CARIFESTA XV to Spotlight Media and the Orange Economy: A Cultural and Economic Convergence

Matthew Pilgrim
Jun 1
2 min read

Updated: Jun 26

Bridgetown, Barbados – As Barbados prepares to host CARIFESTA XV, Carol Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of the National Cultural Foundation and Festival Director for CARIFESTA XV, has underscored the pivotal role the region’s cultural and creative sectors play in driving sustainable economic development. Her message comes as the Caribbean Broadcasting Union(CBU) prepares to host the 56th Annual General Assembly and 36th Media Awards from August 18–20 at the Barbados Hilton Resort — just days before CARIFESTA XV kicks off on August 22.

“This convergence creates an exceptionally timely and pertinent space for us to delve into a topic of immense significance: Media and the Orange Economy,” said Roberts. “Think of our music, our films, our literature, our vibrant visual arts, our fashion, our culinary traditions, our festivals like CARIFESTA, and even our digital content creation. In the Caribbean, the Orange Economy is our innate genius, our ancestral heritage, our contemporary expression – all transformed into tangible economic value.”

Roberts emphasized that CARIFESTA is far more than a cultural showcase. “It is a powerful demonstration of the Orange Economy in action,” she said. “It showcases the immense talent within our region, facilitates cultural exchange, and, crucially, generates economic activity through tourism, event management, craft sales, and artistic performances. This makes it an ideal moment to explore how the media, as a powerful amplifier and facilitator, can further unlock the vast potential of our creative industries.”

President of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union Anthony Greene echoed this sentiment, inviting participants to explore how the media can advance economic opportunity across the Caribbean. “We invite you to join us from August 18–20 to explore the theme, Caribbean Media & the Orange Economy, just before our co-host the Government of Barbados welcomes delegations for CARIFESTA XV,” Greene said. “This Assembly is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on ensuring our indigenous media survive and thrive as an economic sector.”

Greene added that the CBU remains focused on “the business of media” and its contribution to the wider creative economy. “If you have an interest in arts and culture, the creative industries, traditional and new media, or communication technology, the CBU Assembly and Awards are for you,” he said.

With official air travel partner LIAT 2020 offering special fares to twelve regional destinations, and Barbados serving as the cultural epicenter of the region this August, the stage is set for an extraordinary celebration of creativity, commerce, and Caribbean identity.