Miss Teen Universe Bahamas is 16-year-old from Abaco Kristaney
Welcome
…to the Around da Islands, our weekly supplement, free with Friday’s Tribune.
First o!, huge congratulations to Kristaney Duroseau, representing the Abaco Cays, who has been named Miss Teen Universe Bahamas 2026.
The vivacious 16-year-old tells Around da Islands of the thrill of being crowned at the Atlantis Theatre on Sunday evening. What’s more, Kristaney walked away with a full-ride scholarship valued at $175,000 to Avila University, in Kansas City, Missouri, a prize she described as ‘life-changing.’
This week, we also feature the fourth annual Art Lucaya festival, which transformed the MOSAIC Art Hub on East Sunrise Highway, Grand Bahama, into a vibrant celebration of creativity over the weekend. Some 80 Bahamian artists — including 40 adults and 40 students — brought this year’s theme, ‘Dream Big,’ to life in dramatic fashion.
Founder Fatima Zahra Karboub describes the evolution of Art Lucaya as the realisation of a shared vision. The festival marked a milestone this year by bringing in international curators Ilene Sova and Byron Armstrong of Toronto-based Armova Curatorial — a rst for the event.
Finally, as the Exuma Regatta draws to a close tomorrow, Saturday, we publish a guide on how best to survive the thrills of spills of our islands’ many regattas. We list ve things to keep in mind if you plan to do Regatta right. And remember - pace yourself; it’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint!
Every week, Around da Islands, having partnered with Grand Bahama 242, highlights news, features and developments from Grand Bahama and the Family Islands, o!ering a broader national perspective beyond Nassau.
And don’t forget, this is your supplement too! Send us your story ideas, features and tips – we can’t run then them all, but we’re committed to strong, fair representation from across the islands.
So come along for the ride!
From all of us here at The Tribune – The People’s Paper.
This WEEK in Around da IslandsBahamian News, Features & Culture
GRAND BAHAMA FEATURES
Pgs 4 & 5 — Fourth annual Art Lucaya festival reinforces Grand Bahama’s position as cultutal destination
GRAND BAHAMA NEWS
Pg 6 — Cultural Workshops for students aim to preserve Bahamian traditions
Pg 7 —Grand Bahama takes centre stage at National Arts Festival
ABACO FEATURES
Pgs 8 & 9 — From the 'Cays' to the crown a winning night to remember: Plus ‘life changing’ full-ride scholarship worth $175,000
GRAND BAHAMA FEATURES
Pgs 10 & 11 — A Sweet Legacy: Take the Cake Bakery closes its doors
Pg 12 — Island Brainwaves
NEW PROVIDENCE FEATURES
Pgs 14 & 15 — Rooted in Colour: Dyah Neilson’s Bahamian world of home, memory and meaning
EXUMA FEATURES
Pg 16 — Surviving Regatta: Five things to know to ensure you do regatta right
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Fourthannual Art festivalLucaya reinforces Grand Bahama’s position as cultutal destination
BY DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
THE fourth annual Art Lucaya festival transformed the MOSAIC Art Hub on East Sunrise Highway into a vibrant celebration of creativity over the weekend, as some 80 Bahamian artists — including 40 adults and 40 students — brought this year’s theme, “Dream Big,” to life.
Held from April 17–19, the growing festival not only showcased artistic talent but reinforced its mission to position Grand Bahama as a cultural destination while nurturing the next generation of creatives.
Art Lucaya secretary Lisa Cordella expressed the importance of community support in sustaining the art festival.
“I cannot impress upon you how important you are in this journey called Art Lucaya,” she said. “The vision… all in an efort to elevate and put a focus on Grand Bahamas. We want the Bahamas and the world to know that there's a reason to come… one of the main reasons… is
to experience the creativity and the art community.”
She noted that while the festival highlights established artists, emphasis is also placed on youth development through a dedicated student gallery hosted this year at the Our Saviour Lutheran Church.
“Every single dollar that's raised tonight is split by the participating schools, and they buy art supplies… so that… their students… now have more supplies in order to explore, experiment, stretch their creativity,” she explained.
Now in its fourth year, the festival marked a milestone by bringing in international curators Ilene Sova and Byron Armstrong of Toronto-based Armova Curatorial — a frst for the event.
Founder Fatima Zahra Karboub described the evolution of Art Lucaya as the realisation of a shared vision.
“We all started with a dream,” she said. “This is our fourth year. And we're so happy to see how this dream has grown every year… our goal… is obviously very bold… to become the artistic capital of the Caribbean.”
She praised the participating artists, noting their continued growth.
“Every year they get better and better, and this year it's just incredible… I have been completely
blown away by the work,” she said, also commending the volunteer team behind the festival for their dedication.
She also commended the sponsors, including the Grand Bahama Port Authority, which is the title sponsor. Carnival's Celebration Key also came on board this year as a signifcant sponsor.
Mr Armstrong said the exhibition refects both the strength of Bahamian talent and the power of community participation.
“This is a community arts event… and without the participation of the community, we have nothing to curate,” he said. “I know that the Bahamian artists are some of the best in the world… my expectations have been met and exceeded.”
Ms Sova highlighted the curatorial approach, describing the exhibition as a narrative experience.
“We want you to think of this when you walk through as chapters of a book,” she said, explaining that each room explores diferent aspects of dreaming — from childhood aspirations to abstract and symbolic
in Toronto, whose work greets visitors at the entrance.
“It’s good to be home… it’s just a full circle moment to be here,” she said, refecting on her journey from a student in Freeport to an exhibiting artist.
Among the local artists, Leo Brown presented a piece titled “Path to Tomorrow,” depicting three schoolgirls walking home and discussing their ambitions. This is his fourth year at Art Lucaya.
“They're talking about what they learned… and what they want to do with their lives… very ambitious girls,” he said, adding that the work was
interpretations, ending in refection. She added that the diversity of interpretations stood out.
“You'll see things like childhood… career aspirations… nightmares… dreams about fshing… swimming under the ocean… dreaming through land, through plants, through fowers,” she said. “We are leaving really inspired and really touched by the community.”
The exhibition also features guest international artist Veronica Dorsett, a Bahamian native now based
inspired by the vibrant colours of Bahamian summer landscapes.
Artist Sheldon Saint, whose large-scale watercolour “Sugar Apple Ginnip” is featured, described the festival as a unique platform for the island.
“This is our fourth year… the only one like it in Freeport… and we're all excited about this particular event,” he said.
Ms Cordella, a ceramist, sculptor, and artist, has also introduced an interactive project titled “This Communal Dream,” inviting members of the public to contribute lines refecting their hopes for Grand Bahama. The contributions will form a collective poem preserved in a handmade book using locally inspired materials, such as paper made with banana leaves.
Organizers said the exhibition will remain open to the public for one month, ofering residents and visitors alike an opportunity to experience the work.
With increasing participation, international collaboration, and strong community backing, Art Lucaya continues to expand its footprint — turning a once small idea into a growing cultural movement rooted in creativity, collaboration, and the belief that Grand Bahama can dream big.
to
Fatima-Zahra Kaboub, Art Lucaya founder; Sarah St George, chairman of the GB Port Authority; Byron Armbrister, curator of Armova Curatorial, Toronto, Canada; and Bahamian artist Veronica Dorsett, who now lives in Canada, cut the ribbon to open Dream Big exhibition, April 17 at Mosaic Art Hub on East Sunrise Highway
FROM left
right: Artist Sheldon Saint,
Photos: BARBARA WALKIN
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
HIGH school students in Grades 9 and 12 on Grand Bahama are being ofered a unique opportunity to learn and preserve traditional Bahamian skills through a series of free cultural workshops hosted by the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC). The initiative is designed not only to equip students with practical skills for entrepreneurship, but also to ensure the continuation of treasured national crafts such as straw plaiting, wood carving, sewing, the arts and more.
“We are committed to ensuring that our cultural traditions are not lost,” Mr Johnson said. “By engaging our young people now, we are investing in the future of Bahamian craftsmanship and creativity.”
The programme is open to all interested high school students on Grand Bahama, with education ofcials encouraging participation across the board.
Michelle R. Bowleg,
The TDC Authentically Bahamian Cultural Workshop Series, to run through May and beyond, will provide hands-on training in straw plaiting, conch shell carving, wood carving, sewing, and other creative disciplines.
Sessions will take place after school hours and on weekends to maximize accessibility, with each workshop lasting between two to six weeks.
TDC Director Steven Johnson emphasised the broader vision behind the initiative, noting that the workshops are about more than just skill-building. They are about identity, heritage, and sustainability.
Cultural Workshops for students aim to preserve Bahamian traditions
Deputy Director of Education for Grand Bahama, Bimini and the Cays, highlighted the value of balancing academics with practical skills.
District Education
Ofcer Joanne Penniman urged parents and students to take advantage of the opportunity.
“These workshops provide an avenue for students to preserve our heritage while gaining valuable skills and even exploring
entrepreneurship,” she said.
Local artisans and cultural practitioners will serve as instructors and mentors, sharing their expertise and personal journeys. Among them is Veronica Ellis, owner of Empress Palace, who spoke passionately about discovering her own path later in life.
“All of us are not as academic as the other person, but we all have gifts and talents that need to come out,” Ms Ellis said. “I was 39 years old when I became the most outstanding student in my tailoring programme. If I could do that then, imagine what our young people can do now.”
Ellis also underscored the importance of cultural knowledge being passed down through generations.”
Conch shell carving specialist Sylvie Carey, owner of Suncrafts Bahamas, noted that participants will gain hands-on experience with tools and materials, while learning the importance of safety and technique.
Expressing concern about the decline of traditional items once common
in local markets, Ms. Carey asked: “When was the last time you saw a conch shell bead necklace in Grand Bahama? We need to bring those things back.”
For Chanel Taylor, proprietor of Island Diva Creative Design, the workshops represent a powerful blend of creativity and business education.
“When students create products using local resources, they are not only making art, they are promoting the Bahamas,” Ms Taylor said. “This programme also teaches them how to turn those skills into a business.”
The impact of cultural mentorship was also evident in testimonials shared during the launch. One participant recalled learning straw weaving and sewing as a child, skills now being passed on to others.
Organisers say the workshops are as much about rekindling pride in Bahamian culture as they are about skill development.
Teachers and students interested in enrolling can contact 821-5237 for more information.
Photos: BARBARA WALKIN
Grand Bahama takes centre stage at National Arts Festival
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
GRAND Bahama’s young performers opened this year’s E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival with confdence, colour and purpose, as adjudicators continued their journey to evaluate talent across The Bahamas.
The Drama and Dance segment of the festival ofcially got underway on April 13 at the City of Life Entertainment Centre on Britannia Blvd of East Sunrise Highway.
From the opening presentation, energy, excitement and pride flled the room, as students, some as young as six, delivered performances polished through weeks of rehearsals. Teachers and a few parents in the audience ofered encouragement and phones lifted to capture the memorable moments.
Day One unfolded with a wide range of dramatic and dance categories, including Individual and Choral Verse Speaking, Skits for Grades 4–6, and a series of dance performances spanning Liturgical, Jazz and Modern styles. Each was carefully observed by adjudicators, who are traveling throughout the country to judge the entries.
By Day Two, the stage had shifted to vocal brilliance. The programme featured Preschool and Primary Choral Singing, Gospel and Anthem solos, duets, and popular music categories such as R&B and Pop. Junior high students brought a more mature edge with Theatre and Broadway selections, alongside jazz and standard vocal pieces.
Dramatised Characterisation, both classical and original, added depth, while storytelling and spoken word performances revealed the students’ ability to connect with the audience.
Methodist College, Lucaya International School and others ensured a rich, islandwide representation.
Grand Bahama enters this year’s festival with a strong legacy. In the previous year, the island’s students earned commendations across multiple categories, particularly in choral singing, dance and dramatic performance, with several groups advancing to national fnals and securing top honours.
Week Two of the Festival opened at Church of the Ascension, shifting focus to Instrumental Music. Junior and senior high students showcased their skills in Piano Solos, String Ensembles and Band Instrument performances before activities returned to the City of Life venue for continued adjudication.
Days Three
and Four
continued the literary and dramatic focus, with Verse Speaking and Characterisation categories drawing strong participation from upper primary students, many demonstrating notable growth in confdence and stage presence.
On Day Five, the festival spilled into the open air at Port Lucaya Marketplace Square, where Bahamian culture took centre stage. Students performed Folk Dance, Bahamian choral selections and contemporary styles including Hip-Hop and Modern Dance.
Community groups and schools such as Freeport Gospel, Walter Parker Primary, Bishop Michael Eldon School, Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy, Lewis Yard Primary, Maurice E. Moore Primary, St. Paul’s
Behind every polished performance is a network of dedicated teachers and mentors, many of whom have spent years nurturing talent in classrooms and community spaces. Their infuence is evident not only in technical execution but in the confdence each student carries onto the stage.
Adjudicators, tasked with both evaluation and encouragement, now continue their journey across the islands ensuring that every participant, regardless of location, receives attention and feedback, a hallmark of the festival’s national reach and impact.
Photos: BARBARA WALKIN
From the 'Cays'
to the crown
By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
THERE was a moment inside the Atlantis Theatre on Sunday night, just before the fnal name was called, when the room held its breath. Then came the announcement and a burst of applause that rolled through the venue like a wave. In that instant, the crown found its way back to the family islands, rest ing on the head of a young woman whose journey had already begun long before she stepped on stage.
Kristaney Duroseau, representing the Abaco Cays, was named Miss Teen Universe Bahamas 2026, capping of an evening flled with energy, personal ity and purpose. For the lively teen, the win was as surprising as it was unforgettable.
“It was so unexpected. There were so many things going on backstage. So many times I didn't think that I would be able to go on stage because I was running late. But when they called my name, I felt so
who she is. “Well, I'm a very fun person and I love to make people laugh and I love to make people smile. So that was just my way of bringing smiles to their
Her win carried deeper meaning beyond the stage. Representing a tightknit island community, she spoke with pride about what the moment means
“The Cays are such small places, and Abaco, and to just bring something so big is just a great award. And I'd love to just put a smile on their faces. And I know that my family, Island Cays, they'll be so proud of me,” she said. “And there's so much that I want to bring to the Cays and I know that they'll be very proud of me.”
believe that that resilience has shaped me to the woman I am today, as well as the contribution of the Bahamas International Pageant Organisation,” she said.
With the crown now secured, her focus is already turning towards the message she hopes to carry throughout her reign. Speaking directly to young girls watching her journey unfold, she encouraged them to embrace who they are.
“I would just love to say to all the young women that it's okay to shine through your authenticity and any little ripple efect, you can have such a great impact. And I just want to tell everyone that it's okay to be yourself and to just enjoy who you are,” said Kristaney. She also ofered a reminder that ambition should never be limited by circumstance. “I would love to say that any dreams or goals you have, as long as you really want to achieve them, you can do it.”
over the years. We've garnered new members of the board, we've shared, we've grown so much. And I think growth is very important as you progress. So I think that sets us apart. Nothing is the same,” said Ms Thompson. She noted that this year’s presentation of a university scholarship cheque on stage added a new layer of signifcance to the programme. “What I looked forward to, was just setting the mark of this being the frst time ever at our pageant that we actually presented a huge check for the university fund for our queen. And I couldn’t wait to see it. To actually see that going in our queen's hand. She's going to have a crown on her head, her sash and that cheque. I mean, it's just, it's amazing,” said Ms Thompson.
Though born in Nassau, Kristaney’s roots were frmly planted in Abaco, where she spent her formative years before moving to the Cays. That upbringing, she explained, shaped both her personality and her perspective. Drawing on her connection to island life, she described herself as someone deeply tied to the water and environment. “So I like to call myself a Cay-life girl. Anything with water, marine life, boating, beaching, I love so much. So that is something that I told a lot of the judges and they really enjoyed that,” she said.
Her experience of living through Hurricane Dorian also left a lasting impression. Kristaney said witnessing the strength of her community helped build her own sense of
“And to be living on Abaco and having experienced Hurricane Dorian, it's really built the resilience in me. And I've taken after my community and I've seen how resilient and strong they are. And I
TIA THOMPSON, president of the Bahamas International Pageant Organisation
In addition to the crown, Kristaney walked away with a full-ride scholarship valued at $175,000 to Avila University, a prize she described as life-changing.
“This is such a great achievement, especially for me, coming from a very small island in Abaco. And to just take that weight of of my parents' shoulders is just a blessing,” she said. “And I want to say thank you so much to the Bahamas International Pageant Organization, as well as Avila University and Charlotte Knowles Thompson Agency for providing me with this amazing opportunity.”
For Tia Thompson, president of the Bahamas International Pageant Organisation, the moment represented and marked another milestone in the organisation’s continued evolution.
“I think what sets us apart is the fact that we continue to grow. I mean, next year makes 10 years that we've been doing this and no year is the same. We've obtained
Beyond the spectacle, Ms Thompson stressed that the initiative is designed as a developmental programme rather than a traditional beauty contest.
“My favourite thing to tell parents is, this is not a beauty pageant, it's a program. This is a 16-week training program,” she said, outlining the range of training participants receive, from speech and modelling to etiquette and personal development. She added that the organisation aims to produce well-rounded young women who are prepared for opportunities beyond the stage. “Again, it builds their confdence and character,” she said. As for what she looks for in a titleholder, Ms Thompson made it clear that the crown comes with responsibility.
“I would like to see integrity, honesty, accountability, a hard worker; someone that understands that this is not only a title, it's a job. I need them to understand that it's not just about putting on the clothes. It's not just about putting on the sash and crown and smiling. It's about being all in,” she said.
Looking at Kristaney’s journey and her performance on the night, it is a sentiment that now feels ftting. From her playful presence on stage to the quiet pride of carrying her island with her, the newly crowned queen delivered a reminder that sometimes, the biggest moments can come from the smallest places.
KRISTANEY Duroseau arrives in Abaco with her new title as Miss Teen Universe Bahamas 2026
Legacy
By LEIGH LIGHTBOURNE
AFTER more than three decades of creating custom baked centrepieces for countless celebrations across Grand Bahama, Take the Cake Bakery has closed its doors, marking the end of an era for a family business that has left a lasting impression on the community.
For 33 years, Cindy DeGregory and her family built a reputation for crafting highly personalised, intricately designed cakes that became synonymous with life’s most meaningful moments.
Take the Cake Bakery closes its doors
Many residents have been fortunate enough, over the years, to celebrate with a Take the Cake creation, each one carefully designed to refect the personality, theme, and joy of the occasion.
“We were grateful to anyone that chose us to create something special for their celebration,” said Cindy DeGregory. “It made us feel privileged and trusted.”
What began as a home-based venture grew steadily through hard work and dedication. Cindy, alongside her husband Larry and daughters Camille and Olivia, balanced the demands of daily life with the constant fow of cake orders, often working long hours to meet the needs of their customers. Their commitment and consistency helped the business fourish, earning a loyal following across the island.
As demand increased, not only for custom cakes but for a wider range of baked goods and meals, the family saw an opportunity to expand. That vision led to the opening of DeGregory’s in the Lucayan Shopping Plaza, now a well-known destination for breakfast, lunch, and specialty grocery items.
“O ver the decades, we’ve had the privilege of being part of so many special moments in your lives: birthdays, weddings, celebrations, and everything in between. We are truly grateful for the trust, loyalty, and support you have shown us throughout the years.”
TAKE the Cake Family: Camille, Alexis, and Olivia, standing. With their parents, Cindy, and Larry DeGregory, seated.
THE deli has become particularly popular for its fresh oferings, including pastries, croissants, and prepared meals.
Alexis DeGregory, who developed her skills baking alongside her mother from a young age, later pursued formal training at a pastry school in France. That experience has infuenced the quality and variety of baked goods now featured at DeGregory’s, adding a refned touch to the family’s already well-established reputation.
While the storefront represents a new chapter, the closure of Take the Cake marks the end of the family’s custom cake business, a decision that, according to the family’s recent announcement, “has not come easily.”
“Over the decades, we’ve had the privilege of being part of so many special moments in your lives: birthdays, weddings, celebrations, and everything in between,” the statement read. “We are truly grateful for the trust, loyalty, and support you have shown us throughout the years.”
Behind the scenes, however, there is another part of the Take the Cake story that remained largely unknown to the public.
For nearly two decades, Cindy DeGregory quietly ensured that every child at the Grand Bahama Children’s Home received a birthday cake—individually made, personalized, and given at no cost to the home.
The initiative began after she came across a social media post requesting bakers to donate cakes. At the time, the children were being celebrated collectively, with one cake shared among those with birthdays in the same quarter.
“I was the only baker to reply,” she recalled.
What started as a simple response grew into something much more meaningful. Believing that each child deserved to feel individually celebrated, Cindy made the decision to create a custom cake for every child, tailored to their preferences in both design and favour.
Over the years, the family produced an average of 25 cakes annually for the home, each one crafted with the same level of detail and care as their paid orders.
“We wanted each child to be celebrated and to feel special,” she said. “I can’t tell you how full our hearts felt seeing the expressions on those little faces. It brought us so much joy to be able to do that for them.”
The efort was never promoted or publicised, but it became a consistent and meaningful part of the family’s work. It also refected a broader commitment to community involvement, including initiatives such as a youth-led “Cookies for Kids” programme and
ongoing support for local youth sports.
With the closure of Take the Cake Bakery, this long-standing tradi-
tion will also come to an end. The Grand Bahama Children’s Home will now be seeking individuals or businesses willing to step in and continue this meaningful gesture, ensuring that each child can still experience the simple joy of having a birthday cake made just for them.
As Take the Cake winds down, the DeGregory family is shifting its full attention to their deli, where they plan to continue expanding their oferings and connecting with customers in new ways.
“As we transition away from cakes, I’m excited about providing the shop with specialty baked goods, connecting more with customers, and starting up our afternoon tea parties again,” Cindy said.
Though the ovens will no longer be dedicated to custom cake orders, the legacy of Take the Cake Bakery lives on—not only in the memories of weddings, birthdays, and celebrations, but in the quiet moments of kindness that defned its story.
For many in Grand Bahama, the cakes were more than just desserts, they were expressions of care, creativity, and community.
PHOTOS showcase a variety of personalised cakes that have been made over the decades
12 Friday, April 24, 2026
Prosaic, Victor, Mania, Nimbus, Strong, Unite, Pewter, Treason, Frank, Yolk, Heirloom.
Across: 1 Arena, 10 Boyle, 11 Tenko, 15 Dean, 16 Tulisa, 19 Everage, 21 Down: 2 Race, 5 Miniature, 6 9 Barbara, 13 17 Star, 18 Nina, TV CROSS TV show: Riot Women_x000B_ (4,5)
By LEIGH LIGHTBOURNE
Rooted in Colour: Dyah Neilson’s Bahamian world of home, memory and meaning
FOR Dyah Neilson, the story of her work begins, quite naturally, at home.
“Growing up in The Bahamas, I’ve been constantly surrounded by colour,” Neilson told Around da Islands.
“Whether in architecture, interiors, or the natural environment with our fora and fauna, that naturally found its way into my early work.”
Born and raised in Nassau, her earliest pieces leaned more directly into nature, often drawing on local animals and familiar island imagery. But over time, her paintings have shifted away from straightforward representation, becoming more symbolic and deeply personal.
Exposure to a wide range of interior spaces has introduced new visual elements into her work. Wicker textures, patterned wallpaper, and distinctly Bahamian
household objects now appear alongside natural motifs.
Neilson said these are not merely decorative additions. Instead, they function as layered symbols, refecting personal experiences and emotional states.
“I use them like cryptic symbols,” she says, “that refect my personal experiences, thoughts, and the diferent seasons of life I’m moving through.”
In this way, the concept of “home” remains central to her work, though it has expanded beyond physical space to encompass memory, identity, and emotional landscape.
That sense of introspection is also evident in Neilson’s engagement with more sensitive subject matter, particularly mental health, a theme she has explored with care and nuance.
In The Bahamas, she noted, conversations around mental health are still often approached with hesitation.
“There’s a reluctance to be open because of fear of judgment, misunderstanding, or backlash,” she said.
Rather than confronting these issues in an overt or literal way, Neilson’s work often addresses them indirectly, embedding meaning beneath the surface of her compositions refecting both the cultural context in which she was raised and her own personal comfort with expression.
“I believe there’s real power in naming things and in giving form to emotions and experiences that people might otherwise keep hidden.”
“By sharing my own story through my art, I hope to create a sense of connection and reassurance, letting others know they’re not alone,” she said.
Neilson’s development as an artist has also been shaped by strong mentorship and early encouragement, beginning at home.
SHE credits her parents with fostering her creativity from a young age.
“My dad would tape my work to the walls like a mini gallery, and my mom made sure I was always enrolled in art classes,” she recalls.
Her formal training included time at local art schools of Sonia Isaacs, where she developed a lasting appreciation for colour, detail and drawing inspiration from the local environment and Kim Smith, who introduced her to hyperrealism, expanding her technical range and adding another dimension to her work.
Today, Neilson continues to deepen her connection to Bahamian art through her role as Gallery Coordinator at the D’Aguilar Art Foundation. There, she is immersed daily in the works of some of the country’s most infuential artists, including Brent Malone, Rolfe Harris, and members of the Burnside family.
This exposure has strengthened her appreciation for the evolution of Bahamian art and its role in shaping cultural identity.
“It has deepened my appreciation for Bahamian art history,” she says, “and continues to infuence how I think about my own work.”
While her foundation is frmly rooted in The Bahamas, Neilson’s reach has extended far beyond the islands, thanks in large part to social media.
Like many contemporary artists, she has found digital platforms to be both a valuable tool and a complex space to navigate. As someone who identifes as an introvert, the constant connectivity can at times feel overwhelming.
“Social media has defnitely been a bit of a bittersweet experience,” she admitted.
But by sharing her creative process and glimpses into her daily life, Neilson has built meaningful relationships with audiences both locally and internationally. These interactions often go beyond
simple appreciation, evolving into genuine exchanges of ideas and inspiration.
“It’s allowed me to connect with people in ways that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. I regularly receive messages from people sharing what inspires them or what they’re working on, and that exchange is really special,” she said, adding, “Beyond connection, it’s also been an important professional tool.”
As Neilson continues to grow her art, her work remains anchored in the infuences that frst shaped her: colour, culture, and the experience of life in The Bahamas.
At the same time, it continues to expand, refecting both personal evolution and a broader engagement with the world around her. Through layered imagery and thoughtful symbolism, she ofers viewers not just a refection of her environment, but an invitation to look inward, bridging the gap between place, identity, and shared human experience.
SurvivingRegatta
Five things to know to ensure you do regatta right
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
BY THE time this story hits print, some revellers will already be two days into the Exuma Regatta festivities. But for the late arrivals and weekend travellers, the parties are only just revving up.
As the annual celebration kicked of on April 21, fnishing tomorrow, Saturday, the island once again came alive with unmatched energy, drawing locals and visitors into a non-stop mix of culture, sailing, music and pure Bahamian vibes. But while the highlight reels show the parties and the pretty moments, anyone who has done Regatta properly knows it takes a little strategy to truly enjoy it.
For frst-timers especially, the experience can feel overwhelming. Between the heat, the crowds, and the packed schedule, it is easy to get caught up and burn out early. Even seasoned Regatta-goers will tell you that surviving it is just as important as enjoying it. Whether you are in Exuma for the frst time, or heading to one of the other upcoming summer regattas, here are fve things to keep in mind if you plan to do Regatta right.
Pace yourself…. It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint Regatta is not a one-night event. From the moment you arrive, the energy is already
high, and it builds as the days go on. There are beach parties, stage shows, races, and latenight link-ups that stretch into the early morning.
The biggest mistake many people make is trying to do everything at once. Day one excitement often leads to overdoing it, leaving little energy for the rest of the weekend. By the time the biggest events roll around, some are already running on empty.
Those who know better move diferently. They pick their moments and understand that missing one event is better than missing the entire experience. Regatta rewards endurance, not just enthusiasm.
Hydration Is Not Optional
Between long hours outdoors, dancing, and alcohol, dehydration can creep up quickly. It is one of the main reasons people start
Staying far from the main events can also make it harder to move around and enjoy the experience.
Planning ahead makes everything smoother. Having your stay and transportation sorted allows you to focus on the weekend instead of logistics. If you are fguring it out last minute, you are already behind.
Dress Smart for the Elements
Regatta fashion is always part of the experience. People show up looking good and matching the vibe. But beyond style, practicality matters more than many realise.
The heat, sand, and long hours can quickly turn the wrong outft into a problem.
Breathable clothing, comfort-
feeling sick or sluggish during the weekend.
Drinks are fowing everywhere, but water often gets overlooked. Alternating between alcoholic drinks and water can make a major diference in how you feel, especially the next day.
Eating properly also helps. Starting the day with a solid meal gives your body a better chance of keeping up. In Exuma, water is just as essential as your wristband.
Secure Your Stay and Transportation Early
Regatta is one of the busiest times of the year for Exuma, and space flls up fast. Accommodations, rental cars, and transportation options become limited as the event approaches.
Those who wait too long often end up scrambling or paying more than expected.
Regatta is about having a good time, but knowing your limits is what keeps the experience positive. With large crowds and high energy, it is easy to get carried away.
Moving with awareness means staying mindful of your surroundings, keeping track of your belongings, and sticking close to people you trust. Simple things like checking in with friends can make a big diference.
At the end of the day, the goal is to enjoy the experience and make it home safely. Having a good time should never come at the cost of your safety.
More Than a Party
able shoes, and lightweight fabrics go a long way.
Sun protection is also key. Hats, shades, and sunscreen are not just accessories, they are necessities. Regatta fashion should work with the island, not against it.
Know Your Limits and Move With Awareness
For many, Regatta is a staple on the Bahamian calendar. It is where culture, community, and celebration come together, creating moments that last long after the weekend ends.
Surviving Regatta is not about holding back. It is about moving smart, respecting the pace, and understanding the environment.
Because once you get it right, there is truly nothing like it.