Inspiring The Next Generation of Bahamian Greats In Arts and Culture

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Art, fashion, film, dance, and music were all found at the event “Culture on the Cay,” hosted by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture (MOYSC) on Saturday, which is now in its third year.

Director of Culture, Dereka Deleveaux-Grant, says it’s more than just a family outing, but a strategic investment into developing standard bearers of our culture.

Dereka Deleveaux-Grant – Director of Culture, MOYSC

“Our investment is what is key, because people who we invest in, we make them better so they can make money for the country basically.”

Even though the public was able to enjoy free entry, she adds that vendors and the talent were also allowed to participate free of charge.

Dereka Deleveaux-Grant – Director of Culture, MOYSC

“They didn’t have to pay us to do anything out here, so whatever money they make, they make.”

Bread and pizza making classes, a bouncing castle, fresh fruit juices, and other delicious treats were all available for attendees.

On the main stage, a montage of homegrown talent like live art work by Preston Hanna, Bahamian produced films, performances from the Anatol Rodgers Rake & Scrape Pop Band, The Government High School dance team, and a little fashionistas pop up.

Three of the youngest models Jamie, Mileya, and Kaylee tells me they were nervous, yet excited for their runway debuts.

Jamie – Model

“I was scared.”

Denielle Miller

“Why you was scared?”

Jamie – Model

“I was scared this wouldn’t look good on me.”

Denielle Miller

“You like being in front of people?”

Mileya – Model

“Not that much.”

Kaylee – Model

“I liked it, and I like being in front of a lot of people.”

Denielle Miller

“So you want to be a model when you get older?”

Kaylee – Model

“Yes.”

As for high schoolers Kenmiah Black and Jayden Burrows, they say events like this continue to serve as a reminder that their dreams of attaining a career in the performing arts can one day become a reality.

Kenmiah Black – Dancer, Government High School Dance Team

“My overall career goal is to become a prosecutor, but I also want to [eventually] open up my own dance studio, and teach little kids because I really just started dancing. So I want to be able to train those girls from they are little until they come up to really learn how to dance.”

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Denielle Miller

“Which artist would you like to perform with?

Jayden Burrows – Drummer, Anatol Rodgers Pop Band

“I’d like to play for Nishe LS.”