Raising the Bar – Mackie Holder, Consul General of Barbados at NY

Raising the bar

Mackie Holder Consul General of Barbados at New York

You are here, so take a bow. You are part of history. And we thank you.

Even by previous standards and great expectations for this year’s event, no one foresaw the awesome response to the Barbados Gala 2022.

On the strength of the Save the Date, persons started purchasing tickets. In some four days – 200 early bird tickets were sold. Unprecedented!

And so, it went. And so we are here, More than 400 of us to enjoy yet another spectacular annual gala.

Since 2019, it was determined that the Barbados Gala should be an event apart. A true representation of Barbados, from cuisine to entertainment, and at the kind of place – not your every weekend hangout – that itself would be wow. In the end, an event that would be reverent of Independence Day and the Republic anniversary and one Barbadians and friends would wish to dress to the nines for and be left ready to party next year.

The event in Staten Island established the desired tone. A sold out night at the Vanderbilt, a venue on the beach, brought out Barbadians from all over. They were thrilled by the ambience, live jazz and R&B, and kitchen magic from three of Barbados’ international chefs.

We regrouped last year, after the Covid-19 hiatus of 2020, in Freeport. We introduced violinist Wesley Morris and Edwin Yearwood was, well, “the General”. Chef Trevon Stoute produced a feast, including an exquisite tasty soup. And the scene was set for this year.

But the importance of the New York gala is far greater than the success of the event itself. The significance is that it has inspired others, associations and individuals, to improve their events. This is better for the image of Barbadian communities and the experience of supporters.

This gala season has seen more upscale and different venues in play, more elaborate decorations and a definite move to have more entertainment, and a wider variety of it.

As an all-encompassing tribute to Barbados and Barbadians, it is fitting and necessary that the Barbados Gala lead the way.

So yes, there are awards. Yes, there is some speaking. Yes, it has a price. Because it is a special event. Unmatched in any way.

That is why we all are here. To share in a special time in a special place in a special way.

Let us continue to come together to cherish and share all that we have, remembering there is strength and success in unity.

Enjoy to the fullest.

Happy Independence