Antigua and Barbuda appoints dancehall artist Masicka as cultural ambassador for youth development
The government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the appointment of Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka as a cultural ambassador, as part of a broader push to expand the country’s creative industries and youth development initiatives.
Director of Communications Maurice Merchant announced the decision during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, outlining a proposal brought forward by Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene.
According to Merchant, the initiative is intended to strengthen youth engagement, support artistic development and deepen cultural ties within the region.
“The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda approved a proposal… for the appointment of internationally recognized Jamaican recording artist Masicka… as cultural ambassador for youth talent development and creative industries collaboration,” Merchant said.
He added that the programme forms part of a national strategy aimed at expanding the creative sector, enhancing cultural diplomacy and building opportunities for young people.
As part of the initiative, three young Antiguan and Barbudan artists will be selected to participate in a Jamaica-based exchange programme. The training is expected to include studio sessions, songwriting development, vocal coaching, performance preparation and exposure to music producers and record labels.
Participants will also gain insight into touring and the business side of the music industry, including entrepreneurship training, Merchant said.
The programme will also introduce a national youth music intervention and mentorship initiative, alongside a series of youth-focused creative empowerment forums led by Masicka, designed to encourage dialogue and engagement.
Masicka, born Javaun Nicholas Fearon in Portmore, Jamaica, is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in modern dancehall. Known for his lyrical style and storytelling, he has built an international following through projects such as _438_ and _Generation of Kings_ , both of which performed strongly on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart.
Officials say the next steps will include selecting the three local artists for the exchange programme and rolling out the mentorship and forum components, with ongoing monitoring of the initiative’s impact on youth development and the creative economy.