Forty-eight entries have been submitted to the inaugural awards for media coverage of arts and culture, sponsored by the Caribbean Culture Fund in the 36th CBU Media Awards.
Launched last year, the CCF support for the awards aims to catalyze thoughtful coverage of arts and culture in radio, print, digital media and television. Entries closed on February 28, 2025. The CBU received arts and culture-themed submissions in the following categories: radio — two; print — nine; digital — 12 and television — 25. Eleven organisations submitted entries for these theme categories. hailing from Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago.
Executive Director of the Caribbean Culture Fund, Kellie Magnus expressed delight at the response to the CCF’s first awards. “Caribbean creatives are doing important work that touches every aspect of our culture and our development. We need media houses to help us amplify these stories — showcase our talent, preserve our heritage, build a shared sense of identity and belonging and uplift marginalized voices. We’re excited to see the stories that have been created this year.”
CBU President Anthony Greene noted the importance and timeliness of the partnership with the CCF. “CBU member organisations have been centers for indigenous creation for decades as well as offering spaces for Caribbean artists and cultural practitioners to engage with regional communities. CBU is looking forward to exploring the importance of arts and culture to Caribbean economies and overall development during the Annual General Assembly taking place from August 18 – 20 in Barbados, under the theme “Caribbean Media and the Orange Economy”.
Presentations to the winners will take place August 20 at the 36th CBU Media Awards Gala at the Hilton Resort Barbados. The keynote speaker will be Senator Dr Shantal Munroe-Knight, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Culture.
