Youth In Action Day | Steelpan and Storytelling

Youth In Action Day, hosted by the Peel District School Board, in an interactive hands-on event, designed to bring learning beyond the classroom walls. This year, the steelpan had the opportunity to do that.

As part of the Youth In Action experience connected to the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program, I had the opportunity to lead a hands-on workshop introducing the students to the steelpan, an instrument born out of resistance, innovation, and community.

Many were introduced to the instrument for the first time and had fun exploring its sound. Students learned simple songs and by end of the workshop had graduated to performing Alex Warren’s “Ordinary”. At the end of the workshop, many students from other workshops were quite surprised to hear them performing. I know the musicians were proud of themselves too.

I have to add that this session went beyond music. The students learned about the history of steelpan in Trinidad and Tobago. As we had a large number of female students, I also discussed the social stigma women faced in the early days of steelpan for performing or being associated with the instrument.

I hope these discussions encourage the students to think about equity and representation within the arts and beyond.

Youth in Action Day reminds us that education is most powerful when students are invited to participate fully — not just as learners, but as thinkers, creators, and future changemakers. And sometimes, that learning begins with a single note struck on a steelpan, echoing stories from the past while inspiring new possibilities for the future.

A Milestone Moment: Blending Steelpan and Nigerian Music in Celebration

Music has a beautiful way of bringing cultures together, and that spirit was fully alive at a recent Nigerian milestone birthday party where I had the honour of performing on the steelpan.

This celebration was more than just a birthday — it was a moment of gratitude, legacy, and community. Surrounded by family, friends, and deep cultural pride, the atmosphere was vibrant from the very first note. Incorporating the steelpan into this setting created a unique and meaningful fusion, blending Caribbean sound with Nigerian musical expression in a way that felt both joyful and reverent.

Throughout the event, I performed music from a variety of genres to reflect the diversity of the celebration. One particularly special moment was playing “You Are Great” by acclaimed Nigerian gospel artist Moses Bliss. The song’s powerful message of praise and thanksgiving resonated deeply with the audience, filling the room with warmth and collective emotion. Hearing this beloved gospel song expressed through the steelpan added a new texture while still honouring its spiritual depth.

Milestone birthdays are moments to reflect, celebrate, and give thanks, and music plays an essential role in setting that tone. The fusion of steelpan with Nigerian music highlighted how rhythm and melody can transcend borders, creating connections that feel both personal and universal.

I’m truly grateful to have been part of such a meaningful celebration and to contribute musically to a moment that will be remembered for years to come. Experiences like this reaffirm why I love what I do — using music to support joy, culture, and community in all its forms.

Sweet St. Lucia, the Helen of the West

I had the pleasure of visiting the beautiful island of Saint Lucia, a place that stood in quiet contrast to the grey metropolis of my everyday life. From the moment I arrived, I felt a subtle shift—an invitation to slow down and truly feel.

The island stirred my senses in ways I hadn’t realized I needed. The lush greenery of the trees and plants, the endless blue of the sky, the sight of the ocean stretching out before me, the mouth watering food, and the warmth of the people all felt deeply familiar, like returning to friends and family after a long absence.

While I was there, I was given the opportunity to perform a song that holds great meaning for me. In that moment, surrounded by the spirit of the island, the music brought me a sense of peace and renewed hope—something I carried with me long after I left.

CLICK on the video below to listen to “A Janela Ficou Aberta”

Celebrate Black Excellence 2025 with the Ontario Science Centre at Harbourfront Centre

On September 20th, the Ontario Science Centre proudly presented Celebrate Black Excellence, a vibrant program honouring the achievements, innovation, and creativity of Black communities across science, technology, and culture.

Visitors of all ages explored the world of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) through three distinct themes: Flight and Robotics, Medical Science, and Music. As part of the celebration, I had the honour of performing and leading an all-ages, hands-on steelpan workshop, introducing participants to the history, science, and joy of this iconic instrument through rhythm, movement, and play.

Developed in collaboration with community leaders, educators, artists, and scientists, Celebrate Black Excellence created a welcoming space for learning, connection, and discovery. Rooted in the spirit of Black History Month, the program reflected an ongoing commitment to inclusive education—because Black excellence is not limited to one month, but is a legacy that continues to shape our world.

Performing at Music on the Fly at YTZ: Sharing Steelpan, Connection, and Joy

Performing at Music on the Fly at YTZ was a truly special experience—one that reminded me how powerful music can be when it meets people exactly where they are. Hosted at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ), this concert series brings live music into an unexpected but wonderfully vibrant space, transforming the airport terminal into a place of creativity, curiosity, and connection.

Music on the Fly is presented by ArtHaus Community. Their commitment to making music accessible was felt throughout the event. Travelers, airport staff, and passersby who may not have planned to attend a concert suddenly found themselves immersed in live performance—some pausing for a moment, others staying for much longer than expected.

SELECT PHOTOS TO SEE LARGER

I performed on my steelpan, an instrument whose warm, resonant sound naturally draws people in. In an airport setting—where movement, anticipation, and emotion are always present—the steelpan felt especially fitting. Its Caribbean roots and uplifting tone offered a sense of calm and joy within the lively atmosphere of the arrivals area.

In addition to performing, I wanted the experience to be interactive. I brought two additional steelpans and invited audience members to try them out. Many people had never seen a steelpan up close before, let alone played one. Watching curiosity turn into excitement as people tentatively picked up mallets and then confidently struck their first notes was incredibly rewarding.

Surrounded by reunions, first moments back in the city, and the quiet anticipation of waiting, the music became part of the arrivals experience itself. Steelpan melodies accompanied hugs, smiles, and conversations, adding warmth and colour to an already emotional space.

To make it accessible for everyone, I taught participants a quick and easy song. Within minutes, travelers of all ages were making music together—smiling, laughing, and surprising themselves with how quickly they could play.

What stood out most was how naturally music broke down barriers. No tickets, no stage separation—just sound, people, and connection. This is exactly what Music on the Fly represents: bringing live music into everyday spaces and reminding us that art doesn’t have to be formal or distant to be meaningful.

I’m deeply grateful to ArtHaus Community, the City of Toronto’s Music Office, and Nieuport Aviation for supporting initiatives like this and for inviting artists to engage audiences in such a hands-on, human way. Performing at YTZ wasn’t just about playing music—it was about creating a shared experience that travelers could carry with them long after their flight.

If even a few people left the airport with a new appreciation for steelpan, live music, or their own ability to make music, then the performance was a success.

Photos by @fisayoadelusi and @mediapass.to

A Wedding to Remember: Blending Irish and Guyanese Culture on the Steelpan

One of the most rewarding parts of being a steelpannnist is using music to bring cultures together. I recently had the pleasure of performing at a beautiful wedding where the bride was Irish and the groom was of Guyanese heritage—a celebration rich in culture, joy, and connection.

The steelpan added a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere to the day, while also showcasing how the instrument can move across cultures and musical styles. To also honour the bride’s background, I chose to perform an Irish song on the steelpan. While this wasn’t requested, it felt like a meaningful way to acknowledge both sides of the couple’s story and create something truly personal.

Arranging an Irish melody for the steelpan highlights the instrument’s versatility. Though the steelpan has roots in Trinidad and Tobago, it is capable of expressing music from many cultures while retaining its distinctive sound. The result was a familiar tune presented in a fresh and unexpected way—one that resonated with guests from both families.

This wedding was a wonderful example of how music can bridge cultures and make a celebration feel uniquely personal. Whether blending traditions or reimagining songs from different backgrounds, my aim is always to elevate a couple’s day and create moments they’ll remember.

Star Bhai Mentorship for Indo-Caribbean Boys and Young Men

I am truly grateful to the Indo-Caribbean Canadian Association for recognizing my work in community mentorship through the Star Bhai program for Indo-Caribbean boys and young men.

It was an honour to share the history of the steelpan, trace its international journey, and highlight the significant contributions of Indo-Caribbean steelpan arrangers and pannists such as Dr. Jit Samaroo, Amrit Samaroo, and Lennox “Bobby” Mohammed. Their work continues to inspire generations and demonstrates the depth and diversity of our cultural heritage.

A key theme I spoke about was boldness—the willingness to take risks, act innovatively, and have the confidence to ask questions or try something new, even when the answer might be “no.” That spirit of boldness is part of what gave birth to the steelpan itself, and it remains essential to growth, creativity, and leadership today.

We have been gifted a truly beautiful instrument in the steelpan, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

Special thanks to Hanso and the entire Indo-Caribbean Canadian Association team for making this event such a meaningful and successful experience.

Toni Fifi X Reitmans Summer Fashion Collection Launch

TONIFIFI X Reitmans printed dress

Content creator and fashion stylist, Toni Fifi, and Reitmans launched a vibrant summer fashion collection in May 2025, featuring bold, hand-painted prints, effortless dresses, and playful accessories, embodying confidence, colour, and inclusivity for women of all ages, especially celebrating diverse women.

The launch included in-store availability and celebrated embracing personal style with pieces designed to make women feel beautiful and empowered. 

I was honoured to be invited to share the sweet melodies of the steelpan.

I was also honoured to be in the presences of so many inspiring and powerful female creatives, business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers who have made their mark in our fashion forward city.

Eva's Phoenix | Rise and Thrive Career Fair

The "Rise & Thrive: A Career Development Initiative" is an event hosted by Eva's Initiatives for youth experiencing or at-risk of homelessness. This initiative brings together industry professionals and young people for an evening of learning, networking, and empowerment. 

Eva's Initiatives also offers specific, ongoing Employment and Training Programs to help youth achieve stable income and independent living, which is a core part of their mission. 
I was able to add some fun to the evening with an interactive hands-on steelpan station.

What was the inspiration for the name Eva’s Phoenix?

Drawing of Eva Smith, artist unknown

Eva Smith was a Jamaican-born community activist, educator, and advocate in Toronto whose work helped bring attention to the overlooked issue of youth homelessness. After immigrating to Canada in 1956, she became deeply involved in supporting marginalized young people, recognizing that adult shelter systems often failed to meet their specific needs.

Her compassion, leadership, and advocacy laid the foundation for what would become Eva’s Initiatives for Homeless Youth, including programs such as Eva’s Phoenix. Though she passed away in 1993, Eva Smith’s legacy lives on through the organization that bears her name and continues to support young people in building safe, independent futures.

Black History Month | Seniors learning about Steelpan | LAMP Community Health Centre

Today I had the pleasure of visiting the LAMP Community Health Centre (Lakeshore site), a vibrant and welcoming space that provides a wide range of health and community services for people of all ages. I was invited to lead a talk and hands-on workshop for their seniors’ program, focusing on the history and evolution of the steelpan.

During the session, we explored the steelpan’s roots in Trinidad and Tobago, its journey from resistance and resilience to global recognition, and its role as both a cultural symbol and a powerful musical instrument. Participants were curious, engaged, and eager to learn — asking thoughtful questions and sharing their own musical memories along the way.

The workshop portion allowed participants to experience the steelpan firsthand. Many had never played the instrument before, and it was wonderful to see how quickly they connected with it. Through simple rhythms and group playing, the room filled with laughter, concentration, and a strong sense of shared accomplishment.

Music learning offers many meaningful benefits for seniors, and this workshop highlighted several of them in action. Engaging with music can help support memory, attention, and cognitive flexibility, while learning new skills stimulates the brain and encourages lifelong learning. Playing music together also promotes social connection, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging. On a physical level, even gentle musical activities can support coordination, fine motor skills, and overall well-being. Perhaps most importantly, music offers joy — a creative outlet that uplifts mood and builds confidence at any age.

I’m grateful to the LAMP Community Health Centre for the invitation and for the important work they do in creating inclusive, enriching programs for seniors. It was truly inspiring to share the sound and story of the steelpan with such an enthusiastic group, and a reminder that music has the power to connect us across generations.

The audience also had a chance to see and try an original spider web steelpan made by Anthony Williams, a standard lead steelpan, an e-pan (electronic steelpan) invented by Salmon Cupid, and mini-steelpans.

Lieutenant Governor's New Year's Levee

It was such an honour to kick off the New Year by performing at the Lieutenant Governor’s New Year’s Levee on January 1st, held at Queen’s Park, Toronto. Hosted by the Honourable Edith Dumont, the event brings together community members, dignitaries, and special guests each year to celebrate the start of a new year and the vibrant diversity of Ontario.

The levee always draws a diverse audience from many cultural backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of experiences and stories that makes the event so special. The atmosphere was warm and festive, with conversations, music, and shared celebration reflecting the spirit of community and inclusivity.

I had the pleasure of meeting a family from Nepal who shared their love of drumming and even showed me a video of the traditional drums they play. I told them I would love to learn a song from their culture, and they kindly shared the name of a piece for me to explore.

Performing for such an engaged and diverse audience was a truly rewarding experience. It was a joy to share music and connect with attendees from across the province, helping to set a positive and celebratory tone for the year ahead. Events like this remind me of the power of music to bring people together, bridge cultures, and create lasting memories.

Sisters of Steel Concert on Steelpan Music Radio DECEMBER 21st @5pm

I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with some talented & gifted female pannists from Toronto, Cayman Islands & Trinidad.

December 21st at 5pm ET on steelpanmusicradio, you have the opportunity to listen to the concert featuring

•Liane Charles
•Leona Ramsay
•La Toya Brown
•Aziza La Pierre
•Keisha Codrington​
& me

Steelpan Music Radio, “Where Steelpan Music Matters!”

Sisters of Steel by Sons Of Steel ONE Evolution

Throwback photos to SISTERS OF STEEL #SOSONEEvolution Showcase
On July 27th, the audience was blown away by a fantastic cast of truly gifted Queens in steel:
Suzette Vidale, Liane Charles, Leona Ramsay, La Toya Brown, Aziza La Pierre, and Keisha Codrington​

Musicians were backed by The Liamuiga Syndicate led by Andrew Stewart in honour of the late Bruce Skerritt.
Source photos: facebook.com/sonsofsteelONE

PREMIERE of "Panazz:The Story"

Almost a year after its premiere at the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival, “Panazz: The Story” is finally ready for the world to see it.~@panazzthestory

I had the pleasure of watching this film @theroyalto and was thoroughly impressed. I loved seeing and hearing about the stories & experiences of the members of Panazz during their 10 year journey (1992-2002).

Would love to see it again!

Video reposted @zabspencer
@cheffinbar

Storytime and Steel Pans at Island Soul, Harbourfront Centre

Children and parents are invited to a literary Caribbean party with author Yolanda T. Marshall and musician Suzette Vidale. This interactive storytelling told through picture books and music, includes a C is for Carnival that celebrates Canada’s Caribbean carnival while you jump and wave to Soca and calypso music. Come prepared to dance, sing, and learn. 

WELCOME TO BLACKHURST

On July 19, 2024, we were privileged to witness the launch of the Smallest Museum Ever at the Blackhurst Cultural Centre featuring the full evolution of Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument, the steelpan! Our gratitude is extended to Dr. Itah Sadu and her team at the @blackhurstcc for curating this small but mighty space that tells the soul-stirring story of pan!
Video reposted from Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Toronto
#caribbeanstrong #trinidadandtobago #steelpan #toronto #canada #blackhurst

Happy Caribbean Music Week!

Happy Caribbean Music Week! What an honour it was to celebrate and be a part the kick-off by performing on my steelpan in Council Chambers at Brampton City Hall. Thank you @6ixmayor for inviting me to make herstory!