Three years ago, the visionary Tobagonian Nevin Roach showcased ingenuity during the challenging heights of the COVID-19 lockdowns, giving birth to PanoGrama, the world’s first online steelpan competition.
The inaugural event drew thousands virtually on Instagram, gaining popularity in subsequent years. Now, Roach is set to receive the 2024 Young, Gifted & Black (YGB) Entrepreneurial Award for Caribbean Artistic Development.
At its core, PanoGrama is a testament to the power of simple yet innovative ideas.
The solo competition united the international steelpan community, providing a platform to showcase exceptional talents.
However, PanoGrama’s impact extended far beyond entertainment and became a highly anticipated event in Antigua and Barbuda.
Since the inaugural event, Mr. Roach expanded the competition to encompass holistic development.
He secured international television deals, reaching a potential audience of over one million, and forged professional relationships with institutions such as the Caribbean School of Media and Communication, offering internships to students.
Collaborations with the Inter-American Development Bank and the Government of the Bahamas on development projects have further highlighted his commitment.
Roach expressed, “I am truly honored. This instrument that I love embodies the shared history of the Caribbean and holds the potential to address pressing societal issues, particularly among the youth. I will continue to make a positive contribution.
Thanks to the awards’ organizers, PanoGrama team members, and everyone on this journey. Special thanks to Antigua and Barbuda for all the love.”
PanoGrama has showcased extraordinary talent from Antigua and Barbuda, across the Caribbean, and around the world. Amarni Gomes was Antigua’s first ever representative, while the likes of Maurisha Potter, Malik Smith, and Kevhani Greenaway, among others, eventually participated. Trinidad and Tobago’s Earl Brooks. Jr. and Keishaun Julien won the first two events while France’s Mathieu Borgne secured the title in the competition’s last staging.
Roach will be honored at YGB’s 19th annual awards next year alongside other honourees during Black History Month in the United States of America. Past honourees include Bunji Garlin, Fay Ann Lyons, and Buju Banton, among others.
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