By Jermaine N. Edwards, Community Advocate, St. John’s Rural South

There are moments when you put everything else aside, titles, opinions, politics, and simply show up for the children. That is exactly what I did when I accepted an invitation from one of the organizers of the Pandemonium Steel Orchestra. I had been invited before but did not attend. This time, I knew I needed to be present. And I am so glad that I went.

When I arrived at the Nut Grove playing field, I was warmly welcomed and taken on a walk-through of the area. I had the opportunity to sit in on a listening session and hear for myself how far these young musicians have come on their journey. It was a powerful experience to witness the energy, discipline, and pride that filled the atmosphere.

I saw a few of the young people I have mentored over the years standing confidently behind their pans, focused and full of life. Alongside them were other young boys and girls from across the community, all coming together to create something meaningful. They were not just playing music. They were expressing joy, building connection, and taking ownership of something positive and lasting.

That evening happened to be “Rep Your School” night, and the field was alive with pride and youthful energy. Many of the players came out in their school uniforms or house colours. The community responded. People sat on the sand or stood along the sidelines, clapping, smiling, and soaking in the music. For those few hours, Nut Grove was truly alive.

The initiative to bring pan into the community was a brilliant one. It has given our young people a creative outlet and a safe space. It keeps them engaged, focused, and off the streets. It has brought music into their lives and into their schools. This kind of exposure to music is proven to improve learning, memory, and concentration. Through this opportunity, they are not only developing as musicians but also as learners, teammates, and young leaders.

What makes this even more special is that it has brought in young people from across Antigua and Barbuda. It is building fellowship and trust among youths from different communities. It is creating bonds where there may had been distance or division. And it is helping to steer them away from the grip of violence by offering something real and enriching. They are learning how to work together, how to support one another, and how to shine.

During a short break, one of the young players approached me and asked, “What did you think?” I looked at her and said, “I am proud. And I am honored to be here.” I meant every word of it.

Now, as Pandemonium prepares to compete this Saturday evening at the Panorama competition at the Antigua Recreation Grounds, I am calling on everyone to come out and show their support. These young talents will be performing alongside some of the most seasoned and well-known pan houses in the country. It is a true David and Goliath moment, and they need all of us behind them.

Come and fill the ARG. Let them hear you. Let them see your pride. Let them feel your love and support. When they look into the crowd, they should see a sea of familiar faces cheering them on with full hearts.

Because when our young people rise, we must rise with them. Their joy is our joy. Their music is the heartbeat of our community. And if we continue to invest in their gifts, their growth, and their future, there is no limit to what they will become, not just as performers, but as powerful contributors to the nation we are building together.

Jermaine N. Edwards

Community Advocate, St. John’s Rural South