Bridgetown, Barbados — The Barbados Film & Television Association (BFTA) proudly congratulates one of its own, Mr. Daniel Best, on his historic election as the seventh President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). Mr. Best, a native of Barbados and a beloved figure in the local creative industry, has been recognized for his exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to sustainable development across the Caribbean region.
Mr. Best, widely known for his lead role in the acclaimed Barbadian sitcom ‘Keeping Up with the Joneses’, directed by Rommel Hall, has not only captivated audiences with his on-screen talent but also continues to demonstrate a remarkable commitment to regional growth and progress. Mr. Jamal Slocombe, President of the BFTA highlights, “Daniel’s election as President of the CDB is not just a personal triumph but a powerful statement about the evolving perception of the creative industries.” Having a creative professional at the helm of one of the region’s leading financial institutions highlights the growing recognition that the arts and finance are not mutually exclusive but deeply interconnected. It demonstrates that finance professionals and policymakers respect the contributions of the film industry and other creative disciplines in shaping the social and economic fabric of the Caribbean.
As President, Mr. Best will guide the CDB’s strategic direction, focusing on reducing poverty, promoting inclusive growth, and addressing emerging regional challenges. His deep understanding of the Caribbean’s development landscape, combined with his passion for community advancement, positions him to lead the CBD into a new era of transformative impact.
“Daniel’s leadership is a reminder that creativity is a valuable asset in all sectors, and his unique blend of artistic insight and strategic vision will undoubtedly bring a fresh, innovative approach to the Bank. We are excited to see how he will leverage his diverse experiences to address the region’s development challenges, while also advocating for the cultural industries as key drivers of sustainable growth. His journey from Keeping Up with the Joneses to the presidency of the CDB is a testament to the limitless possibilities for creatives across the Caribbean.”
The BFTA celebrates Mr. Best for his significant milestone, blending his creative accomplishments with a distinguished career in development finance, infrastructure investment, and strategic leadership spanning nearly three decades, and looks forward to his contributions to the Caribbean’s cultural and economic landscape.