Antigua and Barbuda has taken a significant step toward monetising its cultural heritage, with the swearing-in of a new 12-member Festivals Commission Board tasked with transforming the country's major events into engines of economic growth. According to Antigua.news, the ceremony took place at Government House, with Elizabeth Makhoul returning as Chairperson and Ryan Johnson appointed as Deputy Chairperson. The board will serve a two-year term ending in May 2028.
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams used the occasion to underscore the expanding global significance of the creative economy — commonly referred to as the "orange economy" — and called on the commission to position Antigua and Barbuda to capitalise on its opportunities.
"The orange economy is growing at unprecedented rates," Sir Rodney said, pointing to music, entertainment, innovation and intellectual property as increasingly vital contributors to national economies worldwide.
Sir Rodney urged the board to view cultural events not merely as celebrations, but as strategic tools for economic development capable of attracting visitors, generating employment and stimulating broader business activity.
"Events themselves bring people," he told attendees. "When we had cricket, when we had music, that's what brought visitors to Antigua. Marketing budgets alone cannot replicate what successful events accomplish."
The newly appointed board members include Larissa Barnes, serving as Recording Secretary, alongside Annette Aflak, Khan Cordice, Lynne Benjamin, Dwayne Mussington, Anika Davis, Okera Lee, Terrance Dyett, Devon Perry and Calbert Francis.
The commission was established under the Festivals Commission Act 2026, which created the body as a statutory corporation responsible for managing and developing national festivals, including Carnival and the One Nation Festival. The legislation grants the commission greater autonomy and accountability, supported by dedicated governance and financial structures designed to strengthen the planning and execution of national events.
Sir Rodney emphasised that collaboration would be essential to the commission's effectiveness. "Success depends on uniting stakeholders around shared purpose," he said.
With its appointment taking effect from May 15, the board is expected to begin laying the groundwork for future festivals, focusing on increasing visitor arrivals, boosting economic activity and raising Antigua and Barbuda's cultural profile on the international stage.
