Crop Over Opening Gala- Media Launch
June 26, 2023
Remarks below given by Mrs. Natalie Abrahams, Chief Executive Officer, Digicel Barbados. (Pictured Above)
● Mrs. Andrea Wells, Chief Cultural Officer, National Cultural Foundation
● Other Management and Staff of the National Cultural Foundation
● Management and Staff of Digicel
● Members of the Media
● Specially Invited Guests
Today, I am filled with pride and enthusiasm as I share with you why Digicel is wholeheartedly supporting the Festival, specifically the Crop Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes. Our commitment to this event goes beyond mere corporate involvement; it is deeply rooted in our belief in the power of nationhood, love, unity, and thetransformative impact of national festivals.
At Digicel, we firmly believe in the philosophy of “Love Crop Over.” This theme embodies the essence of our support for the festival and reflects our dedication to fostering a sense of unity, joy, and celebration within our community. Crop Over, with its pulsating rhythms, vibrant costumes, and infectious energy, is an extraordinary manifestation of love, not just for our culture, but for the people who make this festival so extraordinary—our fellow Bajans.
Supporting national events, such as the Crop Over Opening Gala, holds a special place in our hearts because it allows us to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the community that supports us and the one we proudly call home. Barbados, with its rich cultural heritage and warm, welcoming spirit, has embraced Digicel as more than just a telecommunications company. We are an integral part of the tapestry of this nation—a part of its history, its present, and its promising future. Crop Over is integral to the fabric of our community and supporting the festival allows us to actively engage our community, support and build stronger connections and give back, give more and offer more value to our communities where it matters the most.
The Crop Over Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes is a symbol of new beginnings and excitement. It heralds the commencement of a festival that unites us in our love for Barbados, our heritage, and our shared experiences. By aligning ourselves with this remarkable event, Digicel is allowed to showcase our dedication to the spirit of love, togetherness and connections that Crop Over represents. We recognise the importance of standing alongside our customers, fellow businesses, and community leaders, united in the celebration of our unique cultural identity.
Through our support of the Crop Over Festival, Digicel endeavors to promote the values that define Crop Over—love, inclusivity, creativity, connection and community spirit.
This festival offers a platform for local artisans, musicians, and performers to share their exceptional talents, contributing to the cultural vibrancy and economic growth of Barbados. We believe in nurturing the dreams and aspirations of our people, and supporting national festivals like Crop Over allows us to empower local talent, providing them with opportunities to shine on a global stage.
Furthermore, supporting national festivals is not just an act of corporate social responsibility; it is a testament to our gratitude for the unwavering support we receive from our community. The love and loyalty our customers show us every day inspire us to give back, to uplift, and to celebrate together. By actively participating in events like the Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes, we strengthen our bond with the people who
have embraced us as an essential part of their lives and the people who have supported us for the past 19 years of our business. We stand side by side with them, not just as a service provider, but as a trusted partner in their journey.
I would also like to emphasise the spirit of generosity and community support that lies at the heart of Digicel’s commitment to our community. As we honour the hard work and dedication of the Oustanding Sugar workers of the festival, I am delighted to announce
that Digicel, as a committed partner, will donate four Samsung mobile phones to these exceptional individuals, recognising their outstanding achievements and providing them with the means to stay connected with loved ones and access information.
Furthermore, in our commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering creativity, Digicel is thrilled to offer a special prize for the Junior Monarch competition. We understand the importance of empowering the next generation, and as part of that commitment, Digicel will be awarding a state-of-the-art Samsung tablet to the winner of the Junior Monarch competition. This tablet will serve as a tool to explore their passions,
expand their knowledge, and unlock new avenues of growth.
In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, Digicel Barbados stands tall, proudly embracing the theme of “Love Crop Over”. We support what is now called the DIGICEL Crop Over Opening Gala and the entire festival because we recognise the immense significance of celebrating our cultural heritage, fostering unity, and empowering our community.
Together, let us embark on this remarkable journey, guided by the spirit of love, as we create lasting memories, forge new connections, and continue to build a brighter future for our beloved Barbados.
Thank you, and we encourage you to continue to Love Crop Over with Digicel.
So from our heart to yours, may the love and joy of Crop Over inspire us all.
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THE MEDIA LAUNCH OF DIGICEL CEREMONIAL DELIVERY OF THE LAST CANES & VINTAGE CALYPSO TENT
Digicel Warrens Headquarters, St Michael
Monday, June 26, 2023 at 3 p.m.
CCO’s Remarks
When the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) hosts the official launch of
the 2023 Crop Over Festival this Saturday, July 1, at the historic Hayman’s
Sugar Factory, St Peter, Barbadians and visitors will be in for a sweet reminder of the splendour of the island’s rich heritage and be exposed to a
cultural extravaganza.
Under the theme: “Sugar Reimagined” the Digicel Ceremonial Delivery of
the Last Canes & Vintage Calypso Tent promises to be one of the most
exciting festival launches in recent history.
Saturday’s event is an exciting mix of colour, drama, music, culinary fare,
craft, culture and homage, all taking place at a newly refurbished location in the north of the island.
From 2 p.m. there will be activities for all age groups. Here are the major
highlights of what is in store at the event that officially launches Barbados’
largest festival.
But, in order to produce a grand opening such as this, we depend on our
partners and key stakeholder.
That is why it gives me distinct pleasure to welcome Digicel Barbados on
board as one of our new sponsors for Crop Over 2023.
I speak on behalf on the CEO and the entire NCF team, when I say that we
are heartened and grateful for Digicel’s invaluable support.
It is an exciting time as we partner with Digicel to produce this event which
signals the official start of the Festival – The Digicel Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes & Vintage Calypso Tent.
Digicel’s commitment to the NCF is a combination of money, devices and in
kind. However, I must mention that Digicel’s support for Crop Over Festival
also includes a number of private events as well.
To the team at Digicel Barbados, we at the NCF says: Thank you!. Thank
you for your investment; we thank you for seeing value in preserving our
cultural heritage; we thank you for appreciating that the arts play a key role
in our society; and thank you “The Bigger Better Network” coming on board
as we work hand-in-hand to produce “The Biggest and Best” Crop Over
Festival.
Main highlights
Seven hours of non-stop activities including the Bajan Market Place
with over 30 booths offering an array of Bajan-made products and
services.
Check out the Inter-schools’ Heritage Games (Potta/Warri)
Competition where for the first time, individual school champions will
battle for the National titles. Come and take part in line dancing,
historical and genealogy sessions with the Archives Department.
Enjoy rich cultural entertainment including Traditional maneuvres by
the Barbados Landship Association as well a special Landship
interpretation by Danse Nationale Afrique, the Xtreme Folk Group,
sticklicking, tuk bands and DJ music.
There will be FREE introductory workshops in in various aspects of
our island’s Intangible cultural heritage: sign up early onsite and try your hand at Traditional Sweets, Calabash Carving, Sailors
Valentines Shell Collage and Rag-Mat Making to name a few.
Patrons can experience Demonstrations in Loom Weaving, Live
Painting, Traditional Basketry, Pottery Decoration and a display and
sale of children’s books by Barbadian authors.
A Play Area for children which includes a Masquerade Tent where
youngsters and their parents can view Sunshine Snacks Junior
Kadooment band costumes and register on site. Free Face-painting
is being offered for the children,
The colourful parade hits the road at 4 p.m. and will feature the
Zouave Band of the Barbados Defence Force, specially decorated
dray cart and dancers, tuk bands, stilt walkers, stick lickers the
Barbados Landship Association, traditional shaggy bears and more.
The sweet sounds of the Barbados Police Service Band and the ceremonial blessing of the last canes by the Sons of God Apostolic Spiritual Baptist Church will again be a feature this year.
Prime Minister the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley addresses the event
and declares Crop Over 2023 officially open.
Special performances by the Barbados Landship will be followed by a
presentation ceremony for outstanding sugar workers and Crop Over
Festival stalwarts.
Patrons are encouraged to celebrate the traditions but also revel in
the contemporary creativity of our artistes which will be on display in
a specially commissioned bashment/ calypso/spoken word
presentation.
The Chefs’ Corner will feature three top Bajan chefs including vegan
aficionado Ann-Marie Leach. Unique twists on the use of molasses,
cassava and black belly lamb will be open for free sampling.
Come support Barbados’ up-and-coming entrepreneurs in the
Millennial Hub and also be entertained with performances by Stiffy,
Mighty Bit Bit, the Israel Lovell Drummers, the reigning Scotiabank
Junior Monarchs Yahandje and Tae, as well as Kloud 9.
At 7:30 p.m. we culminate the event with the nostalgic replay of the
Road March winners through the years. Their hit tunes will take
centre stage at the 2023 Vintage Tent. Together on stage for the first
time in years will be Cultural ambassadors Gabby, RPB, along with
Mighty Grynner, Serenader, Edwin Yearwood, Lil Rick, Blood, Ian
Webster, Barry Chandler, Biggie Irie and Madd. The throwdown of
epic hits from 1979 to 2002 will include Cyan Find Me Brudda,
Stinging Bees, Mr T, Burn Mr Harding, Leggo I Hand, Inez and
Obadele.
Yes, all of that is in store and much, much more!
Getting to Hayman’s Sugar Factory, St Peter and back should
be no problem thanks to our Festival partners the Barbados Transport
Board.
On Saturday, the Transport Board will provide a consistent bus service to
Hayman’s Factory on the following routes:
- Princess Alice Bus Terminal – Rock Hall
- Speightstown Terminal – Rock Hall
- Oistins & Speightstown Terminal – ABC Highway
*Additional buses will be added for the return to Bridgetown/Oistins. There will also be free parking for patrons driving to the venue. Log on to our social media pages to view the direction videos if you are unsure where to come.
We are looking forward to seeing all of you at Hayman’s Sugar Factory on Saturday, July 1 at 2 p.m. to experience this memorable and exciting event as we herald the grand opening of the 2023
Crop Over Festival.
Thank you!
