Fishing industry gala blends art, philanthropy for hurricane recovery

unique charitable gala aimed at raising $100 000 for fisherfolk affected by Hurricane Beryl merged creative arts with community action at the Hilton Barbados Resort on Saturday evening.

Harbouring Hope: Operation Blue Recovery, organised in partnership with the Barbados Arts Council, Sustainable Caribbean and the Fisheries Division, showcased ocean-inspired music, poetry and visual arts to catalyse support for the island’s devastated fishing fleet.

The initiative comes four months after Beryl, a category four hurricane, wreaked havoc on most of the fishing industry in the early hours of July 1, destroying vessels critical to the nation’s food security and economic stability.

Hilton Barbados Resort General Manager Jacques Montiel emphasised the hotel’s comprehensive backing of the cause.

“The Hilton is donating every single aspect of this event. We are not collecting a cent from anybody or from anything. We are donating this because we stand as the forefront hotel of the island. And we will do so as long as I’m the general manager,” he told attendees.

“Hilton Barbados is deeply committed to supporting our community in times of need,” Montiel continued. “After witnessing the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, we knew we had to take action. This event aims to provide the necessary support for our fisherfolk to recover and rebuild their livelihoods. We will always stand with our community. Today, we fight for the fishermen because they are vital to Barbados’ heritage and economy.”

Chief Fisheries Officer Dr Shelly Cox reminded those in attendance of the hurricane’s devastating impact on the industry: “Seventy-six per cent of our active fleet was damaged, and we had 91 total losses. This wasn’t just about boats; this was about lives, families, and an entire way of life being uprooted.”

Despite substantial damage to larger vessels, including longliners and ice boats that supply most fish to local markets, Cox highlighted the sector’s resilience.

“Even after Beryl, we had other landing sites starting back to fish only two or three days later. Active boats ensured that fresh fish remained available, showing the unwavering dedication of our fisherfolk,” she said.

Recovery efforts since July have shown promising results, she added: “To date, we have 35 boats that have returned to the water, with another five scheduled next week and 11 more soon after. By next April, we’re hopeful to have more than half of the fleet operational again.”

The evening featured performances from some of the island’s leading artists, including spoken word poet Akeen Chandler-Prescod, alias StonedwithCupid, the Mighty Gabby and former Pic-O-De Crop Monarch, Quon. The timing of the gala was particularly poignant, coinciding with preparations for World Fisheries Day on Thursday.

Cox praised the creative approach to fundraising: “This collaboration employs a creative approach to engage corporate Barbados through the use of ocean-inspired music, poetry, art, and dramatisations. It also pays tribute to fisherfolk stalwarts who have made a significant contribution to the fishing industry.”

The recovery effort has drawn support from across sectors.

“This recovery could not be possible without the outpouring of love and support from public sector agencies like the Defence Force, Police Service, and Coastal Zone Management Unit, as well as private sector partners like Hilton Barbados Resort and Sustainable Caribbean,” Cox noted.

Reflecting on the evening’s significance, the chief fisheries officer concluded: “Harbouring Hope: Operation Blue Recovery is the sector’s positive response after the catastrophic impact of Beryl. No value can be placed on the future of our fishing partners who have not only lost their income but also their peace of mind. Together, we can ensure a full recovery. This is about more than rebuilding boats; it’s about rebuilding lives, families, and an industry that defines who we are as Barbadians.”

(RG)