Baton handed over to Barbados as curtains come down on Carifesta XII

Georgetown: As Carifesta XII came to an end on Sunday, Guyana’s contingent shared that they enjoyed meeting with their brothers and sisters from fellow Caribbean countries, and shared that the best moments were when they were all given the opportunity to showcase their talents.
Dancer and choreographer Roshini Boodhoo said that her best moments were onstage as she was proud to represent her country.
“I never left the Best Western hotel without my Guyana Flag sash. It’s my identity and it’s important to me that I let people know that from a distance I’m a Guyanese.
Ever so often the Haitians would ask if I’m from India. I would then get into a quick chat on Guyana and its six races and its many cultures.”
She added that many were fascinated by such a diverse country, and mentioned that Guyana had without a doubt left its mark on the hearts of everyone at Carifesta.
“In the opening ceremony, the Haitian President, His Excellency, Michel Martelly said, “It’s not Haiti’s show ; it’s our ( Caribbean ) show.” His words touched me and I was more motivated to represent and showcase my Guyana,” the dancer added.
It was reported that spectators were fascinated by the Indian dancing as Guyana was the only country that presented that style.
Reports are that Guyana’s entire delegation had done exceptionally well at representing the nation in the various categories.
The delegation participated in workshops with representatives from Barbados, Belize, Jamaica and Haiti where they learned from and taught their Caribbean brothers and sisters.
In terms of challenges, the participants shared that they had none of any great significance to be mentioned. They added that the only thing that caused a few to worry was the evening of August 28 when Haiti was given a Tropical Storm Warning as Hurricane Erika was said to be making her way to the island.
“Some of us were a bit apprehensive at the thought of Hurricane Erika. But being Guyanese, everyone grouped up and laughed and chatted and before we knew it was morning,” a participant stated.
“They loved our foods, craft, fashion and something which fancied their eyes was the body artwork by Bravo Arts. He used Haitian models and they appreciated his work and having gotten the opportunity to work with him.”
During the closing ceremony on Sunday, as all the countries banded together for a final goodbye, the excitement did not fully end as the crowd bellowed when the baton was handed over from Haiti to Barbados.