Alleyne, whose roots trace back to Dominica through her parents Carew and Connie Alleyne, represented the renowned Carnival Nationz band. Her costume, a vibrant, intricate fusion of jungle mystique and butterfly elegance, was designed by Martin Scott-Pascal, Deborah Chang, Kit Minot, and friends. The ensemble embodied this year’s carnival theme, “Take Me Home,” a poignant reflection on cultural connection and ancestral heritage.
No stranger to the stage, Alleyne is a seasoned dancer and masquerader whose performances have long captivated audiences. But this year, her triumph resonated far beyond the parade route. It was a moment of pride for Dominicans at home and abroad. Her win is a reminder of the island’s rich cultural legacy and its enduring influence across the Caribbean diaspora.
“Gillian’s victory is a celebration of Dominican excellence,” said one spectator waving the island’s flag along Toronto’s Lakeshore Boulevard. “She brought our spirit to the world stage.”
Despite the jubilant atmosphere, this year’s Toronto Caribbean Carnival faced significant hurdles. Organizers warned of declining participation, especially from American revellers, citing rising costume costs, border concerns, and economic pressures. Band leaders like Bryce Aguiton of Carnival Nationz noted a dramatic drop in U.S. attendees, while costume prices continue to climb due to inflation and supply costs.
Jerrol Augustine, leader of the mas band E.P.I.C Carnival since its inception in 2015, said U.S. tourists used to make up 95 per cent of his client base.
“The decline was very bad this year,” he said.
Augustine said the price of carnival costumes has been increasing due to the rising cost of supplies, but at the same time, would-be revellers have less money to spend on non-essentials.
Aguiton, meanwhile, is calling on local politicians to provide more funding to the carnival to ease expenses for mas bands and to draw in participants.
Yet, thanks to emergency funding from Canada’s federal and municipal governments — including a $3.15 million pledge over two years — the festival was able to push forward. The carnival, which began in 1967 as a centennial gift to Canada from its Caribbean communities, now draws over two million visitors and generates nearly half a billion dollars in economic activity annually.
Alleyne’s win holds significance beyond individual accomplishment for Dominicans. It marks a cultural milestone, reflecting heritage, artistry, and resilience at a time when Caribbean nations face global challenges to preserving tradition.
Below are some photos taken at the 2025 Toronto Caribbean Carnival. Photo credit: Frances Delsol.
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