Bahamas News

Bahamas Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Lauds Junkanoo Commandos

Published

6 years ago

November 3, 2017

#Bahamas, November 3, 2017 – Nassau – Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Michael Pintard recently commended the Junkanoo Commandos for the work they have done in helping to promote and enhance the Bahamian cultural art form of Junkanoo and for the recognition and awards they accumulated while doing so.

“One of our goals is to assist Junkanooers in making sure that Junkanoo is a ongoing concern, that it is able to generate employment and income,” Minister Pintard said during a courtesy call with the award-winning group. “In order to accomplish that, we need to work with organisations that are able to stage events, create places where Bahamians and visitors can enjoy a part of our culture – Junkanoo being the most popular expression of Bahamian culture – and we need organisations who are able to internatonalise aspects of our culture.

“The Junkanoo Commandos is one of the best possible examples of an organisation that is doing that.”

The Junkanoo Commandos is an organisation comprised of young Bahamian men and women from various New Providence Junkanoo groups, and its members have traveled nationally and internationally, showcasing the various expressions of Junkanoo and Bahamian culture for at least a decade.

CEO and Founder Angelique McKay said that one of the many things that makes her proud of the Junkanoo Commandos is that its members destroy the myth of the “tribalism” amongst the various Junkanoo groups.

“That myth is dispelled by the cohesion in our organisation because are made up of members from Valley Boys, Saxons, Roots, One Family and Genesis; and you do not tend to see the tribalism that people in the general population speaks about,” Ms. McKay said. “Everyone moves as one unit to showcase Junkanoo, with one common goal; so I’m proud of the fact that they are in the position to dispel that myth that Junkanoo has become totally ‘tribal’ amongst the groups.”

Ms. McKay pointed out that she wanted to put the Junkanoo Commandos forth for consideration as “cultural ambassadors for The Bahamas – when it comes to cultural exchange programmes because it was something that the organisation had been doing for years. She wanted to familiarise Minister Pintard with what the Junkanoo Commandos has done in terms of teaching the creative arts of Junkanoo, highlighting Junkanoo as a cultural expression of the people of The Bahamas.

Locally, the Junkanoo Commandos organisation has conducted national workshops throughout The Bahamas, since 2007, designed and built lead costumes for stage plays produced by Shakespeare in Paradise, introduced and judged the off-the-shoulder category in Junior Junkanoo, raised funds for various relief efforts, appeared in music videos and even donated 500 books to Stephen Dillet Primary School when the school won the primary school Junior Junkanoo Division.

Internationally, the Junkanoo Commandos lists in its accomplishments the honour of conducting Junkanoo workshops on the Isle of Wight, UK; performing at the Grand Opening of The Carnival Learning Centre there, as well as being included as part of the first-ever Junkanoo Backline National Tour of the United Kingdom, in 2008. From there, they conducted workshops and performed in festivals throughout the United States, the United Kingdom and Europe – including the Edinburgh Jazz Festival, the Nice (France) Carnival, the Broughhaha Festival in Liverpool, and the Virginia Carib Fest.

One of the highlights of the Junkanoo Commandos history was performing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., for the 50^th Anniversary Celebrations of the “I Have A Dream” Speech by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

“The fact that the Junkanoo Commandos was the only international act that performed at that venue, at that historic event – in the presence of three U.S. Presidents and we performed immediately after the (then) Prime Minister of Commonwealth of The Bahamas spoke; and the fact that that was the widest broadcast, to date of Junkanoo globally – I would say that that is the proudest moment that we would have had,” Ms. McKay said. “We were actually a part of history and with the importance of what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., did, it makes us even prouder to have been an instrumental part in the 50^th Anniversary.

Among the accolades and awards that the Junkanoo Commandos have attained, two of particular note were received this year – the U.S.-based International IndigoLife Black Life Treasure Award and, closer to home, the Cacique Award in the Creative Arts from the Ministry of Tourism.

“The Cacique Awards recognises the best in our preeminent industries, and for them to have achieved that is an outstanding accomplishment and is a testimony to the power of Junkanoo and the discipline and teamwork of the Commandos,” Minister Pintard said.

Ms. McKay said that she wanted Minister Pintard to see that the Junkanoo Commandos takes the creative arts very seriously, in that they had created a business from it, and its members move as artists.

“We are self-sustaining,” Ms. McKay pointed out. “We have created our line of products that we generate revenue from for the organisation, and (utilise) the best practices for a cultural entity, taking advantage of the fact that the ‘orange economy’ is growing.

“We are an example of the success of Junkanoo, being able to be exported as a creative art.”

“We are proud of the work that they are are doing,” Minister Pintard said. “We are honoured to be partnering with them and we encourage other groups to look at this successful programme, and model themselves after them or adopt portions of their programme.”

By: Eric Rose (BIS)

Photo caption: Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Michael Pintard pictured with senior Ministry officials and representatives of the Cacique-Award-Winning Junkanoo Commandos (JC), during a recent courtesy at his Ministry. Shown (from left) are Permanent Secretary Nicole Campbell, JC Strategic Analyst and founding member Dr. Erecia Hepburn, Minister Pintard, JC CEO and Founder Angelique McKay, Director of Culture Rowena Sutherland, JC Administrative Coordinator Shereka Pinder, and JC Project Manager Jamal Riley.

(BIS Photo/Eric Rose)

Bahamas News

Freeport Business Expo to connect Grand Bahama businesses and entrepreneurs to expert resources

Published

6 days ago

April 27, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited

April 29, 2024 – Freeport, The Bahamas – In line with its mission to create a stronger, more connected Freeport economy, the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) is pleased to share details of the upcoming Freeport Business Expo: Tourism Edition, taking place on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at the Grand Lucayan Convention Center in Grand Bahama.

“As the GBPA continues its work to attract investors to Freeport, we offer this showcase of local and international businesses offering services and opportunities to potential and existing licensees,” stated Ian Rolle, GBPA President. “This Expo will not only connect unique international service providers with Bahamian entrepreneurs aiming to introduce new tourist attractions, but also bring together financing institutions to support Bahamian-owned start-ups and existing businesses in the industry.”

The emphasis on tourism at the 2024 Expo ensures that those in tourism-focused businesses are certain to benefit. The event will offer opportunities to meet potential business partners, gain insight on financial opportunities, engage with leaders in workshops and one-on-one sessions, and get answers on starting a Freeport business and obtaining a GBPA license.

“We regularly host community business expos,” said Glendia Sweeting, Manager of Quality Assurance and Special Projects. “But we recognize the significant benefit of an expo focused on enhancing tourism business offerings through connecting international service providers and Bahamian entrepreneurs. We have more than thirty local and national exhibitors taking part on May 2^nd, along with several international service providers.”

Multiple investment projects currently in progress and planned in the city of Freeport is creating anticipation for existing and potential entrepreneurs and this expo is geared towards preparing them for these opportunities. “Grand Bahama is going to experience a significant growth spurt in the next one to three years. I would strongly encourage everybody who wants to get involved in business to look at Grand Bahama as one of the top choices, especially over the next three years,” said Mr. Rolle.

The Expo opens on Wednesday, May 1^st with a welcome reception from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A full day of learning and networking opportunities follows on Thursday, May 2^nd. GBPA’s partners in the Freeport Business Expo include:

Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board
Ministry for Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce
Ministry of Tourism
Bahamas Immigration
Bahamas Customs
Five Star Shipping Company
Viva Wyndham Fortuna
Bahamas Air
Grand Lucayan Hotel

Registration for access to the Expo’s exhibitors is free, and all-access passes are available for purchase. Event details and registration information may be found at freeportbusinessexpo.com.

Bahamas News

Pacesetting Cohort of Eleuthera Residents Graduate from Leading Light Programme

Published

6 days ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

Office of University Relations

22^nd April 2024

Eleuthera, THE BAHAMAS – A pioneering cohort of 43 Eleuthera residents graduated from the University of The Bahamas’ (UB’s) free Leading Light Programme, sponsored by Disney Cruise Line (DCL) on Friday 19^th April, 2024.

The programme, launched in February 2024 and delivered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN), offers a series of courses to ensure Eleuthera has a proficient workforce capable of delivering unparalleled hospitality leadership as the island experiences a sharp growth in tourism arrivals. The graduation ceremony was held at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce Business Hub in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

The courses focused on tourism and hospitality skills, leadership development and effective communication. They were taught by UB faculty and included guest lecturers such as former Director General of Tourism, Minister of Tourism and Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization Vincent Vanderpool Wallace and veteran hospitality professor Dr. Lincoln Marshall.

“This programme represents the mission-driven collaboration and skills-building that University of The Bahamas is committed to fostering, supported by an important industry partner like Disney Cruise Line,” noted UB President (Acting) Janyne Hodder. “Given the importance of the tourism industry to our nation, we know how vital it is that we continually equip our workforce with diverse expertise to uphold our reputation for excellence in hospitality. We are grateful for this collaboration with Disney Cruise Line which has facilitated programme delivery in Eleuthera, enabling UB to broaden access to much sought-after professional development.”

As training and skills development programming grows across the island of Eleuthera, the Leading Light Programme experience was tailored to be free of charge, accessible and conclude with participants earning a UB certification that signals the high standard of education for which the University is recognized. Students came from all walks of life and traveled from as far away as Hatchet Bay in the North, and Bannerman Town in the South to Rock Sound for classes. Programme participants also received a stipend to defray the cost of commuting and other personal expenses.

Nora Smith, a manager at the picturesque Jack’s Bay Club, yearned to increase her skills.

“I would recommend this programme to anyone because The Bahamas is known as a tourism destination. Taking this course in tourism and hospitality, can help me to go far in dealing with tourists daily in my workplace,” she said.

Graduate Javonne Richards appreciated the comprehensive curriculum and the ease of access to the courses that were offered.

“This programme not only fills a gap in our Eleuthera education offerings, but also equips participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in dynamic work environments,” he noted.

Director General of Tourism Mrs. Latia Duncombe, who delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony, shared three essential qualities for successful tourism professionals: energy, creativity and a welcoming personality.

“Your fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are invaluable to creating unique, unforgettable customer experiences,” said Mrs. Duncombe. “While technology such as Artificial Intelligence, also have a role to play, human interaction remains essential.”

Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera the Honourable Clay Sweeting commended the partnership that is supporting community growth.

“I am proud of every Eleutheran who came from near and far to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Minister Sweeting. “As Eleuthera’s economy continues to grow, especially in Central and South Eleuthera, I encourage more corporate partners to invest in the local community in innovative ways, like the University of The Bahamas and Disney Cruise Line have, so that we can continue to strengthen our local communities.”

Two additional cohorts will be offered this year, increasing the pipeline of Eleutherans who are optimally skilled as hospitality and tourism ambassadors. Registration for the summer programme will open on May 17 and the second cycle of courses begins June 17, 2024. Fall programme dates are September 23 through November 29, 2024. To learn more about the Leading Light Programme and how to enroll, please email atynes@eleutherahambercommerce.com.

Bahamas News

Royal Caribbean to open Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island in 2025

Published

6 days ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2024

By LINDSAY THOMPSON

Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Government entered into a Heads of Agreement with Royal Caribbean International, followed by a Ground Breaking Ceremony for the construction of Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, at an estimated $165 million.

The agreement was signed on Monday, April 22, 2024 during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister.

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, the project will further enhance the tourism product, on the heels of an estimated 9 million visitor arrivals.

He deemed it “an eventful day” with a reliable partner in RCI of more than 50 years with The Bahamas, and the continued confidence that investors have in the tourism product and economy.

He said it is a partnership with “excellence experiences” as he delighted in the fact that there will be more for the 25,000 cruise ship guests in port.

Also on hand for the activities to seal the agreement were Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis; Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville; Minister of Energy and Transport, the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senator the Hon. Ryan Pinder; Director of Investments Phylicia Woods-Hanna; executives of Royal Caribbean International and Royal Caribbean Group, and other officials.

“With the signing of this Heads of Agreement for the development of the Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, we embark on a $165 million project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” the prime minister said.

Spearheaded by RBC Paradise Island Ltd. and PDI Paradise Ltd., subsidiaries of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., the project will galvanize entertainment and recreational offerings for Bahamians and visitors alike.

The master plan for the Royal Beach Club includes pools, cabanas, and Bahamian boutiques, offering an unparalleled on-shore experience for visitors.

“This development will prove to be a monumental step forward for Bahamian inclusion in major tourism projects that will serve as a model for others to emulate,” the prime minister said.

The prime minister then underscored the importance of what the project would mean for Bahamians in the broader scope of things.

An estimated 200 jobs will be created for Bahamians. However, an opportunity is being provided for shared ownership in this development.

It is anticipated that PDI Paradise Ltd. will hold at least 51% of the shares in the Royal Beach Club, with the remaining 49 % shares being allocated to the National Investment Fund for the benefit of Bahamians.

“Through this partnership, we will provide new employment and economic opportunities for this nation. Local businesses will see their share of opportunities as well. There will be Bahamian boutiques creating avenues for small business ownership,” the prime minister said.

The project will also encompass a joint venture with a Bahamian-owned entity for the operation of a water taxi business; it will provide transportation options for guests of the Royal Beach Club, as well as other attractions in Nassau Harbour – enhancing accessibility while creating additional avenues for economic growth within the community.

“Ultimately, this project will largely be run by Bahamians, owned by the Bahamian people, and supported by Bahamian businesses.

“When we talk about the need to ensure that major tourism projects are primarily for the benefit of the Bahamian people, these are the kinds of opportunities that we are talking about,” the prime minister said.

He observed that the Royal Beach Club represents the latest successful chapter in the story of Paradise Island’s growth as a tourism mecca. Initial negotiations for the project began under the previous administration. Royal Club Beach is expected to open in 2025.

“By signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry. This is our nation, and we must ensure that, first and foremost, our service industries serve us,” the prime minister said.

He concluded, “We are more optimistic than ever before about our economic prospects with tourism leading the way as our number one industry that continues to grow at a record-breaking pace.

At the ground breaking site just west of the Atlantis Resort, officials tilled the soil, marking the beginning of the construction process.

Jason Liberty, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group said that events regarding the agreement “symbolize partnership, momentum, and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community.

“We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”