Jamaica Film and Television Association (Jafta), Unicef Jamaica, and the Spotlight Initiative — as part of the celebrations of International Human Rights Day (December 10) — premiered two new films at the Carib 5.

Spotlight grant awardees Neisha-Yen Jones and Mezan Ayoka showcased their works — Not By Will and Let’s Talk About Consent respectively — to a mixed audience of creatives, survivors of gender-based violence, and executives of corporate and government entities.

Speaking at the premiere, Olivia Grange, minister of culture, gender, entertainment and sport, said: “Gender-based violence is not a ‘fowl fight’ that ‘cockroach’ should no longer be a part of. Government has been and will continue to support and create the necessary policies and laws to protect victims and survivors… As a society, must be more vigilant and help to remove the stigma that victims face and provide assistance because it may result in the saving of lives.”

Jafta thanked Spotlight Initiative and Unicef for their financial and technical support in the creation of the films in just nine weeks.

This year’s cruise featured myriad acts, among them Nadine Sutherland, Errol Dunkley, Leroy Sibbles, Kabaka Pyramid, Damian, Ky-Mani and Stephen Marley, Naomi Cowan, Ding Dong, Wayne Wonder, Sean Paul, and many others.

Meanwhile, Capleton revealed that he is working on another body of work as the new year approaches.

“I’m working on an authentic reggae album… it’s been a while now I haven’t released any album, so I’m definitely looking forward to that,” he said.

Reminiscing on 2023, the entertainer said he has no regrets and remains optimistic as he managed to achieve more goals than he has in previous years.

“My year in music was definitely excellent, and I love the way I travelled the world re-energised my music, reconnected with my fans, and earn some new fans, as well. [I] sold out venues that I haven’t sold out in years,” said Capleton.

Asked about the prospects for the music, the Still Blazin’ artiste responded: “I want to let people know that reggae music and authentic dancehall music is still alive and well. I’m grateful and thankful.”