Guyanese artistes and creatives gathered for the Saint JHn’s ‘Develop Home Initiative’ on Tuesday at the Marriott Hotel Ballroom – a meet and greet event featuring Guyanese-American songwriter, fashion designer, and philanthropist Saint JHn. The program, which began promptly at 17:00hrs, combined a networking mixer with a panel discussion designed to foster connections among local creative talents and industry stakeholders.
Saint JHn, who grew up between Brooklyn and Georgetown, reflected on his experiences – witnessing poverty in both countries – and stressed the importance of cultural exchange. He recounted a recent meeting with President Ali to discuss exporting Guyanese culture and promised future community outreach initiatives to provide young musicians with direct access to the music industry. “As creatives, we must study what works, adapt, and push forward,” he advised.
During a Q&A session, Guyana’s first Dancehall Monarch, Alabama, shared his journey as an artist since 2006 and sought advice for reaching the next level in his career. Andrew Tyndall, Director of Nationals Events at the Ministry of Culture, encouraged artists to create their own spaces and promote themselves. Panelists agreed that there is no single path to success; sometimes a breakthrough occurs when an artist’s work unexpectedly resonates with the public.
The panel discussion featured a diverse lineup of speakers including Ron Telford, Ryan Hoppy (Exxon Mobil Guyana), Kerwin Bollers, Tariq Dahkil, and Omaiah Hall. Telford, co-founder of Creative Titans Gy, opened the session by urging a closer collaboration between the corporate world and the creative space. He outlined plans for a future three-day conference aimed at integrating Guyanese artists into the international music scene and providing much-needed support to those struggling to pursue their art.
Ryan Hoppy emphasized that culture and art extend beyond mere entertainment, noting, “Discipline is paramount for developing your craft, and the value of unique style and creativity sets us apart.” Kerwin Bollers highlighted radio’s continuing importance, stating that while artists should diversify their media presence, radio remains an affordable and effective medium for reaching audiences and building brand awareness.
Founder of BPM Guyana, Tariq Dahkil, pointed to the country’s diverse ethnic landscape as a rich source for creative inspiration, especially in the growing electronic dance music scene. In a subsequent remark, Telford also addressed the challenges faced by local artists, citing outdated copyright laws and the financial pressures of balancing multiple jobs. He called for an open dialogue among artists, sponsors, and radio stations to better support creative endeavors in 2025.
Guyanese singer and songwriter Omaiah Hall spoke on the importance of carving out one’s niche in the arts. “A niche isn’t just what you want to do—it’s what you consistently show up for. I didn’t find my niche; my niche found me,” she noted, encouraging artists to experiment and remain true to their unique vision.
Panelists also mentioned practical steps such as taking advantage of the US Copyright Office’s $5 song registration fee to help protect intellectual property.
In closing, gospel singer Samuel Medas and the “Eggball” singer CKush contributed their perspectives. Medas questioned the practicalities of maneuvering the music business, recalling a missed connection on social media, while Saint JHn reassured him that independent work is both acceptable and commendable. CKush congratulated Saint JHn for his efforts in putting Guyana “on the map” and urged him to continue showcasing Guyanese culture on the international stage.
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