Spicemas on the road again!

This Saturday will see the start of Carnival-like activities as Spicemas will be launched. It is our hope that the many complaints that were made publicly by citizens who had to put up with unexpected Jab Jab bands even on a Sunday, will be taken on board to avoid anger. We are aware that the days of stronger control on Jab Jab bands are long gone; but to encounter them on the way to Sunday morning Mass simply cannot be accepted. We all want to enjoy the season which brings a much-needed boost to the economy. While culture is dynamic, can we put a higher standard in place for the next generation to follow?

The Grenadian Voice congratulates the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Spicemas Corporation (SMC) and its good that she has pledged to place great emphasis on stakeholder collaboration to enhance Spicemas as a global brand. Ms Teshia Noel-Grant was appointed to the post on April 02, 2026 and in sharing her excitement to the post, she said that her immediate vision is to strengthen and elevate Spicemas as a world-class, cultural festival that reflects our heritage, creativity and the spirit of Grenada. This newspaper will watch closely to see just how she plans to achieve that. Will it be by partnering with all stakeholders to ensure that we all become ambassadors for Grenada, and to improve the organizational structure of the SMC? Time will tell as to whether she will improve the grade of the product.

Noel-Grant took over from Cecil Noel, who was appointed to that position in March of 2023. She is an educator and former Executive Officer of the Grenada Union of Teachers and brings with her over two decades of leadership and organizational experience in both the cultural and education sectors. Her strong administrative background, coupled with her deep passion for the arts, positions her well to lead the Corporation into a new era of growth and innovation. The SMC in a statement, is confident that the new CEO will be supervising the 2026 Spicemas well. As a long-standing cultural advocate Noel-Grant has even gained experience in serving as a judge in Calypso, Soca, Groovy and Mas competitions for many years, bringing a profound understanding of Grenada’s carnival product and creative industries. She has also served on the National Queen Show Committee, contributing to the development and elevation of one of the country’s premier cultural events.

The SMC recognised her for her strategic thinking, professionalism and unwavering attention to detail. These are qualities which align with the Corporation’s values and strategic outlook.

So, it is believed that it is because of her possession of these invaluable attributes, that the Corporation thoroughly asserts its confidence in her ability to strengthen Spicemas, enhance stakeholder engagement and further elevate Grenada’s cultural brand locally, regionally and internationally.

We are asking the goodly lady to please pay close attention to dealing with the public so as to get a ‘buy in’ on her ideas. This statement is prompted by her response to a caller on GBN’s To The Point programme where she was a guest. The caller was concerned about the skimpy costumes on the road which borders on being disgusting for children to look at and asked her if she can do something about it. People mentioned to us that they were taken aback when the new CEO said that she has no control over that. This is so sad! Even if that is true, with a little tact she should have at least promise to see what can be done.

In a bid to find out if it is all true that SMC has no say when it comes to costumes and interestingly, we found out that the former CEO made great efforts to upgrade the standard when it comes to costumes. This newspaper has learnt that he met with the Mas band leaders and made it clear that he was counting on their continued support to maintain the moral fabric of our society. Based on the views expressed by a large cross-section of our population, Noel told them that they should collectively strive to uphold the values that make our festival unique and inclusive and address the attire worn by participants during the festivities. While we celebrate freedom of expression and creativity, shouldn’t respecting cultural norms and values be taken onboard?

The Grenadian Voice is kindly requesting that consideration be given to the type of costumes worn, ensuring that they maintain a level modesty that reflects Grenada’s cultural heritage’s dignity. Specifically, we remember when former prime minister – Dr Keith Mitchell called for less vulgarity in our Spicemas. We are yet to find out whether he used his power then to infiltrate SMC’s rules to encourage modest styles while promoting a celebratory and respectful atmosphere in our lovely Spice Isle.

In consideration of this and to cater to those many concerned citizens, please note that we strongly urge your fullest support on this in going forward, and continue to engage in dialogue to get your feedback and input on this matter and reach a consensus for the greater good. Your support in this matter will help ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy our festival with pride and dignity. Together, we can create an environment where creativity flourishes within the boundaries of cultural sensitivity.

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