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Gianna Gregory | Culture

  • Writer: YSU
    YSU
  • Nov 20
  • 2 min read

Culture is the foundation of who I am. It's woven through my family, upbringing and my

artistic expression. I began performing traditional folk songs and dances in preschool,

proudly wearing traditional costumes. From a young age, I participated annually in the

National Children's Festival of the Arts (NCFA) through dance, vocals, pop band, and

steelpan. Raised in Hopscotch Studios and surrounded by the vibrant arts community, I

developed a love for cultural storytelling through music and movement. Culture, to me, is

a living, breathing part of Cayman; and I’ve always embraced it with ease, joy, and a sense

of responsibility to carry it forward.


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My cultural journey has earned recognition locally and abroad. I received multiple Gold

and Silver NCFA Awards, performed with the award-winning K-Hi Sound Band; and

represented Dreamchasers Cayman at the Jamaica Dance Umbrella Festival and also at

the UNIR (Dance Showcase), performing with the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders in

Florida, USA. I was selected for the Harlem School of the Arts Summer Dance Intensive in

New York. During my senior year at Idyllwild Arts Academy, I earned a 2-year Certificate

in Songwriting and served as Black Student Union Vice President and Caribbean

Representative. I currently study Jazz and Contemporary Music at The New School on a

government scholarship.


Recently, I performed in Dreamchasers' senior showcase “Fah Dah Culture” and worked

backstage for their kids and junior show. I also danced live with artist, Vasco, at the 2024

Out of this World (OOTW) Music Festival and collaborated on “Perfect” with The iZ, which

was released at OOTW 2025. Another way that I share my love of Caymanian arts, sports,

and nature is as a YMCA summer camp counselor. I’m currently writing my debut album,

aiming for a 2026 release. As I begin my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in New York, I’m

committed to staying rooted in my culture by performing, preserving, and eventually

returning home to create youth-focused programmes, concerts and mentorships that

elevate the next generation of Caymanian artists.


An interesting detail about me is that my middle name ("Justice") honours my

grandfather’s band: Memory of Justice. As a Proud of Them Honouree, I hope to give

back by working with young artists and expanding access to cultural practice through

youth mentorship.

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