Saint Lucia: Ernest Hilaire mourns demise of production genius Derek Lewis 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism- Ernest Hilaire mourned the loss of the production genius Derek Lewis and shared his grief on social media.

Saint Lucia: Ernest Hilaire mourns demise of production genius Derek Lewis 
Saint Lucia: Ernest Hilaire mourns demise of production genius Derek Lewis 

Castries, Saint Lucia: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism- Ernest Hilaire mourned the loss of the production genius Derek Lewis and shared his grief on social media. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority mourns the loss of the legendary production genius, Derek Lewis.

Derek was never an ordinary man. On, and off the event site, he harnessed creativity and high standards to deliver measurable returns on investment, while building brand equity for the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, which he so meticulously produced for nearly two decades under the auspices of BET Jazz.

Derek was an exemplary leader and a ‘professional father’ who left his mark on Saint Lucia, imparting knowledge to many apprentices year after year. He was instrumental in providing event production employment opportunities abroad for many Saint Lucians, including musicians and technicians who are now evolving internationally.

To have known Derek was to have spent time with a genuine soul, shared a warm smile with his signature relaxation stick, and heard his infectious laugh or a kabawe’ experience. He had a profound connection with God and shared daily affirmations and encouragement with many. Moreso, he shared a deep connection with our island and was known to many from all walks of life.

On behalf of the Government and People of Saint Lucia, we extend heartfelt condolences to the Lewis family, his extended family, and loved ones the world over.

His legacy will live on in Saint Lucia as we will continue to build on the high standards that he has established for the product when we return with the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival in May 2023.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has reached another step in utilizing authentic Saint Lucian voices in our reimagined marketing strategy for the destination in the international marketplace.

Female Voice of Saint Lucia, Keba Taliam (left), moments earlier joined CEO of the Authority, Lorine Charles- St. Jules (right), in affixing signatures to the contract that will guide the use of Miss Taliam’s voice in the Authority’s marketing and public relations initiatives.