By Kisean Joseph
Five prominent local personalities are to be recognised for their exceptional contributions in fields as diverse as music, media and humanitarian work.
The Antigua Barbuda Global Music & Media Awards announced a prestigious Honours Class this year as part of its 10th annual event. Recipients’ names were officially unveiled earlier this week.
Dave Lester Payne, veteran broadcaster and Observer Radio’s station manager, will receive a legacy award for his significant impact on Antigua’s media landscape.
Payne’s career spans an impressive 42 years in television and radio, including stints at ABS and ZDK. He also spent time in the United States where he further studied his craft before returning to Antigua in 1985.
In an interview, Payne reflected on his career, citing his current role at Observer Radio – an organisation he has devoted over a decade to – as the pinnacle of his achievements.
“Being part of Observer Radio and having an ownership position would be the highlight,” Payne stated.
He emphasised the importance of honesty and continuous learning in broadcasting, noting how his experiences in both Antigua and North America had shaped his approach to decision-making.
Payne expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I’m just grateful that they find it in their wisdom to acknowledge a legacy award, something that you embrace with a passion. It shows that folks have noticed your work, and want to say, thank you Dave. And I’m saying thank you to them for recognising me.”
His journey from a young, enthusiastic DJ to a respected station manager and company owner encapsulates the growth and professionalization of the island’s media industry.
As the November 30 ceremony approaches, anticipation builds not only for the honourees but for the entire Antiguan community. These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also shine a spotlight on Antigua’s vibrant culture and the contributions of its citizens to the global stage.
The music scene will also be celebrated, with soca singer-songwriter Claudette Peters and steelpan icon Khan Cordice set to receive impact awards for their contributions to Caribbean music. Their recognition highlights the vibrant and influential role of Antiguan artists in shaping the region’s musical landscape.
Cordice’s unexpected journey with the steelpan began in 2002, on the day of his final common entrance exam.
“I did not go to the pan yard to play pan, I went there because there was nothing else to do,” he reminisced.
“Steelpan is not just in Antigua and Barbuda, it’s not just in the Caribbean, but at this point, it’s all across the world,” he told Observer.
He emphasised the instrument’s potential to change perspectives and provide direction to young people, even beyond full-time musical careers.
When asked about advice for young musicians, Cordice stressed the importance of passion.
“Just be passionate about it first,” he urged. He encouraged aspiring artists to strive for continuous improvement and to push the boundaries of their chosen art form.
The awards also recognised Dr Onika Campbell-Rowe for her humanitarian efforts and advocacy work, while visionary pastor and author Melissa Simon will be recognised for her dedication to community service.
These awards underscore the importance of social responsibility, community engagement, and artistic and professional achievements from the airwaves to the stage. From community outreach to global advocacy, the nation’s residents have made their mark and continue to inspire others.
The Global Music & Media Awards have become a significant event in the Caribbean, attracting attention from across the region and the United States. They bring together a diverse group of honourees, showcasing the breadth of talent and dedication within Antigua and the wider Caribbean community.
This year’s awards are particularly noteworthy as they coincide with the event’s 10th anniversary, marking a decade of recognising excellence and inspiring future generations of artists, media professionals, and community leaders.
The inclusion of humanitarian and community service awards alongside those for media and entertainment demonstrates a holistic approach to celebrating success and positive impact.
As Antigua prepares to honour these five outstanding individuals, the awards serve as a reminder of the small island nation’s outsized influence in various fields.
The awards, set to take place from November 28 to December 1, will celebrate the achievements of the five local residents during the Legacy Ball and Media Awards on November 30.
There will also be an Embark Gospel Voice-Caribbean Edition Artist Showcase on November 28, the Island Groove Awards on November 29 honouring local artists in Antigua and Barbuda, and the Gospel Music Awards on December 1.
