Japan hosted its first weekend celebration of Soca from September 15-18, organized by Kegon Toussaint, featuring events in Tokyo, including a traditional “pretty mas” Caribbean carnival with vibrant costumes and festivities.
With over 300 attendees from various regions, including New York, Atlanta, Paris, and Los Angeles, the event celebrated Caribbean culture with performances by artists like Nailah Blackman, Jadel, and Mical Teja, providing a taste of the Caribbean to the diaspora living in Japan.
A Growing Caribbean Diaspora in Japan
“There’s a small but growing diaspora of Caribbean people living in Japan… Soca in Japan is creating a platform for them to at least get a taste of their culture and also giving them the opportunity to build their own Caribbean business in Japan,” Toussaint told Essence magazine.
“Performing in Japan had to be one of the most unique experiences I’ve ever had… It was a euphoric feeling for me. I can’t explain how much I love that place,” shared Nailah Blackman with Essence, expressing her joy and surprise at seeing the Japanese embrace and enjoy Caribbean culture.
Excitement for Underrepresented Culture
For Trinidadian lawyer and English teacher in Japan, Apphia Pereira, the event was a thrilling and fulfilling showcase of Caribbean heritage in a country where it is underrepresented. “Seeing the fusion and the appreciation that Japanese people showed was heartwarming and thrilling. I can’t wait to see what’s next for us,” Pereira told Essence.
