Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The vibrant tapestry of Caribbean creativity is set to be celebrated and amplified on a global stage with the inaugural CaribCon event, scheduled to take place from October 23rd to 26th, 2025, in Providenciales. Hosted at the luxurious Shore Club Resort, CaribCon is poised to transform the islands into a dynamic hub for the region’s burgeoning creative industries, bringing together influential voices from media, content creation, and innovation.
A Visionary Cultural Movement
Founded by Omega Simmons, CEO of SOS Media, CaribCon is far more than a typical conference; it is conceptualized as a significant cultural movement. With roots in both the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, Simmons is driven by a passion to elevate Caribbean culture and position the islands as a premier destination for artistic and digital innovation. The event aims to fuel the growth of the Caribbean’s “Orange Economy” – the sector encompassing creative and cultural industries – by connecting creators, cultural ambassadors, and industry leaders with unparalleled global opportunities and collaborative networks across the Caribbean and its diaspora.
Fostering a Hub for Innovation and Culture
While the Turks and Caicos Islands are globally celebrated for their pristine beaches and luxury tourism, CaribCon seeks to highlight another facet of their identity: their rich creative community. Simmons emphasizes that the world should recognize the caliber of Caribbean singers, storytellers, designers, and digital creators, asserting that they stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global counterparts. By hosting CaribCon, the aim is to showcase Turks and Caicos not only as a premier tourism destination but also as a thriving center where culture, creativity, and innovation converge and can flourish. This vision aligns with broader initiatives within the Turks and Caicos Islands government to establish a robust framework for digital assets and position the territory as a leader in next-generation financial services and digital innovation.
Amplifying Caribbean Voices and Storytelling
A central mission of CaribCon is to amplify Caribbean storytelling on a worldwide scale. The event is designed to address a critical need within the region for access, support, and pathways for creatives to monetize their craft. Through dialogues, learning sessions, and networking opportunities, CaribCon seeks to build bridges between Caribbean talent and global industries. This initiative resonates with broader regional efforts, such as the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) upcoming “Caribbean Cultural Mosaic: Rejuvenating Heritage and Authenticity” campaign, which aims to showcase the diverse culture, heritage, and creative industries across the Caribbean through digital storytelling.
A Rich Program of Dialogue and Connection
Attendees at CaribCon 2025 can anticipate an immersive four-day experience filled with dynamic panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and intimate fireside chats featuring leading Caribbean and diaspora voices. Key figures set to share their insights include keynote speaker Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson, renowned communications specialist and media personality; Elizabeth “Lady” Montano, who will host a special session and book signing for her book “King of Soca”; and Simon Baptiste, CEO of Question Mark Entertainment and a prominent creative strategist. A unique “TikTok Turks and Caicos Takeover” will leverage social media to showcase the islands, while curated networking events are designed to spark collaborations and foster authentic relationships.
Building a Supportive Ecosystem
CaribCon is being brought to life through the support of key partners, including the Ministry of Tourism, Experience Turks and Caicos, and The Shore Club, alongside other sponsors like Invest TCI and InterCaribbean Airways. These collaborations underscore a collective commitment to nurturing the Caribbean’s creative ecosystem and providing a platform for its talent to thrive on the international stage.
Charting a New Course for Caribbean Creatives
As the global creative economy continues its rapid expansion, CaribCon 2025 represents a pivotal moment for the Caribbean. It is an opportunity to not only celebrate the region’s rich culture and diverse talent but also to empower its creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators with the tools, connections, and visibility needed to succeed. The event promises to be more than just a gathering; it is a strategic catalyst for momentum, driving the Caribbean forward and ensuring its unique stories and creative prowess take their rightful place on the world stage.