Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), left, was on hand to personally congratulate Mr Raul R. Sprauve aka ‘Jougo’, on receiving the prestigious CARIFESTA XV Icon Award for his contributions to the arts and culture of the Caribbean. Photo: GIS

Mr Raul R. Sprauve aka ‘Jougo’ performing at CARIFESTA XV in Barbados on August 24, 2025. Photo: GIS

The Icon Award, one of CARIFESTA's highest honours, recognises individuals who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions to Caribbean arts and culture. Photo: GIS

Mr Sprauve, an acclaimed musician, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador, was awarded the prestigious CARIFESTA XV Icon Award on Sunday, August 24, 2025, in Bridgetown, Barbados.

The Icon Award, one of CARIFESTA's highest honours, recognises individuals who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions to Caribbean arts and culture.

A True Cultural Leader

The Government of the Virgin Islands, in congratulating Mr Sprauve, said the recognition affirms Sprauve’s standing as a leading voice of Virgin Islands music and a regional cultural icon.

A proud Virgin Islander, Mr Sprauve began his teaching career before fully pursuing music, becoming the lead vocalist and driving force behind Virgin Islands-Based Entertainment (VIBE). With 15 Road March titles to his name, including those earned with Showtime Band, he has brought the unique sound of the Virgin Islands to audiences locally and internationally.

Through his leadership at Home Grown Studios, Mr Sprauve has collaborated with Grammy-award-winning artists such as Beenie Man, Beres Hammond, and Charlie Wilson. He has also nurtured local talent and built the Territory's music industry. He is a dedicated youth advocate, having served as a Big Brother in the Social Development Department's mentorship programme and as a Youth Assessor for the Youth Court.

‘A proud moment for our Territory’- Hon Hodge-Smith

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) and Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, Hon Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4), along with the large VI delegation in Barbados, were present to share the proud moment with Mr Sprauve.

Hon Hodge-Smith said: "On behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands, I congratulate Mr Raul 'Jougo' Sprauve on this historic recognition. His artistry, leadership, and advocacy for youth have left a lasting impact on the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean. This award is a proud moment for our Territory."

Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr Natalio Wheatley, added:

"Mr. Sprauve's recognition at CARIFESTA XV highlights the depth of talent in our Territory and the power of our culture on the world stage. He serves as an inspiration to future generations of Virgin Islanders."

About CARIFESTA XV

The Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) is the region's premier multidisciplinary arts festival, celebrating Caribbean creativity and cultural diversity. The Icon Award honours individuals whose influence and contributions have made a transformational impact on Caribbean culture.