2025-02-07 - Greater Belize Media

Manuel Novelo Returns with New Book: “A Belizean Story”

Ten years after his debut, The Sacred Maya: Smoke Shell, Belizean author Manuel Novelo is back with a captivating new release. Set in 1960s Orange Walk, A Belizean Story brings Novelo’s original characters into real historical events, weaving a tale that resonates with the Belizean public. The book will soon be available at bookshops across the country.

“This is my new book I would like to present to our Belizean public, our Belizean readers, hoping that not only children, but not only children going to school, but like everybody, adults, everybody will enjoy this book,” Novelo told News 5.

He added, “I always loved writing, creative writing… I’ve done that since I was a child.” He says that his passion for storytelling led him to write several works over the years, though A Belizean Story is his latest published piece.

The book follows three young boys—Patli, Kadal, and their friend—through adventures that intertwine with the history of the village of Palmar. Novelo reveals, “I relate the story or the real history of the village… and how they were forced out of their lands by the British Empire.”

This new book aims to captivate readers of all ages, from children to adults, offering a unique perspective on Belizean history.

Bikers Honour Little Gabriel Orellano’s Passing

Over 28 bikers gathered to honour 6-year-old Gabriel Orellano in a moving tribute following his tragic drowning on Monday. The group arrived at little Gabriel’s grandmother’s house in Belize City and presented a box of monetary gifts.

Gabriel’s uncle told News 5 that the bikers came out in blue and “rode and traced the steps of my nephew for the bike rally, to where he died.”

This comes after Gabriel, an autistic student from Stella Maris School, drowned near the hangar area in Belize City after he wandered off the school grounds unnoticed on Monday afternoon.

An investigation is ongoing to understand how Gabriel managed to leave the premises. On Thursday, Stella Maris held a heartwarming vigil in remembrance of little Gabriel.

Belizean Senators Engage in High-Level AI and Security Discussions in London

Two Belizean senators recently participated in an international workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and security, engaging with global experts on the challenges and opportunities posed by emerging technologies.

PUP Senator Isabel Bennett Moody and Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Belize Business Bureau Senator Kevin Herrera represented Belize at the AI in Security Workshop, hosted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK Branch (CPA UK) and Chatham House.

The event took place from January 28 to 30, 2025, at the House of Parliament in Westminster, London.

The workshop brought together parliamentarians from across the Commonwealth to examine AI’s role in global security, including its impact on governance, military applications, cybersecurity, and disinformation. Key topics included AI in Security, Digital Colonialism, AI Governance, and the Ethical Use of AI in Defence and Military Operations.

Senator Bennett Moody led discussions on the integration of AI in military strategy, including autonomous drones and intelligence gathering, while emphasizing the need for accountability and human oversight in AI-driven warfare.

During the workshop, the Belizean delegation also observed AI-related policy scrutiny in action, attending a UK Public Accounts Committee hearing on AI in government, as well as sessions in the House of Commons and House of Lords.

Ministry Mourns the Passing of Trailblazing Belizean Leader Elizabeth Arnold-Talbert

The Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Elizabeth Arnold-Talbert, affectionately known as “Ms Betty,” a Belizean leader whose career was dedicated to public service and social justice.

In a release the ministry, Ms Betty was a tireless advocate for reproductive health, gender equality, and human rights, making a profound impact in Belize, the Caribbean, and Eastern Africa. It added that her work touched the lives of thousands, championing access to essential services and policies that empowered marginalised communities.

“In Belize, Ms. Betty laid a strong foundation for the Statistical Institute of Belize. She also worked closely with our Ministry to develop evidence-based policies and programmes for the empowerment of women, girls, and marginalized communities. In her capacity as the Regional Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Ms. Betty tackled some of the most pressing challenges facing the Caribbean – ranging from maternal health to youth empowerment and gender-based violence.”

The press release said that beyond her professional accomplishments, she was known for her warmth, compassion, and unwavering commitment to those she served.

“She was not only a leader in her field, but also a mentor, advocate, and friend to us.”