many did during that time, to be raised by trusted neighbors. In this case, “Ma Pets” and “Pa Clame,” the couple next door. Forrester stayed with the couple until the age of 7 when he joined his mum in Great Britain.
Forrester became interested in art at around 16 years old, with the outlet of painting providing him a comfortable way to express his feelings. He attended Central School of Art and Design, where he received guidance from helpful tutors and met like-minded people, such as his partner Phillippa and her father Alan Clayden, who ran an art studio nearby.
Childhood memories of Caribbean life remained with him, influencing his creative work. Color, movement, action and rhythm became signatures of his painting style. His bold fine art pieces depict the UK’s Black experience, exploring themes as different as night is from the day.
In 1980, he started visiting all-night clubs where reggae was the music genre of choice.
“The dub and reggae dancehall runs throughout my work,” Forrester shares. “Because I make most of my drawings in the clubs, the paintings are strongly influenced by the quick action of these sketches and my memories and feelings for those spaces. The nightclub is a place of joy and celebration with like-minded spirits – in a momentary trance of sound and movement.”
“I went to Kingston, Jamaica, in February to make drawings in the dancehalls for a series of new paintings. I’m getting excited about these.”
The growing presence of Rastafarian culture is also prominent in his art. The clubs he visited in London attracted many Rastafarians, and the sound of DJ Jah Shaka, which had a hypnotic, ancestral presence that made the audience feel purified, strong, and liberated, pulled Forrester in. “I was drawn to Shaka’s sound because he was doing something different in his creative performance. Shaka didn’t isolate himself from his audience. [He was] always performing on the dancefloor as a part of the crowd. He united people through sound.”
Forrester’s paintings, however, also explore the darker side of life for Black people in the UK. His friend, Winston Rose, lost his life at the hands of the police in 1981, and since then, police officers have become a recurring feature in Forrester’s work. His paintings show the violence of his friend’s experience, with works such as “Deado 2” and “Death Walk.”
“These guardians of the law, who we pay to protect us, have been getting away with murder,” Forrester says. “I have painted them in the dark streets of London and New York, where Black men feel followed and watched.”
Over the years, his compositions have departed from the regular structure he is used to and are more colorful. And though they may not regularly make it into his work, memories of life in Grenada still call to mind images of “the Jab-Jab man, blackened to the hilt with the stale molasses, tar, grease, creosote or mud and other memories of Caribbean carnival.”
At his ICA Miami showing, Forrester hopes the audience will feel the sound, rhythm and color in his works.
Denzil Forrester: We Culture is open now until September 24, 2023. The second-floor exhibit also has a curated playlist of reggae roots music that builds on the club themes he paints.
DUSSELDORF, GERMANY - CIRCA SEPTEMBER, 2018: Sephora store in Dusseldorf
From a cavalcade of Marleys to soca artists taking over cruise lines with music and revelry, the Caribbean’s most talented individuals have ventured into entrepreneurship, building their brands and expanding their influence beyond music or acting. Here are some of the most successful Caribbean celebrities who have also become successful entrepreneurs.
Rihanna – Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty
Barbados-born Rihanna is the second best-selling female artist of all time, after Madonna, with over 250 million records sold worldwide. In recent years, she has turned her attention to entrepreneurship and has launched several successful ventures. Her cosmetics line, Fenty Beauty, was established in 2017 and has since become globally recognized, earning over $550 million in its first year alone. Fenty Beauty’s focus on inclusivity and diversity has been a significant factor in its success, as it caters to a wide range of skin tones and types.
Rihanna also launched Savage X Fenty, a lingerie line that celebrates all body types and has been praised for its size-inclusive range. The brand is valued at more than $1 billion.
Sean Paul – Dutty Rock Productions and Dutty Rock Clothing
Jamaican Sean Paul is a Grammy-winning artist with hits including “Get Busy” and “Temperature.” He is also an entrepreneur who launched his record label, Dutty Rock Productions, in 2003. The label has featured several other A-list artists including Beenie Man, Spice, Konshens, and others. He has also launched Dutty Rock Clothing, which features bold and colorful designs inspired by his Jamaican heritage.
Usain Bolt is one of the most decorated track and field athletes in history, with eight Olympic gold medals, dozens of medals from other elite games throughout his career, and major endorsements from brands such as Puma, Hublot and Visa. He has also sprinted his way to success in the business world. In 2011, he partnered with business mogul, Gary Matalon, to establish the restaurant and sports bar Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records in Kingston, Jamaica. The restaurant features Jamaican-inspired cuisine and has become a popular spot for locals and tourists. Bolt has opened additional locations in Jamaica and the UK.
Shaggy – Ranch Entertainment and Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation
Jamaican Orville “Shaggy” Burrell is a Grammy-winning artist known for hits like “It Wasn’t Me” and “Angel”. His record label, Ranch Entertainment, has featured popular artists including Rayvon and Kiprich. Shaggy has also used his powers for good, launching the Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation, which focuses on helping underprivileged children in Jamaica and other Caribbean countries.
Nicki Minaj at the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards held at the Forum in Inglewood, USA on August 27, 2017.
Nicki Minaj – Pink Friday and Queen Radio
Trinidad-born Nicki Minaj is the best selling female rapper of all time, with more than 100 million records sold worldwide. In addition to her music career, she has launched the fragrance line, Pink Friday, which has been a commercial success. She also hosts the radio show, Queen Radio, which has become a platform to connect with her fans and discuss important issues.
Machel Montano – Machel’s Burger House
In Trinidad and Tobago, the soca artist Machel Montano co-owns “Machel’s Burger House,” a popular restaurant chain with multiple locations throughout the twin island nation serving fast food.
Trinidadian cricket legend Brian Lara has set numerous records in the sport. He has also used his fame to launch several businesses, including two restaurants in Trinidad and Tobago named “Lara’s” and “The Hut.” Lara has invested in real estate, including luxury apartments in Mumbai, India. He has also been involved in several regional charitable initiatives, including building schools and hospitals.
These are just a few successful Caribbean-born celebrities who have become successful entrepreneurs, leveraging their talent, creativity, and business acumen to build acclaimed brands and expand their influence beyond the performing arts and sports. Their inspiring journeys testify to the wealth of opportunities that can arise from combining passion with an entrepreneurial spirit.
It’s safe to say that most Caribbean cooking is filled with bold flavor and a heavy hand on the spice. But for those looking to satisfy their craving for homestyle, savory meals with an island flair, authentic Haitian food is particularly inviting. Haitian cuisine tends to follow Creole traditions and practices, with complex flavors packed into marinated meats, seafood, stews and veggies, typically all topped off with a blend of fresh herbs, onions, garlic and peppers in the form of Haitian Epis.
As one of the islands originally inhabited by the indigenous Taino, Haiti has kept many of the gastronomic traditions of their ancestors, and the diaspora has continued to pass down family recipes from generation to generation, which is likely why Haitian cuisine is often described as “soulful.”
Cooking is one of the easiest ways that people can reconnect to their culture. So, whether you’re looking to get back to your roots or you’re experimenting with the island’s cuisine for the first time, this Haitian Heritage Month try out these five authentic Haitian recipes that will make any foodie’s mouth water.
Soup Joumou
One of the most easily recognizable (and looked-forward-to) Haitian dishes might be Soup Joumou, a thick and hearty squash-based stew that is typically reserved for special occasions, holidays and Haitian Independence Day. This dish has a complex past as a meal that was served for plantation owners but never allowed to be eaten by slaves. When freed, Haiti adopted this dish as its unofficial independence meal. This recipe makes a LARGE quantity, so prepare to enjoy this meal with friends and family gathered around the table.
What you need
1 cup white vinegar
1 pound beef shank, cut into 1 inch cubes
1 pound boneless beef chuck, cut into 1 inch cubes
For the marinade
1 cup Haitian Epis seasoning (store bought or homemade)
2 ½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon pepper
For the stew
15 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into 2 inch pieces
2 large russet potatoes, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
½ small green cabbage, chopped
1 yellow onion, sliced
1 celery stalk, coarsely chopped
2 scallions, chopped
1 green Scotch Bonnet Pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 thyme sprig
1 pinch of cayenne pepper
3 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 one-pound box of thick cut pasta
What to do
Make your marinade by stirring together the Epis, lime juice and salt into a large bowl. Set aside for now.
Pour vinegar into a large bowl, add in your beef and swish it around to sanitize. Transfer the meat to a colander and rinse thoroughly with water.
Add your beef to the marinade bowl and stir to coat. Leave the meat to marinade for at least three hours, preferably overnight.
In a large pot over medium heat, add 5-6 cups of broth and your marinated beef. Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes or until beef is tender. Add in your squash, cover and simmer together for another 20 minutes or until the squash can be easily pierced.
Transfer the squash to a blender, add about 4 cups of broth and puree. Return to the pot and add the remaining broth, tomato paste, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, onion, celery, scallions and pepper. Let simmer, then increase the heat and add your spices and pasta. Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Taste and adjust, then serve and enjoy!
Pikliz
Another iconic part of Haitian cuisine is Pilkliz, a delicious island-inspired pickled vegetable relish. Though this is typically eaten as a side with fried foods, we had to put it on our list as a classic favorite for a spice-packed dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
What you need
Ingredients
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
1 cup green cabbage, shredded
2 Scotch Bonnet Peppers, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, diced
1 cup onion, sliced
½ cup carrot, grated
4 cloves garlic, minced
For the brine
At least 1 large mason jar (64 ounces or higher)
1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar
½ lemon, juiced
1-2 teaspoons Kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
What to do
In a large bowl, whisk all of the brine ingredients together. Set aside for now
In a separate large bowl, mix all of the vegetables together. Add them into a large mason jar (or two if more space is needed). Pour the liquid mixture into the jar until all vegetables are completely covered.
Shake the jar to ensure even more coverage, then secure the lid tight and refrigerate for 3-5 days.
Take out of the fridge, serve with your favorite main dish and enjoy!
Haitian Griot
If you’re needing a main course to have alongside your Pikliz, one of the best options is Haitian Griot! A savory and citrusy blend of herbs, spices and marinated pork combine to create one of the most recognizable (and ordered) dishes at any Haitian restaurant — and rightfully so as griot is often considered Haiti’s national dish. But Haitian families rarely get it when out because each has their own secret recipe that has been passed down for generations. Now you can make it at home too.
What you need
3 pounds pork shoulder, cubed
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 yellow onion, chopped
3 shallots, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ bell pepper, diced
3-4 scallions, chopped
1 chicken bouillon cube
1 Scotch Bonnet Pepper, sliced
2 oranges, juiced (about ¾ cup)
4 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 cup of fresh parsley leaves
8 sprigs fresh thyme
2 cups water
Vegetable or canola oil for frying
What to do
In a large bowl, add the cubed pork, salt, pepper, and your veggies (onion, garlic, scallions, shallots, bell pepper, Scotch bonnet pepper). Mix, then add in the chicken bouillon cube, orange and lime juices, white wine vinegar and the thyme and parsley sprigs.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly — with your hands is the most effective method, but using a spoon is sufficient too. Cover with saran wrap, then place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least three hours, preferably overnight.
On the stove, add your marinated meat into a Dutch oven and place on high heat. Add water and bring to a boil. In the meantime, preheat your oven to 350° F. Once at a rolling boil, remove from heat and transfer the Dutch oven into the oven to braise. Leave for about 90 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and pick out the pork, saving the rest of the vegetable mixture to the side. Place the prepared pork onto a paper towel-lined tray and pat down until completely dry.
Add a large pot of oil to the stove over high heat until the oil is sizzling. Add your pork cubes in batches and fry until a dark golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Transfer the fried pork to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve with Pikliz, rice, beans and plantains and enjoy!
Poul Ak Nwa
Our next gastronomic delight is a popular Sunday night dinner that usually gets started right after morning mass. Don’t let the long ingredient list and time commitment scare you off though, this Poul Ak Nwa is worth all of the time and effort. Literally translating to “cashew chicken,” this flavorful dish combines chicken, vegetables, spices and more on top of a bed of jasmine rice.
What you need
1 cup raw cashews
2 pounds bone-in skinless chicken thighs
½ red bell pepper, chopped
½ green bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow onion, coarsely chopped
6 garlic cloves, chopped and neary minced
2 scallions, chopped
½ cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 Scotch Bonnet Pepper
3 cloves
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
What to do
In a small to medium size saucepan, bring 3 cups of water and the cashews to a boil. Once at a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan and simmer for around an hour. The cashews should crumple but not disintegrate. Drain and set aside for now.
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the chicken, garlic, cloves, lime juice, parsley, thyme, and salt and pepper. Mix until the chicken is fully coated.
Add the Scotch Bonnet Pepper into the center of the pot and cover. Simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is almost cooked through. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl, making sure to keep the Scotch Bonnet Pepper intact.
Then, into the same pot, add some oil and return only the chicken, stirring until golden brown. Reduce the heat to low.
Add in the tomato paste and tomatoes and cook until soft.
Add in the crushed cashews, Scotch Bonnet Pepper and reserved garlic, cloves, lime juice, parsley and thyme mixture. Stir, then cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is falling off the bone. Remove the Scotch Bonnet Pepper.
Serve over white or jasmine rice and enjoy!
Haitian Street Beignets
Considering Haiti’s long and turbulent French ties, it’s no surprise that some remnants of the culture stayed, particularly intertwining itself with the cuisine. A prime example of this is Haitian beignets — a rarely enjoyed treat that is often only present between the start of Carnival celebrations until Mardi-Gras day. Delicious pastries typically made from fried dough, the Haitian beignet is actually created from a banana batter and are flatter than the traditional puffed variety. However, they are just as good (maybe better!), and just as decadent (maybe more!).
What you need
3 very ripe bananas
1 cup flour
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
1 cup water (milk can be substituted for a thicker consistency)
⅓ cup sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Vegetable or canola oil for frying
Powdered sugar, for coating
What to do
Peel and mash the bananas in a large bowl until they reach an oatmeal consistency.
In a mixing bowl, add in flour, baking soda and salt. Create a well in the middle, then add the banana mixture and combine.
Add in the sugar, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon. Add the water last and mix well until a batter forms.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat your oil until it is sizzling.
Using a large spoon, pick up the batter by the spoonful and simply drop it into the oil. Flip the dough over in the oil every few minutes to not over fry or burn one side.
Once golden brown, remove the beignet with a slotted or skimmer spoon and place onto a paper towel-lined tray to remove excess oil.
While still hot, coat generously with powdered sugar. Let cool and serve!
Some mothers have no choice but to find discarded food in dumps to feed their children. A gift of $27 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog means a mother can feed a family of four for a month. Photo/Food For The Poor
Mother’s Day is less than a week away and the pressure’s on to find the perfect gift. Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog has a new look designed to make it easier to do just that.
Caring donors can honor and celebrate moms by also blessing the most vulnerable with a gift from the catalog.
“Mothers often are the sole providers for their families in the countries where we help. With what little they may earn, food, water, shelter, medical care and education are out of reach for them,” FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine.
“The transformational gifts from the Spring Catalog provide a variety of meaningful ways to honor our mothers and restore hope to others who desperately need our help,” Raine added.
Donors can search and shop by the type of item online, such as feeding, micro-enterprise, education, water, housing or medical needs.
Fruit trees provide nutritious food, shade and combat deforestation. A gift of $10 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog provides a fruit tree. Photo/Food For The PoorYoung children often spend hours fetching water instead of going to school. A gift of $75 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog will provide access to water. Photo/Food For The Poor
Or they can shop by price. They can even browse the catalog’s best sellers such as a fruit tree for $10, feeding a family of four for a month for $27, or 20 chicks for $30.
It’s also simpler to bundle gifts with additional suggested items.
For instance, someone who chooses to buy a gift online to feed a family of four for $27 will also see related items on the same page that would be an additional blessing to families living in poverty, such as clothing and shoes for $30 or 100 pounds of rice and beans for $44.
Donors who receive the catalog in the mail will find gifts similarly organized by category on each page.
A gift of $10 will provide a soccer ball that will bring joy to a child accustomed to having no toys. A $30 gift will provide school supplies and plus a soccer ball for children whose parents cannot afford books or other supplies.
A gift of $30 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog can provide school supplies and a soccer ball for children whose parents cannot afford books or other supplies. Photo/Food For The Poor
FFTP gifts can also put poverty-stricken families on a path to sustaining themselves. A $54 gift will provide agricultural tools like shovels, hoes and waterproof work boots that families need to work their land and grow crops from seeds provided by the charity’s donors to feed their children and generate income. A gift of $100 will provide three piglets for a family to raise and breed pigs that will provide income and a source of food to break the cycle of malnutrition that puts so many families in peril.
A gift of $180 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog to provide a donkey can help families who live in mountainous terrain in the countryside get their goods to market. Photo/Food For The PoorA mattress can provide a comfortable place to sleep. A gift of $90 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog purchases a mattress with a bedframe. Photo/Food For The PoorA chicken coop can provide chickens a place to roost and protect them from predators. A gift of $460 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog will provide 20 chicks plus the wire, wood and hardware to build one chicken coop. Photo/Food For The PoorA gift of $50 from Food For The Poor’s Spring Gift Catalog can deliver lifesaving medicine and medical supplies. Photo/Food For The Poor
Food For The Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the nation, does much more than feed millions of hungry children and families living in poverty primarily in 17 countries of the Caribbean and Latin America. This interdenominational Christian ministry provides emergency relief assistance, water, medicine, educational materials, homes, support for vulnerable children, care for the aged, skills training and micro-enterprise development assistance. For more information, please visit www.FoodForThePoor.org.
Plantation, Florida (May 9, 2022): “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds.” The immortal words of Jamaica’s Marcus Garvey, adapted by Bob Marley, still ring true, especially for those among the African diaspora. African-Americans and Afro-Caribbean people have had very different emancipation experiences and have developed different collective social consciousness because of it. On Saturday, May 20th, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., Island SPACE Caribbean Museum presents “Emancipation Reimagined: From the U.S. to the West Indies,” the second in the series of “Verandah Talk” panel discussions addressing the concept of emancipation, this time featuring scholars of both Caribbean and African American background.
Funding for this program was provided through a grant from the Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the following funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Mary N. Porter Community Impact Fund, Jack Belt Memorial Fund, Ginny and Tom Miller Fund, Stearns Weaver Miller Fund for the Arts, Harold D. Franks Fund.
Caribbean-American panelists Dr. Nadine Wedderburn of Jamaican and Glenn Joseph of Trinidad and Tobago are an Associate Professor of Social Science and Public Affairs at State University of New York, and chairman of the board of the Greater Caribbean American Cultural Coalition Inc., respectively. African-American panelists David Bynes and Derek Davis are the Director for the Office of Social Justice and Inclusion at Florida International University, and a writer, history advocate, presenter, and storyteller of Davis Kuumba Arts LLC, respectively. Moderator Dr. Rozalia Williams, Founder and President of the College Student Development Center, Inc., is of Caribbean and American heritage.
The group will exchange ideas on the divergent experiences of the African diaspora in the Caribbean and the United States, the progress made by African diaspora communities in America, and how we effectively come together to improve our circumstances.
Attendees may park at the northeast Broward Mall parking lot near Broward Boulevard and University Drive, and look for the entrance with the Island SPACE banner.
