The Turks and Caicos Islands are poised to become a pivotal center for regional innovation and cultural exchange with the upcoming launch of CaribCon, a groundbreaking media and culture summit. Scheduled to take place from October 23rd to 26th, this inaugural event aims to elevate Caribbean content and creativity on a global scale, fostering collaboration and new avenues for growth within the region’s burgeoning “Orange Economy.”
CaribCon, conceived by S. Omega Simmons, founder of SOS Media, is designed to be a premier platform for digital influencers, content creators, media professionals, and brand strategists hailing from across the Caribbean and its diaspora. Simmons, who possesses Bahamian roots and a deep connection to the Turks and Caicos Islands, envisioned CaribCon as a means to showcase the immense creative power of the Caribbean and to establish the host islands as a significant cultural capital, moving beyond their well-known appeal as a luxury tourism destination. “We are known for our beautiful beaches and luxury tourism, but our creative community deserves the same global spotlight,” Simmons stated. “CaribCon is about showing that Turks and Caicos is not only a destination for travellers but also a cultural capital for creators.”
A Confluence of Caribbean Talent
The four-day summit will transform The Shore Club in Long Bay, Providenciales, into a vibrant hub for dialogue, networking, and cultural celebration. Attendees will engage in a dynamic program featuring immersive panels, hands-on workshops, live brand activations, and curated networking opportunities. A key objective is to energize regional voices in media, innovation, and marketing, thereby creating new pathways for creators to monetize their platforms and expand their reach.
Spotlight on Regional Voices and Culture
CaribCon’s agenda is set to feature influential figures from the Caribbean creative landscape. Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson, a celebrated communications specialist, media personality, and global keynote speaker from Jamaica, will headline the event as the official keynote speaker. Dr. Johnson is expected to share her insights on Caribbean identity, the art of storytelling, and the critical role of representation in shaping global narratives.
Another significant presence will be Elizabeth “Lady” Montano, mother and former manager of soca superstar Machel Montano. Lady Montano will not only launch her award-winning book, “King of Soca,” but will also participate in an intimate fireside chat, offering invaluable experiences on nurturing talent, building enduring brands, and sustaining longevity within the competitive music industry. Further bolstering the event’s caliber, Simon Baptiste, CEO of Question Mark Entertainment and a film director, talent manager, and creative strategist, will contribute his expertise to discussions focused on shaping the region’s creative sector and nurturing talent.
Fueling the ‘Orange Economy’ and Global Influence
The summit directly addresses the growing importance of the creative industries, often referred to as the “Orange Economy,” within the Caribbean. Research indicates that creative industries are a key growth sector for the Caribbean, contributing to GDP, exports, and employment, and playing a vital role in destination and intellectual property branding. By bringing together creators and industry leaders, CaribCon aims to unlock new opportunities, enhance monetization strategies, and bridge existing gaps in the content creator market, thereby supporting the economic diversification of Caribbean nations.
Cultural showcases are also integral to CaribCon, promising to highlight the diverse music, fashion, and storytelling traditions that define the Caribbean’s vibrant identity. This focus on cultural preservation and promotion aligns with the broader efforts of regional governments and cultural organizations, such as the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Department of Culture and Heritage, to safeguard and enhance the region’s rich heritage.
A New Era for Caribbean Content
The establishment of CaribCon in the Turks and Caicos Islands marks a significant development in the region’s media and culture landscape. It represents a strategic effort to leverage the islands’ international profile for the advancement of Caribbean creative talent, positioning the region as a dynamic source of innovation and cultural influence on the world stage. This initiative underscores the potential for the Caribbean to not only share its unique stories but also to build sustainable economic opportunities through its creative output, contributing to the overall development and recognition of Caribbean culture.