Jael Joseph: Championing Dominica’s Music, Culture & Legacy
From the nature island to the international stage, join us as we sit down with the multifaceted Jael Joseph from Dominica, whose journey is as rich as the music she champions. Our episode kicks off discussing her fierce advocacy for Dominican Culture, Music, Producers, Artists and overall small island representation, stemming from her passionate address at the Caribbean Music Awards. Her advocacy shines a light on the often-overlooked musical contributions of Dominica.
The episode then transitions into the broader narrative of Caribbean unity and the challenges faced by smaller islands in gaining international acclaim for their music. The Caribbean, though geographically fragmented, is united by the universal language of music. The discussion points to instances of cultural appropriation, the importance of trans-Caribbean collaborations, and the aspirations for a collective Caribbean presence on prestigious platforms such as the Grammys.
Jael wears many hats, with experience ranging from massage therapy to media production. Her versatility is emblematic of the Caribbean spirit – resourceful, adaptive, and endlessly creative. We also discuss her short documentary on the Kalinago people, the indigenous inhabitants of Dominica. Jael brings to the fore the challenges they face, from the misrepresentation by colonizers to the pressing need to preserve their language and traditions. The Kalinago’s sustainable agricultural practices and deep-rooted spirituality are central to understanding the richness of the Caribbean’s diverse heritage.
As the episode concludes, we look ahead to Jael’s future projects. These include a film on migration and the ongoing efforts to capture and share the inspiring stories of Caribbean individuals. The podcast wraps up with a reflection on the importance of finding balance, the search for the right support systems, and the wisdom in allowing natural progression to guide one’s professional journey.
Stay Connected
Connect with Jael: Website
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