The Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS) copped two prestigious awards at the recently concluded 35th Caribbean Media Awards, hosted in Belize from August 11 to 14.
The BGIS was awarded the ‘Best Social Media Content Creator’ in the Digital Category with its captivating series, The Hot Seat Weather Quiz Challenge. The dynamic eight-part series, produced in collaboration with the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS), captured the imagination of viewers by featuring local personalities as they faced a lightning round of weather-related trivia.
The project seamlessly blended the meteorological expertise of the BMS team, led by Semelka Jackman, with the creativity of Information Officers Mikul Elcock and Aisha Reid, along with Chief Information Officer (CIO), Tyson Henry.
Key contributions also came from Tia Browne, David Harding, Racquel Davis, Junior Brathwaite, and Rhea Whitehall, who played an instrumental role in developing the quiz content and coordinating the participation of guests. The series is available for viewing on the social media platforms of both the BGIS and BMS, as well as on YouTube, where it continues to engage and educate the public.
The organisation also claimed the award for ‘Best Coverage of Healthy Nutrition Food Policy’ in the Television category for its groundbreaking TV/web series, Grow Green Barbados.
This five-episode series delves into the crucial topics of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture, offering viewers insightful and practical information. Episode 3, “Organic Farming,” stood out among the competition, showcasing the inspiring journey of Grow Green Champions John and Justin Hunte as they cultivated their organic home garden.
The episode also featured Chef Adrian Cumberbatch, who dazzled viewers with a mouth-watering recipe crafted from organic ingredients.
Grow Green Barbados was more than just a series—it was a labour of love and a testament to the power of teamwork. The series was conceptualised and hosted by Dr. David Bynoe, whose vision brought the show to life.
Senior Information Officer, Kathyann Husbands and Web Content Manager, Esther Jones, spearheaded the production, ensuring that every detail was meticulously crafted to perfection. Information Officer Aisha Reid played a pivotal role in production management and concept development for both the main and chef segments, while Mikul Elcock’s filming, editing, and motion graphics added a dynamic visual flair to the series. Esther Jones also contributed additional filming and editing, leading the production and development of the compelling Grow Green Champion segment.
The series, available on the BGIS YouTube channel, not only highlights the importance of healthy living but also celebrates the local heroes who are making a difference in sustainable agriculture.
Congratulating the team members on their achievement, CIO Tyson Henry, stated that the two wins solidified the BGIS’ reputation “as a leader in innovative media production across the region”. He also gave special kudos to the BMS for its role in producing The Hot Seat Weather Quiz Challenge.
Mr. Henry continued: “As the BGIS embraces its achievements at this year’s awards, we are already setting our sights on the future. With the next Caribbean Media Awards slated to take place here in Barbados, the department is poised to make an even bigger impact, aiming to showcase our continued commitment to excellence and innovation in media production as a member of the regional media fraternity.”