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On Wednesday 1 October 2025, the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission joined celebrations in London to honour Winifred Atwell, the internationally acclaimed pianist, with an English Heritage Blue Plaque at 18 Bourdon Street, Mayfair. This location was significant as Atwell lived there during her remarkable career in the 1950s and 60s with her husband and manager, Lew Levisohn. It was the home of her Steinway concert grand and her signature upright piano, known for its deliberate out-of-tune sound. Born in Tunapuna, Trinidad, around 1910, Winifred Atwell was a trailblazer in music, becoming the first black artist to reach the top…
The Notting Hill Carnival, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture in the UK, faces an uncertain future unless urgent government funding is secured. In a leaked letter to the BBC addressed to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, Carnival chair Ian Comfort warned that public safety and the continuation of this iconic event are at risk without immediate financial support. This plea follows a £100,000 independent safety review funded by the Greater London Authority (GLA), Kensington and Chelsea Council, and Westminster City Council, which identified “critical public safety concerns.” Comfort emphasised that increasing crowd density and limited police resources have raised fears…
Barbadians living abroad can now win an all-expenses-paid trip for two to the island as part of the “Barbados Calling—We Gatherin’ 2025” promotion. Launched by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) in April this year, the initiative supports the island-wide We Gatherin’ celebration, a year-long tribute to Barbadian heritage, culture, and community. The promotion is open exclusively to eligible Barbadian nationals, citizens, and descendants residing in the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, Canada, the Continental United States, Caribbean islands, and Latin America. BTMI Chief Executive Officer, Ms Andrea Franklin, expressed gratitude to sponsors and invited Bajans overseas to take part. “This…
DJ Puffy (Andre Parris), the internationally acclaimed entertainer, has been named Barbados’ newest Tourism and Culture Ambassador. The announcement was made during a formal contract signing at Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) headquarters. Established with the National Cultural Foundation (NCF), this partnership aims to elevate Barbados’ global brand appeal, especially among younger audiences. Known for his unmatched talent and infectious energy, DJ Puffy is committed to showcasing his Barbadian heritage on the world stage. “BTMI is proud to partner with Mr. Parris, whose roots run deep in Barbadian soil and whose reach extends globally,” stated Ms. Andrea Franklin, CEO of…
The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has launched a new podcast series titled “We Gatherin’ 2025: Home Drums,” which celebrates the stories of the Barbadian diaspora and their journeys back home. This podcast explores themes of identity, heritage, and connection, featuring interviews with artists, athletes, entrepreneurs, and everyday Barbadians who have either returned to the island or maintained strong ties from abroad. Each episode showcases personal reflections and cultural experiences, aiming to strengthen the bond between Barbados and its global community. The debut episode, “From Brooklyn to Bridgetown: Marcus Callender’s Bajan Roots,” follows Brooklyn-born actor Marcus Callender as he reconnects…
Barbados is set to shine brighter than ever in 2025, inviting both the global diaspora and holidaymakers to experience a year-long celebration of its rich culture, heritage, and vibrant community. The island will come alive with various festivals, cultural showcases, and world-class events, ensuring that every visitor has a chance to immerse themselves in the true essence of Barbadian life. Whether you’re a returning Barbadian looking to reconnect with your roots or a first-time traveller seeking an unforgettable Caribbean getaway, 2025 promises to be a year filled with excitement, joy, and cultural discovery. WE GATHERIN’ 2025: A CELEBRATION OF HERITAGE…
The Caribbean Music Awards will return for its third annual event on Thursday, 28 August, at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York. Organised by the Caribbean Elite Group, this year’s awards aim to be the most exciting yet, celebrating the innovators and stars who shape the sound of the Caribbean. With over 150 nominees across more than 40 categories, the 2025 edition showcases the region’s musical diversity. Voting is now open at caribmusicawards.com and will continue until Friday 31 May, allowing fans worldwide to support their favourite artists. Masicka and Shenseea lead the nominations with seven each, followed closely by…
UWI lecturer and former Minister say 2024 budget fails to address issue’s
https://www.bajanthings.com/the-bush-teas-of-barbados-iris-bayley/