Home Blog Page 37

Islanders on TV: Week of March 27

0
Jamaican representation on TV

Last week, Caribbean representation made its way into a few mainstream TV shows, and we love to showcase it!

Quinta Brunson Serves Jamaican Jerk(ish) Chicken on Saturday Night Live


For weekend laughs, many of us tune in to watch hilarious comedy sketches featuring our favorite celebrities on NBC’s Saturday Night Live. This week, Quinta Brunson was the featured celebrity host on the series, and one of the skits she was featured in portrayed three straight-laced white guys trying their best to be cool. The segment brings them into a Jamaican restaurant in Jamaica, Queens, New York, where they attempt to sample of serving of jerk chicken. Sadly, they want no pepper, no spice, no salt — no nothing except the chicken.

In the sketch, she and her co-worker, neither of whom have a real Jamaican accent, enthusiastically suggest that the guys find somewhere else to eat. But ultimately, she takes great care of them.

While we always prefer that Jamaicans are represented by people with Jamaican accents, we’re always happy to simply be represented!

Jamaican-American Lt Gov of Virginia, Winsome Earle-Sears, Brings Balance to Real Time with Bill Maher


For HBO subscribers (or fans who watch show clips on YouTube), Real Time with Bill Maher featured a Jamaican-American that Island Origins only recently learned about. The lieutenant governor of the state of Virginia is a Jamaican American U.S. Marine veteran by the name of Winsome Earle-Sears. The Republican sat in to chat with Maher and his always politically diverse panel of guests on a range of topics.

While her politics may be unpopular in typical Caribbean circles, we love that she has made history as the first female lieutenant governor of that state.


Stay tuned as we share more clips of Caribbean characters in the media.

International Pop Reggae Artist D Howell Drops New Single “Man Dem”

0

International selling Pop/ Reggae artist, D Howell drops his new single, “Man Dem” available now, on all major music platforms. The release, featuring Ding Dong & Nicky B, follows a long list of hit music from the talented pop-reggae artist. Howell’s single, ’Wine Bounce” with Jamaican born reggae artist Dominant ft. Nick B was picked up by Universal Music, solidifying Howell’s career with the likes of Sean Paul, Elephant Man and Sarani.

The artist contributes his Jamaican roots to the success of his brand. Keeping his early beginnings in Spanish Town, Jamacia close to his heart, “Man Dem” (meaning multiple men) was created. The single is inspired by the multicultural people of Toronto with special consideration to the immigrants from Jamaica. Their specific style of talking is heard on every street corner in Toronto. 

The new generation have made it their own, a way of bringing and keeping their heritage alive. Howell’s music speaks to that, making the heritage & the music one. The highly anticipated release of “Man Dem” will take you home to Spanish Town.

International Pop Reggae Artist D Howell Drops New Single "Man Dem"

DJ, producer and artist, D Howell knows what it takes to make hit singles. It’s not just talent that makes a single a hit, but the chemistry & respect for your fellow artists. Knowing what works and what doesn’t between artists is key. Mixing different instruments, sounds and styles to create his always evolving pop reggae sound has made Howell an in-demand producer and artist. From the super hit ‘Jumanji’ to a lineup of multi-selling collaborations featuring his unique reggae influence, Howell makes it work. 

Collaborations include Karl Wolf (“Fall in Love”), Danny Fernandes (“Party”) and the man himself, Sean Paul (“Time to Party”). Howell writes for and brings together a wide range of artists from different genres into his studio to create a combination of sounds that works on the music charts today. 

D Howell brings the love, nurture & music of his early beginnings to his seat at the industry table. “Man Dem” takes you on that journey…  

Listen to “Man Dem” now:

4 Convincing Reasons To Rent a Beach House

0
4 Convincing Reasons To Rent a Beach House

Going on vacation is one of the biggest things many families look forward to, but it requires a lot of planning. Aside from choosing the destination, booking a place to stay is one of the most important details to work out as soon as possible. Although many people believe that staying in a hotel is the best option when it comes to vacations, rental properties are great choices in many cases. Dive into a few convincing reasons to rent a beach house.

Everyone Gets Their Own Space

Unless you’re going on a vacation by yourself, you should consider a rental property that offers privacy and extra space for everyone. Renting a house is a great way to stay together with family or friends but have separate rooms and bathrooms. There’s nothing worse than trying to share one bathroom with four or more people, and many beach houses have one for every room. If you’re looking for the best option to give everyone adequate space, renting a whole house is a great choice.

Cut Down on Eating Out

Being away from home can be a challenge, as you have to plan ahead when it comes to meals and snacks. In fact, many people eat out at restaurants and cafés for every meal on vacation. When you stay in a hotel, this is the best option because you usually don’t have a full kitchen. On the other hand, you can cut down on eating out when you rent a beach house, as you’ll have a full kitchen available. Even if you only cook a few meals at your rental, your group won’t have to eat out multiple times each day.

It’s Often the Cheaper Option

Even though renting a house sounds expensive, it’s often the cheaper option. Suppose you go on a trip with another couple or family—you’ll each have to spend money on a hotel room for a week or however long you’re staying. However, you can stay together in a rental house and split the overall cost. This way, the expense for you may be much cheaper than buying multiple nights at a hotel.

Do What You Want, When You Want

When you stay in a hotel, you might have to conform to a specific schedule for meals, housekeeping, etc. On the other hand, staying in a rental house allows you to do what you want, when you want. Whether you want to get up early to walk on the beach, sleep in, or stay up late, you can enjoy your time however you please.

After learning the convincing reasons to rent a beach house, you should determine whether a short- or long-term rental is right for you. Tropical vacations are the ultimate way to relax and unwind—rent a house to unlock the perfect trip.

Island SPACE Caribbean Museum Welcomes South Florida for Grand Reopening

0
A guest is welcomed to the new Island SPACE Caribbean Museum location. | Photo: David I. Muir (Island Syndicate)

Plantation, FL. March 23, 2023 – Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, the only Caribbean heritage museum in the United States, will host a grand reopening on Saturday, April 8th. Still in the northeast section of Broward Mall, the archive, art gallery and center for the arts recently relocated to a larger unit, now benefiting from more space for community collaboration. The event, themed “A Celebration of the Caribbean,” will welcome attendees of all ages and cultures with free entry, family-friendly activities and surprises. 

The day will begin with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:00 a.m. The first 50 guests to attend the ribbon cutting will receive welcome gifts. From 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., guests can explore the facility on their own, or join one of three guided group tours starting at 12:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. Kids can enjoy Easter activities including kite and hat making, and the whole family can enjoy musical performances and interactive cultural dance presentations.

In the evening, the museum will host donors and partners for a private reception. Invited attendees will learn about the museum’s progress, programs, plans for future development and additional partnership opportunities, while they enjoy great company, entertainment and light refreshments. 

Guests visit the space ahead of the Island SPACE Caribbean Museum grand reopening.
Guests learn about some of Florida’s Caribbean leaders in business, politics and entertainment in the Caribbean-American section of the Island SPACE archive. | Photo: David I. Muir (Island Syndicate)

“We are excited to welcome South Florida to the new Island SPACE facility,” said president of the board of directors, Calibe Thompson. “While many loved our original location, the new space feels bigger, brighter and more welcoming. We are planning a robust calendar of culturally enriching, educational and exciting events and exhibits, and we can’t wait to learn what our wonderful guests, familiar and new, think about the work we do.”

To find the new location: Guests may park in the lot near Broward Boulevard and University Drive, and enter through the doors across from the disabled parking area, where the mall meets the new construction. After passing the management offices, Island SPACE will be the first unit on the left.

For more information about the Island SPACE Caribbean Museum Grand Reopening: A Celebration of the Caribbean, visit islandspacefl.org/reopening or contact 954-999-0989.


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.

Find information on ways to give at islandspacefl.org/giving, GoFundMe, Benevity for corporate giving and Facebook, donate directly through PayPal or Zelle to [email protected], or email the museum for details at [email protected].

To support Island SPACE during the month of May, attend one of their many Women’s History Month activities and events.

Barbados’ Unique Impact on the Future of Fintech

0
Barbados impact on Fintech

On January 24th -26th, 2024, over 800 Fintech leaders worldwide will convene at the second annual Fintech Islands Experience conference at the magnificent new Sam Lord’s Castle Resort. The members of this diverse global community – startup founders, venture capitalists, bank executives, technology vendors, financial regulators, and more – align around a shared mission to leverage emerging technologies to create a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable economic system. But why have they chosen this venue on the small island nation of Barbados as the place to cultivate partnerships, share insights and build financial technology businesses? 

There are many reasons, starting with the bold leadership of The Honorable Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley. The delicate balancing act for financial regulators in every global jurisdiction is protecting the vulnerable while also fostering innovation that stimulates economic growth and opportunity. In this regard, Prime Minister Mottley sets a remarkable example. In her keynote address at the inaugural Fintech Islands conference in October 2022, Mottley espoused an insightful approach to regulation that weighs whether each emerging financial solution serves the public purpose while avoiding public mischief and discrimination. “It is in the principles-based approach that we find what is fair to you [the Fintech industry] and what is fair to those with whom you are seeking to serve.” 

Attendees at the Fintech Islands Experience conference

Barbados is asserting itself globally as an impactful catalyst for the Fintech revolution. As Fintech leaders from around the globe convene at Sam Lord’s Castle later this year, much is at stake for the participating businesses and investors, the consumers impacted by Fintech innovations, and the governments seeking to balance economic opportunity with protecting their citizens. The 2022 Financial Services Global Market Report estimates that there was over USD 25 billion worth of the global financial services market, growing at a compound annual growth rate of nearly 10% to over USD 37 billion by 2026. 

In addition to regulatory environments that provide a sandbox for Fintech experimentation, the Caribbean and Atlantic also present a receptive market for Fintech companies to establish themselves and expand globally. Across a total population of 45 million people, about two-thirds of Caribbean citizens are unbanked, meaning they are predominantly cash-based. Thus it is critical to the region’s economic future to introduce innovative financial solutions that help overcome cultural and historical barriers to transition from legacy methods and spur the adoption of digital tools. 

Speakers at the Fintech Islands Experience conference

The Fintech opportunity is wider than the Caribbean region. Fintech is a worldwide movement based on strategic partnerships and international connectivity of the Caribbean, both culturally and economically. In addition to the global intersections in the region created by tourism, there is a robust Caribbean Diaspora, making the Diaspora a valuable untapped potential resource for economic development. 

Fintech is a broad space that addresses a diverse range of issues. Topics such as open banking and finance, digital currencies, climate and sustainability, and financial inclusion have unique relevance in the Caribbean and impact global geographies. For example, a central banker in Africa or LATAM can learn and benefit from insights from Central Bank Digital Currency experiments by various Caribbean central banks. The relatively small size of the market, combined with a willingness to be global first-movers to test new financial innovations, make the Caribbean an important Fintech catalyst. 

With its dynamic leadership and gateway access to the world, Barbados has a unique opportunity at this pivotal moment in the Caribbean’s Fintech revolution to become the hub for the region propelling the blue and green industries towards a better economy.


Allison Hunte is the Co-Founder and CEO of Fintech Islands, the first global Fintech conference in the Caribbean and Atlantic. She is also the Co-Founder of Headline Entertainment, the Caribbean most prominent full-service entertainment agency. Allison holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Howard University, where she developed a passion for the music business and entrepreneurship. With over 25 years of success in live events and project management, Hunte is responsible for The Barbados Reggae Festival, Hennessy Artistry, Taste the Islands, and a host of large-scale live events across the Caribbean and South Florida. 

Andrew Morris is a Principal and the Chief Content Officer at Fintech Islands. He is also the founder and CEO of The Fintech Agenda LLC, an Atlanta-based consultancy working with clients to curate content and build events and communities in the Fintech space. From 2014 through 2019, Andrew served as the first Chief Content Officer for the Money20/20 conferences, helping to build the largest and most influential Fintech events globally, including successful editions in the United States (Las Vegas), Europe (Amsterdam) and Asia (Singapore).

House of Flamez: A Review of One of the Hottest Food Destinations in Jamaica

0

Two focused friends buried in work decided to take a break and embark on a culinary adventure, attempting to satisfy their insatiable appetites. They abandoned their desks and set off on a journey in search of gastronomic delights. 

Our destination was the House of Flamez Bar and Grill located at the foot of Jacks Hill in Kingston, Jamaica. The venue—opened during the height of the pandemic—was easy to find. 

As we approached the chocolate-hued wooden door, I felt a sense of excitement and intrigue. I wondered what secrets lay behind this mysterious portal. The sweet sounds of retro 90s dancehall mixed with other musical genres wafted out, luring me in. 

My friend and I ran into a familiar face as we made our way to the upper deck. From up high, we took in the panoramic view of the quaint level below us and found the perfect seats for the evening. A light haze filled the atmosphere as there were no smoking restrictions.

House of Flamez: A Review of One of the Hottest Food Destinations in Jamaica
Chicken salad, courtesy of @houseofflamezja on Instagram

Our server approached us quickly with a warm smile. We looked through the menus and chose our meals. I indulged in the delicious chicken quesadillas with a succulent shrimp salad and a glass of bold 19 Crimes wine. My friend opted for the crispy tostones (fried green plantains) and saltfish, a juicy chicken salad and a refreshing Ting infused with a hint of white rum. Our server brought our plates in about 30 minutes and the food arrived hot.

This error message is only visible to WordPress admins

Error: No feed found.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.

This error message is only visible to WordPress admins

Error: No feed found.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.

The chicken quesadillas were delightful — filled with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro. The saltfish was bursting with herbs, spices, and vegetables that blended perfectly. The crispy shrimp on a bed of garden salad with a sweet sauce tantalized my taste buds, all while providing a healthy addition to the meal. I didn’t taste my friend’s meal, but apparently it was equally enjoyable.

House of Flamez: A Review of One of the Hottest Food Destinations in Jamaica
Shrimp salad, courtesy of @houseofflamezja on Instagram

For those with a sweet tooth, the only dessert option available is ice cream. My friend succumbed to the temptation of a scoop garnished with melted chocolate and a cherry on top, and I had a taste of it.

The bill came to US$29.00 for me and US$22.00 for my friend, which was well worth it.

Amid the entertainment, we noticed a group of four men playing dominoes down below. The rustic setting is perfect for those seeking a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere with good friends. My friend summed it up perfectly: “It has a vibe.”

House of Flamez owner, Al Pilliner, is highly respected in the community. He even allows taxi drivers to park their vehicles on his property after hours, rather than parking on the sides of the street, to avoid hassle from the police. He provides young people from the nearby depressed Grants Pen area with jobs and the opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Friendly Al often makes time to engage with his customers.

Overall, this culinary journey was a delight to the senses and a great experience. From the delectable dishes to the impeccable service, every aspect of this dining experience met, and in some instances, exceeded our expectations. As a foodie, I highly recommend House of Flamez to anyone seeking a truly Caribbean culinary adventure.


House of Flamez Bar and Grill

1C Jacks Hill Road, Kingston 8  

 Jamaican, International | Lunch, Dinner, Drinks  

Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 11:00 AM – 08:30 PM  ·  Sat 11:00 AM – 07:30 PM  ·  Sun 12:00 PM – 05:30 PM   

Papa Keith’s Annual People Matter Fest Is Set For March 18 At Traz Powell Stadium

0

Since its inception, anywhere hip-hop went, activism was never far behind. 103.5 The Beat’s host, Papa Keith, upholds this sentiment through his annual gun-violence awareness hip-hop festival, People Matter Fest (PMF).

Produced through his nonprofit Papa Keith 4 People Matter (PK4PM) Foundation, the free “world-class” hip-hop festival returns with fresh entertainment and an emboldened stance on the same powerful mission. Keith, a Brooklyn native, crafted the PM Fest initiative in 2017 with his team out of his love for hip-hop and the dire need to educate Miami-Dade inner-city youth about the perennial issue of gun violence.

Today, the PMF is Liberty City’s first and only music festival – generating a crowd of over 5,000 attendees annually. The two-day event will be full of music, sports, family fun, and, most pivotal: advocacy. The county-acclaimed 24-hour ceasefire campaign, rallying Miami-Dade to refrain from gun use for the day, will start on March 17 and remain throughout the festival. The 24-Hour Cease Fire press conference is set for Friday, March 17, at noon at Gwen Cherry Park (7090 NW 22nd Ave, Miami, FL 33147).

Attendees scheduled to speak include; Miami-Dade County Mayor -Daniella Levine, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Marlene Bastien-District 2, Alfred “Freddy” Ramirez-Miami-Dade County Police Department Director,Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall-Miami-Dade County Public Schools Board member District 2, HT Smith Esq.-Founder and Chairman of the Board, Gwen Cherry Park Foundation in Liberty City to name a few. 

The official festival kicks off Friday, March 17, with a football and basketball tournament open to the public at Gwen Cherry Park. The football tournament will begin at 3 pm, and the basketball tournament will commence at 7 pm, marking the start of the 24-Hour Cease Fire Campaign. On Saturday, March 18, from 12-7 pm at Traz Powell Stadium(11380 NW 27th Ave, Miami, FL), a fun day for the entire community is planned.

“We suffer from a lot of unnecessary gun violence here in South Florida, so we definitely need the 24-hour ceasefire,” said Keith. “I don’t know if it’s luck, but the ceasefire is our biggest success story. We go directly into the communities with gun violence issues and ask them to respect the ceasefire to ensure a peaceful festival.”

“I am proud to partner with Papa Keith for the much-needed Cease Fire campaign at his signature People Matter Fest, which has proven to be a success year after year,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and sponsor of the event.” Miami-Dade now has one of the lowest rates of gun violence in any metro area in the country, and it’s thanks to innovative and successful violence prevention initiatives that our County government and community partners are implementing. We want all of our residents and visitors to feel safe and enjoy a wonderful day of music and fun without fear. This collaboration is a huge step towards safer communities for all,” says Daniella Levine Cava-Miami-Dade County Mayor.

“I am proud to support the People Matter Fest and PK4PM movement to positively shape the future of underserved communities. This annual event has been hosted in District 2, and I look forward to another wonderful event, with everyone in the community in attendance,” Miami-Dade County Commissioner Marlene Bastien.

Papa Keith's Annual People Matter Fest Is Set For March 18 At Traz Powell Stadium

“We believe that young people are the very essence of our future. The future of our nation lies in the hands of the next generation. I believe that if we want the best for our children and our nation, we need to empower and strengthen our youth. I believe that Papa Keith’s People Matter Fest is set to do just that. We need more awareness and education so we can lessen the crimes on our streets. Enough is enough, and we need to enforce the 24-hour ceasefire,” said Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, Miami-Dade County Public Schools Board member for District 2 and sponsor of the event.

“I work on a hip-hop radio station and love hip-hop music, but it gets a bad reputation,” Keith said. “My goal is to unite, suppress gun violence, and create a community using hip-hop and show that it’s not all bad – that we do good things in the community, for the community.” 

Among these yearly attendees is Romania Dukes, founder of advocacy nonprofit Mothers Fighting for Justice. Her son De’Michael was only 18 when a stray bullet shot and killed him in 2014 – his killer has since not been identified. In the midst of grief, Dukes channeled her pain into being a source of light for other grieving mothers, birthing the nonprofit. 

As an award-winning community activist who partners with the Miami-Dade Police Department and the State Attorney’s office, Dukes is notified of every gun-related homicide in the community. Not only does she receive an ample amount of these calls but “nine times out of ten” Dukes says she knows the victim or their parents. 

Reports from a gun violence prevention organization Everytown For Gun Safety, indicate that the use of firearms accounts for over 70 percent of homicides in Florida.

Through sponsorships such as Miami-Dade County, United Teachers of Dade, The Children’s Trust, Dunkin, and many more — the hip-hop festival will have community vendors, resource centers, and a “kid zone” with carnival rides, art activities, and giveaways.

“Hip-hop is my life, so to be able to bring community and hip-hop together in this way is very special to me,” Keith said.

Island SPACE Caribbean Museum Celebrates Women’s History with Women Warriors of Social Justice Series

0
Pieces from “Earth, Water & Skin: Caribbean Women in Art” exhibition at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. Madonna and Child (Sonya Sanchez Arias), Hezekiah and Sugar Dumpling (Krystle Sabdul), Life’s Flow and Brainstorming (Michelle Drummond) and A New Chapter (Sonya Sanchez Arias).

Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, a museum dedicated to celebrating and preserving the cultural heritage of the Caribbean community, will present a “Women Warriors of Social Justice” event series. From now through May 14, 2023, Island SPACE will celebrate the accomplishments of exceptional Caribbean women with exhibits and program activities including a fine art show, a one-woman play on the life and times of Shirley Chisholm, and speaker and performance events. The series will be based at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, Broward Mall, 8000 W Broward Blvd #202, Plantation, FL 33388. 

“Women Warriors of Social Justice” is made possible by 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.

Events will be set against the backdrop of two installations. “Earth, Water & Skin: Caribbean Women in Art” is a fine art show featuring the work of multimedia creatives Michelle Drummond and Krystle Sabdul of Jamaica, and Sonya Sanchez Arias of Trinidad. Their stunning, multidimensional pieces are portrayed in yarn, charcoal, paint and found objects hanging from the walls and ceiling of the Island SPACE gallery. The “Caribbean Sheroes” exhibition features female leaders of Caribbean descent, including the stories of 14 inspirational changemakers from South Florida and the Caribbean. 

On Sunday, March 19, Island SPACE will host a Women’s History Month Celebration featuring guest speaker Dr Patricia Morris, president of Equilo Foundation, presenting a talk on 7 Steps to Women’s Empowerment, as well as live dance, spoken word performances and other cultural entertainment. Learn more at www.islandspacefl.org/womensmonth

A second event at Island SPACE on Sunday May 7th, one week before Mother’s Day, “Honoring HERS” will recognize some of the women on display in the museum, feature curated spoken word performances by Caribbean woman poets and help women learn how to take care of themselves. The live segment of this event will be curated by Frankie Red Wordz. Learn more at www.islandspacefl.org/sheroes

Women Warriors of Social Justice Series
Actor Ingrid Griffith (right) will portray Shirley Chisholm in a Mother’s Day one-woman show.

Finally, to mark Mother’s Day on the afternoon of Sunday May 14, Island SPACE will present a one-woman play titled “Unbossed and Unbowed” which tells the story of Shirley Chisholm’s life. The play, performed by Ingrid Griffith at the Pompano Beach Center for the Performing Arts, explores Chisholm’s pioneering political career and tireless social justice advocacy. Learn more at www.islandspacefl.org/mothersdayshow.  

“As a Caribbean woman who cares deeply about the people who share my heritage ‘Women Warriors of Social Justice’ at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum means a great deal to me,” said Island SPACE board president Calibe Thompson. “The event series celebrates women so many of us respect and admire, and it will provide an opportunity for our community to learn about their incredible legacies.”


Key Dates:

March 18 – May 14: Earth, Water & Skin: Caribbean Women in Art | A fine art exhibition, free with museum entry fee.

March 18 – May 14: Caribbean Sheroes | A profile exhibition, free with museum entry fee.

Sunday, March 19 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.: Women’s History Month Celebration | Inspirational guest speaker and live cultural performances.

Sunday, May 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Honoring HERS | Recognizing phenomenal contemporary Caribbean women, with a poetry and music showcase and self care instruction.

Sunday, May 14 from 2:30 – 5:00 p.m.: Unbossed and Unbowed | A one-woman show on the life of Shirley Chisholm.

For more information about the “Women Warriors of Social Justice” event series, visit islandspacefl.org or contact 954-999-0989.


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.

Find information on ways to give at islandspacefl.org/giving, GoFundMe, Benevity for corporate giving and Facebook, donate directly through PayPal or Zelle to [email protected], or email the museum for details at [email protected].

Broward Center For The Performing Arts Hosts Second Annual Rhythm By The River: A Festival Celebrating Black Voices

0
Arts for Action Panel Discussion, Courtesy of Broward Center

The free event on Sunday, March 19 is presented by Baptist Health and JM Family Enterprises

FORT LAUDERDALE – The most exciting and innovative Black voices in Broward County take center stage when the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents the second annual Rhythm by the River: A Festival Celebrating Black Voices from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 19 at Esplanade Park, 32 E. Las Olas Blvd. in downtown Fort Lauderdale. 

Rhythm by the River features live music, dance, drama and spoken word poetry performances as well as interactive events for the entire family.

On the main stage, The Smoogies kick off the afternoon’s music lineup with a blend of jazz, funk and R&B sounds and influences that will make people feel good while listening. Miami-born Gia Wyre, also known as “Songbird,” uplifts the audience with her voice and soul-stirring gospel, R&B and soul repertoire. Singer, saxophonist and pianist Timothy Dukes brings the powerful sounds of gospel to inspire the audience. The party continues with the energy-packed performance from singer, songwriter and producer Sizwe Collins, a staple in the Caribbean community across South Florida, who brings a contagious mix of sounds from steelpan, African drums. R&B and hip-hop artist/producer Jean Carlos Casely closes the festival’s performances on a high note.

Broward Center For The Performing Arts Hosts Second Annual Rhythm By The River: A Festival Celebrating Black Voices
Troup Fall, Photo credit: Mark James

Free community workshops offered at the Broward Center’s Mary N. Porter Riverview Ballroom include spoken word with Art Prevails Project founder Darius V. Daughtry, drumming with Troupe Fall West African Drum and Dance and hip-hop/dance with Developing Dream Foundation’s executive director Pablo Malco. 

The afternoon also features arts and crafts as well as food trucks from J&J Soul Food, Wontons on Wheels, The Caribe Vegan and cupcakes from Sweet Sensations by Charlene. 

Broward Center For The Performing Arts Hosts Second Annual Rhythm By The River: A Festival Celebrating Black Voices
Art Prevails Project, Photo credit: Mark James

Rhythm by the River is proudly supported by radio media sponsor Cox Media Group and will be hosted live by Supa Cindy from The Pac Jam Morning Show on 99 JAMZ and Rodney Baltimore, mornings on Hot 105.

Rhythm by the River is part of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts’ Arts for Action: Black Voices initiative, co-presented by Baptist Health and JM Family Enterprises, Inc., which focuses on how the arts and artists can be a force for change in addressing critical issues of social justice and racial inequality. 

To learn more about Arts for Action: Black Voices events or to get involved, visit BrowardCenter.org or email [email protected].


The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. For more information visit BrowardCenter.org, like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/BrowardCenter and Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at Youtube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter.

The Broward Center 2022/2023 season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center are proud sponsors of the Broward Center. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment of the Arts.

Jamaicans Among Honorees as Le P’ti Club Celebrates 7th Prestigious Women of Excellence Award in 2023

0
Island SPACE Caribbean Museum President and Island Syndicate co-founder Calibe Thompson, and Circle of One Marketing founder Suzan McDowell honored with Women of Excellence Award
Calibe Thompson of Island Syndicate and Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, and Suzan McDowell of Circle of One Marketing. | Photo: Island Syndicate

Miramar, FL – March 14, 2023: On Friday, March 31, 2023, Le P’ti Club presents the seventh edition of its Prestigious Women of Excellence Awards. The weekend event by Retro-Follies, a division of Le P’ti Club, presents the Caribbean International Recipients Hall — Women of Excellence, recognizing 13 female leaders from various backgrounds in the arts, media and the political realm.

The celebration features several internationally recognized speakers and is hosted under the auspices of Vice-Mayor Yvette Colbourne as a Prestigious Honoree and the “Godmother” of the 2023 edition.

During the ceremony where a number of accomplished Caribbean women will be recognized, acclaimed Haitian singer Emeline Michel will become the proud recipient of the prestigious Women of Excellence Awards 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award. Prestigious Jamaican honorees include Island SPACE Caribbean Museum President and Island Syndicate co-founder Calibe Thompson, and Circle of One Marketing founder Suzan McDowell.

“Jimmy Moise has been a great partner to Island SPACE,” said Thompson. “I’m honored that his organization has chosen to recognize the work we do in this way during Women’s History Month. And I’m delighted to be in the company of such outstanding Caribbean women.”

“I am proud to represent Jamaica, the home of my birth and family heritage, at the Le P’ti Club 7th Prestigious Women of Excellence Award in 2023,” Said McDowell. “Especially in the company of so many powerful Caribbean women. Kudos to us all!”

The event features a fashion show, musical entertainment and an open dance floor. Guests are invited to dance until 1:00 a.m. in great company with free parking and easy access from I-95, US-441 and the Florida Turnpike.

Le P’ti Club is an arts, entertainment and cultural organization celebrating 20 years of spreading art awareness in the Caribbean community at large since its creation in 2003 in the city of Miramar. Tickets for the awards show are available at PWOEA2023.eventbrite.com

Prestigious Women of Excellence Awards

Friday, March 31, 2023
Miramar Multi-Service Complex Ballroom
6700 Miramar Pkwy
Miramar, FL 33023

For more details, contact Jimmy J. Moise at 954 687-7063 or [email protected].

Latest