Congratulations to the Sunland Baptist Academy School Choir, the Grand Prize winners of Freeport’s Got Talent 2024! Their incredible performance earned them the top prize of $5,000, showcasing the talent, passion, and creativity of Grand Bahama’s youth. Well done, Sunland Baptist Academy!
Freeport, Grand Bahama – October 1, 2024 – The vibrant spirit of Grand Bahama was on full display during the Freeport’s Got Talent competition this past weekend, as hundreds of excited attendees gathered at Port Lucaya Marketplace to witness three nights of awe-inspiring performances. Sponsored by the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), the event proved to be an electrifying showcase of local talent, community pride, and pure entertainment.
The first night of competition saw an impressive lineup of soloists, including performances by Lady General, Maliki Black, Olivia Oliver, Berndera Hepburn, Luc Singson, Siddrell Bullard, Timothy Forbes, Majesty Hanna, Aurora Hepburn, Caswell Burrows, Jah Dragon, Patrella Pinder, Jamie Fyne, Noah Russell, Berlicia Saunders, Jasmine Ingraham, Danielle Quant, and Kezia Bain.
In a stunning victory, Jamie Fyne took home the 1st place prize for his powerful rendition of Lionel Ritchie’s “All Night Long”. Berlicia Saunders followed in 2nd place, while Majesty Hanna secured 3rd place, rounding out an incredible first night of talent.
Night two continued with performances from bands and choirs. In the Bands category, Top Tier Band dominated, claiming 1st place, followed by Favored in 2nd place, and Hatch in 3rd place. The choir competition was equally exciting, with Sunland Baptist Academy School Choir taking 1st place with “Purple Rain”, St. George’s Jags Pop Band in 2nd place, and Tabernacle School Choir in 3rd place.
The Grand Finale on night three brought the category winners together for the ultimate battle. Sunland Baptist Academy School Choir clinched the overall 1st place win as the champions of Freeport’s Got Talent. Jamie Fyne took 2nd place, and Top Tier Band came in 3rd place, capping off a thrilling weekend of competition.
Each category winner was awarded $2,500, with the overall Freeport’s Got Talent champion receiving $5,000 in total for their outstanding performance.
The judging panel, featuring Julien Believe, Will Gittens, JR Gittens, Clint Watson, and Covena Murphy, provided insightful commentary throughout the event, helping shape the unforgettable performances with their expertise.
“The last three days have been amazing. We don’t usually get to see this in The Bahamas – the display of talent over days – and I am very proud that the Grand Bahama Port Authority decided to host this event, said Julien Believe. “There is so much more to look forward to.”
His Excellency, Kevin G. Tomlinson, Ambassador-at-Large for Cultural Affairs in The Bahamas and event patron was present each night, showing his support and enthusiasm for the talented performers throughout the entire weekend.
Aside from the competition, the audience enjoyed spectacular entertainment, including the Bahamas Dance Theatre team, fire dancers and Irish dancers. The Gittens brothers and a high-energy set from Julien Believe closed the final night, bringing the crowd to their feet.
“This weekend was a celebration of the best talent Grand Bahama has to offer,” said Fatima-Zahra Kaboub, Freeport’s Got Talent Committee Chair. “We couldn’t be prouder of how this event brought people together, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.”
The organizing committee, which included Glendia Sweeting, Colette Parker, Lynne Fraino, Telina Smith, Shan Elliott, Tanisha Pyfrom and Elizabeth Collie, worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success and to create a memorable experience for all.
Dr. Telina Smith, GBPA Director of Human Resources and Administrator of the Donations and Scholarship Committees, shared her excitement: “This weekend exemplified our Acting Chairman Sarah St. George’s commitment to nurturing local talent. We’re proud of every participant and excited about the future of the arts and culture in Grand Bahama.”
With hundreds of spectators filling Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport’s Got Talent was not just a competition but a celebration of local talent, community spirit, and culture that will be remembered for years to come.
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