Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles has been appointed as the new Cultural Ambassador for the Commonwealth of Dominica by the Government of Dominica. This appointment acknowledges Mr. Charles’ significant contributions to the cultural arts and heritage of Dominica, showcasing the government’s commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural legacy.
Throughout his career, Mr. Charles has been a staunch advocate for preserving Cadence-lypso and other forms of Creole music. His cultural journey began with the Young Cultural Dramatists and as a Co-Founder of WadiCole. He is a founding member of the World Creole Music Festival and has served as the chairman of the festival’s band selection committee. Mr. Charles has also been actively involved with the “Konmité pou Etid Kwéyòl (KEK)” and the Board of Directors of the Alliance Française de la Dominique. Currently, he leads the Creole Heartbeat Movement and hosts the Creole music program, Hit Parade Creole, on DBS Radio.
In his new role, Mr. Charles will work closely with the government to develop a Creole Language Policy for Dominica. He will also provide advisory support for organizing major national festivals and events, including Independence Celebrations, the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), Carnival, DOMFESTA, and Emancipation Day Observance. Additionally, Mr. Charles will promote Dominica’s festivals within the French West Indies and foster cultural and sporting exchanges with these regions.
The Office of the Prime Minister issued a statement commending Mr. Charles: “The Government of Dominica honors Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles for his efforts to ensure Dominica’s culture remains vibrant, dynamic, and well-preserved for future generations and looks forward to his continued contributions as Dominica’s newest Cultural Ambassador.”
Mr. Charles has received numerous accolades, including the Golden Drum Award and the Meritorious Service Award from the Government of Dominica. In 2023, the Folk Research Center in St. Lucia honored him for promoting and preserving the Kwéyòl language.
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