Cultural Ambassadors of Dominica

Cultural Ambassadors of Dominica are esteemed artists, musicians, writers, and cultural practitioners officially recognized by the government for their extraordinary contributions to preserving and showcasing Dominican culture on the world stage. These ambassadors serve as creative envoys, enhancing Dominica’s diplomatic outreach through heritage, music, language, and storytelling.

Origins, Institutional Framework, and Duties

Following independence in 1978, Dominica prioritized cultural identity as a cornerstone of nation-building. The Division of Culture, under the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, later joined by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, introduced Cultural Ambassadors to honor individuals who carry Dominican heritage globally and foster creative resilience aligned with the National Resilience Development Strategy 2030 (NRDS).

Key responsibilities include:

• Representing Dominica at cultural festivals, conferences, and exchanges internationally.
• Performing and promoting Kwéyòl (Creole) Language and traditional art forms, strengthening diaspora and global recognition.
• Supporting institutions like DOMFESTA and the World Creole Music Festival through performance and mentorship.
• Encouraging younger generations of artists, ensuring continuity of cultural traditions and innovation.

Trailblazers in Dominican Cultural Diplomacy

• Alwin Bully, educator and artist, shaped national cultural policies, designed the Dominican flag, and influenced regional theatre.
• Ophelia Marie, known as the “Lady of Song,” brought Cadence-lypso to international acclaim.
• Gordon Henderson, founder of Exile One, created Cadence-lypso and elevated Dominican music across the Caribbean.
• Pearle Christian, music educator and composer, embedded artistic training in school curricula.
• Lennox Honychurch, historian and author of The Dominica Story, gave global visibility to Dominican heritage through literature and scholarship.

Contemporary Cultural Ambassadors: Michele Henderson and Asa Bantan

• Michele Henderson – A versatile singer-songwriter and flutist from Grand Bay, Michele began honing her talent at age two, supported early by music educator Pearle Christian and performing in school choirs and jazz ensembles. She rose to prominence in the 1990s, joining the band Impact! and later achieving international success through performances at the St. Lucia Jazz Festival, Roskilde Festival in Denmark, and charting on French Zouk charts. She composed the official CARICOM anthem, Celebrating CARICOM, and has released six albums and a DVD. Appointed an official Goodwill Ambassador for Dominica, she also serves in civic roles including spokesperson for the Home at Heart Foundation and board member of Crime Stoppers Dominica.
• Asa Bantan – Dubbed the Bouyon Boss, Asa is one of Dominica’s most popular contemporary musicians. Born in Grand Bay, he channels cultural pride into songs addressing social themes, including hits like “Move”, “Macaroni”, and “Prime Minister.” In 2020, he was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for Dominica, also serving as Brand Ambassador for DBS Radio and Trois Piton Water. In 2025, he headlined the Caribbean Cultural Showcase in New York, part of Caribbean Week, representing Dominica as the “Bouyon music ambassador” in an event that celebrated Caribbean culture amidst a global audience.

These appointments emphasize Dominica’s dynamic cultural diplomacy, bridging traditional forms with modern genres to engage both global and diaspora audiences.

Diaspora Engagement and Cultural Resilience

Cultural Ambassadors maintain strong presence in diaspora communities across London, New York, Toronto, and Guadeloupe. Through performances, workshops, and cultural exchanges, they strengthen identity, inspire artistic pursuits among youth, and promote cultural tourism. Their work aligns with the NRDS, positioning culture itself as a form of innovation and resilience in the face of economic and environmental challenges.

Sustaining Legacy Through Creative Praxis

From pioneering trailblazers like Bully, Marie, and Henderson, to rising voices like Michele Henderson and Asa Bantan, the Cultural Ambassador designation ensures both recognition and continuity. These individuals not only enliven Dominica’s cultural narrative but also expand its creative footprint internationally, reinforcing the island’s reputation as a hub of Caribbean artistry and heritage.