Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - Mar. 2026
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Happy Holi
Holi is a vibrant and joyful festival celebrated primarily in India and by communities around the world, marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Often called the “Festival of Colors,” Holi is known for its lively atmosphere, where people gathertothrowcoloredpowders,splash water, dance, and share festive foods. The celebration has deep roots in Hindu tradition, particularly in stories like the legend of Prahlad and Holika, whichsymbolizethevictoryofdevotion and righteousness over arrogance and darkness. Holi typically begins with a ritual bonfire known as Holika Dahan, representing the burning away of negativity. The following day is filled with color play and celebration, breaking down social barriers as people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities come together in unity. Holi has grown into a global celebration of joy, inclusion, and renewal, embraced by people from many different cultures. It serves as a reminder to let go of past grievances, embrace positivity, and welcome new beginningswithopenheartsandaspirit oftogetherness.
Buju Banton Honored at Florida State Capitol
At the Florida State Capitol, a significant cultural moment took place as Buju Banton—born Mark Anthony Myrie—was honored with an official proclamation declaring “Buju Banton Day.” The recognition brought together community leaders and members of the Caribbean diaspora to celebrate an artist whose influence extends far beyond music. Widely regarded as one of Jamaica’s most iconic voices, Buju Banton has played a major role in shaping reggae and dancehall on a global scale. However, the ceremony emphasized that his impact is not limited to his artistry. Instead, it highlighted a legacy rooted inculturalpride,resilience,andadeep connectiontocommunity.
Attendees reflected on his journey, from his early rise in Jamaica’s music scene to becoming an internationally respectedfigure.
Through both triumphs and challenges, Banton has remained a powerful voice representing the experiences and identity of Caribbeanpeopleworldwide. The proclamation also acknowledged his continued efforts to support communities in times of need. In recent years, Buju Banton has been actively involved in assisting families affected by hurricanes across the Caribbean, using his platform to bring awareness and aid to those impacted. His actions have reinforced his role as not just an artist, but a leader committed to upliftinghispeople.
As the event concluded, it stood as a reminder of the lasting impact of Buju Banton’s voice—one that continues to inspire, uplift, and unitecommunitiesacrosstheworld.
Samuel J. Roberts, Publisher/Editor
Community Is Not Accidental
The world feels heavier these days.
There is a constant hum of uncertainty—economic pressure, political tension, social division, and a digital landscape that keeps us connected but often leaves us feeling more alone. In moments like this, we are reminded of something our communities have always known, even before it had a name:
Community is survival. But here’s the truth we don’t say enough —community is not automatic. It does not appear just because we share culture, geography, or history.
Community must be built. Intentionally. Consistently. With care.
For Caribbean people, this is not a new concept. Our history is rooted in building community out of very little. We created connection in unfamiliar lands, turned neighborhoods into extended families, and built support systems that carried us through migration, hardship, and change. We did not wait for systems to include us—we created our own.
But in today’s world, that same intentionality is required again.
It is easy to assume that because we see each other on social media, attend the occasional event, or celebrate the same holidays, that community is strong. But real community is deeper than visibility.
It is about access.
It is about support.
It is about shared growth.
At Caribbean American Passport, we have spent over fifteen years not just documenting community—but helping to shape it. We have told the stories of entrepreneurs building from scratch, artists finding their voice, families creating legacy, and leaders stepping into purpose. But storytelling alone is no longer enough.
That is why spaces like CAP Village exist.
Because intentional community requires infrastructure.
It requires places where people can gather not just socially, but strategically. Where creatives can collaborate, where entrepreneurs can learn, where conversations can turn into opportunities. It requires platforms where culture is not just celebrated—but supported economically. And this is where the shift must happen.
We cannot continue to build in isolation while expecting collective strength. We cannot continue to consume from systems that do not reflect us while neglecting the ones that do. We cannot say we value community and not invest in the spaces that make it possible.
Supporting community today looks like:
Showing up consistently
Sharing resources and knowledge
Investing in platforms that uplift our people
Creating opportunities, not just conversations
It also means being intentional about where we spend our time, our attention, and our dollars. Because every decision either strengthens community—or weakens it.
In a world that often feels unstable, community becomes our anchor. It is where ideas are nurtured, where businesses grow, where culture is preserved, and where people find belonging.
But it will not happen by accident. It will happen because we choose it.
Every day.
In every space. With purpose.
And if there has ever been a time to build community on purpose, it is now.
Held in the heart of Orlando, the 2026 Immerse Festival onceagaintransformeddowntownintoavibrant,multisensory celebration of creativity, culture, and community. Known for blending visual art, live performances, and interactive installations, the festival offered attendees an experience that went far beyond a traditionalartsevent.
This year, the energy was especially dynamic, with streetsfilledwithcaptivatingartinstallations,livemusic, dance performances, and theatrical showcases at nearly every turn. From large-scale visual pieces to intimate pop-up performances, Immerse created an environment where guests could continuously discover something new. The diversity of artistic expression on display highlighted both local and international talent, reinforcing Orlando’s growing reputation as a hub for innovativeartsprogramming.
Adding to the excitement, the Orlando Carnival Downtown Host Models were in attendance, bringing their signature presence and vibrant energy to the festival. Throughout the evening, the team engaged with attendees, taking photos with event-goers and contributing to the lively, celebratory atmosphere. Their involvement added a unique cultural layer to the event, blending the spirit of Caribbean carnival with the immersiveartisticlandscapeofthefestival.
The interaction between the host models and attendees created memorable moments across the festival grounds. Guests eagerly stopped to take photos, connect, and share in the experience, further emphasizing the sense of community that Immerse fosters each year. The combination of art, performance, and personal interaction helped make the event feel both expansive andintimateatthesametime.
One of the most notable aspects of Immerse 2026 was theseamlessintegrationofdifferentartforms.Attendees could move from a striking visual installation to a live dance performance, then to an interactive exhibit—all within a few steps. This fluidity encouraged exploration andallowedgueststoengagewithartinamorepersonal and immersive way. The performances, in particular, stood out for their creativity and range, offering everything from high-energy showcases to more reflective,thought-provokingpieces.
Our team especially appreciated the wide range of art installations and performances featured throughout the festival. The attention to detail, creativity, and effort behind each piece was evident, and it contributed to an atmosphere that felt both inspiring and inclusive. Events like Immerse not only showcase artistic talent but also create meaningful opportunities for connection and culturalexchange.
Overall, Immerse Festival 2026 delivered an unforgettable experience that celebrated creativity in all its forms. With the added presence of the Orlando CarnivalDowntownHostModels,thefestivalbecamean even more dynamic and engaging space. It was a night that highlighted the power of art to bring people together, and we look forward to seeing how Immerse
Pulitzer-Prize Winning Play Live in Orlando Fat Ham at Orlando Shakes
A bold, hilarious, and deeply resonant reimagining of Hamlet has arrived on stage in the form of Fat Ham, now captivating audiences at Orlando Shakes. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright James Ijames, the production transforms Shakespeare’s classic into a vibrant Southern family barbecue filled with humor, tension, and powerful cultural commentary.
Set in a modern-day backyard cookout, Fat Ham follows Juicy, a young Black man grappling with identity, family expectations, and the ghostly demands of revenge. While the play draws inspiration from its Shakespearean roots, it stands firmly on its own— blending comedy, queerness, and generational conflict into a story that feels both fresh and necessary. The result is a production that invites laughter while confronting deeper questions about masculinity, trauma,andself-definition.
One of the standout elements of this staging is its commitment to community engagement. On Friday, March 20, the theater will host a special Black Affinity Night, offering audiences a chance to experience the show in a space centered on shared cultural connection.Theeveningwillfeaturepre-showdining,a performance, and a post-show talkback discussion, encouraging meaningful dialogue around the play’s themes.
As part of the growing buzz surrounding the production, two of the show’s actors—Patrece Bloomfield, who plays Tedra, and Lee Kelly, who portrays Tio—recently sat down for an exclusive interview at CAP Village. During the conversation, they shared insights into their characters, the rehearsal process, and what makes Fat Ham such a unique theatrical experience. Both actors emphasized the play’s balance of comedy and emotional depth, noting how it resonates with audiences from all backgrounds while centering Black stories in an authentic way.
Bloomfield described Tedra as bold and unapologetic, bringing both humor and complexity to the stage, while Kelly highlighted the layered dynamics within the family that drive the story forward. Together, their performances help ground the play’s more surreal elements in real, relatable emotion. With its inventive storytelling and standout performances, Fat Ham is more than just a reinterpretation—it’s a celebration of voice, identity, and the enduring power of theater to reflect and reshape the worldaroundus.
"ARRR, WflAT A TIME IT GOIN' BE!" fl£ MURMURED, AS VISIONS OF CARNIVAL ON TflE RUNWAY FILLED fllS MIND-BRIGflT fEATflERS SfllNING, GEMS SPARKLING UNDER TflE LIGflTS, AND PEOPLE STRUTTIN' WITfl PURE CONFIDENCE AND ISLAND PRIDE. IN fllS DREAM, fl£ COULD flEAR TflE MUSIC LOUD AND CLEAR, FEEL TflE ENERGY IN TflE AIR, AND SEE TflE WflOLE PLACE ALIVE WITfl CULTURE AND STYLE TflAT MADE fllS PIRATE flEART BEAT FASTER.
"WflAT A DREAM. WflAT A CELEBRATION!" fl£ WfllSPERED IN fllS SLEEP. CAP COULDN'T WAIT-TfllS WAS MORE TflAN A DREAM. TfllS WAS A WflOLE EXPERIENCE WAITING TO COME ALIVE!
CAPTN CARIBB DRIFTED Off TO SLEEP WITfl A BIG SMILE ON fllS BEAR, DREAMING 'BOUT TflE SWEET EXCITEMENT OF ORLANDO CARNIVAL DOWNTOWN TfllS MEMORIAL WEEKEND.
TflEN JUST LIRE TflAT, TflE DREAM SfllFT TO SATURDAY MORNING-J'OUVERT TIME! POWDER FLYING, PAINT IN TflE AIR, EVERYBODY LAUGfllNG, DANCING, AND CELEBRATING FREEDOM AND JOY. CAPTN CARIBB SPUN TflROUGfl TflE COLORS, FEELING LIRE fl£ WAS PART OF A RAINBOW STORM OF flAPPINESS. AND BEFORE fl£ RNEW IT, fl£ WAS ON TflE ROAD FOR TflE GRAND flNALE-TflE ORLANDO CARNIVAL DOWNTOWN PARADE AND CONCERTS, SURROUNDED BY MUSIC TRUCRS, BOOMING SPEAKERS, AND CROWDS IN DAZZLING COSTUMES MOVING TO TflE ISLAND RflYTflM
By Israel Torres
OFFICIAL OXTAIL FESTIVAL AFTER PARTY
The Official Oxtail Festival After Party at McQueens for a late-night experience packed with energy, music, and nonstop vibes.
Sounds by Jackz, Krush Sunami, Supa Pudgie, and Fatabritish keeping the crowd moving all night long.
Saturday, March 28, 2026 • 9 PM – 2 AM McQueens — 36 E Pine St, Orlando, FL
On Sunday, close out Oxtail Festival weekend with the Official Brunch experience at True Island Grill. This is an allyou-can-eat brunch vibe filled with Caribbean comfort food, brunch favorites, music, and mimosas.
Your $40 Ticket Includes: Mimosas included All-You-Can-Eat brunch access
Live sounds by Super Pudgy Festival weekend after-vibes atmosphere
Oxtail Festival Brunch
A Caribbean Soul in Taiwan
Jasmine’s Journey of Familiarity and Discovery
When Jasmine returned to Taiwan, it wasn’t her first time stepping onto the island. Just two years earlier, in 2024, she had lived there during a college study abroad program —an experience that not only introduced her to Taiwanese culture, but also led her to become fluent in Mandarin.
This time, however, her visit felt deeper—more reflective. “As I got older, I started to notice things I didn’t fully appreciate before,” Jasmine shared. “And what stood out the most was how much Taiwan reminded me of Jamaica.” One of the first things that struck her—both then and now—was the environment. Taiwan’s lush greenery, mountainous terrain, and tropical climate immediately echoed the natural beauty of Jamaica.
“The flora, the plants, the overall landscape—it’s so similar,” she explained. “It didn’t feel foreign. It felt familiar, almost like I was back in the Caribbean.”
That sense of environmental familiarity created an instant connection, grounding her experience in comfort rather than contrast.
Her connection deepened through food—something she had first discovered during her 2024 study abroad experience.
“You have coconuts, sugarcane, starfruit—everything,” Jasmine said. “Even fruits like soursop, what we call ‘otiita apple’ in Jamaica—it’s all there.”
Having lived in Taiwan before, she already knew where to find these familiar flavors, making the experience even more meaningful. Each fruit carried memories—linking herCaribbeanupbringingwithherinternationaljourney.
with of language.
“Speaking Mandarin definitely made a difference,” she said. “It allowed me to connect more deeply with people and really understand the culture.” Her fluency, developed during her time abroad in 2024, opened doors to richer interactions—from everyday conversations to deeper cultural exchanges. “People are very, very nice,” she emphasized. “That warmth reminded me of the Caribbean.”
For Jasmine, Taiwan is more than just a destination— it’s a place that has shaped her, twice. “As a Guyanese-Jamaican-American, I felt as comfortable in Taiwan as I do in Jamaica,” she reflected. “Even when I first lived there in 2024 as a student, there was a sense of ease. Coming back, that feeling only grew stronger.”
Jasmine’s story is one of reconnection—of returning to a place that once felt new, only to realize how deeply familiar it had always been. Through shared climate, cuisine, and community, Taiwan and the Caribbean reveal unexpected parallels. And for Jasmine, that connection turned a study abroad experience into something more lasting—a second sense of home. Because sometimes, home isn’t just where you’re from. It’swhereyou’reunderstood.
CAP VILLAGE
Runway Rewritten Rehearsal
The energy inside CAP Village was unmistakable as models, designers, and creatives gathered for the rehearsal of Runway Rewritten Pt. 2: The Takeover. More than just a practice run, the rehearsal offered a glimpse into what is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic fashion events of the season, set to take place on April 11, 2026, in Orlando.
Fromthemomentrehearsalsbegan,itwasclearthatthis show is operating on a larger scale than before. Dozens ofmodelsfilledthespace,eachbringingtheirownstyle, confidence, and presence to the runway. The diversity in looks, walks, and personalities reflected the heart of Runway Rewritten—a celebration of individuality and creativeexpression.Coordinatorsmovedwithprecision, ensuring timing, transitions, and staging aligned seamlessly, while designers made last-minute adjustmentstogarmentsthatwillsoontakecenterstage.
The rehearsal wasn’t just about walking—it was about storytelling. Each segment of the show is carefully curatedtodeliverauniqueexperience,blendingfashion with performance. Models practiced not only their strides but their expressions, poses, and interactions, emphasizing that this is more than a traditional runway show. It’s an immersive production designed to captivate the audience from start to finish.
One of the most striking elements of the rehearsal was the sheer range of fashion being showcased. From bold, avant-garde pieces to sleek, wearable designs, the collections promise a visual journey that pushes boundaries while remaining accessible. Designers are clearly using this platform to make statements—about culture, identity, and the future of fashion—ensuring thateverylookcontributestoalargernarrative.
Behind the scenes, the collaboration was just as powerful as what unfolded on the runway. Stylists, coordinators, photographers,andproductionteamsworkedtogetherto fine-tuneeverydetail.Theatmospherewasfast-pacedyet focused, with an underlying sense of excitement building as the team prepares for the main event. Every correction, every adjustment, and every run-through brought the show one step closer to its full vision.
What makes Runway Rewritten Pt. 2: The Takeover particularly compelling is its commitment to growth. Buildingonthesuccessofitsfirstinstallment,thissecond chapter is clearly aiming higher—bigger production, more talent, and a stronger creative direction. The rehearsal made it evident that this is not just a continuation, but an evolution.
As anticipation builds, the upcoming show is expected to draw a diverse audience of fashion enthusiasts, creatives, and community members. With its blend of high-energy performances, cutting-edge design, and a strong sense of purpose, Runway Rewritten Pt. 2 is poised to make a lasting impact on Orlando’s creative scene.
If the rehearsal is any indication, April 11 will not just be anotherfashionevent—itwillbeastatement.
Catwalk Academy
United Band Launch
Catwalk Academy
Upcoming Runways and Pageants
Univerisity of Florida Students Show Their Spirit Caribsa Pageant
On the twelfth day of March, the University of Florida held their annual pageant, Mr and Mrs. CaribSA Pageant. This gives an opportunity for many different students to compete for the winning recognition of the show. The energy was high and everyone had an amazing attitude as theyflewthevibrantcolorsaroundwiththewingsprovided by Orlando Carnival Downtown. Below is a photo of Tiffany Jones, one of the contestants of the pageant, showingspiritincostume.
From the opening introductions to the final crowning moments, the evening was filled with creativity, confidence,andastrongsenseofidentity.
A key highlight of the event was the talent show, where contestants proudly displayed a talent of theirs that tied back to their culture. Bright colors, intricate designs, and symbolic demonstrations reflected the richness of Caribbeancultureandhistory.Thesemomentsallowedthe audience to experience the beauty and diversity of the regionbeyondjustperformance.
The scholarship aspect of the pageant underscored CaribSA’s commitment to supporting students academically while also encouraging leadership and culturalawareness.
Pictured above are Lucas Stephenson and Zion Tomlin, recognized as Mr and Mrs. CaribSA for this year’s pageant. They both did an amazing job at shining their talent and spirit for Carnival. Pictured below is Jonathon
contestants who helped bring this night to life: Victoria Bofil, Jonathon Ashman, Bianca Renteria, Janyzha Key, Jonathan Eugene, and Tiffany Jones. Each of you brought talent, amazing personality, and charm to the stage, makingthisyetanothersuccessfulannualpageant.
Awesome Foundation
Big impact starts with simple support.
Awesome Foundation chapters from around the world gathered for a summit in Orlando in February hostedbythelocalchapter.
Founded in 2009 in Boston by Tim Hwang alongside collaborators Emily Daniels and Jon Pierce, the Awesome Foundation has grown into an international network of autonomous chapters. Each chapter consists of about ten “micro-trustees” who pool their own money together to award $1,000 grants—no strings attached—to individuals and projects they believe in.
As an attendee, what stood out most wasn’t just the programming or the speakers (though both were impactful).Itwasthefeelingintheroom…thepride, the connection, and the realization that our city had somethingspecialtooffer—andpeoplewereseeingit, manyforthefirsttime.
From visitors flying in from different cities and countries, there was a genuine sense of surprise—not just at the quality of the summit, but at the culture andcreativitythatOrlandoholds.
So often, Orlando is viewed through a narrow lens— theme parks, tourism, surface-level experiences. But this weekend, we got to peel that back and reveal somethingdeeper:
Because for those of us building here—creating, producing, organizing, and pushing culture forward— thissummitbecameamirrorandamegaphone: A mirror reflecting the value of what we’ve been building. A megaphone amplifying it to a wider audience
A Fun Weekend of Music and Community Lakeland Carnival
The energy of Caribbean culture was on full display at LakelandCarnival,anexcitingcelebrationthatcontinuesto grow in the heart of Lakeland. Often overlooked, Lakeland is quickly proving itself to be a secret hub for events in Central Florida, offering vibrant community experiences thatrivalthoseinlargercities.
This year, the Orlando Carnival Downtown Host Models brought their signature presence to the festivities, adding color, energy, and engagement throughout the event. The team spent time connecting with attendees, taking photos with event-goers, and supporting local businesses that participated in the celebration. Their interactions helped create a lively and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging guests to fully immerse themselves in the carnival experience.
Events like Lakeland Carnival play an important role in expanding the reach of Caribbean culture beyond wellknown hotspots like Orlando and Miami. By bringing these celebrations into cities like Lakeland, organizers are creating new opportunities for cultural exchange and community building. It allows residents and visitors alike to experience the music, fashion, and traditions of carnival inamoreaccessibleandlocalizedway.
The presence of local businesses also added to the event’s impact, highlighting the strong sense of community and support within the area. From vendors to sponsors, the collaboration between participants helped make the event bothsuccessfulandmeaningful.
Overall, Lakeland Carnival demonstrated that you don’t
Greater Haitian American Chamber
The chamber ushers in a new era of leadership dedicated to empowering Haitian American businesses
On February 18, 2026, we had the honor of attending the swearing-in ceremony for the new president and board of the Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce. The event was held at the National Entrepreneur Center, located inside Orlando Fashion Square, bringing together community leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals for an evening of celebration and forward-lookingleadership.
The ceremony marked an important milestone for the organization as it continues its mission to support Haitian American businesses and foster economic growth within the community. Attendees had the opportunity to connect, network, and show theirsupportfortheincomingleadershipteam.
The atmosphere was both inspiring and collaborative, highlighting the strength and unity of the local business community. Events like this play a vital role in empowering entrepreneurs and strengtheningconnectionsacrossindustries.
We were proud to be present for this significant occasion and look forward to seeing the continued impactofthechamber’sleadership.
Home Care 360
Cleaning Up Debris for HurricaneSeason
As hurricane season approaches, preparation becomes one of the most important responsibilities for homeowners and communities. One of the most overlooked but critical steps is removing loose debris, fallen branches, and overgrown greenery from yards and surrounding areas. During strong storms, these items can quickly turn into dangerous projectiles that damage homes, vehicles, and power lines. Taking the time to clear away these hazards ahead of time can significantly reduce the risk of property damage and help keep neighborhoods safer when severe weather arrives.
Loosebranches,deadlimbs,andpilesofyardwastemay seemharmlessonacalmday,buthurricane-forcewinds can easily pick them up and carry them long distances. Even small pieces of debris can break windows, damage roofs, and block storm drains, leading to flooding and additionalhazards.Proactiveyardmaintenancenotonly protects your property but also helps your entire community stay safer by preventing unnecessary obstaclesandstorm-relateddamage.
That’s where HomeCare360 comes in. Their team specializes in helping homeowners prepare for hurricane season by clearing away loose debris, removing hazardous branches, and cleaning up areas that could become dangerous during high winds. Not only can they handle the cleanup of existing messes, but they also take a proactive approach by identifying and removing potential problems before they become costly emergencies.
By Israel Torres
Preparation sometimes starts with help, and that’s when HomeCare360 steps in. By allowing experienced professionals to assess and maintain your property, you can have peace of mind knowing your home is better protected before the storms arrive. A little preparation today can make a major difference tomorrow, and with the right support, families can face hurricaneseasonwithgreaterconfidenceandsafety.
Beyond immediate storm preparation, regular maintenance and debris removal can also improve the long-term health and appearance of your property. Keeping trees properly trimmed and yards clear of excess greenery not only prevents storm hazards but also promotes stronger, healthier growth. By workingwithHomeCare360,homeownersareinvestingnotonly instormsafetybutalsointheoverallcareandprotectionoftheir propertyforseasonstocome.
Island Vibes Take Over Gentry Park
Residents connect and celebrate through a Caribbean-inspired happy hour
On March 12, 2026, residents at The Landings at Gentry Park enjoyed a vibrant Caribbean Carnival Happy Hour brought to life by the OCD Host Models. Set in Orlando, the event transformed the space into a lively celebration filled with music, energy, and island-inspired flair.
From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was full of excitement. The sounds of Caribbean music on steelpan, set the tone for the evening, creating a festive backdrop as residents gathered to socialize and unwind. Bright colors, rhythmic beats, and the overall carnival-inspired aesthetic helped transport attendees beyond their everyday surroundings, offering a mini escape right within theirowncommunity.
The OCD Host Models played a key role in shaping the experience, creating an inviting and high-energy environment. Their engaging presence encouraged residents to step out, interact, and fully embrace the theme of the event. Whether greeting guests, sparking conversations, or keeping the energy flowing, the team helped ensure that every moment felt lively and inclusive.
Guests had the opportunity to connect with neighbors, meet new people, and enjoy a shared cultural experience that celebrated the spirit of Caribbean carnival. The event not only provided entertainment but also strengthened the sense of community among residents, turning a simple happy hour into a memorable evening of connectionandjoy.
Overall, the event stood out as a successful blend of culture, creativity, and community engagement. Bringing Caribbean flair to The Landings at Gentry Park,thenightleftresidentswithlastingmemoriesand highlighted the impact of thoughtful, culturally inspiredprogramming.
Trinidad and Tobago Carnival
Energy from Trinidad and Tobago Carnival
Samuel Roberts, owner of Roberts & Roberts Management and a key figure behind Orlando Carnival Downtown, recently took his passion for Caribbean culture to the global stage with a visit to Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. Known for his commitment to elevating Caribbean experiences in Central Florida, Roberts embraced the opportunity to immerse himself in one of the most iconic carnivalsintheworld.
His trip was highlighted by his time alongside soca powerhouses Bunji Garlin and Fay-Ann Lyons, as well as the dynamic presence of the Viking Family, making the experience even more memorable. From the moment he arrived, Roberts was fully engaged in the energy and rhythm of Trinidad’s carnival scene. He attended a wide array of fetes, each one bringing its own unique vibe, music, and cultural expression. Surrounded by pulsating soca beats, beautiful costumes, and a sea of revelers, he experienced firsthand the spirit that has made Trinidad Carnival legendary. Whether it was dancing deep into the night or networking with key figures in the industry, Roberts made the most of every moment, soaking in inspirationthathecanbringbacktoOrlando.
Beyond the parties and performances, the trip served as both a celebration and a learning experience. Being in the presence of icons like Bunji Garlin and Fay-Ann Lyons allowed Roberts to gain deeper insight into the culture, artistry, and business behind carnival at its highest level, adding to his knowledge and experience in business himself. His time with the Viking Family further emphasized the importance of community, tradition, and unity within the carnival movement. With unforgettable memories and renewed inspiration, Samuel Roberts will return to Orlando energized and ready to continue building Orlando Carnival Downtown into an even greater
When We Look Away
There is something uncomfortable happening right now. And maybe that’s why we don’t talk about it enough.
Cuba is facing real challenges—economic strain, infrastructure instability, shortages that affect daily life in ways most of us in the diaspora can barely imagine. And yet, across the wider Caribbean and its global communities, the response has been… quiet.
Not hostile. Not dismissive. Just quiet.
And silence, in moments like this, says more than we think.
Because if we are honest, Cuba has never been quiet when it came to the Caribbean.
For decades, Cuba showed up across the region—not in theory, but in action. Cuban doctors traveled to countries in need, often working in communities where access to healthcare was limited or nonexistent. Cuban teachers supported education systems. Cuban engineers, cultural workers, and professionals contributed to the development of nations still finding their footing after independence.
When crises hit—whether natural disasters or public health emergencies—Cuba was often among the first to respond, sending people, not just statements.
They didn’t always ask who you were. They didn’t always wait for alignment. They showed up.
And that history matters.
Because community is not just about who we celebrate when things are going well. It is about who we remember—and how we respond—when things are not.
Today, as Cuba faces mounting pressure, the Caribbean diaspora finds itself at a crossroads. Not a political one—but a moral one.
This is not about agreeing with governments or policies. The Caribbean has always been politically diverse, and that diversity is part of our strength. This is about something deeper.
It is about memory. It is about reciprocity. It is about whether we truly believe in the idea of regional community—or only when it is convenient.
The Caribbean has always spoken about unity. We celebrate it in our festivals, we reference it in our speeches, we wrap it into the idea of “One Caribbean.” But unity is not proven in celebration.
It is proven in response. When one part of the region is struggling, the question ecomes: do we lean in—or do we look away?
And too often, we look away when the situation becomes complicated.
But community is not built in easy moments. It is built in the difficult ones—the ones that require us to sit with discomfort, to acknowledge complexity, and still choose connection.
By Lee Roberts
Cuba’s presence in the Caribbean has never been small. Its cultural impact, its medical outreach, its role in regional development—these are not abstract contributions. They are lived experiences for thousands across the region.
So the question becomes: what does it mean to be a Caribbean community today?
Is it shared music?
Shared food?
Shared celebration?
Or is it shared responsibility?
Because if we are building a true Caribbean community— one that spans islands and diaspora—then we cannot pick and choose when that community matters.
We cannot benefit from connection in moments of joy and distance ourselves in moments of challenge.
This is not a call for politics.
It is a call for perspective.
It is a reminder that the Caribbean story has always been interconnected. That the lines drawn on maps do not define the relationships built through decades of exchange, support, and cultural alignment.
And it is a challenge to ourselves.
To remember.
To acknowledge.
To engage.
Because community, if it is real, requires all of those things.
At Caribbean American Passport, we have always believed that our role is not just to highlight what is happening—but to reflect on what it means. To connect the dots between history and present day. To ask the questions that may not have easy answers but are necessary nonetheless.
This is one of those moments.
Cuba is not a distant story. It is part of the Caribbean story. And how we respond—whether loudly or quietly, actively or passively—becomes part of that story too.
So we ask, not as critics, but as community:
When we look back on this moment, what will it say about us?
Because community is not just what we inherit.
It is what we choose to uphold.
Cuba, Right Now: As we close, it’s important to acknowledge the present moment.
Cuba is navigating a period of significant strain—marked by ongoing power outages, shortages of essential goods, and economic pressure that continues to impact daily life for millions. These are not abstract challenges. They are lived realities affecting families, elders, and young people trying to find stability in uncertain conditions.
