The Board of Batabano Cayman Carnival has announced the addition of a new face, Rashad Rankin, to their management structure. Donna Myrie, the Chair of the organization stated that after a careful search and in consultation with various stakeholders, Rashad has been added to the management structure as an Executive Creative Director.
Ms. Myrie stated, “Rashad is a young Caymanian, an entrepreneur and someone who is entrenched in the carnival realm, from having participated in Junior Batabano whilst at Red Bay Primary School to being instrumental in the success of a prominent mas’ band. The Board and I are confident that Rashad possesses the enthusiasm, creativity and innovative spirit to collaborate with us to re-energize the look and feel of our beloved Batabano, the National Carnival of the Cayman Islands. Rashad and young Caymanians like himself are the future of Batabano. This 2025 season allows for a smooth handover, the rebuilding and the reinforcement of key relationships and embracing new and old sponsors.
She added, “Over the years, Batabano Cayman Carnival has been the dynamic celebration of Caribbean vibrancy in the Cayman Islands, a vital nexus for creative expression, cultural exchange, economic vitality, and community cohesion. We look forward to enhancing our product with the addition of workshops and other elements that will contribute to the overall celebration.
Rashad stated, “As I step into the role of Executive Creative Director, I am honoured to embrace the opportunity to unite our islands through the rich celebration of our culture and heritage, allowing for the creation of experience that resonates with everyone and fostering moments of connections that bring us all together. I look forward to the year ahead with great excitement as I embark on this journey.”
Batabano Cayman Carnival is endorsed and supported by the Ministry responsible for Culture. Hon. Dwayne Seymour, CCI, JP, MP, Minister for Border Control, Labour and Culture said, “On behalf of the Ministry of Culture, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Rankine on his new role as Executive Creative Director for Batabano. As a young, talented Caymanian, he brings a wealth of creativity and vision to one of our nation’s most cherished cultural events. Batabano has long been a celebration of the vibrant spirit and traditions of the Cayman Islands, loved by Caymanians and residents alike. With Mr. Rankin’s addition to the management structure, we are confident that this festival will continue to thrive, showcasing the beauty and unity of our community for years to come.”
We are proud to continue the tradition of Caymanian culture because of what it means for the Cayman Islands and its peoples. A salute to Cayman’s turtling heritage, “Batabano” is the native name for the tracks left in the sand when sea turtles go ashore to nest, which has always been cause for celebration in Cayman. Cayman Carnival Batabano is ceremoniously held in early May as part of the celebration and awareness of Turtle Nesting Season.
Residents and visitors can look forward to an exciting week of activities leading up to the Adult Batabano Parade on Saturday 3 May 2025.
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