AGP Executive Report

Tobago STEM Push: Tobago Information Technology Limited’s STEM camp is back, with hands-on coding, AI, robotics and digital creativity tracks for kids aged 3 to 17. NBA Draft Buzz (Trini connection): Trinidad and Tobago wing Malique Lewis is finishing workouts with multiple NBA teams, including the Lakers, as the 2026 NBA Draft nears in Brooklyn. Sports Spotlight: Trinidad and Tobago powerlifter Zahra Padia placed fifth overall at the IPF World Championships in Lithuania, while goalball in T&T continues to grow through inclusion-focused clubs. Arts & Culture: Granta says it will stop publishing Commonwealth Short Story prize winners after AI-use allegations swirled around Trinidadian writer Jamir Nazir’s winning entry. Entertainment on Netflix: South African series The Polygamist is trending at #1 on Netflix in several countries, including Trinidad and Tobago. Local Tourism Pressure: Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association head Reginald MacLean says the THA budget must revive a tourism sector he calls “extremely dead.” Community & Activism: Alyssa Phillip says her “19 Bullets, 19 Protests” campaign has ended after Labour Day events in Fyzabad.

World Cup 2026 Buzz: With the tournament a week away, the full referees and VAR setup is out, including top names like Szymon Marciniak, Anthony Taylor and Michael Oliver, plus a huge pool of officials across 48 teams. T&T Police & Accountability: Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro defended TTPS force after the Police Complaints Authority reported 60 fatal police shootings in a year, while also noting 290 officers are on suspension amid misconduct concerns. Tobago Tourism Pressure: Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association head Reginald MacLean says today’s THA budget won’t be enough unless major hotels reopen and key support like a loan guarantee is approved, calling tourism “extremely dead.” Local Sports Pride: Powerlifter Zahra Padia finished fifth at the IPF World Championships in Lithuania, and cycling’s Carnival of Speed again put Colombian stars and T&T riders in the spotlight. Community & Safety: Woodland residents fear rainy-season flooding returns, and police are investigating a fatal Pleasantville shooting after a chase. Music & Culture: Week.day’s “Like How Yuh Feel” keeps climbing charts across the region, while St George’s College honoured entertainer Erphaan Alves with a past student award.

Police & Public Safety: TTPS Commissioner Allister Guevarro says 290 officers are on suspension as the force tackles misconduct, including a case involving tampered police exhibits. Crime Update: A 37-year-old labourer, Michael Williams, was shot dead after being chased by a masked gunman through Pleasantville streets and bushy areas. Sport: Powerlifter Zahra Padia finished fifth overall at the 2026 IPF World Championships in Lithuania, with Kezia Hunte seventh in her class. Music & Culture: Dancehall producer Week.day celebrates Aidonia’s “Like How Yuh Feel” hitting major Caribbean chart peaks and 1M+ streams. Community & Heritage: Erphaan Alves received a St George’s College Past Student Award; and classic cars rolled out at the Father’s Day “Cars and Cuisine” showcase at C3 Centre. Health (Tobago): The Division of Health flags high STI rates among 20–29-year-olds, including rising HIV, gonorrhoea and syphilis. Arts & Film: Local production is underway on “A Passage to Atlantis,” a Caribbean mystery feature blending legends and unsolved enigmas.

World Cup buzz: Former England defender Terry Fenwick, now based in Trinidad and Tobago, backed Newcastle’s Dan Burn to seize his moment for England after Burn sat out the opening win over Croatia. Athletics spotlight: Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage roared to his first Doha Diamond League win with an 88.68m throw, while Trinidad & Tobago’s own Anderson Peters and India’s Neeraj Chopra were also in the mix as Chopra booked Commonwealth Games qualification. Local music & culture: Dancehall producer Week.day says Aidonia’s “Like How Yuh Feel” is climbing charts across the Caribbean, hitting #1 in several islands and topping 1 million streams. Governance & accountability: Sport Minister Phillip Watts is calling for transparency over public funding for the TTFA’s World Cup campaign. Arts on stage: Errol “Blood” Roberts stars in Victor D Questel’s one-man play “One Man and His Dog,” returning next weekend. Community health: Tobago’s Division of Health warns of high STI rates among 20–29-year-olds, with HIV, gonorrhoea and syphilis flagged. Electricity woes: Vandals cut underground cables in Princes Town, leaving about 450 customers without power for hours.

Labour Day Tensions: TTPS defended the arrest of social activist Alyssa Phillip during the Labour Day procession in Fyzabad, saying she led an unauthorised march and ignored police orders to disperse. Police Mental Health Push: Police Welfare head Allister Guevarro warned that the State of Emergency and constant operational demands are driving burnout, after reported suicides of officers. Power Disruption: Vandals cut high-voltage cables in Princes Town, leaving about 450 customers without electricity, with repairs expected to restore supply in phases. Music & Culture: Alliance Française marked 75 years with Fête de la Musique at Sound Forge, featuring a mix of local genres from soca and steelpan to pop and indie. Arts Calendar: Trinidad Art Gallery announced a June 27 opening reception for silk painter Amanita Mollier and jeweller Susan Kohl, with live music and a fundraiser for Trinidad Coastal Land Trust. Sports Spotlight: Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage won the men’s javelin at the Doha Diamond League, while Neeraj Chopra finished fourth in his return after injury. Regional Diplomacy & Tourism: T&T celebrated 32 years of diplomatic ties with Panama, and tourism leaders urged action on marketing, airlift and visitor arrivals ahead of the budget review.

Local Music Education: Aaron Duncan says Trinidad and Tobago needs more hands-on studio teachers, launching a six-class Logic Pro course next month for aspiring producers, singers and songwriters. Police Welfare & Mental Health: TTPSSWA head ASP Ishmael Pitt warns the ongoing State of Emergency is taking a toll on officers’ wellbeing after reported suicides, urging support and supervisor “courtesy and decorum.” Media Freedom Row: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar slams Guardian Media Ltd over alleged failure to address former journalist Joshua Seemungal’s claims of political interference, as MATT calls for urgent action. Labour Movement Tensions: Thousands march in Fyzabad as TTUTA and other unions clash publicly over delayed wage payments and retroactive pay under the April 2025 deal. Arts Spotlight: Trinidad Art Gallery hosts a June 27 opening for silk painter Amanita Mollier and jeweler Susan Kohl, with live music and a fundraiser for Trinidad Coastal Land Trust. Sports (Regional): Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage wins Doha Diamond League javelin; Neeraj Chopra returns from injury with a fourth-place best throw of 85.69m. Music & Culture: Alliance Française marks 75 years with Fête de la Musique at Sound Forge, featuring a mix of local genres from soca to steelpan.

Local Sports Leadership: Wayne Baptiste takes over as president of the Trinidad and Tobago Golf Association after Robin Lewis resigns, with the TTGA naming a new executive following its June 15 AGM. Cycling Spotlight: The OWTU Rienzi Butler Cycle Classic 2026 crowned Tariq Woods and Shameka Hoyte in the Elite/Under-23 and Junior Female categories, with multiple local riders placing across divisions. Digital Safety Alert: The Ministry of Finance warns of a deepfake video falsely claiming Minister Davendranath Tancoo endorses forex trading schemes, urging people to stick to verified government channels. Fashion & Culture: Tobago icon Oscar B is celebrated, while Trinidad designer Richard Noel is set to represent T&T at Jamaica Fashion Week in November. Music & Community: Alexander D Great, originally from Trinidad and Tobago, headlines a Windrush Day gathering in Glasgow with a calypso songwriting workshop and performance. World Cup Buzz (Regional): Neeraj Chopra’s Doha Diamond League comeback ends in fourth place, while Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad and Tobago also features in the javelin field.

Golf Leadership Change: Robin Lewis has resigned as president of the Trinidad and Tobago Golf Association, with Wayne Baptiste stepping in as president after the TTGA AGM. Cycling Highlights: Tariq Woods and Shameka Hoyte topped the OWTU Rienzi Butler Cycle Classic 2026, with multiple local categories crowned across the San Fernando–Point Fortin–Fyzabad route. Deepfake Warning: The Finance Ministry says a fake video is circulating that falsely shows Minister Davendranath Tancoo endorsing a forex platform, urging people not to share it. Music & Culture Abroad: UK Calypso king Alexander D Great, originally from T&T, is set for a Glasgow 2026 Windrush Day debut with a songwriting workshop and live performance. Media Tensions: Guardian Media Limited is pushing back hard against political-bias claims after PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and MATT weighed in following former journalist Joshua Seemungal’s allegations. Labour Day Spirit: President Christine Kangaloo and PM Persad-Bissessar marked Labour Day with messages on workers’ rights, dignity, and respectful national dialogue. Local Arts Spotlight: Pamberi Steel Orchestra’s Labour & Steel returns in San Juan, celebrating the steelband movement and the group’s 46th anniversary. Sports Watch: Neeraj Chopra is preparing for his Doha Diamond League comeback after injury, with Trinidad and Tobago’s Keshorn Walcott listed among the field.

Local Arts & Culture: Main Street LIVE’s “Star Tracks” spoofs Star Trek with phasers, big laughs, and standout costumes—running this weekend in Trinidad. Music & Identity: Lady Lava keeps the momentum on her buzzy Caribbean hit, while a new spotlight on black music traces how spirituality and sacred songs are finding fresh voices. Sports & Entertainment: The “best football songs” debate is heating up, and Trinidad Chambliss and Arch Manning are among the headliners for the 2026 Manning Passing Academy. Economy & Media: Moody’s upgrades T&T’s outlook from negative to stable, and PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar sharply criticises Guardian Media Limited over its response to former journalist Joshua Seemungal’s claims. Community & Infrastructure: WASA launches a TT$20M wastewater pipeline replacement in Beetham Gardens. Public Life: Kaia Sealy appears in court as the State prepares manslaughter case materials. Digital Future: ITU talks land Minister Dominic Smith an invitation to a global digital transformation board.

AI & Local Business: A sharp local take warns Trinidad and Tobago’s small businesses are still missing basic websites, and that AI is now acting like the new gatekeeper between customers and what’s available. Cross-Border Gas Debate: Commentators are pushing T&T to ask who truly owns, sells, and profits from any Venezuela gas deal—before celebrating “gas revival” headlines. T&TEC “Protected List”: T&TEC says it sought legal advice over a controversial customer “protected list” that reportedly lacks clear records on how people and companies were added. Teachers Take Action: TTUTA escalates—teachers withdraw services outside job descriptions and take mental health days as backpay is delayed until 2027. Immigration Crackdown: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander says deported migrants who illegally re-enter could face jail time. Arts & Entertainment: Main Street LIVE’s Star Tracks (Star Trek spoof) runs in Trinidad, while the Trinidad Carnegie Library kicks off Summer Reading with dinosaur-themed fun. Tobago Travel & Trade: Tobago’s new ANR Robinson airport terminal raises vendor rent worries, and passengers report a nine-hour ferry ordeal to Tobago. Sports: Neeraj Chopra returns in Doha after injury, and beach soccer fans get a free U.S. vs Trinidad & Tobago doubleheader on Venice Beach.

Cruise Arts Spotlight: Royal Caribbean has unveiled six emerging artists for its Artist Discovery Program, with new destination-inspired public installations set to debut on Legend of the Seas in July. Local Court Update: Kaia Sealy is back in the headlines after her arrest on arrival at Piarco Airport, with her attorney saying she wasn’t told an arrest would happen and that she was expected to attend a medical appointment first. Parliament Tensions: PNM MPs walked out during a House debate over the conduct of Government Business Leader Barry Padarath, accusing him of intimidation over parliamentary microphone issues. Sports—West Indies: Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph return to the West Indies Test squad for the Sri Lanka series, alongside recalled wicketkeeper Joshua Da Silva. T&T Football History: A new book, A History of Trinidad & Tobago Football (1908–2006), traces how the sport shaped national identity from colonial roots to the World Cup era. Culture & Community: A Caribbean Exchange segment marks 58 years of Ujamaa Shule and a tribute to the Merchant through soca storytelling.

Disney Magic: Walt Disney Animation has dropped the first teaser for “Hexed,” a coming-of-age fantasy starring Hailee Steinfeld as Billie and Rashida Jones as her mother Alice, with Tracey Ullman and Stephen Fry voicing Ms. Quill and Elias Quire; the film hits theatres Nov. 25, 2026. Tobago Heritage: The THA is launching “Pillars of Our Community” to record and publish elders’ memories, aiming to preserve stories of Tobago before they’re lost. Local Politics & Power: Former T&TEC officials push back on claims of a long-running “protected list” shielding certain customers from disconnection. Budget Mood: Small businesses along the East-West Corridor are hoping the Mid-Year Budget Review brings relief as costs stay high and sales remain slow. Community Spotlight: A feature on Tabaquite highlights its Knollys Tunnel history and the rural life that keeps parang and agriculture traditions going. Sports Pride: Jahzara Claxton has been drafted by the Trinbago Knight Riders for the 2026 WCPL.

Tobago Heritage Project: The THA’s Department of Antiquities is launching “Pillars of Our Community” to record elders’ memories before they’re lost, with interviews for Tobagonians aged 70+ across both notable and everyday life stories. Music & Culture: Wyclef Jean is back at the FIFA World Cup with performances tied to his “Chosen” collaboration and his Carnival-era set celebrating his 1997 album, while Trinidad-born Nicki Minaj is stirring debate with claims of “spiritual warfare” and hidden pressures inside the music industry. Film Buzz: Disney Animation has dropped the first teaser for “Hexed,” a coming-of-age fantasy starring Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones, hitting theatres this Thanksgiving. Spoken Word Spotlight: Borderlines Road Show returns for its final 2026 stop at San Fernando City Hall, blending spoken word, music, and Father’s Day energy. Local Sports Update: T&T cyclists Jelani Nedd, Darnell James and Ryan D’Abreau received a medal upgrade to silver after an anti-doping disqualification. Community Arts: Spoken word continues to grow in T&T, with Borderlines pushing poetry as a platform for storytelling and social reflection.

Tobago Airport Watch: Tobago’s ANR Robinson terminal is now fully certified and handed over, but vendors say new rental prices could price them out, calling for “first bite at the cherry” and more consultation. Budget & Backpay: Finance Secretary Petal-Ann Roberts says the Tobago House of Assembly is satisfied with its Mid-Year Budget allocation, including $79m for teachers’ arrears and $15m for Scarborough Secondary, while teachers and nurses react to backpay timelines. Aviation Update: A small aircraft reported missing after leaving St Vincent for Tobago has been found; two people were unharmed, though investigators say the matter remains “very delicate.” Cycling Glory: Je’lani Nedd, Darnell James and Ryan D’Abreau celebrate a medal upgrade to silver after anti-doping changes at the Junior Pan Am Games. Health & Awareness: Local oncologist Dr Nazreen Bhim highlights the stigma and delayed diagnosis risks for men with breast cancer. Sport Spotlight: Special Olympics Trinidad and Tobago wraps its National Games with the Ministry of Sport praising athletes, coaches and volunteers.

World Cup Shock: Cape Verde held Spain to a stunning 0-0 draw, with 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha starring as the tournament’s biggest surprise so far. Local Sports Spotlight: South Korea trained as a full squad for their Mexico clash after defender Kim Tae-hyeon and midfielder Bae Jun-ho returned to full participation, with Bae having been sidelined since a friendly vs T&T. Athletics Comeback: Neeraj Chopra is set to return at the Doha Diamond League on June 19 after recovering from a back injury, facing Trinidad’s Keshorn Walcott among others. Radio & Culture: Trinidad-born Papa Keith is taking a new national role at iHeartMedia, ending his daily 103.5 The Beat show on June 26 but continuing Saturdays and his podcast. Fashion & Tourism: Guyana’s 2026 Origins Fashion Festival (July 3-5) features Brooklyn designer Roger Gary on the runway. Education Funding: Government approved $19.8M to support UWI and COSTAATT backpay and statutory obligations. Community Sports: Special Olympics T&T National Games wrapped up with the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs praising athletes, coaches and volunteers. Missing Person: Police ask the public to help locate 16-year-old Daniella Maharaj, last seen June 12. Tobago Travel Update: ANR Robinson International Airport’s new terminal has been fully certified and is ready for operations.

Caribbean Arts & Dance: Trinidadian dancer Zidane Roopnarine is in Beijing preparing “The Last Ride” with the Beijing Dance Academy, shaping a new work from his Caribbean roots and Chinese folk training. Music Spotlight: Legendary Carol Addison-Lewis is set to return with a new album, “Life is Good,” plus a book “Born to Shine,” with plans for a dual launch later this year. Tobago Aviation: The ANR Robinson airport terminal has been fully certified and is ready for opening, with international safety and environmental approvals. Regional Mystery: A private aircraft flying from St Vincent to Tobago has gone missing after air traffic lost contact; searches are ongoing. World Cup Buzz (Caribbean angle): Curaçao made history at the 2026 World Cup by scoring its first-ever goal against Germany, while Trinidad and Tobago’s World Cup campaign continues to be discussed across the region. Environment & Culture: World Oceans Day coverage highlights T&T’s leatherback nesting season and a new ocean education push, while Scouts in San Fernando are rallying environmental action.