DOMINICA ’S DIGICEL RISING STARS FINALISTS

Rachael and Bert one step closer to winning US$10, 000

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2006 – ROSEAU, DOMINICA: Digicel, the Caribbean’s leading mobile telecommunications operator is once again providing the youth in the Caribbean with an opportunity to further develop and showcase their vocal talent.   On Sun day, September 3, 2006 Dominica hosted its Digicel Rising Stars competition with a total of 125 participants.   10 contestants made it to the semifinals; out of which Digicel’s customers through texting and calling selected Rachael Jno. Baptiste and Bert Lennard a.k.a Atunyah as the Dominica representatives for the 2006 Digicel Rising Stars.

Ms Jno. Baptiste is elated to have been selected as one of the Dominica representatives for the 2006 Digicel Rising Stars.   She thanks her supporters, family and colleagues for their many votes and encouragement.   Ms Jno. Baptiste in a brief interview with Ms Elorn Hilaire Marketing Executive – Digicel Dominica stated “it is because of you my supporters I am here, I’ve made it. You won’t regret it!”  

An excited Ms Jno. Baptiste has plans to use the prize money of US$10,000.00 to develop the hidden talent in Dominica by assisting the youth in cultivating their raw talent and showing the world that Dominica is truly blessed with many singers and song writers like herself.

A confident and self assured Bert Lennard a.k.a Atunyah said in his interview “I feel like I’m supposed to be here, I feel great!”   Mr. Lennard claims that after hearing Ms Jno. Baptiste was a finalist in the Dominica Rising Stars competition he knew that there could only be one other Star - himself.   He never had any doubts.  

Mr. Lennard whose singing and writing career began five years ago was inspired by singing in church as well as by local reggae artist “Skinny Banton”.    Lennard loves reggae music and believes that it is the “heartbeat of life, it is all about communication and positive messages.”   Lennard thanks his many supporters and promises to use the prize money of US$10,000.00 to facilitate him in taking his music to new heights.   Lennard will be singing an original composition at the finals in Barbados

Rachael Jno. Baptiste and Bert Lennard will represent Dominica in the 2006 Digicel Rising Stars competition to be held in Barbados on Sun day, November 19, 2006 where they will contend with 13 other finalists from St. Vincent , St. Lucia , Grenada , Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, Anguilla and Barbados .

The 2006 Digicel Rising Star winner will receive US$10,000, a publishing contract and a management contract.