Pierre Goubault

CEO of Xodus Carnival; Managing Director, Sopi Motors Ltd

What’s your middle name?

Anthony

Describe Pierre in four sentences.

I’m an outgoing visionary in the entertainment and automotive industry, borderline crazy with my extravagant ideas and concepts.

A pioneer in the “business” of Carnival, setting the pace for others to follow.

I enjoy the balance of the phrase “work hard, play hard”

I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty — Literally!

What comes to mind when you hear ‘Kingston’?

What immediately comes to mind is the heart of the Caribbean – a vibrant mecca of entertainment, a place where the finest fusion of cuisines and cultures blend together, and a city I’m proud to call home.

Were you given the opportunity to further enhance the city of Kingston, what are a few and indeed immediate tasks you’d undertake?

I would love to see entertainment tourism become a priority for stakeholders and the Government. With expansive entertainment-zoned areas and a revival project transforming New Kingston into a vibrant hub, filled with restaurants, bars, clubs and more. The potential for growth is immense!

What’s on the front burner for Xodus Carnival 2025?

With just two months left until Carnival, our focus is on flawless execution and delivery! My team began planning nearly a year ago, and we’re confident that this will be our best Carnival yet.

2024 was an amazing year for Xodus Carnival as we proudly secured the title of the Best & Biggest Band in Jamaica once again. Every year, we make continuous improvements, always prioritising the needs of our revellers. We listen to every piece of feedback, analyse data, and focus on delivering an affordable, hassle-free experience. This year, we have made enhancements at every step of our process, starting with costume selection. Revellers now have the freedom to mix and match body options, accessories, and backpacks. Male costumes match all female Xodus costumes, and our T-shirt packages come in colour-coded options, allowing couples or friends to jump together in style.

And last but not least, the parade! We’ve already announced an extensive performance line-up, featuring the best entertainers and DJs from both international and local stages, with dedicated music genres for each truck position. A schedule will be released to let revellers know exactly who and what will be playing on each truck. We’ve also tweaked some of our truck designs to provide better access to the amenities on the bar trailers and added more experience zones along our parade route. We can’t wait for everyone to experience all the enhancements we’ve made — this year is set to be unforgettable!

What are you drinking?

Appleton 12. Neat!

Where would you take a first-time visitor to Kingston?

Maiden Cay or every pan that knocks that night, all bars, club and street dances.

Black-tie or jeans and a T-shirt?

I’m more of a jeans and T-shirt person. I like to feel cool and comfortable in case I need to buss a move!

An evening in or out?

Out! The drinks taste better there.

Live show or surround sound?

Surround sound.

Last book read?

My kids’ schoolbooks! I don’t recall school being this hard when I was their age.

Finally, what’s your personal credo?

Learn from yesterday, live for today, plan for tomorrow!

Shoot location: The Coppers

9 Haining Road