The Barbados Canada Association (BCA) is excited to announce the 2023 edition of the annual Independence Gala, which is being held under the patronage of the Consul General of Barbados.

The gala is a much-awaited celebration of Barbados’ rich heritage and 57th year of independence. The event will take place on November 25th, 2023, at The Estate Banquet & Event Centre in Scarborough, Ontario.

This formal event is a fundraising extravaganza that promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with culture, entertainment, and community spirit. The gala will return to its pre-pandemic glory and focus on bringing the community together on all levels and engaging different generations of diasporans. The theme for the 2023 event is ‘Uniting the Diaspora to Build a Better Tomorrow’.

Guests can look forward to a sit-down dinner, hors d’oeuvres, and a sweet table filled with beloved Bajan treats. Attendees will also have a chance to win a return trip to Barbados courtesy of Marville Travel Ltd and participate in a raffle and silent auction.

Entertainment for the evening will feature DJ Phase 4, young performers who won a Barbadian contest called ‘Bim’s Got Talent’, and headliner, Bajan group MADD, known for hit songs ‘I Want My Mudda’ & ‘Cheese Cutter Wine’, who will entertain with a combination of comedic skits and calypso music.

Funds raised from the 2023 Independence Gala will aid disaster management in Barbados as per the MOU between the BCA and Barbados’ Department of Emergency Management (DEM). Funds previously raised have allowed the BCA to build and fill an emergency bin with necessary supplies for the island’s citizens in the case of a natural disaster.

The BCA has a planning committee that works tirelessly throughout the year to bring the event to life. The committee aims to bring variety and be different every year. Sponsors for the 2023 Independence Gala include Marville Travel Ltd, Merit Insurance Brokers Inc., Morningside Nissan, Sandals Barbados, and Club Barbados.

The BCA invites all members of the Greater Toronto Area Barbadian community, the wider Caribbean diaspora, and beyond to come together and celebrate the island’s 57th Independence in fine fashion with first-rate entertainment and amenities on Saturday, November 25th, 2023, at The Estate Banquet & Event Centre, 430 Nugget Ave, Scarborough, ON from 6:00 PM.