The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has been officially sworn in for a new two-year term, signalling a renewed commitment to advancing the nation's cultural and creative industries. According to Antigua News Room, the ceremony marks a significant milestone under recently enacted Festivals Commission legislation designed to strengthen the governance framework for managing, promoting, and sustaining the country's festivals and cultural events.
Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, who served as Chair of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Board for the past three years, now assumes the role of Chairperson of the newly established Commission. Her appointment reflects confidence in her leadership, institutional knowledge, and longstanding dedication to strengthening Antigua and Barbuda's festival product. She will be supported by Deputy Chairperson Ryan Johnson and Recording Secretary Larissa Barnes, alongside a team of professionals and community representatives.
The Honourable Dwayne George, Minister responsible for Sports and the Creative Industries, congratulated the newly appointed Commission and emphasised the significance of the new legislative framework. "Today marks more than the swearing-in of a Commission; it represents a new era for festival development in Antigua and Barbuda," he said. "The new legislation provides a stronger foundation for governance, accountability, and strategic growth, ensuring that our festivals continue to deliver cultural, social, and economic benefits for our people. I look forward to working closely with them as we continue to elevate Antigua Carnival and all national festivals to even greater heights."
Chairperson Ambassador Makhoul expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving and outlined the Commission's priorities. "I am deeply honored by the confidence placed in me and my fellow Commissioners," she said. "We recognize the responsibility entrusted to us and remain committed to strengthening our festivals, supporting our creatives, and creating memorable experiences for patrons and visitors alike. With the support of our stakeholders, sponsors, volunteers, and the people of Antigua and Barbuda, we will continue to build a sustainable and internationally competitive festival product."
The appointment comes as Antigua and Barbuda continues to build its reputation as the Caribbean's premier summer festival destination. Over the next two years, the Commission will focus on enhancing stakeholder engagement, strengthening festival operations, expanding marketing and tourism opportunities, supporting cultural development initiatives, and ensuring the country's festivals remain authentic, innovative, and economically impactful.
