CBUAGA57 Archives - Caribbean Broadcasting Union https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/tag/cbuaga57/ The official website for the Caribbean Broadcasting Union Fri, 21 Aug 2026 14:17:51 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/favicon.png CBUAGA57 Archives - Caribbean Broadcasting Union https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/tag/cbuaga57/ 32 32 37th CBU Media Awards – Winners Announced https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/2026/08/19/37th-cbu-media-awards-winners-announced/ Thu, 20 Aug 2026 02:02:15 +0000 https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/?p=575962666 The post 37th CBU Media Awards – Winners Announced appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

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The Caribbean Broadcasting Union is pleased to announce the winners of the 37th CBU Media Awards.

On Wednesday, August 19, ninety-two (92) Award and Special Mention winners were revealed live in an event telecast and streamed to audiences across the region from the Atlantic Suites at the Hyatt in Georgetown, Guyana.

Winners from print, digital, and broadcast media in thirteen countries and territories of the English, French and Spanish Caribbean saw their names on screen during the ceremony.

Presentations of trophies and certificates were made in fifty-six (56) categories.  Of these twenty-two (22) – were themed categories supported by:

  • Massy Group
  • The Caribbean Culture Fund
  • UN Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
  • UNICEF Belize
  • UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area Office
  • The Nature Conservancy Caribbean Division,
  • Sagicor and
  • The Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management

TOP PERFORMERS FROM BARBADOS AND JAMAICA

For the first time in the modern era of the CBU Media Awards, Barbados came out on top with a total of fifteen (15) Award wins and nine (9) Special Mention wins.  Barbados’ winning delegation comprised the Barbados Government Information Service with seven (7) Awards and one (1) Special Mention; The Nation Publishing Company with three (3) Awards and four (4) Special Mentions; Capital Media HD 99.3 on its first ever outing in the storied CBU competition taking three (3) Awards; Starcom Network two (2) Awards and one (1) Special Mention.  And three Barbadian entrants each earned a Special Mention on their first outing in the CMAs: Plan A Productions, the Barbados Community College and National Transformation Initiative (NTI).

Next in line was Jamaica with a total of fourteen (14) Awards and four (4) Special Mentions.  Traditional powerhouse the RJRGLEANER Communications Group was the top media house over all this year with thirteen (13) Awards and two (2) Special Mentions.  It was supported by the University of the West Indies Mona taking its first ever award in the brand-new student categories while the Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica took home one (1) Special Mention.

Trinidad and Tobago demonstrated consistent quality with a total of six (6) Awards and nine (9) Special Mentions.  The main contributors were OCM stablemates the Express Newspaper and CCN TV6 with two (2) Awards and three (3) Special Mentions;  TTT Ltd with two (2) Awards as well as two (2) Special Mentions; Guardian Media with one (1) award and two (2) Special Mentions; Carnival Catwalk winning one (1) award on its premiere appearance in the competition; Parliament Channel with one (1) Special Mention on its return to the competition after some years away, and a swan song performance of one (1) Special Mention by Trinidad Newsday, which closed operations at the beginning of 2026.

As always Belize was among the standouts with five (5) Awards and four (4) Special Mentions. All but one of the wins was by traditional top achiever Greater Belize Media, while The National Channel (TNC) supported with one (1) Special Mention win.

This year’s host country Guyana was well represented with a total of four (4) Awards and three (3) Special Mentions.  Leading the Guyanese charge was News Room Inc which accounted for all four (4) of the Awards to the host country and two (2) Special Mentions.  Guyana Chronicle supported the side with one (1) Special Mention.

 

FIRST TIME ENTRANTS MAKE A STRONG IMPRESSION

A slew of first timers made excellent impressions on the judges this year. 

They included:

  • Riches Karayib of Martinique with two (2) Awards and two (2) Special Mentions
  • Lucia Times with two (2) Awards and one (1) Special Mention
  • API of Vincent and the Grenadines with one (1) Award and one (1) Special Mention, and
  • Compass TV of the Cayman Islands with three (3) Special Mentions
  • The British Virgin Islands Beacon copping one (1) Special Mention

 

 

FULL LIST OF WINNERS

A.  PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS

  1. Best News & Current Affairs Reel – Sponsored by Massy
    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    A Home Taken By The Sea
    Romardo Lyons
  2. Best Music Reel
    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    Accompong Laid Bare
    Romardo Lyons
  3. Best Comedy Reel
    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    Comic Relief in Black River
    Romardo Lyons
  4. Best Educational Reel – Sponsored by Massy
    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    Youth Urged To Vote
    Romardo Lyons

 

B. PRODUCTION AWARDS (RADIO)

  1. Best Documentary Programme
    SPECIAL MENTION – Institute of Information and Social Communication (Cuba)
    En El Dificil Camino
    Elizabeth Alvarez HernandezAWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group (Jamaica)
    Unsung Heroes – Who Cares for the Caregiver
    Dadrian Gordon
  2. Best Magazine Programme
    AWARD – Institute of Information and Social Communication (Cuba)
    Desde La Musica
    Elizabeth Alvarez Hernandez
  3. Best Drama Programme
    AWARD – Capital Media HD 99.3 (Barbados)
    Santa’s Sleigh Ride – Cuba
    Capital Media HD 99.3, Wayne Le Blanc, Rebecca Fernandes
  4. Best News Story
    AWARD – Capital Media 99.3 (Barbados)
    Did You Know – Ep Heritage Economy
    Sir Henry Fraser, Donovan Clarke
  5. Best Sports Story
    SPECIAL MENTION – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    Sprinting Prowess
    Denise Walters
  6. Best Investigative Report
    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    Housing Crisis
    Giovanni Dennis

 

C. PRODUCTION AWARDS (TELEVISION)

  1. Best Documentary Programme
    SPECIAL MENTION – Plan A Productions (Barbados)
    A Rock And A Hard Place
    Chantelle S. Evelyn, Plan A Productions

    SPECIAL MENTION – Teleislas (San Andres Island, Colombia)
    Flora Y Fauna Marina
    Sociedad de Television de las Islas, TELEISLAS

    SPECIAL MENTION – Parliament Channel (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Evidence And Action: Climate Change and the Law
    Parliament Channel, Ayanna Holder, Candice Dubarry, Colleen Holder, Christian Wright, Reshaud Alexander, Wayne Frederick, Atiba Wiltshire

    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group (Jamaica)
    Glamour Or Gamble: Unregulated Dentistry
    Romardo Lyons – Reporter/ Producer; Ivan Shaw – Videographer; Uton West – Editor

 

  1. Best Magazine Programme
    SPECIAL MENTION – Guardian Media (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Agenda 41
    Bavita Gopaulchan, Kejan Haynes, Ryan Bachoo

    SPECIAL MENTION – Compass TV (Cayman Islands)
    Compass Christmas Eve Special
    Mona Lisa Meade, Lesli Tathum, Tattiana Tibbetts, Reshma Ragoonath, Kayla Karim, Vanessa Hansen Allott, Tammi Sulliman, Richard O’Carroll, Tripp Donelly

    SPECIAL MENTION – API (St. Vincent & the Grenadines)
    Inside Story
    API St. Vincent and the Grenadines

    AWARD – TTT Ltd (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Penny on Point (POP) Christmas Special
    Producer Penny Gomez & Colin Greaves; Presenter Penny Gomez; Editor NH Productions TT; Distributor TTT Ltd

 

  1. Best News Story
    SPECIAL MENTION – Compass Media (Cayman Islands)
    Energy Efficient Homes
    Philipp Richter, Lesli Tathum, Kayla Karim, Reshma Ragoonath, Stephon Johnson, Vanessa Hansen Allott, Tammi Sulliman, Richard O’Carroll, Tripp Donelly

    SPECIAL MENTION – Greater Belize Media
    Captain and Passenger Save Flight From Hijacker
    Reporter – Marion Ali, Videographer – Darrel Moguel, Graphics – Sheena Smith

    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    The Tough Journey To Irwin
    Andrea Chisholm, Dean Sutherland, Hugh Clarke, Uton West

  2. Best Sports Story
    SPECIAL MENTION – Compass Media (Cayman Islands)
    Boys to Men
    Seaford Russell Jr., Kayla Karim, Reshma Ragoonath, Stephon Johnson, Vanessa Hansen Allott, Tammi Sulliman, Richard O’Carroll, Tripp Donnelly

    SPECIAL MENTION – TTT Ltd (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Woman Power Wednesday: Teniel Campbell Ep 19
    Executive Producer TTT Ltd; Producer Nicole Greene; Junior Producer Mikhail Cooper; Editor Celeste Clarke

    AWARD – News Room Inc (Guyana)
    Between Scorecards and Stethoscopes
    Vishani Ragobeer, Davin Ramnarine

  3. Best Investigative Report
    SPECIAL MENTION – CCN TV6 (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Lifesports Secrets Revealed: Part 2
    Mark Bassant

    AWARD – News Room Inc (Guyana)
    Back to the Beginning: Could a Muddy Coast Be Guyana’s Saviour?
    Vishani Ragobeer, Shaconeil Burnette

 

  1. Best Comedy Item
    AWARD – Greater Belize Media
    Grinch Steals Christmas at GBM
    Rick Romero, Sheena Smith, Nisa Sanchez

 

  1. Best Entertainment Programme
    SPECIAL MENTION – The National Channel (Belize)
    Glazed Out Season 4
    The National Channel

    AWARD – Carnival Catwalk Ltd (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Carnival Catwalk Season 1
    Jerome Precilla, Rodney Seemungal & Gian Franco

 

D.  PRODUCTIONS AWARDS (PRINT)

  1. Best News Story
    SPECIAL MENTION – Barbados Government Information Service
    Tourism, Airlift, Accolades and Arrivals
    Sheena Forde-Craigg and Tyson Henry

    SPECIAL MENTION – Trinidad & Tobago Newsday
    Ganja Prices Climb Higher As US Blows Up “Drug Boats”
    Stephon Nicholas

    AWARD – The Nation Publishing Co (Barbados)
    Three Days of Melissa’s Misery
    Natanga Smith

 

  1. Best Sports Story
    SPECIAL MENTION – Guardian Media (Trinidad & Tobago)
    20 Years On: Remembering When T&T Qualified
    Ryan Bachoo

    AWARD – Richès Karayib (Martinique)
    La Transat Cafe L’or
    Richès Karayib

 

  1. Best Investigative Item – Sponsored by Massy
    AWARD – Trinidad Express
    Secrets of LifeSport Revealed Pt 1: The $440M LifeSport Rip-Off
    Mark Bassant

 

  1. Best Entertainment Item
    SPECIAL MENTION – The Nation Publishing Co (Barbados)
    Noel Shapes the Soul of Pan
    Natanga Smith

    AWARD – Richès Karayib
    Cecile Vernant: Une artiste multi médium qui sculpte la mémoire de l’ile
    Richès Karayib

 

  1. Best News Photograph
    SPECIAL MENTION – News Room Inc (Guyana)
    Mash in Guyana
    Shaconeil Burnette

    AWARD – St. Lucia Times
    Beausejour Burning
    McAllister Hunt

 

  1. Best Sports Photograph
    AWARD – St. Lucia Times
    Man of the Match
    McAllister Hunt

 

E.  PRODUCTION AWARDS (DIGITAL)

  1. Best News Story – Sponsored by Massy
    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group (Jamaica)
    Siblings in Distress: Hurricane Melissa Victims
    Romardo Lyons – Reporter & Videographer, Uton West – Editor

 

  1. Best Sports Story
    SPECIAL MENTION – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    Dream Deferred, Not Denied
    Denise Walters

    AWARD – The Nation Publishing Co (Barbados)
    Your Guide To The 2025 NBA Finals
    Daniel Collymore

 

  1. Best Investigative Item
    SPECIAL MENTION – Trinidad Express
    The AI Revolution and Elections
    Khamarie Rodriguez

    SPECIAL MENTION – Starcom Network/ The Nation Publishing Company (Barbados)
    Staying Afloat Beyond the Boat
    Tre Greaves, Esther Jones, Ashada Joseph, Kristojay Paul and Gabrielle Williams

    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group (Jamaica)
    Sorrel & the Climate Challenge
    Romardo Lyons – Reporter; Jeovanni Heslop, Ivan Shaw and Aires Fagan – Video; Stefan Murray – Editor

 

  1. Best Entertainment Item
    SPECIAL MENTION – Richès Karayib (Martinique)
    Les Journees du Patrimoine
    Richès Karayib

    AWARD – API (St. Vincent & the Grenadines)
    Union Island Culture
    Yinca Chambers

 

F. ADVERTISING AWARDS

  1. Best Advertisement (Radio)
    SPECIAL MENTION – National Broadcasting Corporation St. Vincent & the Grenadines
    SVBLA – Turn Up the Vibes Loan
    Jason Bess

    AWARD – Capital Media HD 99.3 (Barbados)
    Santa’s Sleigh Ride
    Wayne LeBlanc, Rebecca Fernandes, Brian Mendes, Capital Media HD 99.3

 

  1. Best Advertisement (Television)
    SPECIAL MENTION – Greater Belize Media
    OYE 17th Anniversary
    Sheena Smith

 

  1. Best Public Service Advertisement (Digital)
    AWARD – Barbados Government Information Service
    Bees in Agriculture
    Paula Harper-Grant, Rommel Cumberbatch

 

  1. Best Public Service Advertisement (Radio)
    AWARD – Barbados Government Information Service
    Encouraging Good Hand Hygiene
    Paula Harper-Grant, Andre Olton
  2. Best Public Service Advertisement (Television)
    AWARD – Barbados Government Information Service
    Christmas Praedial Larceny
    Paula Harper-Grant, Rommel Cumberbatch

 

G. THEME AWARDS (RADIO)

  1. SDG Champion – sponsored by UN Sub-Regional Team for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
    AWARD – Starcom Network Inc (Barbados)
    Reindustrialisation and the Future of Barbados’ Export Building Capacity For Sustainable Economic Growth
    Starcom Network Inc and Barbados Chamber of Commerce & Industry
  1. Excellence in Media Coverage of Caribbean Arts and Culture – sponsored by the Caribbean Culture Fund
    AWARD – Institute of Information and Social Communication
    La Decima Es Una Sola
    Elizabeth Alvarez Hernandez

 

H. THEME AWARDS (TELEVISION)

  1. Best Item on a Children’s Rights Issue – sponsored by UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area Office
    SPECIAL MENTION – CCN TV-6
    Vacation Camp Needed
    Cindy Raghubar-Teekersingh
  2. Child Rights Champion: Investigative Reporting Story – sponsored by UNICEF Belize
    AWARD – Greater Belize Media
    Special Ed Students Locked Out of School Two Days Straight
    Reporter – Paul Lopez & Britney Gordon; Videographer – George Tillett
  3. Child Rights Champion: Children who Inspire Story – sponsored by UNICEF Belize
    AWARD – Greater Belize Media
    Belize’s Children’s Parliament Debates Adolescent Health Access
    Reporter – Britney Gordon, Videographer – George Tillet
  4. Excellence in Environmental Reporting on Mangrove/Seagrass Beds – Sponsored by The Nature Conservancy Caribbean Division
    SPECIAL MENTION – News Room Inc (Guyana)
    Sweet Survival: How Guyana’s Mangrove Forests Save The Coastland & Sustain Livelihoods
    Produced by Neil Marks, filmed and edited by Shatanand Anude

    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group (Jamaica)
    The Vanishing Catch
    Romardo Lyons – Reporter, Courtney Morgan & Richard Brown – Video, Stefan Murray – Editor

  5. Best Production on Land Degradation Neutrality – Sponsored by the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management
    SPECIAL MENTION – Greater Belize Media
    Boston Village Fights Back Against Illegal Logging
    Reporter – Paul Lopez, Videographers – Dennis Tucker & Cleon Barrow

    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group (Jamaica)
    The Reality in Content; Degraded Land
    Romardo Lyons – Reporter/Producer, Courtney Morgan – Videographer, Uton West – Editor

  6. Excellence in Media Coverage of Caribbean Arts and Culture – sponsored by the Caribbean Culture Fund
    SPECIAL MENTION – TTT Ltd (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Woman Power Wednesday: Penelope Spencer Ep 23
    Executive Producer TTT Ltd; Producer Nicole Green; Junior Producer Mikhail Cooper; Editors Peter Thompson & Israel Ramjohn

    AWARD – News Room Inc (Guyana)
    Steel Pan Revival: Guyana’s Big Bands and the Fight to Keep Mash Alive
    Produced by Daniel Swain, Filmed and edited by Shatanand Anude

  7. Financial Literacy Journalism – Sponsored by Sagicor
    SPECIAL MENTION – Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica
    Eliminating Debt
    Dennise Williams, Financially Focused

    AWARD – Barbados Government Information Service
    Money Matters: Navigating Your Financial Future
    Mikul Elcock, Aisha Reid, Andre Olton, Anthony Husbands, Stephanie St. Hill, Aaron Greenidge, Fabian Belgrave, Sharon Austin-Gilmore

 

I.  THEME AWARDS (DIGITAL)

  1. Excellence in Environmental Reporting on Coral Reefs – Sponsored by The Nature Conservancy Caribbean Division
    SPECIAL MENTION – The BVI Beacon (British Virgin Islands)
    Caribbean Corals: Bleaching Ravages A Region Built On Reefs As Aid Falls Short
    Freeman Rogers, Jean-Michel Hauteville, Krista Campbell, Yaneris M. Soto Muniz, Suzanne Carlson, Sara Kirkpatrick, Noel Algarin

    AWARD – Caribbean Investigative Journalism Network
    Is Barbados Keeping Cruise Tourism and Marine Protection On An Even Keel?
    Esther Jones

  2. SDG Champion – sponsored by UN Sub-Regional Team for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
    SPECIAL MENTION – National Transformation Initiative (Barbados)
    Interview with STARR Bajan – Janelle Skinner
    National Transformation Initiative

    AWARD – Starcom Network Inc (Barbados)
    Early Warning Systems: Bridging the Accessibility Gap
    Shantelle Legall-Gibson, Seigonie Mohammed

  3. Excellence in Media Coverage of Caribbean Arts and Culture – sponsored by the Caribbean Culture Fund
    SPECIAL MENTION – St. Lucia Times
    Behind the Culture; Behind the Stage
    McAllister Hunt

    SPECIAL MENTION – Richès Karayib
    Machel Montano; Summer Fest Anguilla
    Richès Karayib

    AWARD – TTT Ltd.
    Right Here with Khary Roberts – Rope Jab
    Executive Producer – TTT Ltd; Producer – Khary Roberts; Camera – Jvon Pollonais

J.  THEME AWARDS (PRINT)

  1. Best Item on a Children’s Rights Issue – sponsored by UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area Office
    SPECIAL MENTION – The Nation Publishing Co (Barbados)
    Position Youth As Agents of Change
    Diara Springer

    AWARD – Trinidad Express Newspaper
    Mariah’s Painful Life and Brutal Death
    Carolyn Kissoon

  2. SDG Champion – sponsored by the UN Sub-Regional Team for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
    AWARD – The Nation Publishing Co (Barbados)
    Erosion Takes Toll At Worthing Beach
    Diara Springer
  3. Best Production on Land Degradation Neutrality – Sponsored by the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management
    AWARD – Guardian Media Limited (Trinidad & Tobago)
    Rising Seas and Vanishing Lands
    Ryan Bachoo
  4. Excellence in Media Coverage of Caribbean Arts and Culture – sponsored by the Caribbean Culture Fund
    SPECIAL MENTION – The Nation Publishing Co (Barbados)
    CARIFESTA Shines Light On Bajan Icon
    Diara Springer

    SPECIAL MENTION – Joanne C. Hillhouse (Antigua & Barbuda)
    My Art Week Faves: Creative Space #25 of 2025
    Joanne C. Hillhouse

    AWARD – Barbados Government Information Service
    Beyond Buns and Flying Fish
    Sheena Forde-Craigg and Tyson Henry

  5. Health Education Journalism – Sponsored by Sagicor
    SPECIAL MENTION – Guyana Chronicle
    Telemedicine: A Digital Lifeline
    Shamar Meusa

    SPECIAL MENTION – The Nation Publishing Co (Barbados)
    Nutrition, Dignity Cannot Be Overlooked
    Carol Martindale

    AWARD – RJRGLEANER Communications Group
    Silent Spread
    Sashana Small

K. STUDENT AWARDS

  1. Best Student Television Item
    AWARD – University of the West Indies: Broadcast Journalism Television II Course
    Rising Tuition
    Javoney Hamilton
  2. Best Student Digital Item
    SPECIAL MENTION – Barbados Community College: Digital Video Production Course
    Female Students Stepping Into Male Spaces
    Victoria Boyce

L. CONTENT CREATION AWARDS

  1. Best Social Media Content Creator
    AWARD – Greater Belize Media
    Benita Keme-Palacio
  2. Best Videographer
    AWARD – Greater Belize Media
    Rick Romero
  3. Best Director
    SPECIAL MENTION – Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica
    Marlon Samuels

    AWARD – Barbados Government Information Service
    Mikul Elcock

  4. Best Producer (TV)
    AWARD – News Room Inc (Guyana)
    Vishani Ragobee
  5. Best Sound Engineer (Radio)
    AWARD – Barbados Government Information Service
    Andre Olton

 

 

 

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]]> Come for the Assembly, Stay for the Experience: Discover Guyana at the CBU 57th AGA https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/2026/08/11/discover-guyana-cbuaga57/ Tue, 11 Aug 2026 19:39:44 +0000 https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/?p=575962647 Delegates attending the Caribbean Broadcasting Union’s 57th Annual General Assembly in Guyana are invited to extend the experience beyond the meeting room with two days of discovery, connection and authentic Guyanese hospitality. On Sunday, August 16, and Monday, August 17, 2026, delegates will have the opportunity to explore the country’s history and culture, see its…

The post Come for the Assembly, Stay for the Experience: Discover Guyana at the CBU 57th AGA appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

]]> Delegates attending the Caribbean Broadcasting Union’s 57th Annual General Assembly in Guyana are invited to extend the experience beyond the meeting room with two days of discovery, connection and authentic Guyanese hospitality.

On Sunday, August 16, and Monday, August 17, 2026, delegates will have the opportunity to explore the country’s history and culture, see its development firsthand, engage with leaders in broadcasting and agriculture, and sample some of its distinctive flavours.

Sunday, August 16: Discover Guyana

The programme begins with a tour of Georgetown, where delegates can experience the capital’s iconic landmarks and learn more about the history and culture that have shaped Guyana.

From the city, the journey continues along the new highways towards the Linden–Soesdyke Highway and Madewini Villas and Lake. This scenic stop offers a relaxing boat ride and lakeside experience—a chance to enjoy another side of Guyana’s natural beauty.

Delegates will also visit the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara Harbour Bridge, a major piece of national infrastructure. Its spectacular lighting promises to make the landmark particularly memorable.

The day concludes at the Guyana–China Friendship Park, a contemporary public space symbolising friendship, cooperation and national development.

Monday, August 17: Broadcast, Grow and Taste Guyana

Monday’s itinerary connects delegates with three defining elements of modern Guyana: broadcasting, agriculture and cuisine.

A visit to the National Communications Network Inc. (NCN) will take delegates inside Guyana’s flagship broadcasting house. For media professionals from across the region, the tour offers an opportunity to see its operations, exchange ideas and strengthen professional connections.

The programme then turns to one of Guyana’s best-loved local foods: the Guyanese eggball. Made with a boiled egg wrapped in seasoned cassava and fried until golden, it offers delegates a delicious introduction to the country’s culinary traditions. Cassava balls will also be available.

At the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), delegates will learn about Guyana’s agricultural ambitions and its focus on innovation, sustainability and regional leadership. As food security becomes an increasingly important Caribbean priority, the visit will provide valuable insight into Guyana’s growing role in the sector.

The experience concludes with lunch at Grand Coastal, bringing delegates together for conversation, local cuisine and warm Guyanese hospitality.

More Than an Assembly

The CBU Annual General Assembly is an important forum for regional dialogue, collaboration and decision-making. This year’s host-country programme adds another dimension: an opportunity to encounter Guyana through its people, places, institutions and flavours.

Delegates can look forward to strengthening connections with colleagues from across the Caribbean while creating lasting memories in one of the region’s most dynamic destinations.

Come for the Assembly. Stay for the experience. Discover Guyana, connect with the Caribbean and make the CBU 57th AGA a visit to remember.

The post Come for the Assembly, Stay for the Experience: Discover Guyana at the CBU 57th AGA appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

]]> Discover the Future of Caribbean Broadcasting with Eutelsat and Co-op Cable https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/2026/07/31/discover-the-future-of-caribbean-broadcasting-with-eutelsat-and-co-op-cable/ Fri, 31 Jul 2026 20:47:07 +0000 https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/?p=575962637 Attendees of the CBU 57th Annual General Assembly are invited to join Eutelsat and Co-op Cable for a timely discussion on the technologies shaping the future of broadcasting across the Caribbean. The session, Eutelsat Solutions: Caribbean, will explore how broadcasters can use satellite technology to strengthen service reliability, expand audience reach and respond to the…

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]]>

Attendees of the CBU 57th Annual General Assembly are invited to join Eutelsat and Co-op Cable for a timely discussion on the technologies shaping the future of broadcasting across the Caribbean.

The session, Eutelsat Solutions: Caribbean, will explore how broadcasters can use satellite technology to strengthen service reliability, expand audience reach and respond to the region’s evolving media landscape. Participants will also hear firsthand how Co-op Cable is leveraging satellite innovation to deliver dependable direct-to-home (DTH) services across the Caribbean.

The discussion will feature:

  • Guillermo Haller, Sales Director Media, Latin America, Eutelsat
  • Richard Rawlins, CEO, Co-op Cable
  • Jim Calaroccia, Sales Director Media, North America, Eutelsat

With broadcasters facing changing audience expectations and increasingly complex distribution requirements, this session will offer valuable perspectives on building resilient services and reaching viewers wherever they are.

AGA attendees interested in satellite distribution, DTH services and the future of Caribbean broadcasting are encouraged to add this session to their agenda.

Session details

Date: Tuesday, August 18
Time: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Event: CBU 57th Annual General Assembly

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]]> CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender Of Media Freedom Nominees Announced https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/2026/07/19/cmia-cbu-caribbean-defender-of-media-freedom-nominees-announced/ Sun, 19 Jul 2026 16:22:39 +0000 https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/?p=575962625 The post CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender Of Media Freedom Nominees Announced appeared first on Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

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The Center for Media Integrity of the Americas and the Caribbean Broadcasting Union are pleased to announce the nominees for the CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender of Media Freedom Award.

This regional honour recognizes outstanding journalism, courageous reporting, and meaningful contributions to the protection and advancement of media freedom across the Dutch, English, French & Spanish Caribbean.

The Award reflects the shared vision of the CBU and the CMIA to strengthen journalism, uphold democratic values, and support a resilient and independent media landscape across the region. Both organizations are deeply committed to fostering environments where journalists can work freely and safely, and where accurate, ethical, and impactful reporting can thrive. By spotlighting individuals and institutions that exemplify these principles, the Award directly supports the mission of both partners to champion media freedom as an essential pillar of open and accountable societies.

 

This year’s nominees are:

  • Mr. Jules Vasquez
  • Mr. Wesley Gibbings and
  • the Media Institute of the Caribbean

The Caribbean Defender of Media Freedom Award will be presented on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 during the Opening Ceremony of the 57th CBU Annual General Assembly at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Georgetown, Guyana.

For more information on the 57th CBU Annual General Assembly contact info@caribroadcastunion.org

 

Jules Vasquez

Jules Vasquez: Fearlessly Holding Power To Account

For more than three decades, Jules Vasquez has embodied the highest ideals of investigative journalism in the Caribbean. As News Director of 7News Belize, he has built a reputation for uncompromising reporting, relentless questioning of those in authority, and an unwavering commitment to the public’s right to know. His work has
made him one of the region’s most recognizable and courageous defenders of media freedom.

In a media landscape where political and commercial pressures often discourage aggressive investigative reporting, Vasquez consistently demonstrates that journalism’s first duty is to the public interest. Successive governments, regardless of political affiliation, have faced his rigorous scrutiny. This rare independence has earned him widespread respect as an equal-opportunity investigative journalist whose loyalty is neither to political parties nor powerful interests, but to truth and accountability.

His career has been marked by extraordinary courage. Whether being forcibly removed from Parliament while defending journalists’ right to report legislative proceedings, enduring tear gas while covering anti-government demonstrations, confronting political leaders with difficult questions, or facing repeated personal attacks from public officials, Vasquez has never retreated from his responsibility to hold power accountable. Rather than being intimidated by pressure, he repeatedly turns attempts to silence him into powerful affirmations of the importance of a free press.

His investigative reporting has delivered tangible results for Belizean society. Exposés by 7News have contributed to the dismissal of Cabinet ministers, prompted significant changes in public policy, and forced governments to reverse controversial decisions.

Most recently, his extensive investigations into multimillion-dollar airport security contracts raised serious questions about transparency, procurement practices, and conflicts of interest, compelling public responses from senior government officials.

Over the past year his relentless reporting brought to light the state-sponsored abduction and illegal rendition of citizen Joseph Budna, exposing a massive police cover-up that reached the upper echelons of the political directorate. Using Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, he unmasked multi-million-dollar fraudulent airport security contracts and uncovered cartel-linked corruption within the Corozal Free Zone.

He thus demonstrates journalism’s essential role in exposing abuse of authority and demanding institutional accountability.
Despite becoming the target of multiple Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), withdrawal of government advertising, and efforts to disrupt his newsroom’s operations, Vasquez has remained steadfast. Rather than allowing legal or economic pressure to silence independent journalism, he has consistently defended the principle that a free press must never be intimidated into submission.

The impact of his work has been recognised through repeated honours, including consecutive University of Belize Prizes for Investigative Journalism awarded to 7News. His reporting has strengthened public accountability and reinforced confidence in independent journalism as an essential pillar of democracy.

For his exceptional courage, unwavering independence, and lifelong commitment to defending the public’s right to know, Jules Vasquez is a most deserving nominee for the CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender of Media Freedom Award.

 

Wesley Gibbings

Wesley Gibbings: A Lifetime Champion Of Press Freedom In The Caribbean

For more than four decades, Wesley Gibbings has stood among the Caribbean’s foremost defenders of press freedom. A journalist, broadcaster, columnist, media trainer, author, and advocate, he has dedicated his career to protecting the independence of the media, advancing freedom of expression, and ensuring that journalism continues to serve democracy throughout the region.

A Trinidad and Tobago national, Gibbings has built an exceptional career that extends far beyond the newsroom. Equally respected as a freelance journalist, television presenter, newspaper columnist, published poet, and media development practitioner, his work has ranged from investigative reporting on climate change and fisheries to incisive commentary on governance, culture, and democratic accountability. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated that defending media freedom requires not only courageous reporting, but also building institutions, mentoring journalists, shaping policy, and strengthening professional standards.

As Founding President of the Association of Caribbean Media Workers (ACM), Gibbings established the region’s foremost organisation representing journalists and media workers, creating an enduring framework for defending press freedom at community, national, and regional levels. Today, as Vice President of the Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC), he continues to lead initiatives that strengthen independent journalism, media sustainability, and policy development. He is also the Caribbean’s sole elected representative on the Council of the International Freedom of Expression Exchange (IFEX) and has served on the Steering Committee of the Global Forum for Media Development, ensuring that Caribbean press freedom concerns are represented on the global stage.

Over the past year alone, Gibbings has championed five critical areas affecting media freedom: journalist safety, particularly in response to the crisis in Haiti; opposition to Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs); media viability and financial sustainability; the opportunities and threats posed by artificial intelligence; and legislative advocacy to safeguard journalists’ ability to protect confidential sources while conducting investigations. As an Acting Independent Senator in Trinidad and Tobago, he has uniquely translated decades of advocacy into legislative action by highlighting the implications of proposed financial legislation for investigative journalism.

His influence extends through journalism education and mentorship. As Editor and Mentor with the Caribbean Investigative Journalism Network (CIJN), lecturer at CARIMAC, and author or editor of landmark publications including A Climate Change Handbook for Caribbean Journalists, Reporting the Climate Crisis, An Election Handbook for Caribbean Journalists, and the State of the Caribbean Media Report, Gibbings has equipped generations of journalists with the knowledge and ethical foundation to uphold media freedom.

A recipient of the prestigious Percy Qoboza International Journalist Award from the US National Association of Black Journalists as well as Trinidad and Tobago’s Excellence in Journalism Award, Wesley Gibbings continues to be an unwavering advocate for truth, accountability, and democratic values. His sustained leadership, regional influence, and lifelong commitment to defending independent journalism make him an exemplary nominee for the CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender of Media Freedom Award.

 

Media Institute Of The Caribbean

Media Institute Of The Caribbean: A Champion Of Press Freedom Across The Region

In an era when independent journalism faces growing challenges from political pressure, economic uncertainty, disinformation, and technological disruption, the Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC) has emerged as one of the region’s most steadfast defenders of media freedom. Through advocacy, training, research, and direct support for journalists, MIC has become a leading force in protecting the public’s right to know and strengthening independent media throughout the Caribbean.

Since its establishment in 2012, MIC has worked tirelessly to build a stronger, more resilient media sector. Its impact spans more than 25 countries, with over 800 journalists trained through more than 525 workshops and capacity-building programmes. By equipping journalists with investigative reporting skills, digital safety tools, and specialized knowledge in areas such as financial crime reporting, MIC has strengthened the ability of Caribbean media to hold power accountable and serve the public interest.

One of MIC’s most significant contributions to media freedom has been its advocacy for Freedom of Information and Access to Information legislation. Through a landmark regional initiative launched in partnership with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, MIC reviewed legislation across the Caribbean, developed recommendations aligned with international best practices, established a regional FOI/ATI Help Desk, and created practical advocacy tools for journalists and civil society. By challenging efforts that restrict access to public information, MIC stood firmly in defence of transparency, accountability, and democratic participation.

MIC has also consistently spoken out on issues affecting press freedom. Its annual World Press Freedom Day statements have highlighted threats ranging from barriers to information access and environmental reporting to the growing challenges posed by artificial intelligence, media concentration, and economic pressures that threaten editorial independence. These interventions have helped shape regional conversations on media freedom and democratic governance.

Beyond advocacy, MIC has demonstrated that defending media freedom also means protecting journalists themselves. Through digital safety initiatives, mental health support, disaster-resilient communication projects, emergency media resources, and the Caribbean Media Summit, it has created practical mechanisms to ensure journalists can work safely, independently, and effectively.

For its unwavering commitment to independent journalism, access to information, professional excellence, and democratic accountability, the Media Institute of the Caribbean stands as a worthy nominee for the CMIA-CBU Caribbean Defender of Media Freedom Award. Its work continues to empower journalists, strengthen institutions, and safeguard the essential freedoms upon which Caribbean democracy depends.

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]]> President’s Remarks – Launch Of The 57th CBU Annual General Assembly https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/2026/06/16/presidents-remarks-launch-of-the-57th-cbu-annual-general-assembly/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 19:30:13 +0000 https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/?p=575962614 As President and Chair of the CBU Board of Directors, I am delighted to welcome you to the launch of the 57th Caribbean Broadcasting Union Annual General Assembly and 37th CBU Media Awards, set to take place in Guyana, the Land of Many Waters, from August 17 to 19, 2026. This year, we gather under…

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Anthony Greene – President, CBU

As President and Chair of the CBU Board of Directors, I am delighted to welcome you to the launch of the 57th Caribbean Broadcasting Union Annual General Assembly and 37th CBU Media Awards, set to take place in Guyana, the Land of Many Waters, from August 17 to 19, 2026.

This year, we gather under a theme that could not be more timely or more urgent: “Caribbean Media and Artificial Intelligence.”

Artificial Intelligence is no longer on the horizon; it is already reshaping how content is produced, distributed, translated, monetised, archived and consumed. It is changing how audiences receive information, how newsrooms verify facts, and how media institutions plan for the future.

For Caribbean media, the question is not whether Artificial Intelligence will affect us. Let’s be honest – it already has. The real question is this – how do we respond in a way that protects our people, strengthens our institutions, preserves our culture, and positions Caribbean media to lead with confidence, credibility and creativity?

That is why this 57th CBU Annual General Assembly is so important.

This year’s Assembly is the space for media leaders, broadcasters, journalists, technical professionals, policymakers, academics, development partners and content creators to examine the opportunities and risks of Artificial Intelligence in a Caribbean context.

We will explore innovation, while examining the ethics, authenticity, trust, safety and inclusion required of media practitioners in small developing societies, where information can quickly shape public confidence and national conversation.

So here’s what you can expect from this year’s AGA – We kick off with the Opening Ceremony featuring keynote speaker, the President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

We are honoured that UNESCO Caribbean Representative, Mr. Eric Falt, will participate in the Opening Ceremony and help to frame our discussions around this year’s theme – particularly in relation to UNESCO’s important work with Caribbean Member States on the ethical, safe and inclusive deployment of Artificial Intelligence.

The Conference Day will further deepen the conversation, with the Honourable Kwame McCoy, Minister with responsibility for Information and Public Affairs in the Office of the Prime Minister of Guyana, delivering the keynote address.

We will also hear from a strong slate of presenters, including the Honourable E.J. Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, and Mr. Embert Charles, President of the World Association for Christian Communication, who will speak on the important topic, “AI and Authenticity: Covering Caribbean Culture.”

In an age when images can be manufactured, voices can be cloned, and stories can be distorted at speed, Caribbean media must remain a trusted public space. We must ensure that our languages, accents, histories, communities and creative expressions are not flattened, misrepresented or erased by technologies that were not designed with us in mind.

At the same time, we must not approach AI with fear, because  used responsibly, it can help Caribbean media houses become more efficient, expand audience reach, improve accessibility, support disaster preparedness, strengthen archives, and create new possibilities for content delivery and regional collaboration.

Technology will also be a key focus of the Assembly, with Eutelsat hosting a workshop for senior broadcast engineers and technical officers on expanding reach, strengthening resilience, supporting emergency communications and creating new opportunities for connectivity.

This year, the CBU Media Hall of Fame will induct two outstanding Caribbean figures: the late journalist Mr. Rickey Singh and the late media and communications academic Professor Aggrey Brown. Their careers remind us that Caribbean media has always been shaped by courage, intellect, public service, cultural consciousness and a deep commitment to the people of this region.

Their induction will take place during the Opening Ceremony, with extended presentations on their life, work and impact during the Conference Day. Mr. Singh’s presentation will be delivered by Caribbean journalist and media trainer Mr. Wesley Gibbings, while Professor Brown’s presentation will be delivered by Dr. Patrick Prendergast, Director of the Caribbean School of Media and Communication at The University of the West Indies.

The 57th CBU Annual General Assembly will therefore be more than a meeting. It will be a regional conversation about the future of media, the future of technology, and the future of Caribbean storytelling all while grappling with the possibilities of Artificial Intelligence.

We invite our members, partners, sponsors, policymakers, media professionals and all those with an interest in communication, innovation and Caribbean development to be part of this important gathering.

Registration for the 57th CBU Annual General Assembly is now open, and delegates are encouraged to confirm their participation by visiting www.caribroadcastunion.org/aga57.

This year’s Assembly will be held from August 17 to 19, 2026, in Georgetown, Guyana, with accommodation available at Pegasus Suites, Georgetown.

As we prepare for this year’s Assembly, we look forward to robust discussion, practical collaboration, new partnerships, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that Caribbean media does not simply adapt to the age of AI, but helps shape it in the public interest.

See you in Georgetown!

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]]> AGA 57 Heads to Guyana 🇬🇾 | Dates Announced for the 57th Annual General Assembly https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/2026/03/27/cbu-aga-57-heads-to-guyana/ Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:45:49 +0000 https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/?p=575962442 The Caribbean Broadcasting Union has announced that its 57th Annual General Assembly (#CBUAGA57) will take place in Georgetown, Guyana from August 17 to 19, 2026, bringing together media professionals and stakeholders from across the Caribbean and beyond. In a video message to members and stakeholders, CBU President Anthony Greene confirmed that the Assembly will be…

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]]> The Caribbean Broadcasting Union has announced that its 57th Annual General Assembly (#CBUAGA57) will take place in Georgetown, Guyana from August 17 to 19, 2026, bringing together media professionals and stakeholders from across the Caribbean and beyond.

In a video message to members and stakeholders, CBU President Anthony Greene confirmed that the Assembly will be hosted by the Government of Guyana and will centre on the theme Caribbean Media and AI.

The three-day programme is expected to attract media executives, journalists, academics, content creators, development partners, and suppliers of media equipment and services for discussions on the opportunities and challenges shaping the region’s communications landscape.

Participants can also look forward to a programme designed to support industry engagement, professional development, networking, and the celebration of media excellence.

As preparations continue, registration details and programme information will be released soon through the CBU website and official social media platforms.

The Annual General Assembly remains one of the region’s leading forums for dialogue and collaboration within the Caribbean media sector, providing an opportunity to explore emerging trends and strengthen partnerships across the industry.

🎥 Watch the announcement video for full details and stay connected for registration updates.

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