~As key strategic partner, CBCS hosts event in its auditorium~

PHILIPSBURG:---  Caribbean entrepreneurship enters a bold new era as Islandpreneur International announces the launch of AI Islands: Paradise x Progress = Power—the region’s most dynamic summit dedicated for entrepreneurs and business leaders ready to harness the power of artificial intelligence.

Taking place at the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en St. Maarten (CBCS) in Willemstad, Curaçao on August 27-29, 2025, AI Islands is more than an event—it’s a launchpad for the Caribbean’s next generation of business pioneers. By bringing together forward-thinking entrepreneurs, investors, innovators, and global AI experts, the summit empowers participants to turn the region’s unique strengths into global solutions.

From Paradise, Through Progress, to Power

“At Islandpreneur International, we believe the formula for the Caribbean’s future is simple but transformative: Paradise x Progress = Power,” said Ife Badejo, Founder of Islandpreneur International. “By harnessing AI, Caribbean entrepreneurs can build thriving businesses, solve pressing global challenges, and empower their families—all while enjoying the unparalleled lifestyle of our islands.”

While AI is widening the global digital divide, Islandpreneur International views this moment as a catalyst: an unprecedented chance for the Caribbean to lead by example—transforming from consumers to creators, and bridging the gap for lasting impact.

AI Islands is designed to bridge the digital divide, provide access to cutting-edge AI solutions, and catalyze new opportunities for the entire region. Attendees can expect dynamic keynotes, workshops to assist with prompts and workflows, AI Demos of the latest tools, and premier networking.

AI Islands: Hosted by CBCS

The Centrale Bank van Curaçao en St. Maarten, a cornerstone of regional innovation, will host the inaugural summit—demonstrating a strong commitment to the future of technology and business in the Caribbean.

Interested persons are invited to go to https://islandpreneur.co/ai-islands to join the waiting list and be the first to get further details. Interested partners are welcome to email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more details.

Cul de Sac:---  A fire broke out this morning at the green waste treatment site in Grande Cayes, engulfing approximately 300 tons of tires in flames. This incident, while being managed by firefighters and company officials, raises serious concerns about the safety protocols and environmental responsibility of waste management facilities.

The fire, which started around 10 a.m., has caused significant disruption, with access to the site being strictly prohibited. Residents of nearby areas, particularly Anse Marcel, were initially advised to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities due to the toxic smoke. Although these precautionary measures have since been lifted, the incident highlights the potential dangers posed by improper waste storage and management.

A Preventable Crisis?

The question on everyone’s mind is: Could this have been avoided? Storing 300 tons of tires in one location is a recipe for disaster, especially in a region prone to high temperatures and dry conditions. The lack of immediate containment measures and the reliance on "letting the temperature drop gradually" as a firefighting strategy only underscores the unpreparedness of the facility.

Environmental and Health Impacts

Burning tires release a cocktail of toxic chemicals, including carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, and volatile organic compounds, which can have long-term health and environmental consequences. The residents of Saint-Martin deserve better than to be exposed to such risks due to corporate negligence.

Accountability is Non-Negotiable

The Prefecture of Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Martin has issued updates and safety instructions, but words are not enough. The company responsible for the green site must be held accountable for this incident. Stricter regulations and regular inspections are imperative to prevent such disasters in the future.

This fire is a wake-up call for local authorities, waste management companies, and residents alike. It’s time to demand transparency, enforce stricter safety measures, and prioritize the health and safety of the community over profit margins.

The people of Saint-Martin deserve answers, and they deserve action. Anything less is unacceptable.

~Inclusive Solutions for Diverse Needs” Empowers Families Navigating Special Needs~

PHILIPSBURG:---  In a forward-thinking initiative to better support families of children with special needs, the Honorable Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, Richinel S.J. Brug, has partnered with The Spectrum Support Box to launch a dynamic four-week parent training series titled “Inclusive Solutions for Diverse Needs.”

Led by experienced facilitators Alisha Brookes and Lucien York, the series offers practical tools, emotional guidance, and a supportive environment for parents of children with special needs. Each weekly session is designed to equip families with strategies to better understand and support their children, while also prioritizing their own emotional well-being.

Program Overview

Week 1: Understanding Special Needs and Emotional Regulation

Parents explored emotional development, learned to recognize dysregulation in children, and were introduced to tools like feelings charts and mood meters.

Week 2: Effective Communication Techniques

Focused on improving tone, active listening, and clear instructions, this session included role-playing and the creation of personalized visual aids.

Week 3: Practical Tools for Behavior Management

Participants learned to track behavior patterns, use positive reinforcement, and interact with tools like social stories, calm-down kits, and visual timers.

Week 4: Support for Parent Well-being

The final week focused on caregiver stress, self-care strategies, and building support systems. The series concluded with a celebration and certificate ceremony.

This impactful training series was attended by 21 parents of children aged 2 to 17, alongside 6 dedicated teachers. Special recognition was extended to two fathers whose active participation highlighted the importance of inclusive and engaged parenting.

“This initiative highlights the critical need for clear, practical, and compassionate support systems for families raising children with special needs,” said Minister Brug. “I commend all participants and facilitators for creating a space of growth, learning, and community. This is the kind of forward momentum we need.”

Each session was grounded in real-life challenges and offered step-by-step guidance that parents could immediately apply in their homes. The Spectrum Support Box continues to be a vital community resource offering inclusive, customized support for families, schools, and care providers.

PHILIPSBURG:--- It is with great appreciation that I commend Mr. Ezequiel A. Josepha for his dedication to crafting this timely and much-needed booklet, Retirement, What Next?. In a society that often glorifies the journey of work but overlooks the destination of retirement, this documentation provides a necessary platform, recognizing the contributions of our pensioners and shedding light on the struggles faced by individuals transitioning into this critical phase of life.

This booklet not only outlines the real and pressing challenges encountered by many pensioners today but also serves as a beacon of guidance for those nearing retirement. It is my belief that this work can become a cornerstone reference, a true “one-stop shop” information guide, for persons navigating the road to retirement.

“Imagine working hard, paving the way for the comforts and benefits allotted to us as a society today, and not reaping the benefits as a retiree. This is a grave injustice.” These words reflect a reality we can no longer afford to ignore. Retirement should be a time of dignity, security, and peace, not uncertainty.

With its thoughtful questions, practical steps, and accessible advice, Retirement, What Next? Represents a positive step forward in reshaping how we approach aging and retirement in our community. It offers both a call to action and a roadmap for more equitable and informed support systems.

I thank Mr. Josepha for his initiative and hope this work inspires further dialogue and reform, ensuring that those who’ve given so much to our society are never forgotten when they need us most.

Hon. Richinel S.J. Brug
Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor
Government of Sint Maarten