A Night to Honour Culture and Legacy
On a lively December evening, the Barbados Ottawa Association Inc. hosted its Gala in celebration of Barbados’ 58th Year of Independence. Held at the elegant Hellenic Banquet Centre, the event brought together nearly 150 attendees, all gathered to honour the legacy, culture, and contributions of Barbadians living in Canada. As the event photographer for the evening, I had the privilege of capturing not just moments but also the essence of pride, unity, and cultural richness that permeated the gala.
Inspiring Leadership and Resilience
The evening featured distinguished guests such as His Excellency Gline Clarke, High Commissioner for Barbados, and His Excellency Samuel Berridge, High Commissioner of Saint Kitts and Nevis to Canada, along with Rawlson King, Councillor and Deputy Mayor for Ward 13. Stefan Keyes, News Anchor for CTV News Ottawa, seamlessly hosted the program, which included insightful keynote addresses on the resilience of the Barbadian diaspora, the importance of preserving cultural identity, and the beauty of blending traditions. These narratives inspired reflection on how storytelling—whether through words or images—helps preserve heritage and honour personal journeys.
Capturing the Spirit and Looking Ahead
As the photographer for this incredible event, Paul Green Photography was proud to document not only the evening’s milestones but also its spirit. I was moved by the personal stories of attendees navigating the duality of being Barbadian and Canadian, embracing opportunities and challenges along the way. These experiences deserve to be preserved visually for future generations. Reflecting on this memorable celebration, I am filled with gratitude for the chance to witness and document such pride and resilience. I hope to continue capturing the essence of this annual event for years to come, ensuring its legacy thrives in vivid detail. Here’s to celebrating independence, culture, and community—together.
Images from Barbados (Ottawa) Association Incorporated's Gala
The following are images created by Paul Green Photography. To see the whole gallery, click here.
