What hosting Pan, Brass & Soca means to me – A DREAM

When I say I’m excited, trust me, that’s an understatement! Pan, Brass & Soca is right around the corner, and it’s not just any event, it’s a full-on celebration of everything that makes us unique as Caribbean people. The music, the energy, the culture, they're all coming together on one stage as a true reflection of who we are and I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of it!

What I love most about the concept of this event is how it brings people together. Music is the heart and soul of Caribbean life, and whether it’s steelpan, soca, or brass, it’s something we all connect with. When you hear the first few notes of a pan melody or feel the pulse of a soca rhythm, it doesn’t matter where you’re from, you’re instantly part of something bigger. And this event features talent from all over the region: Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, even the USA! It’s like a melting pot of Caribbean sounds, and I think that’s such a beautiful representation of how, despite our different islands, we’re all one people. So the way this event is curated, it serves as as a reminder that our cultures and traditions are what make us special, but they’re also what connect us.

Now, on a personal note, this event is extra special for me because drumroll please, it’s my first major hosting gig! (Yes, I’m screaming inside!) Hosting Pan, Brass & Soca is a dream come true for me, and it feels surreal to be up there sharing the stage with the amazing Daniel Loveless from Trinidad (I absolutely love him!). If you know me, you know I’ve been working hard in PR, but this opportunity to step into the spotlight as a host? It’s huge.

I won’t lie, there’s a mix of nerves and excitement, but mostly, I’m just grateful. This is the kind of opportunity that can really launch a career, and I plan to make the most of every second on that stage. To be part of something that’s not only about entertainment but also about celebrating Caribbean culture and unity, it’s an honour I don’t take lightly.

On an even more personal note, I lost my uncle a few years ago who played a major role in the steelpan fraternity. And even though all my life I knew what he did, (tune pans, teach music, played pan and teach other people to play) I never fully understood the impact he was making until he passed away. 

So being involved in steelpan events and being around pannists who genuinely love the artform makes me feel like he's still here.  RIP Ivan Chapman aka Chappy. 

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about me or even the music. It’s about how events like Pan, Brass & Soca create spaces where we can come together, celebrate our differences, and feel proud of where we come from. It’s about community. It’s about connection. It’s about the energy that comes from a shared love of our culture, our music, and our people.

And that’s what makes this event so special in my opinion. It’s not just a show, it’s a reflection of what it means to be Caribbean. It’s the laughter, the dancing, the pride in knowing that even though we come from different islands, we’re all part of the same incredible story.

So, if you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet, what are you waiting for? Pan, Brass & Soca is about to set the stage on fire, and I’m beyond excited to be your host for the night. Get ready for a night of music, culture, and celebration. Trust me, it’s going to be one for the books!

I can't wait to write about the experience after. ♥