Seychelles Carnaval International de Victoria – uniting people through culture

After six years, the dream of uniting people through culture is becoming a reality, because when you believe in your people you can achieve greatness.

The Seychelles’ Tourism and Culture Minister Alain St.Ange said this at the press conference of the sixth Carnaval International de Victoria.

The press conference was held on April 21, a day prior to the official launch of the 3-day event. Held at the Deepam’s Cinema in Victoria, the press conference was attended by the Designated Minister Vincent Meriton, Tourism Minister of South Africa Derek Hanekom, Chief Executives of the Vanilla Islands Organization Pascal Viroleau, Seychelles Tourism Board Sherin Naiken, Airtel company Amadou Dina, and that of Air Seychelles Roy Kinnear.

Minister St.Ange said the Carnaval International de Victoria is a true melting pot of cultures from all corners of the world gathered in one place.

He added that the presence of the international delegations and press in the country do contribute to the success of the carnival.

Minister St.Ange said culture should be used as a catalyst for change which in turn will aid in the betterment of the industry.

Carnaval International de Victoria 2016 is being held under the theme of unity and is co-hosted by Reunion Island and South Africa.

Speaking at the event, Miss Naiken thanked the local and international press for helping to pass on the message of peace and unity to the world at large.

It is one event which gives countries from near and far the chance to rally side by side and appreciate being one united world throughout the 3 days, she said.

Miss Naiken thanked the sponsors for their contributions in ensuring that the success of this event is maintained. She also echoed words of thanks to them for being able to see the vitality of the carnival and for supporting it.

Mr. Kinnear said Air Seychelles and Etihad Airways are proud to be associated with Carnaval International de Victoria, which is a unique chance to celebrate the diversity of Seychellois culture while further developing the growth of inbound tourism.

“The carnival, which attracts hundreds of media representatives and performers from across the world, showcases the beauty of our Indian Ocean home to a global audience. It is perfectly aligned with our goal of promoting tourism in Seychelles, and we are delighted to extend our support for 2016,” he said.

And on his part, Mr. Viroleau thanked the Seychelles authorities for the warm welcoming received on arrival. He added that this proves that Seychellois are very warm welcoming people and so are the islanders of the Indian Ocean who are renowned for their hospitality.

“As the Chief Executive of the Vanilla Islands organization, I am proud of this as it is an asset and depicts a true melting pot of cultures,” he said.

He said Carnaval International de Victoria is a successful event for many reasons among which are because it is held in the ideal place.

Also speaking at the press conference was Mr. Dina who said the melting pot of cultures can only be alive through collaboration.

He added that it enhances the chance for tourism and small businesses to flourish.

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP) . For more information on Seychelles Minister of Tourism and Culture Alain St.Ange, click here.