At the Junior Jazz 2026 opening ceremony, organisers highlighted the future of Saint Lucia’s creative industries and the initiative’s ongoing positive impact on young people.
The event was held on Wednesday at Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort.
Colin Weekes, founder of Dove Productions, urged stakeholders to look beyond Junior Jazz’s success and consider future opportunities for aspiring creatives.
Describing Junior Jazz as “a brilliant event” and “a brilliant platform for our young people”, Weekes asked, “What is next?” He expressed concern that, despite current opportunities, long-term pathways for young creatives remain limited.
Reflecting on his own experience, Weekes shared, “I too was that primary school child who had absolutely no other ambitions but to be behind the camera.” He noted that after leaving St Mary’s College, “the avenue wasn’t there,” highlighting ongoing structural gaps that still persist.
Weekes questioned whether adequate systems exist to support young people pursuing creative careers. “Have we created that platform yet…” he asked, stressing the need for sustainable opportunities beyond annual events.
He further argued that the industry requires deliberate support and cannot be left to develop on its own. “The creative industry cannot be left on its own,” he said, adding that more consistent initiatives are needed throughout the year. While acknowledging recent efforts, such as training sessions, he stressed that “we cannot have it once a year. We need more than a gig. We need avenue, we need platform.”
Weekes also highlighted the importance of legitimising creative careers, noting the need for systems that allow creatives to access financial support. “We need to be able to go to the bank and say, I am a creative and I want to use my skill to have a livelihood,” he stated.
Mayor of Castries Geraldine Lendor-Gabriel offered a personal perspective, connecting the significance of Junior Jazz to autism awareness and inclusion.
As a parent of a child on the spectrum, she shared how music and the Junior Jazz platform have supported her child’s development. “This event and music made that difference in my son’s life,” she said, describing his journey from playing the keyboard to mastering multiple instruments.
“Today, he plays several instruments… he’s playing the bass… he’s doing the tenor pan…” she noted, attributing his growth to both the programme’s opportunities and his passion for performing.
Lendor-Gabriel emphasised that her son’s progress is not unique, pointing out that many children on the spectrum possess similar untapped potential. “There are a number of other children who are also on the spectrum who also have that gift,” she said, highlighting Junior Jazz as a vital avenue for inclusion.
She added that such initiatives can help integrate children who may face challenges in traditional academic settings.
