In making a plea for greater sponsorship for the island’s steel pan, Johnathan Johannes, Managing Director of Unicomer Courts St. Lucia, has celebrated the remarkable triumph of the Courts Babonneau Steel Orchestra, which claimed the 2026 National Panorama Championship title during a dazzling finals event held at the Sab playing field on Sunday.
In a competitive field of five bands, the Babonneau Steel Orchestra distinguished itself by captivating the audience and winning the judges’ approval.
Over the years, the Babonneau steel-pan ensemble has maintained a strong partnership with Courts, significantly benefiting from the company’s commitment to social corporate responsibility.
Johannes, a former Managing Director at First National Bank, recognizes the vital role of the corporate sector in sustaining the creative arts, supporting artists, and nurturing various genres, including literary arts, dance, and drama.
In an online post, he noted that high-profile business executives and professionals in the Caribbean should experience the excitement of a Panorama session—not merely for the music, but also for the invaluable leadership lessons it imparts.
Johannes remarked, “A steel orchestra exemplifies what collective performance demands: role clarity, discipline, coaching, trust, accountability, collaboration, and precision under pressure.” He emphasized that no section can prioritize its performance over the collective, and no performer can simply arrive on performance night intending to improvise their commitment.
Additionally, he stated, “While the winning performance may unfold in a single night, a championship culture is cultivated long in advance of the judges’ arrival.”
Celebrating the Courts Babonneau Steel Orchestra’s special achievement, Johannes described it as “a story of response.”
Reflecting on last year’s defeat, he noted how the orchestra resolutely fought back to reclaim their status as a front-runner. “They returned to work, practiced, adjusted, rebuilt, trusted one another, and regained their place at the top,” he said. “Great teams are not defined by never losing; rather, they are shaped by what loss teaches them.”
Johannes emphasized that the longstanding relationship between Courts and the Babonneau Steel Orchestra extends beyond simply branding; it represents a commitment to the community. He highlighted the importance of supporting young talent and fostering pride around something intrinsically Caribbean.
“True sponsorship evolves into stewardship,” he added.
He further urged that corporate sponsorship should not be evaluated solely based on trophies won but also on the institutions that are nurtured: “Culture is not preserved by applause alone; it thrives when organizations consistently invest in people, showing up year after year without guarantees of victory. The celebration truly belongs to those who have earned it.”
Johannes praised the contributions of band leader Alison Marquis, along with the arrangers, musicians, coaches, volunteers, family, supporters, and members of Courts Babonneau Steel Orchestra. He also acknowledged the dedication of Unicomer’s Marketing team, particularly Ashnel St. Omer and Keneene Betty, for their behind-the-scenes efforts.
As he approaches the conclusion of his tenure at Unicomer, Johannes made a heartfelt request: “Win this one for me. You did; the trophy is yours. It has been my privilege to walk part of this journey with you.”
He concluded, “Thank you for allowing me to leave with one more unforgettable memory. Trophies may capture a moment, but commitment creates a legacy.”