Ebuzz News
12-Year-Old Jalessa Gets ‘Shaft Vibes’ Approved, Calls on Youths To ‘Focus.’
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
One 12-year-old girl in Trinidad and Tobago officially began her journey to stardom last year, delivering her first studio release, and now, at this juncture, she is increasing momentum, teaming up with super-songwriter, Shaft, to see her dreams materialize.
Jalessa Lazarus has the vocal ability of a seasoned vocalist and because of her natural talent, her mother has dedicatedly directed her child along the path she knows she was born to pursue. Earlier this year, Jalessa released a track called, ‘Kiddies Carnival,’ – a song with the children of carnival in T&T, in mind. She understands her cultural assignment but her heart pines for much more. The St. Charles High School student has big dreams of realizing her full potential as an international recording artiste and entertainer. Her mother, Phylesha, is behind her every step of the way. “Jalessa is extremely talented, and she’s full of life, full of joy and energy. She is also incredibly passionate,” explained Phylicia. She’s gone through the full gamut to prepare her eldest daughter for the world that lies in wait for her. “At the age of six, she entered an online competition hosted by Nailah Blackman and won. She was able to perform on stage with Nailah,” she said, noting that Blackman is one of the artistes that Jaleesa looks up to.
The youngster’s talent was first introduced to the world through her mother’s social media platforms. “I would put her on my Facebook LIVE and she would sing. I always believed in my daughter,” said Phylesha. In September 2022, a video of Jalessa performing at a karaoke competition, singing Adele’s “Easy on Me,” became a viral TikTok video, with over 900,000 views to date. Competitions like the Lyndon Ross Talent Show and the Ministry of Education’s 2023 Junior Soca Monarch Competition, have yielded positive results for the pre-teen, Jalessa placing first and 2nd respectively. Phylesha stands firmly beside Jaleesa, ensuring that she has had vocal training under the tutelage of Tiffany Paul and via Curtis Jordan’s Training Academy.
Now, fully invested and ready to take on the world, Jalessa is set to release a new single, written by renowned T&T songwriter, Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop. “I had been searching for a songwriter and was eventually sent his name and contact information. From the moment he heard Jaleesa’s voice, he was sold. He immediately sent a song to us,” said the excited mom.
The new single, “Focus,” is being released as a summer anthem for young boys and girls. “It’s an Afro Beat track that offers good motivation for our country’s youths,” Phylesha explained.
The Arima born artiste, who has two younger siblings, is proof that one can achieve one’s dreams with determination and the strong support of family. Excited for the triumphs of the future, mom Phylesha Lazarus is encouraging parents to listen to their children’s desires and stand with them to the end. “Let the children’s light shine. Believe in them, support them. The limit is beyond the sky. I mean… why not? If you have to spend all your money, why not?”
To keep up with Jalessa, follow her on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook @jalessa_lazarus.
Ebuzz News
Dîner en Blanc Set to Bring Parisian Flair to Port-of-Spain on November 14th.
Dîner en Blanc is making its highly anticipated return to Port- of -Spain on Saturday, November 14, 2026, once again bringing its trademark magic to a brand-new secret location. Building on last year’s successful return, this iconic Parisian-inspired pop-up picnic continues to be one of the city’s most beloved social events – an evening where fashion, fine dining, and community come together under the stars.
Always dressed head-to-toe in white, guests will assemble to create the breathtaking tableau the event is known for. From the iconic Napkin Wave, which signals the official start of dinner, to the Sparklers Moment, which marks the end of the meal and the opening of the dance floor, Dîner en Blanc Diner promises a night filled with gourmet delights, vibrant conversation, and an atmosphere unlike anything else in the city.
To be among the first to reserve tickets when Phase 3 (Fan List) opens, guests are invited to join the exclusive Port of Spain Fan List at portofspain.dinerenblanc.com.
beginning of the celebration and the magic that is Dîner en Blanc.
THE THEME: Soirée Parisienne – La Belle Époque
For 2026, Dîner en Blanc Diner celebrates an era of Paris defined by elegance, artistry, and refinement. Guests are invited to embrace an elevated all-white aesthetic, where fashion becomes a form of expression. Tables, styled in pure monochrome, echo the sophistication of historic salons and café culture, while the dining experience draws on the traditions of French gastronomy where cuisine, conversation, and ambiance come together as one.
Meagan Monsegue and Nigel Roach, hosts of Dîner en Blanc – Port of Spain, shared their excitement for this year’s edition: “Port of Spain has embraced Dîner en Blanc as one of its signature social experiences. We’re excited to build on that legacy with an evening that’s elegant, inclusive and unforgettable,” noted Meagan.
How the Experience Works
To preserve the event’s tradition and maintain its elegant atmosphere, every guest plays an essential role. Participants must follow a few timeless guidelines:
Dress code: A chic, all-white ensemble is mandatory. Elegance, originality, and creativity are encouraged. Table setting: All table elements like décor must be white to uphold Dîner en Blanc’s signature visual identity.
Secrecy of the location: The venue remains a surprise until the last moment. Guests will meet at designated departure points and be escorted by Dîner en Blanc Diner volunteers to the final location. Leave No Trace: In keeping with the event’s commitment to sustainability, guests must bring home everything they arrived with, leaving the space spotless.
What Guests Should Bring or Choose an almost Hands-Free Option
• A gourmet picnic basket packed with a gourmet meal and proper stemware and white dinnerware. Those who prefer not to pack their own meal may pre-order a catered picnic through the Dîner en Blanc D e- store for onsite pickup.
• As a French-inspired celebration, Dîner en Blanc only serves wine and champagne. However, guests are welcome to bring their own selections; however, for added convenience, wine and champagne can also be pre-purchased through the official Dîner en Blanc e-store, ensuring an effortless and stress-free experience.
About the hosts of Dîner en Blanc – Port of Spain
At the helm of the 2026 edition of Diner en Blanc – Port of Spain are Meagan Monsegue and Nigel Roach. Meagan Monsegue is a lifestyle enthusiast and avid global traveller with a natural flair for personal styling and hosting. Her journey with Dîner en Blanc Port of Spain began as a Table Leader in 2016 and has evolved into her role as Co-Host today. Driven by a genuine passion for bringing people together, she brings her distinctive style, energy and love of creating unforgettable moments under the stars to every soirée. Nigel Roach is passionate about bringing together his love of music, fashion, exceptional food and drink, and unforgettable experiences. A natural connector, he thrives on bringing people together, building meaningful relationships and creating elegant events where networking and community come together in a unique atmosphere.
About Diner en Blanc
Dîner en Blanc is more than an event. It’s a global cultural phenomenon that brings friends, old and new, together to celebrate life, food, fashion, and community with a touch of mystery and a sense of spontaneity. Elegantly dressed in white, guests gather at a secret location for a chic, mass picnic, bringing their own tables, chairs, and gourmet baskets. The location remains undisclosed until the very moment of arrival, creating a sense of anticipation and delight. Over the course of the evening, attendees dine, dance, and reconnect with the finer things in life, all while sharing an unforgettable, magical experience in some of their city’s most iconic public spaces.
Today, Dîner en Blanc has grown into an international movement, celebrated cumulatively over its history in more than 120 cities across 40 countries. While Dîner en Blanc Diner International is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, each event is hosted locally by passionate organizers who bring their own flair to the original Parisian concept. Together, these gatherings unite communities worldwide in a celebration of gourmet cuisine, extraordinary entertainment, and the joy of connection. For more info, photos, and videos from around the world, visit dinerenblanc.com.
Ebuzz News
Stevie Wonder Joins KestheBand On Stage at DC Jazz Fest – A Big Moment for Caribbean Culture.
Internationally loved and embraced Soca band, KesTheBand delivered yet another unforgettable moment for Caribbean music last Saturday, September 5th – this time at the DC Jazz Festival. It was there, in the midst of the enjoyment that a special opportunity presented itself – Kees Dieffentaller would meet the global music icon, Stevie Wonder.
The surprise appearance marked a continuation of a weekend that placed KestheBand and Caribbean music at the center of some of the most significant cultural moments of Labour Day weekend. The set included an uptempo lyrical mashup of “I Just Called To Say I Love You” and “Savannah Grass,” which received thunderous applause from adoring fans.
Crediting his parents in an emotional social media post following their debut at DC Jazz Fest, lead singer, Kees Dieffenthaller shared that the Stevie Wonder hit “was the first record I had on repeat as a child.” The moment was a powerful one as Soca music and a Trinidad and Tobago band that dedicatedly promotes the genre along with their country, came face to face with one of the most influential global artistes in music history.
Just one night earlier, on Friday, September 4th, KesTheBand electrified Soca Fest at Brooklyn museum in New York, where the band was introduced by Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. The appearance brought together Caribbean music, culture and community in one of New York’s most prominent Labor Day weekend celebrations and venues.
Kees went on to serve as an Honorary Grand Marshal of the West Indian Day Parade. The honor was shared with dancehall and reggae superstar, Buju Banton.
Kes the Band with New York City Mayor, Zohran Kwame Mamdani
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Ebuzz News1 week agoA Band That’s Building Legacy for Culture. Blow Mano Blow Promises Memorable Carnival 2027 with Tribute to The Birdie.
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Ebuzz News23 hours agoDîner en Blanc Set to Bring Parisian Flair to Port-of-Spain on November 14th.
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Ebuzz News2 days agoStevie Wonder Joins KestheBand On Stage at DC Jazz Fest – A Big Moment for Caribbean Culture.
