Sending good energy to the Cultural delegation representing The Bahamas at the Dubai Expo!

"The public should be supportive, while managers, booking agents etc. should direct their collective resources and abilities at building relationships with industry professionals with the goal of securing annual touring opportunities for Bahamian artists" 

Bahamian performers put on a show at Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE, in January 2022. (OPM COMMUNICATIONS)

Social Media came alive with pictures of Bahamians landing in Dubai, United Arab Emirates for the World Expo International Exhibition. Prime Minister Brave Davis was accompanied by a cultural delegation in support of The Bahamian Pavilion on display. The Expo began last October and will continue until March of 2022. 

Bahamian performers put on a show at Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE, in January 2022. (OPM COMMUNICATIONS)

“In addition to the bilateral and trade meetings, Mr Davis will be supporting the cultural delegation, who will be showcasing Bahamian talent on Bahamas National Day, which is expected to enhance the country’s profile while at the same time providing an opportunity for international exposure for local artists” (By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter)

For those in attendance, networking opportunities are expected to be favorable; 

‘In only the first month of Expo, The Bahamas saw over a quarter of a million visitors to its pavilion, with over 10 million more anticipated to follow over the course of the Expo’s six-month run’ (By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter)

Bahamian performers put on a show at Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE, in January 2022. (OPM COMMUNICATIONS)

The goal of the venture is to secure investment opportunities for the country, while enhancing global awareness of our unique cultural expressions. Social media came alive this week as there were mixed emotions expressed in response to the country's participation. Many sent well wishes as they stated how proud they felt that the Prime Minister, and Bahamian delegation were taking the opportunity to network globally, actively working to enhance economic growth. Some social media comments frowned upon the decision to spend tax dollars in such times, as we are actively  fighting the Pandemic crisis. Other comments critiqued the individuals chosen, referencing other performers that could have been selected. 

Bahamian performers put on a show at Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE, in January 2022. (OPM COMMUNICATIONS)

Overall it is important for the Bahamas to secure needed foriegn investment. The public has a right to an opinion, plus Bahamian tax dollars were spent.  The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) donated $3.5 million dollars, the Cabinet $1 million and an additional $500,000 has been gifted by the private sector. Prime Minister Philip "Brave" Davis left the country on Friday (January 14th) to attend. Accompanying him were, ‘Shaback, a choir led by Press Secretary Clint Watson, The Royal Bahamas Police Force Band, a Junkanoo group and the Bahamas All-Stars’ (By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter).

Bahamian performers put on a show at Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE, in January 2022. (OPM COMMUNICATIONS)

As far as the cultural delegation perhaps we as a country should lend our support by continuing to send our well wishes, love and prayers. With so much local talent, debating over one trip may not be where our energies could be best directed. If we attempted to compile a  list of those deserving exposure, it would seem endless.  The artists chosen are nationally known and have put in the work. It is difficult or even impossible to objectively critique who should go or not, as many others could have been selected since as a country we are overflowing with creative energy. Rather than focus on Dubai which is just one booking opportunity, perhaps artists, managers, booking agents etc. should direct their collective resources and abilities at building relationships with industry professionals with the goal of securing annual touring opportunities for Bahamians. This could be an avenue where local artists earn a living to support their families and careers. Exporting creative talent abroad is a form of foriegn investment. Entertainment is a billion dollar industry. The orange economy i.e. the creative sector has the same potential as banking and tourism to enhance economic growth. 

Devlyn Stubbs

Freelance Writer

242 Artist Network

Sources

https://ewnews.com/no-complaints-from-uae-pm-lauds-bahamas-participation-in-expo-2020-despite-public-criticism

http://www.tribune242.com/news/2022/jan/14/1m-approved-support-bahamas-pavillion-and-presence/

https://www.expo2020dubai.com