Minister for Tourism, Senator Adrian Thomas, has expressed pride in the achievements of Wrenroy ‘Blaka Dan’ Ogiste, who won the inaugural Ultimate Soca Champion Competition, and finalist Shondell ‘Dash’ Amada, who also represented Grenada at the event held in Trinidad on February 20, 2025.
The ministry has extended heartfelt congratulations to ‘Blaka Dan’ on his remarkable victory in the Ultimate Soca Champion Competition with his hit song ‘Blessings.’ Minister Thomas said, “Your win is a proud moment for Grenada, and we celebrate your outstanding talent, hard work, and dedication to the soca genre.”
“I can confidently say that claiming the first major title of the competition is indeed historic for the Spice Isle and opens up our cultural potential to even greater things,” Senator Thomas added.
The Ministry also congratulated Shondell ‘Dash’ Amada on his impressive performance, which showed his artistry and passion. “While you didn’t place in the top three, your performance was truly inspiring, and you have made us all proud.”
Minister Thomas stated, “The Ministry of Tourism, the Creative Economy, and Culture, and all of Grenada, are proud that our artistes have represented us so well on the international stage.….Both of you continue to elevate Grenada’s music scene and represent our culture with excellence. We look forward to your continued success and are excited about the future of Soca in Grenada.”
Minister Thomas also highlighted the potential of local artistes, referencing the success of Hollice ‘Mr. Killa’ Mapp in a previous International Soca Competition in Trinidad. The recent achievements of both ‘Blaka Dan’ and ‘Dash,’ as well as all other artistes representing Grenada, further solidify our talent on the international stage.
