As Saint Lucia Carnival 2023 reaches a climax, the Saint Lucia National Youth Council wishes to recognize and celebrate the achievements of a host of young Saint Lucians who have emerged victorious in several of the season’s competitions.
As an organization with the development of Saint Lucia’s youth at our core, we are pleased to witness their inclusion in the island’s cultural events and competitions. This signals the sustained growth of our culture and creative industries.
In a keenly contested National Carnival Queen Pageant on, 25-year-old Shanice Butcher, Miss Caribbean Galaxy was crowned Miss Saint Lucia Carnival Queen 2023.
The momentum continued a week later when two new kings were crowned at the Groovy and Power Soca Monarch Competition.
Five-time monarch, Arthur Allain successfully captured his 6th Groovy Soca Monarch title with his song “Irie”. Following a brief hiatus, Imran Nerdy’s release “Clock Out” earned him the Power Soca King title.
On Saturday, July 8, history repeated itself as 22-year-old Deshawn “Tii Blacks” Augustin, the youngest in this year’s Calypso Monarch Competition captured the crown. This year once again, the Courts Babonneau Steel Orchestra emerged victorious.
2023 saw the much-anticipated return of Junior Carnival. A total of 10 bands participated, with the Nous Wive band and their portrayal of the theme Movie Town capturing Junior Band of the year.
The youth demographic will be the largest participants in the upcoming festivities, the SLNYC applauds all the valuable contributions made thus far and encourages all young talented and interested individuals to step forward and make their contributions.
As the carnival season reaches its peak with the National Parade of the Bands on Monday and Tuesday, The Saint Lucia National Youth Council is urging participants as well as spectators to exercise caution on the roads. Please drink and celebrate responsibly and always remain vigilant. Guidelines are being provided by the relevant authorities; ensure they are adhered to.
SOURCE: Saint Lucia National Youth Council
