Bahamas News

BAHAMAS: Students and Parents Sing Praises for National Arts Festival

Published

6 years ago

April 19, 2018

#Bahamas, April 19, 2018 – Nassau – The Louise McDonald High School ninth-grader bashfully said that she was not ready to be interviewed on camera. No matter how much the other members of the school choir cheered her on, the young girl only blushed more and shook her head. It was not until her choir director – and Physical Education teacher at the school in Alice Town, Bimini – Ms. Stephanie Woodside stood next to her and encouraged her with a comforting smile, did she look up and flashed a shy grin.

“My name is Maya Saunders,” she began slowly, “and I enjoyed the experience of the National Arts Festival because I got to break out of my nervousness.”

She smiled broadly at Ms. Woodside and her schoolmates and continued on about the adjudicators coming from the capital to her little school.

“I appreciate it and I hope to see them again next year,” she said with a bit more confidence. “I will move around more (when singing her solo) and stop rocking and feel the song.”

Students throughout several Family islands sang along with Maya’s sentiments about the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival adjudications. In fact, her fellow classmate Brian Rolle said that he enjoyed being part of the choir that performed that day.

“It is an honour for me, personally, to be in the school choir and attending the National Arts Festival – going on two years now,” he said. “Ms. Woodside has been a great teacher and I have some great (fellow) choir members, who really help me to explore your voice.

“It’s been a great learning experience, knowing the judge, getting to know the different tunes, exploring my voice and meeting new people.”

In Nicholl’s Town, Andros, Huntley Christie eighth-grader Elli Evans entered two pieces of craft for adjudication. She said that she felt good entering the Festival; but spoke honestly about the experience.

“I felt a bit scared, a bit nervous,” she said, while fiddling with the shell-covered hair accessories she had created. However, she was proud of her work. “I really like the colours,” she added. She even took the time to encourage her friends and classmates to enter next year.

“If they join, they could make something good – and they could get a grade for it and probably make some money (selling the crafts later),” she said, showing her entrepreneurial spirit.

Her fellow schoolmate and ninth-grader Tamari Wallace created a decorated mirror as his craft piece. He proudly showed it off and said that it was fun to enter the Festival. He also talked about using shells and dried pods from the Woman’s Tongue Tree to decorate his entry.

“I really like the design of it,” he said.

In the Abacos, students at the Hope Town Primary School chimed in and said that they enjoyed the experience and they worked hard to prepare.

While at at Every Child Counts, a school for special students in Marsh Harbour, Ronel Escarment is in his last year of school and said he has taken part in the Festival for a number of years. He noted that he was grateful to the judges, who took their time out to visit and adjudicate their performances.

“I think the National Arts (Festival) is very amazing,” he said. “I practice for it every year and get ready to be judge by people who know a lot about music, and who can help me to improve what I do and what I love to do. “It can make you very nervous; but I get to it and I do it,” he added.

Ronel’s mother, Caroline Sawyer said, “We are very proud of Ronel – of course — and we are quite pleased that he is able to perform at a National level, because the National Arts Festival makes it a possibility.”

From the Treasure Cay Primary School was Odell Cox, Jr. – a Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year Foundation nominee who happens to have a love for Junkanoo. He was enthusiastic about the Festival.

“I like it. I love it a lot because I get to ‘beat drum’ and do what I like doing, Junkanoo,” he said with a broad smile and a drum almost half his size swung expertly over his shoulder.

He was equally as enthusiastic when asked how he felt performing with his schoolmates. “When I perform with them, I sound even better,” he exclaimed.

Odell’s mother and Principal of his school Chantell Cox said that it was a wonderful feeling to have her students participate in the National Arts Festival because it is a chance for them to showcase their culture.

“A lot of times we stay within the four walls and we tend to focus on academics; but then we have to realize that, to build a well-rounded child, we have to move away from just academics,” Ms. Cox said. “The children have to participate in more of the cultural experiences, as well as the sporting activities.”

Abraham’s Bay High School senior Destiny Hall said it was not only a great experience being in the National Arts Festival; it was also a chance for her to learn about her craft. “I learned some pros and cons and what I need to work on more,” she said with a confident smile.

The Mayaguana student’s smile became a lot broader when she was asked about Music Adjudicator Trent Elliott Davis, who took the time out after her singing to give her a few pointers on “finding her voice”.

“That was amazing,” she exclaimed. “Someone with such a big voice and a big name like Mr. Trent Davis was really awesome – and to hear that he thought that my voice was good! That was truly amazing.”

At the Arthur’s Town High School, in Cat Island, sisters Zoe and Erin Turner sang, played the guitar and danced in the Festival. Their mother, Ethel, was there and she is also the math teacher at the school, and worked along Senior Assistant and Religious Studies teacher Antoine V. Duncombe with preparing all the students who performed for the school.

Zoe, whose in grade nine, said that it was fun to perform with her 10^th-grade sister in the Festival, even though performing together is something they do often. The girls always received a short lesson on ways to strengthen their choreography from Dance Adjudicator and cultural icon Lawrence Carroll.

Zoe added that she liked performing with her sister. “Especially because it makes her happy, sometimes,” she quipped with a smile.

“I am always proud of what they do,” Ms. Turner said. “I do appreciate the lesson from Mr. Carroll because we are not professional dancers, nor have any of us had dance lessons to that extent before; so, even as watching him teach them, it really helped me learn a bit more, so I really appreciate it.”

At the Old Bight High School, 12th-grader Alexandria Brown also enjoyed performing in the Festival and also echoed Ms. Turner’s sentiments.

“I love to dance! Dance is my passion, and that’s what I do. That’s how I express myself,” she said. “It was great because he (Mr. Carroll) would be able to expose me to more moves and make me a better dancer than I am.”

As of press time, the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival was into its second week of Grand Bahama adjudications and will be heading to New Providence next.

By: Eric Rose (BIS)

Photo captions:

Header: Louise McDonald High School ninth-grader Maya Saunders (right) speaks about her experience in the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival, during the recent adjudications at her school in Alice Town, Bimini. In the left background is Physical Education teacher at the school and choir director Ms. Stephanie Woodside.

First insert: Huntley Christie High School students Tamari Wallace (left) and Elli Evans showcase their arts and crafts pieces entered into the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival, during the recent adjudications at the Nicholl’s Town, Andros school.

Second insert: Every Child Counts senior Ronel Escarment poses with his mother Caroline Sawyer, after the recent E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival adjudications at the Marsh Harbour, Abaco school.

Third insert: Treasure Cay Primary School student Odell Cox, Jr. talks about his love for performing Junkanoo, during the recent E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival adjudications in Marsh Harbour, Abaco. (MOYSC/BIS Video Capture Footage By Eric Rose)

Fourth insert: Abraham’s Bay High School senior Destiny Hall smiles as she gets pointers on her singing, after the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival adjudications at her Mayaguana school.

(MOYSC/BIS Photos: Eric Rose)

Bahamas News

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

Published

5 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.”