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Author Wilfred de Gannes
Wilfred de Gannes was born in Trinidad and Tobago, the birthplace of steelpan, 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 USVI.
In 2025, Wilfred and his team released their inaugural print edition, USVI CARNIVALS: The St. Thomas, St. John & St. Croix Issue (ISSN 3067-2880) 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, is a highly respected Trinidadian Carnival judge, steelpan 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.
Publication Background
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
• Caribbean Maritime
• LNG World Shipping
• Sustainable Business Magazine
• Journal of Commerce by S&P Global
• Maritime Reporter & Engineering News
• Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce
• American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago
• Commonwealth Secretariat Publications
Explore more of his past work:
Collect, Celebrate, and Cherish the Vibrancy of the USVI
Twinkle Lite Twirlers
William 'Champagne' Chandler
Twinkle Lite Twirlers
Special Edition Cover: Twinkle Lite Twirlers — Celebrating the sparkle, spirit, and vibrant legacy of the Virgin Islands Carnival stage.
Gems of the Caribbean
William 'Champagne' Chandler
Twinkle Lite Twirlers
Special Edition Cover: Gems of the Caribbean — Winners of the 2024 Large Troupe of the Year, celebrating the vibrant spirit, beauty, and cultural treasures of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
William 'Champagne' Chandler
William 'Champagne' Chandler
William 'Champagne' Chandler
Special Edition Cover: William “Champagne” Chandler — Leading the way as Grand Marshal of the 2024 Adults Parade, a true icon of Virgin Islands Carnival culture.
Meagan 'Pebbles' Bryan
Carnival Lingo Mini Book
William 'Champagne' Chandler
Special Edition Cover: Featuring Meagan Pebbles Bryan, Miss Universe US Virgin Islands 2024 — A timeless tribute to elegance and cultural pride.
Carnival Lingo Mini Book
Carnival Lingo Mini Book
Carnival Lingo Mini Book
Special Edition Release: USVI Carnival Lingo: A 20-page Fun Guide — Capture the colorful language and lively traditions that bring our Carnival culture to life!
International Events
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
Certified Mentor with Youth Business International
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 a new 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).
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.
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 USVI 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