Prime Minister pays tribute to Roland “Rojoe” Bascombe

Below is the full statement:

I join Barbadians of all walks of life in paying tribute to a fellow countryman who loved life and lived it with as much colour and flamboyance as he could muster.

Roland Bascombe, known from St. Philip to St. Lucy just simply as Rojoe, was one of those Barbadians whose journey will be remembered for a long time by those who knew him. He was a self-taught tailor who for three decades poured his creativity and design skills into making outfits for many Barbadians.

But no one wore them as he did — certainly not with the panache that he displayed. I will forever admire his confidence and style, which seemed always to scream, “I’m not afraid to lead or to stand out.”

However, I cannot reflect on Rojoe’s flamboyant confidence and trademark joviality, without at this time of sadness recognising that for more than a year he struggled to cope with the unfortunate death of his youngest son.

This, therefore, is a moment for me to reflect on the importance today of that age-old Bajan value of bearing your brother up when the chips are down. I trust it will be so for all who knew and loved him.

To his mother, siblings and children, I extend heartfelt condolences and hope that at this time you will take comfort in the vibrance Rojoe poured into so many lives in this country with his creativity.

May his soul rest in peace.

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley