Despite the island-wide power outage, The Cayman Music & Entertainment Association (CMEA) held its Annual General Meeting at George Town’s Town Hall on Sunday, 12 Jan.  

In attendance were CMEA founders, Icon awardees, distinguished and lifetime members, and a diverse showing of general members. Everyone was excited to hear reports, participate in the vote and give input to the newly elected officials.

After a meeting quorum, a beautiful opening prayer and the singing of the National Song, members unanimously decided that they needed to work on their harmonies, then listened to the Executive Committee’s report on the status of the association after 2019.  

Strong nominees vied for each of the five elected positions. Members listened intently as nominees presented their perspectives and qualifications. 

Votes were cast according to the constitution, and in short order, new leadership was democratically chosen and presented to enthusiastic applause and congratulations. 

Support for young musicians, enhanced benefits for members, strengthening relationships with venues, and expanding positive exposure of Cayman artists, locally and internationally, were some of the many important topics on members’ minds. The new council listened carefully and held a short debriefing, post AGM, to consolidate member input and make plans for the initial steps forward.  

“Members’ input is crucial to guide the elected officers. We want the CMEA to be very participatory, member-driven and fun – true to the spirit of music,” says Director, Eden Hurlston. 

Returning Secretary, Vashti Bodden is ready to roll up her sleeves and get to work.

“I am honoured to have been re-elected as Secretary and look forward to representing the membership community. There’s a lot of hard work to be done to make strides in the local music scene and the new Exec is engaged and committed.”

The 2020 Executive Committee wishes to thank the former President, Jean-Eric Smith and his Executive Officers, for their efforts through the years; and to thank all CMEA members, and the Cayman music community as a whole, for their support.

Current President, Michael Wilks, is optimistic as he takes the helm. “I’m honoured to have been chosen to lead the CMEA into a new decade of cooperation and collaboration. We have a lot of exciting initiatives planned, and we definitely welcome thoughts and ideas on how we can improve life for all musicians and entertainers that call these shores their home.”