Carifesta XI: `It was an experience too big to describe’

Mikel Andrews during a dance routine at Guyana Night

Carifesta XI held from August 16-25 in Paramaribo, Suriname had approximately thirty participating countries from the Caribbean Community (Caricom), Union of South American Nations (Unasur) and other delegations from as far as Asia. Guyana was part of the grand festival and the contingent consisted of fifty to sixty members sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and a number of other independent artists who also represented Guyana.

Guyana participated in a range of arts including: music, fashion, dance, craft, drama and culinary.

Stabroek News caught up with some of the cultural ambassadors who represented Guyana. Asked about their experience during the ten-day festival, this is what they had to say:

Jovanka Williams, Music teacher and musician with the National Steel Orchestra: “Carifesta XI was really great, had minor hiccups but overall it was a great experience. It’s always a pleasure to represent ones country. I’m a member of the National Steel Orchestra of Guyana and we played at the Guyana Night, Battle of the Bands at Marriott Hotel and a few other small events. The Surinamese really enjoyed our