Buy Your Carnival printed publications now! Worldwide shipping available!
Wilfred de Gannes was born in Trinidad and Tobago, the birthplace of steel-pan, calypso, and soca music. His passion for Caribbean culture has been shaped by extensive travels across the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and Asia.
While visiting the United States Virgin Islands, Wilfred noticed the absence of Carnival-related print publications. That observation became the spark for creating USVI Carnivals Experience (www.usvicarnivals.com) a Not-For-Profit platform dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and documenting the rich Carnival traditions of the U.S.Virgin Islands.
In 2025, Wilfred and his team released their inaugural print edition, USVI CARNIVALS: The St. Thomas, St. John & St. Croix Issue Online ISSN: 3067-2880 Print ISSN: 3067-2910 alongside his first mini book titled From J'ouvert to Last Lap: The A-Z of Carnival Lingo.
A Legacy of Carnival
Carnival is in Wilfred’s blood. His mother Hetty J. Mejias-de Gannes H.B.M., is a highly respected Trinidadian Carnival judge, steel-pan arranger, and designer of costumes and floats. A gifted artist and sculptor in her own right, she also built a distinguished career as an optometrist. Her decades-long influence in shaping the regional Carnival landscape has been profound. Wilfred has accompanied her on numerous judging assignments across the Caribbean, further deepening his understanding and appreciation of the art form.
International Media & Publishing Experience
Before launching USVI Carnivals, Wilfred served as Editor-in-Chief of the 'Trinidad and Tobago Shipbuilding & Repair News,' published monthly for five years (60 Issues).
He has authored numerous articles and press releases for global marine and industry publications including:
• Inside Marine
• LNG Shipping & Terminals
• Sustainable Business Magazine
• Journal of Commerce by S&P Global
• Maritime Reporter & Engineering News
• T&T Chamber of Industry and Commerce
• American Chamber of Commerce of T&T
• Commonwealth Secretariat Publications
• Offshore Engineer Magazine
• T&T Boaters' Directory
• T&T Newsday Newspaper
• T&T Guardian Newspaper
• T&T Express Newspaper
• T&T Boaters' Directory
Explore more published works:
Global Events & Cultural Diplomacy
Before the rise of social media influencers, Wilfred de Gannes served as an accredited media correspondent with Royal Caribbean International (RCL).
Among the most memorable were the 5th Summit of the Americas, by the Organization of American States (OAS) in April 2009, and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in September of the same year. Both historic events were held in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, and brought together world leaders, diplomats, and journalists from across the globe. Wilfred’s presence at these forums reflects his ongoing commitment to cultural representation, diplomacy, and global engagement.
5th Summit of the Americas Photo Album
Wilfred's participation in the prestigious 2003, 2008 and 2011 China Changchun Sculpture Conference and Symposium in Changchun, Jilin Province marked an important milestone in his journey.
Supporting his Mother Hetty de Gannes, H.B.M., whose two (2) art designs was selected among hundreds of international submissions, with the final sculpture works being showcased and permanently displayed at the renowned Changchun World Sculpture Park — one of the world’s largest sculpture parks.
The experience provided a powerful opportunity to share Caribbean artistic expression on a global stage while engaging with sculptors and cultural ambassadors from around the world in the spirit of friendship, peace, and creative exchange.
Read Newsday People Magazine article here.
In December 1997, Wilfred had the distinguished honor of collating various artworks for the “Trinidad and Tobago Through the Eyes of the Artist from Cazabon to Millennium 1813-2000” Exhibition, organized by the High Commission for Trinidad and Tobago, London, United Kingdom under the leadership of The Honorable Patrick Edwards, High Commissioner.
This art exhibition was hosted at the historic Commonwealth Institute in Kensington, showcasing the vibrant creativity and cultural richness of Trinidad and Tobago artists on an international platform. Participation in this prestigious exhibition reflected Wilfred's enduring commitment to preserving and promoting Caribbean artistic heritage through visual storytelling and cultural expression. He received a Certificate of Participation upon the successful conclusion of this distinguished and memorable event.
Cultural Ambassador & Certified Youth Mentor
Recently, Wilfred de Gannes, Founder of the USVI Carnivals Experience and a regional cultural ambassador, was proud to announce his certification as an official mentor under the Youth Business Trinidad and Tobago (YBTT) program. This achievement marks another chapter in de Gannes’ commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and Caribbean development.
De Gannes successfully completed YBTT’s Mentor Orientation Training on July 3, 2025, and is now a certified mentor recognized by Youth Business International (YBI). This alongside being a Network Member for the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) organized by the U.S. Department of State.
In addition to his cultural and entrepreneurial work, de Gannes also served as a part-time guest lecturer at The University of the West Indies-Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business in its Masters of Port & Maritime Management program, sharing industry insight and international expertise with future business and maritime leaders.
Building Connections Through Media, Mentorship & Leadership
Sustainability Work
Wilfred de Gannes is committed to sustainability through his work in cultural publishing, maritime development, and environmental stewardship.
He has successfully completed Sustainability and Climate Smart Entrepreneurship programs facilitated by the United Nations SSEI/International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, along with the U.S. Department of State’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI).
His project, 'Transitioning to Electric-Powered Outboard Engines for Reef Tours and Marine Tourism in the Caribbean,' was nominated for the Earthshot Prize by the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA) in 2025. The initiative promotes cleaner marine transportation, lower emissions, and greater protection of Caribbean coral reefs.
Through sustainable tourism, climate-smart entrepreneurship, and responsible maritime development, de Gannes advocates practical solutions that support both economic growth and environmental conservation.
Invite Wilfred de Gannes
Wilfred is available for speaking engagements, cultural panels, Carnival and heritage events, and media interviews. With decades of experience in Caribbean cultural storytelling and publishing, he brings a unique perspective rooted in tradition, travel, and lived experience.
Let’s collaborate to amplify the spirit of Carnival.
Reach out via email info@usvicarnivals.com to inquire about availability.
Recognized by
Press Releases & Announcements
Here you’ll find our latest press releases and updates—all in one place. Whether you’re a journalist, Carnival event organizer, or just curious about what we’re up to, feel free to download and share. These PDF files highlight our newest publications, Carnival projects, and how we’re keeping Caribbean culture front and center.
For interviews, media inquiries, or to collaborate, we’d love to hear from you—just reach out through our email info@usvicarnivals.com