SUSTAINING SAINT LUCIA’S CULTURE WITH CIBC FIRSTCARIBBEAN

CIBC FirstCaribbean International has stepped forward to support the resurgence and growth of the art of stilt-walking. With a strong appeal to both rural and urban youth, stilt-walking has become a vibrant component in the island’s various traditional and cultural extravaganzas.

In their annual portrayal, and in keeping with its nationalistic brand, the St. Lucian Spirit Carnival Band aims to promote nationalism and identity and to celebrate Saint Lucia’s culture, tradition, history and accomplishments. True to this objective, St. Lucian Spirit will carry a full stilt-walker section which promises to reflect the artistry and joie de vivre typical of stilt-walking.

CIBC FirstCaribbean recently made a donation to the St. Lucian Spirit Carnival Band as a contribution to the Band’s efforts at cultural preservation, and the perpetuation of compelling and marketable cultural forms. This is the second year that the Band and the Bank are collaborating in this regard. As such the stilt walkers section has been branded as the CIBC FirstCaribbean Stilt Walkers.

The St. Lucia Spirit Carnival Band has participated in the local carnival scene for the past 30 years and is one of the most decorated carnival bands, having won the Spirit Band of the year, Best Design, Most Colourful Band, King of the Bands, Queen of the Bands, Junior Queen, Junior King throughout the last three decades of revellry.

Speaking during the cheque presentation, Country Manager, Ladesa James-Williams, noted “We are excited to share in the carnival celebrations this year and look forward to an entertaining performance put on by the CIBC FirstCaribbean Stilt Walkers. We are proud of the dedication, hard work and long hours that these children invest in order to hone their stilt walking skills.Because of their interest in and passion for the art form, they are in a position to perpetuate this exciting cultural form.”

CIBC FirstCaribbean’s community relations programme aims to support what matters in our communities. The bank is therefore happy to support programmes that foster cultural and artistic development, particularly those involving
St. Lucia’s youth.

“We commend the commitment of St. Lucian Spirit Carnival Band in preserving and promoting this aspect of Lucian culture among our youth”, noted Mrs. James-Williams.