Antigua’s ‘Reggae Ambassador’ Causion honoured with national recognition
Born in a country where calypso and soca are the sounds of choice, Causion wears his designation as ‘Antigua’s Reggae Ambassador’ with distinction. On November 1, the veteran singer was honoured by Antigua and Barbuda with the Commander of The Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage (CH).
The 57 year-old Causion received his country’s fourth-highest award from Sir Rodney Williams, the country’s Governor General, during Independence Day celebrations at the National Stadium in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda’s capital.
According to a statement from the government, “Causion was recognised for ‘serving as Antigua and Barbuda’s Reggae Ambassador for over 30 years, enriching the lives of many through his advocacy for community service and cultural promotion.’”
The South Florida-based artiste told Observer Online that “it is a proud feeling when your country and the people hail you for the work that you have done.”
Causion — who was diagnosed with colon cancer six years ago — added that overcoming health challenges makes the recognition even more special.
“You know, I once heard someone say ‘give me my flowers while I’m here so that I can smell and see the beauty of them’. I give thanks to the Most High for that,” he said.
Since his diagnosis, Causion has visited Antigua and Barbuda several times to work with Antigua’s tourism interests to promote the country as a leisure destination.
In October, it was announced that the video for Caribbean Vacation — a song he recorded to promote the islands — has attracted over one million views on YouTube.
In 2023, Causion released Mission in Progress, a seven-song EP that includes the patriotic song, Antigua me Come From.
The Island Row Girls — Samara Emmanuel, Christal Clashing, Elvira Bell Bailey and Kevina Francis — who last year completed an historic row across the Pacific Ocean to raise awareness for women’s empowerment, received the Institutional Award – The Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage – Gold.
Eight other individuals were recognised during the ceremony which was also attended by Prime Minister Gaston A Browne.
