Entertainment
Rock City Theron Thomas Wins Grammy Award for Songwriter of the Year
Virgin Islander Theron Thomas is the 66th annual Grammy Awards Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical).
Thomas secured the prestigious accolade with an impressive repertoire of hits throughout the year, including chart-toppers like “Pretty Girls Walk” by Big Boss Vette, the viral sensation, “Told Ya,” featuring Chlöe & Missy Elliot, and “Been Thinking” by Tyla. His outstanding work stood out among other formidable nominees in his category, earning him the nod from the Grammy judges.
This marks the second consecutive year that Theron Thomas has been recognised, previously earning acclaim for his contribution to Lizzo’s 2023 Record of the Year, “About Damn Time.”
Expressing his exhilaration, Thomas remarked, “This is going to show every youth in the Virgin Islands, every youth in the Caribbean – small islands especially – that we could dream bigger than we ever thought we could.”
Thomas acknowledged the greatness of his fellow nominees, including Justin Trantor. However, Thomas is no stranger to greatness, with an extensive list of writing credits for renowned artists such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Ciara, Victoria Monét, Lloyd, and K-Pop sensation Jung Kook.
According to Thomas, greatness abounds in the Virgin Islands, and he commended local talent, including Adam O, Pumpa, Pressure Buss Pipe, Monea, and others, for leading the charge in the musical arena. While he acknowledges the need for continued efforts to establish the Virgin Islands’ musical identity globally, Thomas remains optimistic about the region’s potential.
Reflecting on his journey, Thomas admitted that he never envisioned receiving global acclaim when he began his musical career. “I just wanted to take care of my daughter and get my parents out of the projects, you know?” Despite surpassing his initial goals, Thomas embraces his role as a role model for younger Virgin Islanders, aiming to set an example of truth and realistic goals.
For aspiring talents, Thomas advocates embracing imperfections, learning from mistakes, and evolving. “You don’t have to walk this perfect line that the world tells you,” he advises. “Make as many mistakes as you can, learn from them, and get better from them.”
Above all, Thomas emphasises the importance of infusing love into everything one does, offering a poignant message of inspiration to aspiring artists and the youth of the Virgin Islands.
Education
Ashaala Shanae Gives Back to Her High School’s Music Program in the British Virgin Islands
Renowned creative entrepreneur and philanthropist Ashaala Shanae has made a heartfelt donation to the music department of Elmore Stoutt High School in the British Virgin Islands, fulfilling a long-held aspiration to give back to the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping her career.
In a social media post reflecting on the moment, Shanae expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to support a cause close to her heart. “I’ve given a lot financially to worthy causes, organizations, and individuals over the last 10 years, many of them never made public,” she wrote. “However, this moment right here has been something I’ve been wanting to do for a few years, and the Lord orchestrated it so perfectly that I give Him all the glory.”
The artist and industry expert highlighted the profound impact Elmore Stoutt High School’s music program had on her journey, from a young aspiring musician to a leading figure in the creative industry. “To be able to make a humble donation to the place that literally shaped me and provided a safe haven for me as a teenager is nothing short of God’s perfect will,” she said.
Shanae also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of key figures in the British Virgin Islands’ education system who helped make the donation possible. She extended thanks to Dr. Arlene Smith-Thompson for facilitating the opportunity with the Ministry of Education, as well as Minister Sharie Watchman de Castro and Chief Education Officer Orlandette Rea Crabbe for their commitment to advancing creative and performing arts education.
The initiative aligns with her broader vision for nurturing talent within the region. Through her company, Vocal Wallstreet, she aims to support educational collaboration and provide resources for students pursuing careers in the creative arts. She also expressed appreciation for H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) President Richard Georges for his openness to continued dialogue in this area.
“There’s so much promise here in the BVI, and my goal is to do my best to support efforts that bring quality programs, resources, and opportunities to our youth and young adults,” Shanae stated.
As an influential voice in the industry, Shanae’s philanthropic contributions continue to inspire young creatives to pursue greater levels of success. Her latest gesture reaffirms her commitment to fostering artistic development in the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
Entertainment
Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete
Some of the best bakers from across the Caribbean are gearing up for the Caribbean Baking Awards (CBA), a two-day event celebrating creativity, skill, and the flavours that make Caribbean baking unique. The competition will be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV), so viewers from across the region and beyond can watch the action as it happens.
Bakers from across the Caribbean will go head-to-head in various categories, putting their skills to the test in front of expert judges. The competition will feature teams from:
- Virgin Islands (US) – Team Hibiscus Sweets
- Trinidad and Tobago – Team Trini Cakes Revellers & Team Flavour Masters Possé
- Jamaica – Team Sweet Success & Team The Dynamic Duo
- Antigua and Barbuda – Team The Glass Jar & Team Sweet Art 268
- Virgin Islands (BVI) – Team Bombshell
- Dominica – Team Donmnik Dou
- Guyana – Team Sweet Secrets
- Barbados – Team Bimstars
- Saint Lucia – Team Fruit Boss
The event takes place on February 21-22, featuring live baking, expert judging, and special guest appearances. Chef Kareem Brooks from Saint Martin will be one of the judges, while hosts Julie Mango and Ricky “Daphox” Bertie will keep the energy high throughout the competition. The celebration will wrap up with an After Party on February 22, featuring a live performance by Onyan and the 3 Cylinder.
Viewers can watch live on JTV and be part of the excitement as bakers compete for top honours.
Tickets to attend in person are $10. Secure yours today and don’t miss out!
For more details and to watch the live stream, visit https://tinyurl.com/CBAwithJTVchannel55
Lesley and Lestene Maduro of LSL Bakery in Virgin Gorda will be among the bakers competing at the Caribbean Baking Awards, set to take place in the British Virgin Islands.
LSL Bakery, a well-known establishment in Virgin Gorda, has been serving pastries, cakes, and other baked goods for years. Founded as a family business, it has grown into a recognised name in the local culinary scene.
The Caribbean Baking Awards bring together top bakers from across the region, with teams representing the British Virgin Islands, the US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Guyana. The competition includes categories such as Best Buttercream Cake, Rising Star, Cake Hero, and Best Cupcakes.
The awards ceremony will culminate in the Masquerade Awards Gala Dinner on Saturday, 22 February, at 5:00 PM at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola.
The event will bring together bakers, industry professionals, and guests to celebrate Caribbean culinary craftsmanship.
Voting for the awards opened on 7 September 2024, allowing the public to support their favourite bakers.
The event will also be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV).
Unable to attend the event in person? Enjoy the two-day action by securing your tickets for just $10. Click the link below to purchase.
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