Toronto, Canada – Antigua and Barbuda’s Bridget Hanniford Joseph has made cinematic history by receiving international recognition at the prestigious Commffest Film Festival in Toronto, Canada. On September 22, 2024, her extraordinary short film It’s My Time Now earned her the MADA Award - Honourable Mention, marking a groundbreaking moment not only for her career but also for her homeland.
The film was screened during Antigua Day at the Church Performing Arts Lodge Crestroom Theatre, captivating audiences with its emotional depth, innovative direction, and powerful storytelling. Joseph’s work stood out among international entries, earning her one of the festival’s most esteemed awards. This historic win shines a spotlight on Antigua and Barbuda, showcasing the country’s cultural and artistic excellence on the global stage.
Already an ABGMA Award-winning filmmaker, Bridget Hanniford Joseph has long been known for her ability to tell stories that resonate deeply, blending authenticity and creativity in her work. Her latest film, It’s My Time Now, continues to push the boundaries of storytelling and artistic vision, solidifying her as one of the Caribbean’s most innovative directors.
Upon receiving the award in Canada, Joseph expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the recognition, saying, “This award is a dream come true—not just for me, but for Antigua and Barbuda. I hope this achievement inspires others, especially young filmmakers, to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Our stories matter, and I’m committed to helping foster a new generation of creatives.”

​Now back in Antigua, Joseph is eager to continue her journey, using her platform to encourage young people and aspiring filmmakers to keep pushing their boundaries and pursuing their passions. She is hopeful that her historic win will spark a wave of creativity across the nation, offering mentorship and support to those looking to break into the industry.

​As she moves forward, Bridget Hanniford Joseph’s work continues to elevate Antigua and Barbuda, giving the country well-deserved recognition on the world stage. Her award-winning film It’s My Time Now is not just a personal victory—it’s a landmark moment for Caribbean cinema. Joseph’s success is paving the way for future filmmakers, ensuring that the voices and stories of Antigua and Barbuda will be heard far and wide.

WORLD-RENOWNED LEGENDARY AWARD-WINNING RIAA CERTIFIED PLATINUM GOSPEL RECORDING ARTIST LILLIAN LILLY RECEIVES GRAMMY® AWARD CONSIDERATION FOR HER CHART-TOPPING SINGLE AT THE CENTER OF GRACE
ATLANTA, GA – World-renowned legendary award-winning and RIAA certified platinum Gospel recording artist Lillian Lilly can add another milestone to her list of accomplishments. She is being considered for a nomination in the 2025 67th Annual GRAMMY® Awards for Best Gospel Performance/Song for her anticipated chart topping hit single, At the Center of Grace on Xpress Music Group written by James C. Birdsong, Jr. and Shonda English. This nomination goes to the artist and songwriters.
Produced by GRAMMY® Award nominated and RIAA  certified multi-platinum producer Avery Johnson, the single was released on Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024, on various streaming platforms. The single is also available for ordering on CD via Xpress Music Group. 
The single is almost 20,000 streams on Spotify, various chart placements, radio airplay and positive reviews throughout the United States and abroad. Lilly recently filmed her first ever concept music video to At the Center of Grace on Sunday, April 28th, 2024, at Christ Tabernacle Church in Jackson, MS where Rev. Hosea J. Hines is the pastor with additional scenes as a storyline. The music video features the JSU Ensemble of Jackson State University. The official release date of the music video will be announced.
As the principal lead vocalist and charter member of the world-renowned award-winning Mississippi Mass Choir, Lilly received two GRAMMY® Award nominations with the choir in 1997 and 2000 for Best Gospel Album by a Choir or Chorus and Best Gospel Choir or Chorus Album for the albums, I’ll See You in The Rapture and Emmanuel (God with Us). 
According to James C. Birdsong, Jr., President and CEO of Xpress Music Group, he states, "This Grammy award consideration is a major milestone for us, especially for Lillian. This is her first as a solo artist. We are grateful to God for this opportunity and the support of fans, radio announcers, media personalities and the Gospel music industry at large.” The voting process for the Grammys is only available to Recording Academy members. 

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Khan Cordice, Director of Culture for Antigua and Barbuda, has publicly congratulated Barbuda on a groundbreaking new initiative. In a post on Facebook, Cordice celebrated the possibilities the initiative offers the Barbudan community and commended Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s administration for its efforts. With excitement, Cordice expressed his readiness to visit Barbuda, underscoring the cultural and developmental significance of this move.
This development marks a significant step forward for Barbuda and highlights Cordice’s dedication to fostering cultural growth and community engagement throughout the islands. Stay tuned for more details on this emerging initiative.