CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – CULTURAMA 35 kaiso king I-Soursop has donated part of his winnings from the competition to two non-profit organizations on Nevis.
The king, whose real name is Calvin Johnson, made the donations on Tuesday to Pink Lily Cancer Care and the Nevis Blind and Visually Impaired Society. The presentation took place at the Administration Building in Charlestown.
Johnson’s manager, Vernon Springer, said the aim was to be a trendsetter after a decision was taken two years ago that once Johnson got into the top three in the competition, he would give back to the community. According to Springer, plans are also in place for Johnson to hold workshops for young calypsonians on Nevis.
Minister of Culture and Community Development Hon. Hensley Daniel applauded the gesture by Johnson, pointing out the significance that after 35 years of Culturama it is the first time any of the kaiso kings had given anything back to the community.
“What I have heard and what I have had to deal with is the kings demanding and asking for more. So, I want to thank I-Soursop for the paradigm shift.”
According to Daniel, the donations are proof that culture is not removed from issues of care and health.
“The ability to see well and the ability to live free of cancer are critical issues which continue to drum everyday at us, and as the minister responsible for Health, Culture and Community Development my task is to weave disparate entities together so we can see some element of cooperation and collaboration.”
Representing Pink Lily was Lea Parris-Cambridge, while the Nevis Blind and Visually Impaired Society was represented by Loughton Nisbett. Both expressed their appreciation for the gracious gesture.
