The creative industries from Trinidad and Tobago were showcased at the first ever ThriveINBali event held at creative space and venue Workshop Bali last Wednesday the 8th of May 2019. Thrive International gathered creatives from multiple continents bringing them together in Bali to showcase talents and to foster collaborations, allowing the visiting "Thrivers" the ability to connect. DEZii, the featured performer from Trinidad and Tobago who is also one of the two winners of the 1st Cohort of MusicTT's APDP and one of the T&T’s music ambassadors, showcased to the curated audience at the launch of Thrive in Bali. Film from T&T was also showcased with Maya Cozier's short film Short Drop making its debut to a rousing round of applause. Among other creatives who showcased were NYC clothing brand Mando, Rio a percussionist and singer from Indonesia, and Oki an artist who is also from Indonesia culminating in a diverse cultural exchange.

Maya Cozier’s short film Shot Drop Debut

This was not the first time Thrive has showcased creatives from Trinidad and Tobago, in 2015 Thrive hosted its ThriveINDubai event and showcased Trinidadian singer Tennille Amor and screened the documentary City on The Hill directed by Michael Mooleedhar. For the past 10 years, founder Ethan Auguste has been showcasing the culture of the Caribbean in the Middle East, Europe and now Asia under his two brands Caribbean Vybez and Thrive. "Coming to Bali was something that I only really put into place early this year, but with the support of the network built over the years, it became a reality. The main goal is to create an exchange for creatives from around the world, co-live in a villa and have the opportunity to not only connect but to collaborate." Ethan mentioned.

"Last night was amazing, the people, the vybe, the opportunity to meet people from so many countries and to be introduced to so many cultures, this was more than worth the 28hrs of flying to get here! I'm looking forward to the other exchanges and collaborations I plan to make while here," DEZii stated who also would be working on a music video during her trip.

Thrive will host its closing event on the 13th of May 2019 at Akasha, New Earth Haven, which would showcase a fashion show, live art, a panel discussion on co-networking and collaboration and live music. The next ThriveXchange is carded for the second half of October 2019 and with limited spaces available, creatives are advised to book their spaces early.

Trinidad and Tobago Showcased in Bali

ThriveXchange Bali This November

ThriveXchange Bali 2019