PRESS RELEASE: GEMS artisan market celebrates resounding success: a showcase of Dominican creativity, culture, and community

The GEMS Foundation is proud to announce the successful completion of the inaugural GEMS Artisan Market (GAM), held from August 1–3,

2025 at Fort Young Hotel. Over the course of three vibrant days, the event brought together 32 Dominican artisans, local performers, and enthusiastic attendees to celebrate Dominica’s rich cultural heritage and creative economy.

With booths spanning fashion, home décor, herbal and wellness products, traditional crafts, jewelry, paintings, and locally made beauty goods, the Artisan Market transformed the hotel’s courtyard into a vibrant hub of innovation and artistry. Attendees were able to meet the makers, hear the stories behind the crafts, and support small businesses with every purchase.

Live performances from spoken word artists like Ameka Cognet, singers such as Noel Grove, Shalina, Avita Omish as well as The Sixth Form Sisserou Singers and Pashiwok brought rhythm and energy to the atmosphere.

“GAM was more than just a market, it was a movement,” said Jael Joseph, Event Lead and Director of the Entertainment and Arts of GEMS Foundation. “We created a space where artisans could showcase their work, build their customer base, and connect with other entrepreneurs and partners. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re proud to have spotlighted the depth of talent Dominica has to offer.”

Artisans like Misana Harris of Nature’s Touch, welcomed this initiative:

“One of the best things was being able to network with Dominicans and also foreigners, some of them who were actual guests at the hotel. The venue was spectacular. Entertainment was very enjoyable and very classy. I sold many of my products.”

Janique Samuel who leads branding and visibility for ZoRowe’s Rewards Rub expressed how much exposure the market provided.

“Rewards Rub, the brand of Rewards Rub needed to get out, and this was a perfect opportunity to not only sell our products, because we did sell well and we were surprised at how much support we got. We were happy to let people know that we are here, and this company is Dominican and formulations are Dominican, something to be proud of. We cannot wait for our next one.”

The GEMS Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to our corporate sponsors and community partners whose generous support helped bring this vision to life. Special appreciation goes out to: Discover Dominica Authority, Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), Dominica Youth Business Trust, Waitukubuli Artists Association and the Fort Young Hotel.

We also extend sincere gratitude to the artisans who showcased their products, the performers who brought life and sound to the space, and to the attendees who came out in support of local business and culture.

GEMS Artisan Market has set the stage for a new annual tradition and this is just the beginning.