Disney Cruise Line (DCL) recently joined the community of Eleuthera in The Bahamas to celebrate and support this year’s Junior Junkanoo competition. DCL increased its funding of Junior Junkanoo Eleuthera by 50%, totaling $75,000, to fund costumes, materials and cash prizes for each participating school and travel costs for the winning Eleuthera team to compete at the national level.
Unlocking Their Potential
Leading up to the competition, DCL also hosted a virtual workshop for students across Eleuthera, connecting them with the Disney entertainment team and acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett. Elyett designed new Bahamian-inspired outfits for Mickey and Minnie Mouse and their friends to wear at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, DCL’s new island destination opening this summer on the island of Eleuthera.
“DCL’s investment is about more than costumes and competition. We want to help preserve this important cultural expression and inspire young people to ensure the Junkanoo tradition continues for years to come,” said Joey Gaskins Jr., regional public affairs director, DCL. “Through connecting students participating in Junior Junkanoo with Disney’s entertainment professionals and Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett, we hope to inspire young Bahamians and show them how their talents can lead to careers in creative industries.”
“For nearly 30 years, I have been living my dream of working in the global fashion industry,” said Elyett. “I hope that sharing my experiences and the path that led me here, encourages the students to think beyond designing a costume and lean into those skills to envision their future in a big way.”
Empowering the Next Generation
Disney’s support of Junior Junkanoo is part of Disney Future Storytellers – The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to empower the next generation of storytellers and innovators.
“Disney’s work in the community of Eleuthera is exemplary. The DCL team is focused on inspiring young Bahamians and providing the resources they need to believe in themselves, sharpen their creative skills and follow in the footsteps of the Junkanoos who have come before them,” said Hon. Mario Bowleg, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture. “We’re excited to welcome Disney to our community, and we appreciate their leadership in youth development.”
As DCL’s presence in The Bahamas expands, Disney is committed to creating lasting, positive impact in The Bahamas and investing in programs supporting local youth.
Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Walt Disney Imagineers drew inspiration from Junkanoo to develop Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. The destination will offer guests from around the world new ways to enjoy authentically Bahamian experiences and explore Eleuthera and its natural wonders. When guests visit this special destination, they’ll be immersed in the rich culture, warm hospitality, and breathtaking beauty of The Bahamas. Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will create sustainable economic opportunities for Bahamians, protect the natural beauty of the site, celebrate the Bahamian culture, and help strengthen the community in Eleuthera.