Disney Cruise Line Boosts Support for Junior Junkanoo in Eleuthera, Inspiring Bahamian Youth
On Saturday, Disney Cruise Line united with the Eleuthera community in Governor’s Harbor to commemorate and endorse this year’s Junior Junkanoo competition. Demonstrating their commitment, Disney Cruise Line has upped its support of Junior Junkanoo Eleuthera by 50%, now totaling $75,000. This increased funding will cover expenses such as costumes, materials, cash prizes for every participating school, and travel expenses for the victorious Eleuthera team to partake in the national competition.
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Leading up to the competition, Disney Cruise Line (DCL) hosted a virtual workshop for students across Eleuthera, connecting them with the Disney entertainment team and acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett. Disney Cruise Line recently announced that Elyett designed new Bahamian-inspired outfits for Mickey and Minnie Mouse and their friends to wear at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, DCL’s new island destination opening this summer on Eleuthera.
“DCL’s investment is about more than costumes and competition. We want to help preserve this important cultural expression and inspire young people to ensure the Junkanoo tradition continues for years to come,” said Joey Gaskins Jr., regional public affairs director, DCL. “Through connecting students participating in Junior Junkanoo with Disney’s entertainment professionals and Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett, we hope to inspire young Bahamians and show them how their talents can lead to careers in creative industries.”
“For nearly 30 years, I have been living my dream of working in the global fashion industry,” said Elyett. “I hope that sharing my experiences and the path that led me here, encourages the students to think beyond designing a costume and lean into those skills to envision their future in a big way.”
During the competition, as the students performed along Queen’s Highway, the Disney team had the opportunity to see the final costumes and experience the parade while the students proudly performed for their community.
“Disney’s work in the community of Eleuthera is exemplary. The DCL team is focused on inspiring young Bahamians and providing the resources they need to believe in themselves, sharpen their creative skills and follow in the footsteps of the Junkanoos who have come before them,” said Hon. Mario Bowleg, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture. “We’re excited to welcome Disney to our community, and we appreciate their leadership in youth development.”
“As a teacher in Eleuthera, DCL’s support of Junior Junkanoo is tremendous. With this additional funding, we’ve been able to expand the impact of Junior Junkanoo across our community, and our students took their performances to the next level – proudly showcasing what makes their culture special,” said Melinda Pelecanos, a teacher at Tarpum Bay Primary.
Walt Disney Imagineers looked to Junkanoo for inspiration in crafting Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. This upcoming destination will introduce visitors from across the globe to fresh avenues for experiencing authentic Bahamian delights and delving into Eleuthera’s natural marvels. Upon arrival, guests will find themselves enveloped in the vibrant culture, welcoming ambiance, and awe-inspiring landscapes of The Bahamas. Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point aims to foster sustainable economic prospects for Bahamians, preserve the site’s natural splendor, honor Bahamian heritage, and contribute to the enhancement of the Eleuthera community.
Disney’s support of Junior Junkanoo is part of the Disney Future Storytellers program – The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to empower the next generation of storytellers and innovators. As DCL’s presence in The Bahamas expands, Disney is committed to creating lasting, positive impact in The Bahamas and investing in programs supporting local youth.
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