Basseterre, St. Kitts, July 5, 2020 (ZIZ): Newly appointed
Shannon Hawley says going forward she intends to involve all stakeholders and sponsors in crafting an even bigger and better sugar mas.
In an exclusive interview with ZIZ’s Chaira Flanders Miss Hawley said the success of carnival lies in the strength of the partnerships with stakeholders including vendors and sponsors.
“It’s not about me,” she said. “It’s about working together with sponsors building on the past Carnival experience looking at regional and international carnivals and seeing where we can improve our product. So that is what my role in this leadership position will bring. It will bring…working very closely with Carnival stakeholders that we can succesfully build on the product that we have had to date.”
Responding to a question about how feasible is Carnival in a Covid-19 world Miss Hawley said it could be possible with creativity, innovation, and the guidance of the health authorities.
“I don’t think it’s impossible,” she said. “As I said its about coming up with innovative, creative ways to have fun and do it in a safe environment. So the plan is that we will continue our discussions with the NEOC, then the NECO will make a presentation to Cabinet and the Minister Culture, and the Minister of Culture will, along with Cabinet, will make a decision as to the way forward in Carnival.”
Miss Hawley said she understands the importance of recreational events such as Carnival and Music Festival to a person’s mental health but whatever plans are being made the nation’s health is the top priority.