KINGSTON, Jamaica — Two Jamaican artisans from the Sandals Foundation’s Caribbean Artisan Collection Programme are set to showcase their work at this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, running from April 23 to May 3.

In a release on Saturday, it was disclosed that Westmoreland natives Dana Baugh and Omar “Sheldon” Daley will be part of a five-member Jamaican craft team featured in the festival’s Cultural Exchange Pavilion, sponsored by Sandals Resorts and the Jamaica Tourist Board. Festival organisers have selected Jamaica as the country of focus, highlighting its music, food and art.

Baugh, founder of BAUGHaus Design Studio, produces handcrafted porcelain tableware, planters and sculptural pieces inspired by everyday Jamaican life. The release noted that proceeds from the sale of her work through the Sandals Foundation’s Caribbean Artisan Collection are reinvested into the development of other artisans.

“When people experience my work at the festival, I want them to feel a Caribbean that is both elevated and deeply rooted… It’s about showing that our story goes beyond sun, sand and sea—it is rich, layered and beautifully expressed through what we make and use every day,” she said.

Daley, founder of FIRSTSTRAW Company, is among the first crafters in the programme, having received product and business development training from Sandals Resorts’ retail team in 2018. A thatch straw weaver, taught by his mother, his work draws on traditions rooted in Taíno and African heritage, producing items such as bags, baskets and trays.

“Even as basketry declines, there are still artisans committed to keeping the craft alive… Being at the festival is not just about me; it represents the many people and forms of support that made this journey possible,” Daley said.

The release also highlighted challenges faced by artisans, noting that Daley’s operations were impacted by Hurricane Melissa, which damaged infrastructure and limited access to raw materials. Support from the Sandals Foundation, including the installation of a solar energy system, helped restore his production.

Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, Heidi Clarke, said the initiative reflects investment in people and communities.

“When we support artisans, we are not just preserving craft—we are protecting livelihood and strengthening communities. We are extremely honoured to be part of the stories of Dana and Sheldon,” she said.

Since its launch in 2018, the Caribbean Artisan Programme has supported more than 30 artisans across nine islands where Sandals operates, with participants seeing expanded production and increased sales.

The upcoming festival, expected to attract some 500,000 patrons, is being viewed as a major opportunity for Jamaican creatives to reach a wider market, while also passing on skills and knowledge to the next generation.