The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission in London hosted a Heritage Evening, bringing together members of the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora, Commonwealth representatives, and distinguished guests to celebrate the rich history, culture, and enduring connections between Antigua and Barbuda and the United Kingdom.
Mikaela Benjamin, a young marketing expert of Antiguan and Barbudan heritage hosted the programme with charm and wit.
The evening’s programme opened with a vibrant steelpan prelude performed by Harry Hughes Steelpan, followed by the national anthems of Antigua and Barbuda and the United Kingdom, performed by Braimah Kanneh-Mason. Prayers were delivered by Reverend Katei Kirby.
In her welcoming remarks, Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner for Antigua and Barbuda to the United Kingdom, expressed appreciation for the strong ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the UK and highlighted the importance of the diaspora community in strengthening those bonds.
Lyndia Bowers, President of the Antigua and Barbuda National Association in London, also extended greetings and welcomed guests to the cultural celebration.
Remarks were delivered by His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, and the Honourable E.P Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs.
Both officials underscored the importance of preserving national heritage and strengthening engagement with the diaspora.
The programme featured remarks from Antigua and Barbuda’s CHOGM Envoy, cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards, and Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo, Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat, who highlighted the enduring role of culture and people-to- people connections in strengthening the Commonwealth community.
Guests were also treated to a musical selection by Laurent John.
The evening included special presentations highlighting Antigua and Barbuda’s historical and cultural legacy.
Denize Leadeatte, Director of the National Windrush Museum, delivered a presentation on “The Antigua and Barbuda Windrush Story,” reflecting on the contributions of Antiguans and Barbudans to the United Kingdom following the Windrush generation.
Finally, Dr. Gabriella Howell MBE, Director of Historic Preservation at the Heritage Trust Antigua and Barbuda Inc., presented on “The Restoration of Government House,” outlining efforts to preserve one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most significant historic landmarks.
The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission thanks the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Office in London for the support rendered in organising the event.
The Heritage Evening formed part of a series of engagements bringing together the diaspora and Commonwealth partners during the week of meetings and activities in London.
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