The US Embassy, in partnership with the Government of Grenada through the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, formally concluded the Next Level Hip Hop Programme 2026 with a Final Showcase highlighting the achievements of participating Grenadian artists.
The 2-week residency, held from 13–24 April 2026, brought American hip hop mentors to Grenada to engage directly with local artists in structured workshops and collaborative sessions focused on MCing, DJing, dance, and aerosol art. The programme provided participants with intensive professional development and opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.
The Final Showcase served as the culminating event of the residency, offering participants an opportunity to present original work developed during the programme. The performances reflected both artistic growth and the strength of collaboration fostered throughout the exchange.
Next Level is an initiative of the US Department of State and is implemented by Meridian International Centre. The programme supports US public diplomacy objectives by using hip hop as a tool to promote mutual understanding, strengthen people-to-people ties, and encourage creative entrepreneurship.
In remarks delivered at the showcase, Public Diplomacy Officer Tamara Shaya Hoffmann noted that the programme underscores the strong and enduring partnership between the United States and Grenada, emphasising the importance of cultural exchange in advancing shared values and expanding opportunities for young leaders within the creative sector. Participation in the residency was provided at no cost to selected artists. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to supporting Grenada’s creative economy and fostering sustainable cultural development.
The US Embassy extends its appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, the American mentors, participating artists, and all partners whose collaboration ensured the programme’s success.
US Embassy, St George’s
