The aim of We Gatherin’ 2025 is to contribute to building a strong and vibrant Barbados by fostering greater family ties, empowering socially cohesive communities, creating sustainable livelihoods, diversifying our economy and contributing to protecting our environment.
About We Gatherin' 2025
A Message from the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados
We Gatherin’ 2025 is your call to come ‘long home. Throughout the year, every parish from the cliffs of St. Lucy to the markets of Bridgetown will be buzzing with events that touch on everything we hold dear: faith, family, sports and community.
Our Mission
We Gatherin’ 2025 will allow Barbadians to celebrate traditional ways of life; showcase the diversity of Barbadian talent & excellence; give back to communities that contributed to their advancement; capitalise on economic opportunities; and craft a collective vision of future Barbados.
Our Values
Underpinning the pursuit of the We Gatherin’ 2025 mission is a set of values that will guide the execution and spirit of the yearlong initiative. These values are excellence, inclusiveness, service, and community spirit.
Our Goals
The goals which We Gatherin’ 2025 will seek to realise are to:
- Deepen the connection between Barbados and its diaspora;
- Diversify the economy by creating new sectors and businesses;
- Empower Barbadian communities through enterprise
- Foster greater community spirit and philanthropy;
- Highlight Barbados as a world class, authentic global brand; and
- Influence a sense of who we are as Barbadians.
”My fellow Barbadians, we eagerly look forward to hosting We Gatherin' 2025.
Senior Minister Kerrie Symmonds
As the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, I am extending a sincere invitation to all of the Barbadians in the diaspora, to Come home, reconnect with us and be part of this country's exciting opportunity for growth and further economic development.
Gatherin' from our shores to yours
Many of our island’s businesses are developing well and are spreading themselves and their products beyond our shores. While we give thanks for these blessings, we are however, always mindful that we are not alone and that as our Prime Minister so often reminds us in this life, partnership is essential because many hands make light work.
It is in that spirit of partnership, friendship, and family that we reach out to you, Barbadians abroad, whether by birth, by acquisition of citizenship or simply by the choice of your heart, to be a part of this momentous celebration in our country’s development.
Let us as Barbadians, both local and in the diaspora, all come together as one in order to assist in further building this country that we love. Your home, sweet Barbados is waiting to host you and to welcome you. Come long home!!
”We Gatherin' 2025 should be seen as a cultural homecoming and a heartfelt invitation to all Barbadians, both at home and abroad, to reconnect with the very soul of our country for the entire year.
Dr. the Hon. Shantal Munro-Knight
Celebrating a cultural homecoming
This year-long celebration will transform Barbados into a living canvas of culture. Artists, performers, and creators will be given countless opportunities to showcase their talents, bringing the island to life in every parish with captivating performances in song, dance, theater, visual art, and cuisine.
It is expected to bring together generations of Barbadians, commencing January with ‘Faith’ in St. Lucy and culminating in nationwide celebrations in December in a spirit of togetherness with the theme of ‘Friends and Family’.
As the Government of Barbados looks to inspire Barbados’ future, We Gatherin’ 2025 will serve as a blueprint for a new wave of cultural expression and creativity… it will stimulate fresh interpretations of Bajan identity while honoring the traditions that define us as truly Barbadian.
”This year I have the privilege of welcoming ALL Bajans, from near and far, to come long home to celebrate all things Barbados with We Gatherin' 2025.
The Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, S.C., M.P.Prime Minister of Barbados
Celebrating who we are and who we can be
With this special year-long celebration we are celebrating YOU, yes you. For without its people, Barbados is nothing. You see, at its core, We Gatherin’ 2025 is about us as a people. It is a celebration designed to inspire national pride in all Barbadians and create the environment for us to create the best version of Barbados for us, by us.
With We Gatherin’, we will welcome ideas and solutions to make Barbados World Class. We will also pay homage to our nation builders, our heritage, social activities, and cuisine associated with each parish.
Start making your plans, book your tickets, and get ready to have an experience like a true Bajan, cause We Gatherin’ 2025 is not just a homecoming; it is a celebration for all Bajans locals and visitors alike.
2025 is our year! Come ‘long Home!
