The Tribune

THE Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) got CREATE-ive when it launched its latest publication, titled ‘CREATE’, which applauds the successes of entrepreneurs in Caribbean creative industries.

The publication’s launch occurred in synergy with the CALABASH International Literary Festival Launch at the Red Bones Blues Cafe, in Jamaica, last week.

The creative industries continue to be recognised as a significant contributor to growth and development in the world economy, and can become a pillar for economic diversification and catalyst for export growth in the Caribbean.

They represent a dynamic sector that encompasses disciplines ranging from traditional arts and crafts to multimedia. The CREATE publication showcases only a microcosm, albeit impressive collection, of entrepreneurs from the music, film, fashion and creative design industries.

Caribbean Export’s executive director, Pamela Coke-Hamilton, set the tone for the publication with an engaging and unconventional speech that spoke to the vision behind the publication and the impetus for the partnership between Caribbean export and CALABASH.

CALABASH provides an opportunity for regional artisans to network with international and Caribbean attendees, who visit the festival to generate further interest in their products. Caribbean Export recognises that regional artisans are seeking new avenues and opportunities for market entry and penetration, and it is envisaged that CALABASH will provide an outlet to achieve this goal. “We see our role, made possible by the 10th European Development Fund, as giving structure and support through opportunities and exposure in publications like CREATE, and at events such as Calabash, and for creative talent across the region to become strong exportable products for the rest of the world to embrace” said Ms Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director, Caribbean Export.