Storytelling and Caribbean Identity

Good evening, 

On behalf of the Central Bank of Barbados, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 28th Frank Collymore Literary Endowment Awards Ceremony. Tonight, we come together not only to recognise excellence in literature and spoken word, but to affirm the enduring power of Caribbean storytelling and its place in our national and regional identity.

Twenty-eight years on, the Frank Collymore Literary Endowment remains a testament to a simple but powerful belief: that our stories matter. From its inception, the Bank envisioned the FCLE as a forum where Barbadian voices could be nurtured and celebrated. Over the years, the competition has matured into a respected institution, one that consistently showcases the depth, diversity, and sophistication of our literary talent.

Caribbean literature is distinctive. It is rooted in history and shaped by migration and memory. Our authors, poets and griots carry the inherited wisdom of generations who learned to survive, adapt, and imagine beyond circumstance. This is writing that does not merely observe the world, but interrogates it.

Through poetry, prose, drama, and spoken word, Barbadian writers explore themes of identity, belonging, freedom, and transformation. They tell stories that challenge dominant narratives and reclaim space for perspectives forged in our realities. In doing so, they contribute not only to cultural expression, but to critical thought and social reflection.

Each literary work produced by a Barbadian adds another thread to our cultural fabric. Together, these works form a living archive of who we are: our humour and heartbreak, our contradictions and convictions and our capacity for beauty even in the face of adversity. Literature allows us to preserve these truths and pass them forward, ensuring that future generations inherit lived experiences and not just history books.

Caribbean writing has also proven its ability to travel. Though born in small places, our stories resonate globally. They are studied, translated, performed, and celebrated far beyond our shores. The Frank Collymore Literary Endowment has played an important role in this journey, offering writers a stage from which their work can grow, evolve, and reach new audiences.

In this sense, storytelling and by extension, the FCLE, also contributes meaningfully to the orange economy. Literature has the potential to generate income and employment. From publishing and performance to digital platforms, audiobooks, and festivals, the written word continues to open doors for Caribbean creatives.

As technology reshapes how stories are consumed, Caribbean writers are finding new ways to share their work while remaining true to their voice. Innovation has expanded access, allowing our literature to circulate more widely and sustainably, ensuring that creativity and economic opportunity move in sync. 

This evening, I extend sincere congratulations to this year’s finalists and winners in both the written and spoken word. Your artistic contributions reflects discipline, courage, and commitment to craft. To those who may not have won an award, know this: your voice still matters. Writing is a long game, and persistence is often the quiet companion of success.

To our scribes and wordsmiths, you are interpreters of the Caribbean experience. You hold a mirror to our societies and offer language for what is often felt but not spoken. Continue to produce with honesty and intention. The FCLE exists because of your willingness to share your truth.

I also wish to commend the Frank Collymore Literary Endowment Committee, led with dedication and insight by Dr. Yvonne Weekes. Your stewardship ensures that this competition remains relevant and respected. The Bank is deeply appreciative of the time, care, and vision you bring to this work.

And to the audience, thank you for supporting our creatives. Your presence matters. When we show up for the arts, we signal that culture is central to national development.

As we celebrate the achievements of this year’s participants, let us also recommit to championing Caribbean literature in all its forms. Let us recognise that storytelling is both an act of creation and an act of preservation, one that strengthens our sense of self and our connection to the world.

I am confident that the Frank Collymore Literary Endowment will continue to flourish, providing space for new voices while honouring those who have paved the way.

Here’s to another year of powerful writing, fearless expression, and Caribbean stories told on our own terms.

Congratulations to our winners and participants, and thank you. Enjoy the remainder of the evening.