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Jamaican born Fashion Designer Carmichael Byfield, is a double award winning designer and owner of the luxury fashion brand 'House of Byfield'. He currently resides in the Netherlands, where he continues to represent Jamaica and the entire Caribbean globally with exclusive fashionable shows and production. His passion for designing men’s clothes started at an early age, when designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Moschino who in1994 produced flower-printed menswear that inspired him. Having trained in Jamaica and New York, Carmichael designer’s hands started itching again when he moved to the Netherlands. In 2011 Carmichael started designing for himself and then later focusing on men’s clothes, which leads to the inception of “House of Byfield” which can be described as discreet and elegant wear with an eye for detail and a sportive touch. Carmichael mostly works with light fabrics in asymmetrical layers, so it falls beautifully and naturally on the body. His ‘daywear suits’ are for men who dare to dress well and still aren’t afraid to use color. In June 2014 Carmichael was awarded in Washington, DC in recognition for remarkable contributions to the Caribbean Fashion. Also in October, was awarded in Rotterdam, Netherlands for Extraordinary Achievement The Carmichael Byfield Design has been in approximately {87} International publications in different fashion magazines. He will continue to aim high and represent the Caribbean. Carmichael Byfield a man with a limitless vision. House of Byfield COLLECTION Credits for the shoot: Photographer: Hans Bolten Stylist/Designer: Carmichael Byfield Mua/Hair-Stylist: Carla Stroijckens Models: Leon Dewman, Thomas Toonen, Fabian von Gelder & Valerie Verhaar.

Rising international music sensation, MonChérie, continues her quest for recognition as one of this generation's most dynamic young music artists. After her music debut earlier this year, which unleashed the major hit single, "No Santa," the singer has followed up that effort with her heavily awaited and equally energetic new song, "Billy Billy Boom Boom." The 20-year-old St. Lucian songstress is on the last leg of a busy 2014 campaign that showcased a unique musical infusion of reggae/dancehall, pop and R&B. Her magnetic persona and sultry voice has captured the attention of industry insiders across the U.S. and the Caribbean and most have little doubt of her potential for super stardom. "My goal is to bring hot music and a new sound to the industry," said MonChérie, who sites Jamaican dancehall trailblazers Lady Saw and Patra as her musical influences. "But I also want to bring back the culture to Caribbean music by representing this generation. It is not old school, but it is a mixture of African and West Indian styles and sounds. You will see a lot of dancing. That is what I wanted to get across with Billy Boom." Although “Billy Boom” has an island feel to it, MonChérie is adamant about the desire for her music to transcend the Caribbean music scene. “My music is about pulling cultures together and taking my sound to an international level where everyone can move and vibe to it,” she said. “I believe I have a sound and message that can reach anyone, no matter where they are from. I definitely will be tackling social issues pertaining to women, relationship problems, life-problems and sharing some feel good, happy music.” Aside from her music, MonChérie is never one to leave her fans hanging. She is a constant presence on social media; updating Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages with inspirational messages, photos and behind the scenes footage of video shoots. She wants her followers to capture the full scope of who she is and to share in her musical journey. “I want to open doors for new and even old Caribbean artists to do the same thing I am doing here in America. It is all about inspiring and encouraging one another,” she said. “Hopefully the work that I am doing now will pave the way for others who have dreams similar to mine.” In 2015, MonChérie plans to release new projects and she is also looking to explore possible collaborations with other big name artists. For all important news and updates, fans should access her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Moncheriemusic1. The official video for “Billy Billy Boom Boom” can be viewed on YouTube. The song is also available for purchase on iTunes and Google Play. To schedule an interview with MonChérie, contact Ivan Thomas at202.904.4790 or intriguemg@gmail.com.

Visitors to St. Kitts in December can look forward to joining with locals in various aspects of the island’s national Carnival celebrations. The St. Kitts Carnival features a unique mix of lively and historic folklore, along with the more conventional elements of the colourful costumed street ‘mas’ that is always found in most Caribbean style festivals. With numerous activities commencing as early as December 5th, the main street activities start on Boxing Day and last through to a two-day New year’s climax. This jubilant, engaging experience for local residents and visitors alike is affectionately called “Sugar Mas” – a most appropriate name that pays respect to the days when the island’s primary economic driver was its sugar industry. “St. Kitts’ Carnival is a very special time for all Kittitians everywhere and that is why so many of our people return home in December to enjoy our Christmas traditions and folkloric heritage,” commented Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister of Tourism & International Transport. “Travelers to St. Kitts at this time of year are always enchanted by the vibrant sights and sounds of our heritage and are encouraged to participate in the warmth of our Carnival celebrations.” The schedule of main events for this year’s St. Kitts’ Carnival is as follows: Friday, December 26 J’ouvert Street Jam Sunday, December 28 National Queen Pageant Monday, December 29 Senior Calypso Monarch Finals Tuesday, December 30 Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant Wednesday, December 31 Junior Carnival Parade Wednesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Gala (Members Only) Thursday, January 1 Grand Carnival Parade Friday, January 2 Las Lap The brilliant folkloric street displays are truly the heart of the St. Kitts’ Carnival, including the traditional Bull, Masquerade, Moko-Jumbies and Clowns. The Bull is a comedic play that acts out an exaggeration of an incident reported to have taken place in the early 1900s and continues today as one of the surviving features of earlier Christmas street pageants. Masquerade, in turn, showcases dancers dressed in vividly colored and bejeweled costumes, including elaborate feathered headdresses and masks. The awe-inspiring stilt walkers, or Moko-Jumbies, have their origins in African mythology and thrill onlookers as they walk and dance on six- to eight-foot stilts. Meanwhile, the Clowns are somewhat of an enigma in the English-speaking Caribbean and are thought to be the legacy of a 17th century French governor who resided on St. Kitts. If these street displays are Carnival’s heart, then music is its soul. Played throughout nearly every activity during the celebration, the traditional sounds of string, steel and brass bands are complimented by the intoxicating rhythms hammered out from old oil drums magically converted to chrome covered steel pan musical instruments. Street jams dominate the landscape, with the most popular jam taking place on J’ouvert, signaling the end of Christmas and the launching of Carnival into full swing before it draws to a close with the onset of the New Year. Throughout much of the world, the main features of Carnival are masquerades and parades. On St. Kitts it is so much more, blending elements of African, European and regional influences in a profound and multifaceted artistic expression of national pride, cultural traditions and heritage through song, dance, drama, poetry and music in a variety of competitions, performances and street activities. Meanwhile, the spirit of Christmas is kept alive through a series of evening gospel type concerts in downtown Basseterre. St. Kitts’ Carnival also stands out from most others due to its family-friendly nature. Both the young and old eagerly participate and there are events for specific age groups, such as the Talented Teen contest, Children’s Carnival and both junior and adult calypso competitions. Local food and drinks are available everywhere, from saltfish cakes and black pudding to ginger beer and sorrel.

The reigning Miss Universe Bahamas Tomii Culmer has added another title to her resume; she recently won the Miss Coco International pageant that was held in Colombia on the island of San Andres. After being on a 16 year hiatus, six beautiful candidates from Belize, Bahamas, Colombia, Honduras, Panama and Jamaica, competed the areas of poise, beauty, national dress, national costume, and judges First runner up went to Panama’s Keasy Myrie while Colombia’s Kimberly Padilla placed 2nd runner up. 19 years Brianna Thomas from Jamaica won the title of Miss Congeniality award

Most artists aim to inspire, evoke feelings and convey their story through lyrics and music. Such is Queen Calida's musical path, to use her words to paint her story of struggles, faith and triumph over adversity. To wear the title of Queen comes with requirements, one must hold her head high and be a role model. Queen Calida adheres to those qualities, and as a single mother looks to pass on the crown to her daughter. To leave her legacy, she documented and penned her story through her single "Find A Way". Gaining support and positive feedback, Queen Calida released a video in support of the inspirational hit. Filmed in Queens and Brooklyn, New York, "Find A Way" video was executive produced by Queen Calida herself, and directed by J.Herby of unlimited productionz, with Marsha Hamilton as assistant Director and featured actress. An added personal touch was the voice of Queen's daughter in the video introduction. Describing the video, Queen stated "I don't wanna go," my daughter said as she hugged me with all her little might,tears falling from her tiny eyes."When things get hard people work together mommy.I'll come home and lock the door and be very quiet and do my homework and make sure no one knows i'm here."My only response was tears and the return of her embrace as her innocence pierced my heart."She further explains "Babygirl and i had a very close bond as depicted in the video. I simply retraced our steps from the experiences frozen in my memory.The park in the video is the same one we used to go to.. I have been writing for a while but this song came from the deepest part of me.I wanted to ensure that she saw and understood and could access the reason we are not together. I made it one of the motivational tools for my musical and life journey.The fight continues as i persist through the pain and hardship to "find a way." I believe there is a light at the end of every tunnel and that's where I'm headed." "Real battles are the ones we fight every day to succeed despite all odds." Queen Calida Adopting the moniker of Queen Calida, Opal Meeks was born in the inner city of seaview Gardens Kingston, Jamaica. A place like many other with hardships, beauty, life and an abundance of talents such as Grammy award winner Shabba Ranks, the iconic Bounty Killer and Elephant Man just to name a few. From a young age she was exposed to the rigors and hardship of life, which is reflected in her music. Despite her deprived surrounding education was a priority in which she successfully succeeded and excelled. As early as she can recall music lived within her soul. Queen Calida's alma mater Merl Grove High School is the foundation from which her talent was developed. At the age of fourteen she wrote and performed her first song for the entire school body in their school's auditorium. She developed a love for the performing arts and was actively involved in the annual J.C.D.C and School's Drama festivals throughout her tenure of high school. She received many accolades including a gold medal for dub poetry. Her journey led her to corporate Jamaica where unfulfilled she left to pursue her dreams. Upon her return to the musical arena, Queen Calida wrote a song that she used to enter the Magnum King and Queens of dancehall competition held annually in Jamaica. Of over six hundred contestants in the Portmore auditions in 2010 she was selected among the top five competitors for advancement. Her journey eventually lead her New York City. All that glitters isn't gold and the promises of fame and fortune has come at a cost which Queen Calida reflects on her new single "Find A Way," dedicated to her baby girl and their experience in America. Her aim is to build and uplift others with her music. Her subjects reflects real life events in a positive and inspirational manner.Her ultimate dream is to rock millions with her sound.

Twenty-four year old self-taught Bahamian filmmaker Jarrod Knowles recently announced the launch of the first annual WideScreen Film and Music Video Festival at the AMC Aventura 24 Theaters in Aventura, FL, set to take place from February 27 – March 3, 2015. Knowles studied Information Technology with Liberal Studies at Florida International University. It was there that his life took an interesting curve into filmmaking. Hecompleted his first film, "What Lies Beyond...The Beginning" in 2012 and had a red carpet premiere in Florida in 2013. Knowles may perhaps be the first Bahamian to work in the horror / comedy genre of filmmaking. When asked why he chose that particular genre he said,"Horror is typically one of the easier genres to produce, as far as competition is concerned, because there aren't many great horror films. Moreover, you usually don't need a huge budget, or big name actors." Jarrod directing... Jarrod was born and raised in Nassau, Bahamas and attended Kingsway Academy and Queen's College as well as home-schooled for a year. Having never attended formal film school he said he was simply driven by his vision and thrived off of the enthusiasm and knowledge of his cast and crew. "This experience taught me so much. More, than any school could ever teach me. 'Experience' is indeed the greatest teacher," said Knowles. "I can certainly say that what I do is not meant for the faint of heart. I am driven by my will to succeed, and that requires a unique level of relentless tenacity and utter determination." Along with his work on other scripts and films Knowles is the president and founder of the WideScreen Film and Music Video Festival will give other filmmakers and artists the ability to shine. The event is sponsored by TheBahamasWeekly.com, a Bahamian and Canadian based news and events website."Knowles is a talented young filmmaker with a bright future," said Craig Woods, Bahamas Film Commissioner. "With consistent work and focus, his career as a filmmaker can only go to greater heights. Keep your eyes on the prize, Jarrod," said Woods. Filmmakers from around the world can submit films to the WideScreen Film & Music Video Festival for a chance to win bragging rights and the ultimate prizes: WideScreenFilm and Music Video’s Best Filmmaker Award as well as $500 cash. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society’s charity foundation Relay For Life. Film submission entries begin Monday, December 1, 2014; all official selections will be announced Sunday, February 15, 2015. Early birds can purchase admission tickets in advance, beginning early January 2015. For Submission details or more information on the WideScreen Film & Music Video Festival visit: www.widescreenfest.com Call for Entries: First Annual WideScreen Festival In Miami Watch Jarrod Knowles speak about the event in this VIDEO Stay connected through social media with the Official hashtag #WSF

By many accounts both music lovers and insiders have deemed this past year as the resurgence and revitalization of Reggae music. Thus it only seems appropriate that Reggae star Omari Banks ends the year by delivering a timeless classic sound featuring Peetah Morgan of Reggae Royalty Morgan Heritage. Produced by Omari Banks himself "No Point To Prove" features Peetah Morgan and is the lead single from Omari Banks upcoming 2015 "Move On" Deluxe Edition Album. In a release to the media, Omari spoke of the experience of working with Morgan Heritage's own Peetah Morgan "I've always Been a fan of Morgan Heritage Band and Peetah Morgan as a Artiste their message is one a can relate to and ultimately thats what my music is about. Peetah Morgan has a voice like no other, and to have the opportunity to do song with him is nothing short of an honor to work with the great man. His versatility , longevity and ease of which he captures an audience is what I aspire to achieve. Blessed love Peetah Morgan". The international star chimed in by stating "Working with Omari Banks gives me assurance that Reggae music has truly become global. Omari represents Reggae music, Island music in high fashion. I am always honored to collaborate with artist from different parts of the world. Omari is a very talented artist with a very bright future" Omari Banks featuring Peetah Morgan "No Point To Prove" will premiere Friday on various worldwide radio stations, and be available on all major digital platforms on November 21st, 2014, while the highly anticipated remastered Deluxe Edition "Move On" album with bonus tracks will be released in early 2015. To share in the debut of the single with his worldwide wide fans, the artist management team in an unprecedented move will premiere the single and supporting video at a live stream concer.

As the world gets ready for one of the biggest beauty pageant of the year the Miss World 2014, we take a look at the some of the contestants from the Caribbean region. The Miss World 2014 events start from November 20th, culminating in the Grand Final on December 14th in London, England. Contestants from 129 countries will be participating in the 63rd edition of the Miss World 2014 pageant, where they will compete under different challenges, like Talent Competition, Top Model, Beauty with a purpose, etc. They will showcase their best in the finale, which promises to be a show stopping event. Meet the Queens of the Caribbean Miss Aruba Joitza Henriquez Age: 22 Joitza is passionate about horse riding, an activity she has even given lessons for in the past. Currently studying Biology & Medical Laboratory Research, she hopes to continue her studies in veterinary medicine and become an equine specialist, eventually opening her own clinic. An owner of 5 horses and a general lover of animals, she would also like to own her own farm in the future. In her spare time she enjoys swimming and dancing, her favourite books include Dracula & Todd Burpo’s Heaven Is For Real and she loves Italian cuisine. Miss Bahamas Rosetta Cartwright Age: 19 Rosetta is a woman with great ambition. Currently studying Finance and Business, she has aspirations of climbing the corporate ladder before branching out to manage her own financial services business in the Bahamas. Residing in Sweetings Cay, east of Grand Bahama, Rosetta describes herself as “driven and dedicated”, two qualities which will help her realise her dreams. In her spare time she enjoys playing soccer and volleyball, as well as taking relaxing strolls along the beach and spending a lazy afternoon fishing. In the past she has worked in the Ministry of Grand Bahama, and has volunteered at her local hospital, taking care of patients. Miss Barbados Zoé Trotman Age: 22 Born and raised in Barbados, 22 year old Zoé studied Accounts & Economics at university, but her passion is the arts. Her greatest ambition is to become a singer, and she would love to sing on Broadway. Zoé also sees herself as a potential envoy for her nation, and would be proud to represent her country abroad in an ambassadorial role. Currently she works as a sales rep and makeup artist, and even makes her own make up and skincare products from time to time. In her spare time, Zoé likes to read and to travel, to keep fit and to study astronomy. When it comes to music, Zoé’s favourite composer is Tchaikovsky, and she says she enjoys any book that “takes my mind to new places”. Miss Bermuda Lillian Lightbourn Age: 24 Born and Raised in Bermuda, 24 year old Lillian currently resides in New York where she is pursuing a modelling career. Describing herself as “gracious, poised and unrelenting in the pursuit of my dreams”, Lillian has ambitions of building on her experiences and hopes to one day work as a creative director for a successful company. In her spare time, she enjoys playing basketball, singing in her church choir and volunteering as a youth worker at her local church. Lillian also has a twin sister, as well as 3 older sisters and 3 brothers. Her personal motto is “Dream big and work hard.” Miss British Virgin Island Rosanna Chichester Age 25 Rosanna was born and raised on Tortola, the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands. Working in banking for the past 6 years, she has recently been awarded a university scholarship, enabling her to follow her dream of eventually opening up a psychology counselling centre. Rosanna is also writing a book about her family (titled Triumph Over Adversity), and hopes to one day see it turned into a movie. Aside from this Rosanna is a confident public speaker, engaged in radio work, tutoring youths in public speaking, and is a member of the Toast Masters of the BVI Club. Miss Curaçao Gayle Sulvaran Age 19 Gayle has her heart set on bringing smiles to the world’s children, hoping to embark on a career as a dentist. Currently at high school, she plans to gain her qualifications in the Netherlands, before starting her own dental practice. Gayle aims to develop charity projects providing free dentistry to children in need and those with disabilities. In her spare time, Gayle volunteers at “SeourHedwig, the only primary school for special needs children in Curacao. For hobbies, Gayle likes to be active, enjoying hiking, snorkelling and climbing in the beautiful Curacao nature. Miss Dominican Republic Dhio Moreno Romero Age 24 Dhio was born and raised in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital city. With a degree in Social Communication, Dhio aims to be an international speaker, addressing issues of motivation and leadership. An active person, she likes to practice yoga, play tennis and spend quality time with her family. Dhio is also a very talented dancer, skilled in a variety of disciplines. Musically, Dhio is a fan of lounge music, and she plays the piano. Her favourite cuisine is Japanese Miss Guadeloupe Wendy Metony Age:18 Wendy comes from a family of athletes and artists, born and raised on the island of Guadeloupe. Describing herself as “intelligent, always smiling and helpful”, Wendy is a graduate of the Fine Arts, with aspirations of a career in architecture. To achieve these aims she hopes to continue her studies in the near future. In her spare time she enjoys dancing, design work, and hiking. When it comes to music, she enjoys listening to RnB and Dancehall, citing Bob Marley’s Redemption Song as one of her all-time favourites. Miss Guyana Rafieya Aasieya Husain Age 22 Rafieya is currently in her third year of university, studying Business Administration. Born in the coastal town of Anna Regina, Rafieya grew up in the capital city Georgetown, before relocating to USA aged 11. Rafieya aspires to become an entrepreneur, and hopes her studies will equip her with the tools necessary to be successful. In her spare time she enjoys practicing archery, cookery and reading, and likes to travel as much as possible, collecting snow globes from all the places she visits. Her favourite book is Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. Miss Haiti Carolyn Desert Age: 25 Born and raised in Haiti, Carolyn moved to Miami aged 14, but has returned to Haiti where she now runs her own Mexican restaurant she opened last year. Also working as a model, Carolyn hopes to open up more restaurants, empower women around the world, and work on international modelling campaigns. In her spare time Carolyn likes to write, she enjoys watching documentaries, and she is passionate about social work in the community. Most recently she spent time feeding orphans in Haiti, as well as planting new trees. Miss Jamaica Laurie-Ann Chin Age 22 Laurie-Ann hails from the city of Kingston, where she currently works as a charity advocate. As Miss Jamaica she has spearheaded several schemes, including funding an autistic classroom for a childcare centre. With two degrees in Natural Sciences and Management studies, Laurie-Ann hopes to establish a cosmetology business utilising organic plants from the local region. In her spare time she enjoys the arts, and is a skilled jewellery maker and painter of portraits and scenery. A keen dancer, she qualified up to grade 7 at the Royal Academy of Dance, and her favourite music is R&B, Soca, pop and Reggae. Miss Martinique - Anaïs Delwaulle Age: 20 Anaïs describes herself as “a strong girl who fights for what she wants”. With a Black Belt in karate, you wouldn’t want to stand in her way! Currently studying Communication, she hopes to further her education at the prestigious CELSA Paris University before becoming a communications director for a successful company. In her spare time, Anaïs enjoys riding jet skis and roller-skates, she holds a license to drive boats, and she can play a little piano. When it comes to music her current favourite song is Sea’s electro-pop track Chandelier, but she enjoys a variety of genres. Miss México Daniela Álvaro Reyes Age: 20 Daniela has aspirations of a career in television. She would love to become a nationally recognised TV host in Mexico, and hopes to use her experience as Miss Mundo Mexico to further her aims. Aside from her career, Daniela enjoys music, skilled at the flute and piano, as well as Jazz dance. With a love of foreign cultures, Daniela hopes to travel the world, and her favourite cuisines include Italian, Japanese and Chinese alongside her native Mexican foods. A fan of reading, Daniela’s favourite books include The Alchemist, The Outsiders, and Robert Fisher’s The Knight in Rusty Armour. Miss Puerto Rico Genesis Dávila Age: 21 Genesis was born and raised in the beach town of Arroyo, in the south east of the island. Currently one semester away from obtaining her Criminal Justice degree, she hopes to further her education at law school, before following her aspirations of working with marginalised communities who lack access to legal services. In her spare time Genesis likes to be in nature, whether that is finding her inner peace at the tranquil beaches, or in the wild hiking or practicing extreme sports. Her other hobbies include watching an exciting game of baseball, dancing, and spending quality time with her family. Miss Trinidad and Tobago Sarah Jane Waddell Age: 25 Born in Trinidad & Tobago, Sarah Jane travelled regularly whilst growing up, spending time in Barbados and Costa Rica before studying in the USA. Sarah Jane is passionate about her country, and aspires to be an advocate for its development through a career in diplomacy. With a degree in Political Science and experience working in the Ministry of Energy, Sarah Jane has the necessary prerequisites to shine. In her spare time she enjoys Latin dancing, keeping fit, playing the violin and horse riding. She is a huge fan of Roald Dahl, and also loves reading books by authors of the lost generation, including Hemmingway and Steinbeck. She is also fluent in Mandarin. Miss US Virgin Islands Anisk Tonge Age:23 Aniska is a budding journalist from the tropical US Virgin Islands. Currently writing for Live Inspired Magazine, she is also a TV personality, hosting live events. Her goal is to become an award winning journalist, gaining national and perhaps international recognition. Aniska also loves to dance, citing modern jazz & Broadway as her two favourite styles. She also likes to listen to jazz music, namely old school, as well as blues and a bit of country. When it comes to food, her favourite meal is steak (medium-well) with a loaded jacket potato.

Kazz Forbes and his label, Saint George Fashion House (SGFH) delivered a highly praised fashion runway presentation at Islands of the World Fashion Showcase (IWFS) as a Guest Designer during the event’s finale on November 8th at Fort Charlotte, Nassau, Bahamas. The two-day highly anticipated fashion extravaganza was held on November 7th and 8th and featured fashion designers from Bermuda, Cuba, Jamaica, Nigeria, Turks and Caicos, The Bahamas and the United States of America, that presented an array of haute couture, prêt a porter, resort wear and swimwear collections at the historical Fort Charlotte that was transformed into a Fashion Pavilion. Bahama Islands Info; an online popular Bahamian news blog reported, “Turks & Caicos native Kazz Forbes, and his label, Saint George Fashion House, took the audience to the ultimate ball and red carpet with an array of high end evening gowns rounding out the series of traditional yet awesome runway experiences.” “I was very impressed with the degree that Kazz Forbes with his line, Saint George Fashion House has come since I’ve witnessed his debut in New York in 2011. The production that he made here at Islands of the World Fashion Showcase; in one word, incredible! I think he has grown and with that I can only see a tremendous future ahead for him.” said event producer Owen Bethel. “The collection really showed elegance, red carpet and haute couture straight through. The choice of fabrics, the intricate embellishments and craftsmanship, the concept that he had in his collection really showed a well thought through; a very detailed meticulous approach to fashion and I can only wish him the best in all his endeavours in the future and the world of fashion. He should go very far and we will be here to support him.” Telling of the work of Kazz Forbes, Bethel once asked, “Could we possibly see the next Oscar de la Renta emerge from the soil of the Turks and Caicos?”. Closing the designers exhibition, Saint George Fashion House presented a strategic spectrum of haute couture, prêt-a-porter and red carpet designs. The majority featured Forbes’ signature of elaborate and elegant hand beaded embellishments with sparkling glass beads and rhinestones, and other intricate works done by hand. Mae Wayne, Publisher and Editor in Chief of SHE Caribbean Magazine said, “The line from Saint George Fashion House by Kazz Forbes was presented on the runway like a fashion story. An editorial well put together, crisp and dream like. A story of balance full of the splendor of Caribbean colors.” “Presenting at Islands of the World Fashion Showcase was indeed an honour and I will like to again express heartfelt thanks to IWFS organizers for choosing me as a guest designer and to Digicel TCI Telecommunications for funding part of the collection and for supporting all my endeavours; even before the inception of Saint George Fashion House.” said Fashion Designer Kazz Forbes. “I had a great time working and socializing with the organizers, models and hair and makeup teams. Everyone involved were so full of enthusiasm and the hospitality received alone made my entire experience beyond amazing. I'm extremely excited about the future of Saint George Fashion House and my career in fashion design.” “Adding to my excitement of showcasing, a couple days before departing for Nassau, I learned that Je’Cannya Garland; a fifteen year old local aspiring model that competed in the 2014 TCI Top Model Contest and won the first runner up title, was also traveling to participate at IWFS.” “I’m so proud of Je’Cannya. Working with her and seeing her take instructions from other participating designers and walking the catwalk made me realize even more that our country is so full of great young talents, and the importance of bringing awareness to the unfortunate lack of opportunities being generated for talent development in the Turks and Caicos Islands.” Since 2008, Islands of the World Fashion Showcase has held to the platform it was charged by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for its promotion of cultural diversity, and as a means to bring value-added levels of production to the fledgling fashion industries in developing nations, particularly more vulnerable small island developing states. The intent of Islands of the World Fashion Show is to draw attention via international media and trade exposure to the skills and creativity across the spectrum of the fashion industry in the islands. Fashion aficionados can shop Saint George Fashion House online at www.SaintGeorgeFashionHouse.com. Saint George Fashion House by Kazz Forbes

21 year-old Valerie Hernandez of Puerto Rico was crowned Miss International 2014 at the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa in Tokyo, Japan. She won from a field of 73 contestants from all over the world, ranging in age between 19 and 26. Top five: Ms Hernandez (center) poses with first runner-up, Colombia's Zuleika Suárez (far left), second runner-up, Thailand's Punika Kulsoontornrut (far right), third runner-up, United Kingdom's Victoria Tooby (second from left) and fourth runner-up, Finland's Milla Romppanen (second from right) First runner-up title went to Miss Colombia Zuleika Suárez, who also won two special awards, Miss Friendship and Miss Best Dresser. Miss Thailand Punika Kulsoontornrut capped second runner-up, Miss United Kingdom Victoria Tooby as third runner-up and Miss Finland Milla Romppanen as fourth runner-up. The top 10 were Miss Brazil Deise Benício, Miss Argentina Josefina José Herrero, Miss Mexico Vianey Vázquez, Miss Panama Aileen Bernal and Miss Indonesia Elfin Pertiwi Rappa, who also won Best National Costume. Other sectional award winners were; Miss Internet Beauty was awarded to Miss India Jhataleka Malhotra, while Miss Perfect Body was given to Miss France Aurianne Sinacola. Miss France Aurianne Sinacola According to Miss International, the pageant is aimed at promoting 'Love peace and excitement to the world'. The contestants are expected to serve as 'ambassadors of peace and beauty', serving 'tenderness, generosity, friendship, beauty, intelligence and a great international sensibility.'

The promise of a Caribbean vacation is among the most convincing proposals man has ever invented. With lush, sun-kissed beaches and pristine waters, beautiful people and delectable food, the Caribbean remains to be one of the most popular tourist places in the world. Statistics from the Caribbean Tourism Organization show that the region continues to enjoy a great increase in the number of tourists arriving via cruise ships, with some areas like Martinique experiencing as much as a 62.4% increase within a year. The Caribbean’s status as a premier tourism spot and cruise destination has allowed it to help the growth of the classic game of bingo. Free Bingo Hunter, a website dedicated to cataloguing the latest promotions in the online bingo industry, has found that many online bingo portals continue to offer Caribbean cruises in their jackpot schemes, and this has proven to be a popular and sought-after prize. It’s so popular, in fact, that the Bingo Bugle, the world’s largest bingo publication, has held its World Championship Bingo Tournament on board a cruise headed for the exotic Eastern Caribbean for years. It’s said to be “pure luxury”, with some people who have gone on the Bingo Bugle cruise saying that, “There’s the casino and the live shows, the live music all around the ship, the pools— even sitting down for a game of cards is extra fun on a cruise ship.” In fact, even regular cruises have taken to allowing their passengers to play rounds of bingo while out at sea. The Royal Caribbean International Cruise, one of the most well-known cruise liners in the world, also makes sure to include some nights of themed bingo while on their ships. Exciting prizes like spa treatments, shopping vouchers, and even free cruises are given away on these games. Trips to the exotic Caribbean continue to attract people from all over the globe, and it’s no surprise that bingo players are also getting on cruise ships to play rounds of their favorite game and see the beautiful blue skies and crystalline waters of the Caribbean.

Regina Harding, a model that hails from the tourism capital of Jamaica, Montego Bay will represent Jamaica at the Miss Caraibes Hibiscus pageant 2014. The pageant will run from December 1st-8th. Jamaica last won this pageant in 1993, when Rachel Stuart walked away with the title. Regina was a contestant in the Miss Jamaica World Cornwall 2014 beauty pageant, in which she placed 2nd runner up. She followed that up by being a top 12 finalist in Miss Jamaica World pageant and easily won Miss Jamaica World Model Competition. She will take this experience to the pageant and is confident of doing well. She has done research on the pageant and believes she would be a great spokesperson for the pageant. She also loves the opportunity of travelling to various countries. The winner of the pageant will travel to countries in the region and overseas marketing the Caribbean. Regina platform will be about “The Respect for Life” She want person to value the gift of life that God has given us. Miss Caraibes Hibiscus is an annual International beauty pageant for all countries of the Caribbean and the Americas. It was founded in 1990 in the French part of Saint Martin.