The third annual Caribbean Cultural Diplomats Experience was a massive celebration of Caribbean creativity, unity, and excellence in New York City. Hosted by Industry 360 and CultureCon on 1st October 2025, the event brought together a stellar group of Caribbean thought leaders, artists, and cultural icons for an unforgettable evening under the theme Mille Fleur: The Secret Garden.
The dinner was a reflection of Caribbean culture, featuring delicious Caribbean cuisine and captivating performances by Jamaican artist Hector Roots Lewis and Barbadian Tionne Hernandez. Special honours were presented to Neal Farinah, a Trinidad and Tobago born celebrity hairstylist known for working with Beyoncé, who received the 2025 Cultural Legacy Award. In an emotional acceptance, Farinah shared his journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim, reflecting on Beyoncé’s support and his late mother’s pride.
The evening also celebrated tourism veteran Petra Roach, newly appointed Director of Sales and Marketing at Wyndham Grand Barbados. Praised for decades of leadership in promoting the Caribbean as a top cultural and travel destination, Petra Roach called for celebrating, protecting, and respecting the region’s indigenous treasures.
Tenille Clarke, founder of Industry 360, expressed joy in the spirit of community and resilience embodied by the event. The Caribbean Cultural Diplomats Experience has genuinely become one of New York’s most anticipated events during CultureCon Week. This fantastic platform fosters the voices and visions of Caribbean creators worldwide.
