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.

A group poses together at a holiday event with decorated Christmas trees in the background.
Attendees gather for a formal photo at an evening event.
Two attendees pose together at an evening networking event.
Two attendees in formal attire at a professional event with blue and yellow decor visible in background.
Speaker at podium with Barbados flag in formal event setting with blue and yellow balloon decorations.
Speaker in sparkly dress addresses audience from podium with blue and yellow decorations in background.
Event attendees seated at decorated tables during formal gathering with projection screen and flags visible.
Speaker in grey suit delivers remarks at podium with blue and gold backdrop at formal event.
Formal gathering with blue backdrop featuring Barbados tourism branding and yellow balloon decorations.
Two attendees pose against Barbados branded backdrop with underwater theme and yellow balloons.
Dancer performs elegant leap in flowing dress during formal event with projection screen visible.
Performer sits on stool during event presentation with decorated tables visible in background.
Three guests in evening attire pose together at formal event with elegant decor.
Two men in formal attire pose together, one wearing a striking blue suit with bow tie and the other in gray.
Man in blue blazer and black tie smiles warmly while holding phone at formal event.
Two men in business suits stand together at formal event with chandelier visible in background.
Woman in colorful African print dress stands at vendor table displaying records and merchandise.
Couple poses in formal attire against Barbados tourism backdrop with yellow balloons.
Woman in bright yellow off-shoulder dress poses at event with Barbados-themed decorations.
Black and white photo of two people in formal wear posing at event with projection screen visible.