Barbadian pride, spirit and talent shine as Independence lights illuminate The City

Scores of patriotic Barbadians gathered at Independence Square on Saturday evening for the 2025 Sagicor Life Inc. Lighting Ceremony, held under the theme “Celebrating Communities: Reengaging, Reigniting, Reimagining.”

In celebration of the nation’s 59th year of Independence, organisers pulled out all the stops to impress the large crowd.

The evening opened with a stirring saxophone performance by Kieshelle Rawlins, followed by Shernell Clarke’s original piece Let Me Be the Light and Akea Barton’s soulful Walk Away from Love. FuZion the Band added to the energy with a medley of folk tunes.

The audience lapped up every performance.

Pioneers of the Community Independence Celebrations Programme — those who served as Parish Independence Chairpersons in 1995, the programme’s inaugural year — were recognised as they passed through a guard of honour formed by current chairpersons to flip the switch and illuminate the lights.

Adding to the spectacle were dancers and stilt walkers in illuminated costumes, captivating spectators along the route.

Delivering sponsor’s remarks, General Manager of Sagicor Life Inc., Paul Inniss, said, “This lighting ceremony is so much more than a ceremony or a tradition. It is a reflection of our national soul. It reminds us that no matter the challenges, Barbados will always find the light.”

He added, “As these lights glow across our island, let them be symbols of hope, unity, and the unbreakable spirit that defines us.”

Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith addressed what he called “an area of darkness,” recalling, “From this spot three years ago, I asked that when we turn on the lights as a country, we turn on the lights of humanity as well.”

Highlighting the issue of youth crime, he assured, “As a government, we are doing everything possible to shed light on those dark areas affecting our young people.”

The second segment, The Bajan Brew, showcased an eclectic mix of local talent. Parish ambassadors and attendants were introduced as they prepared to challenge St Lucy’s winning streak at the upcoming Spirit of the Nation Show on November 15.

The parish ambassadors and their attendants were introduced.

Powerful spoken-word pieces by Akeem Chandler-Prescod, Raquon Hinds, and Malachi Hope opened this segment. Reigning Junior Monarch King K made an appearance. Janine White’s She’s Still Sweet personified Barbados, while Wayne “Butterskillet” Harewood’s Reflections urged youth to avoid crime.

Veteran entertainers Tony Grazettes and Mike Grosvenor led the audience in a nostalgic sing-along, with Grazette — soon to celebrate his 78th birthday — still commanding the stage. Ishiaka McNeil’s ode to old-time calypso had patrons dancing, while Lil Rick energised the crowd with a medley of his hits and vintage dub tracks.

The night concluded with Mikey, who kept the festive spirit alive as parish ambassadors joined him on stage to bring the evening to a dynamic close. (STT)