Grand launching of the Boys’ Harmony Choir   |10 December 2025

The grand launching ceremony of the Boys’ Harmony Choir was held on Saturday December 6, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort & Spa, Anse Forbans, Takamaka.

The two-hour ceremony, starting at 5pm, celebrated the official unveiling of this dynamic new youth choir based in the district of Anse Royale.

The event brought together key government officials, partners, parents, and supporters, including the Minister for Local Government and Inner Islands, Eveline Rose, and the Minister for Education and Human Resource Development, David Pierre.

The Boys’ Harmony Choir, coordinated by Erica Barbe under the Animateur Scheme of the Ministry of Local Government and Inner Islands, is a youth-focused initiative aimed at nurturing discipline, confidence, teamwork, leadership, and artistic expression among adolescent boys. Over the past two years, the ministry has worked closely with the group, strengthening training, providing resources, and ensuring that the young members have a good platform for their development.

In her address to the gathering, Minister Rose congratulated the boys for their remarkable progress and emphasised the ministry’s commitment to continue supporting the programme.

“Nou pou la avek zot, pa zis pour sa lansman ozordi, me osi pour realiz zot bann plan ek vizyon pour le fitir,” Minister Rose affirmed.

She praised the boys for their discipline and talent, noting that their performances were a clear testament to their potential and determination.

The minister also acknowledged the values the boys are learning, such as respect, teamwork and leadership. She highlighted that such qualities play a crucial role in shaping responsible young men within their communities.

The ceremony featured a variety of artistic performances showcasing the choir’s talent and the support of various contributors. These included musical presentations by the Boys’ Harmony Choir, a performance by Billy and Erica Rangasamy accompanied by seven-year-old Hailey Nibourette, performances with guest contributor Sir Collin Rose, a choir master and strong supporter of the group, and song performance by local artist, Alex Rene. There was also the unveiling of the official Boys’ Harmony Choir banner, logo, mission, and vision and a video presentation on the choir’s achievements to date.

One of the major segments of the evening was the presentation of Certificates of Appreciation to all choir members. A certificate was also awarded to the coordinator, Mrs Barbe, whose consistent commitment has been instrumental in the development and growth of the choir.

The head teacher of Anse Royale secondary school, Bergitta Labonte, also delivered remarks encouraging the boys to continue using their talents productively and to take pride in representing their school and district.

An emotional vote of thanks was delivered by parent representative Julia Ismael, acknowledging the ministry’s investment, the dedication of Mrs Barbe, and the support of parents.

The ceremony concluded with a poem titled ‘Depi Premye Zour, Ziska Lavenir’ recited by Mrs Barbe, followed by final performances from the choir.

The ministry expressed its deepest appreciation to all partners, parents, facilitators, and supporters who continue to contribute to the success of the Boys’ Harmony Choir. This initiative forms part of the ministry’s broader commitment to youth empowerment, talent development, and building vibrant and resilient communities.

Also present at the ceremony were the leader of government business and member of the National Assembly for Anse Royale, Hon. Sylvanne Lemiel; principal secretary for Local Government and Inner Islands, Vicky Van Der Westhuizen; chief executive of the National Council for Children (NCC), Yasmin Umarji; members of the management team of the Ministry of Local Government and Inner Islands; district administrator for Anse Royale, Cinthia Harryba; representatives of the Seychelles National Youth Council; the Anse Royale secondary school management; parents among other guests.

Contributed