A stop at a Castries store turned into a cultural exchange when members of Association Toe Lobie joined Hon. Emma Hippolyte in song and dance. The encounter added a memorable moment to the French Guiana group’s visit as members share their Saamaka heritage and embrace Saint Lucia’s Creole celebrations.
Representative Bernadette Vola said the delegation is promoting Saamaka culture through dance, food and cultural exchanges while exploring the island’s traditions. A walk through the capital, including the Castries Market, brought members into contact with vendors and residents whose warm welcome left a strong impression.
“It’s a good experience because we like the colour, we like the culture,” Vola said. Members’ traditional clothing also drew compliments, opening conversations with residents along the way.
At the market, familiar items offered another connection between the two destinations. Vola pointed to calabashes among the objects members recognised from French Guiana, providing a reminder of shared cultural traditions.
The group is also looking forward to experiencing Saint Lucia’s Jounen Kwéyòl celebrations. For Vola, the highlights are “the culture, the food, the dance, the music” and the opportunity to meet people.
