The Barbados Shipping and Trading Company (BS&T) and its subsidiaries have once again extended a helping hand to the Community Independence Celebrations Secretariat (CICS) with the donation of $15 000 to assist with the Parish Talent zonal shows.
The donation was the fifth in as many years to the CICS from BS&T. Public relations manager Jennifer Branch-Maloney said: “We have been pleased with the [show’s] progress and the development of national pride and culture, and we are proud to be a part of the exercise this year. We see participants transition from the community level to the national level due to the direction and support of the secretariat.”
The funds are to be used to cover the sponsorship of the three zonal shows of the central, southern and northern zones.
Celia Toppin, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development and Culture said, given the economic situation, the ministry had cut back in many areas and the assistance was greatly appreciated.
“We want to encourage others to take a leaf out of their books and help . . . We need volunteers and sponsorship. The Government cannot do it on [its] own. It is the responsibility of community groups to help, then more can be done to enhance existing programmes.”
The Spirit Of The Nation show, now in its 15th year, is themed Celebrating Our Heritage – Proud To Be A Bajan.
The first zonal show will be held next Saturday at the Christ Church Parish Church Hall under the theme Southern Kaleidoscope. (LK)
