Saturday 26 October 2024
St. Lucia Ottawa Association Celebrates Vibrant Jounen Kwéyòl 2024 with Unforgettable Cultural Showcase
by Marshall Celestin, President, St. Lucia Ottawa Association
The newly elected executive of the St. Lucia Ottawa Association (SLOA) delivered an unforgettable celebration of Jounen Kwéyòl 2024, captivating the hearts of Ottawa residents and honoring the rich heritage of Saint Lucia. The event garnered attention starting with an appearance on CBC Radio’s morning show, where SLOA President Marshall Celestin and cultural icon Mr. Jerome Daniel emphasized the mission of preserving the Creole language and culture for future generations. Mr. Daniel’s heartfelt performance of a traditional Creole song brought the spirit of Saint Lucia to life for Canadian listeners.
On Saturday, the Jim Durrell Recreation Centre transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, welcoming enthusiastic attendees to experience a day full of excitement and community. The youth committee hosted an engaging kids’ corner, complete with face painting, a magic show, and interactive activities that brought joy to the youngest participants. Local artisans displayed Saint Lucian craftsmanship at vendor booths, offering hand-carved calabash, vibrant madras textiles, fragrant cocoa sticks, and authentic sea moss products. The Ottawa Police Department also joined in support, showcasing the strong relationship between the force and the SLOA. Roof Tropixx Media broadcasted live from Saint Lucia, led by host Mr. Russell Lake, creating a unique connection between Ottawa and the island.
A curated museum exhibit transported attendees to the past, showcasing traditional toys, kabowe, popot bowe, and straw hats. Decorated with iconic madras fabrics, the exhibit celebrated Saint Lucian ingenuity and inspired a sense of nostalgia.
The culinary offerings were a major attraction, with long lines of visitors eager to savor the flavors of Saint Lucia. Dishes like the national green fig and saltfish, steaming bouillon, and sweet treats like Coco tea, local juices, fish cakes, local stew chickenback turnovers, and coconut cake and many other dishes delivered a true taste of the island.
Hosted by the dynamic duo Miss Tarrah and Mr. Russell Lake, the day’s performances left a lasting impact. Mr. Jerome Daniel’s cultural songs had attendees singing and dancing, while Miss Ingred and Mr. Rufus’ Creole classics electrified the crowd. Dancers added even more energy, and DJ Hypnotix kept spirits high with infectious beats throughout the day.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards to three pillars of the community: Miss Genither Vitalis, a founder of SLOA; Mr. Jerome Daniel, a past president and cultural steward; and Mr. Eurick Charles, a cultural stalwart for over three decades. President Marshall Celestin and Vice President Charles Simon presented the awards, honoring these trailblazers for their unwavering dedication to the Saint Lucian community in Ottawa.
The fashion show was another unforgettable moment, featuring modern designs crafted from Saint Lucia’s national fabric, madras. The collection, created by up-and-coming designer Jimilia Isidore from Vieux Sucrieux (Monchy), was inspired by St. Lucian Olympic champion Julien Alfred and celebrated the strength and elegance of the island’s culture.
Jounen Kwéyòl 2024 was a resounding success, a joyous celebration of culture, unity, and heritage. The newly elected SLOA executive’s vision shone brightly, creating a memorable experience that honored the past, celebrated the present, and looked forward to a thriving future for Saint Lucian traditions in Ottawa.
