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About Me.

Sherwood McCaskie is a distinguished Cultural Practitioner, Information Specialist, Communication Adviser, and Media Producer, who breathes life into the oral traditions of Barbados, transforming them into official records through captivating features and documentaries. In doing so, he not only preserves the island’s oral history but also safeguards its invaluable audio-visual heritage. With a portfolio of over 500 audio-visual TV series and programmes, along with numerous conference and seminar presentations, Sherwood provides Barbadians—both at home and abroad—with profound insights into their history and culture, fostering a deep sense of pride and national identity.

 

Beyond Barbados, Sherwood has taken this innovative approach to digital documentation to international audiences, earning acclaim from universities across the Caribbean, Asia, Europe, and the United States. His remarkable contributions have been recognized with the prestigious UNESCO-sponsored award for “Best TV Documentary in the Caribbean and Latin America,” presented by the Caribbean Broadcasting Union on four occasions. 

 

An educator at heart, Sherwood mentors emerging talent in Media Production, Communications, Research, and Information Management. He also shares his expertise through lectures, workshops, seminars, and guided tours, inspiring a new generation to value and preserve its cultural heritage. 

 

As a "Cultural Historian and Media Visionary”, his work exemplifies dedication to cultural preservation, innovation in media production, and a commitment to educating and inspiring pride in Barbadian identity.

Education

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Master of Arts
UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES, FACULTY OF HUMANITIES,

Cave Hill, Barbados

Areas of Focus: Natural, built and intangible heritage of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

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Bachelor of Arts: Upper Second Class Honours

UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES, FACULTY OF ARTS AND GENERAL STUDIES,

Mona, Jamaica

Areas of Focus: Information management and dissemination

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Certificate in the Convergence and Digitization of Information
INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION OF CULTURAL PROPERTY (ICCROM), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

​EXPERIENCE

CARIBBEAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION, The Pine, St. Michael

General Manager (Ag.), April 2019-June 2020

  • Led the strategic management team of the Corporation.

  • Carefully protected the station’s role in nation- building.

  • Successfully led the station’s commitment to national service in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Successfully implemented a special programme of local production, where viewers benefited from an 85 percent increase in local productions.

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Senior Manager & Head of Archives & Information, 2008-Present

  • Provided guidelines for the collection, management and use of the audio-visual heritage of the island.

  • Produce and present TV programmes that chronicle the history of our people, their work, and communities.

 

BARBADOS COMMUNITY COLLEGE, Eyrie Howell’s Road, St. Michael

Part-Time Tutor, Library & Information Programme, 2005-present

  • Preparation and development of course.

  • Tutoring.

  • Preparing examinations and grading scripts.

  • Mentoring students.

 

UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES, Cave Hill, St. Michael

Part-Time Reference Librarian, 2005-2008

  • Provision of reference and information services to students, lecturers and visiting professors.

 

INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION OF CULTURAL PROPERTY (ICCROM), New Delhi, India, 2009

Visiting Lecturer/Adjunct Faculty: Digitisation of Sound & Image Collections

  • Lectured on the importance of preserving sound and images collections, digitization, and the reuse of archival material in the production of newer programmes.

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ANTENEO DE MANILA UNIVERSITY, QUEZON CITY, MANILA PHILIPPINES

Visiting Conference Presenter 2012 -

  • Presents at conferences and workshops in the areas of Information gathering, and dissemination, reuse of audio-visual material, and heritage preservation.

 

FACULTY OF ADMINISTRATIVE SCIENCE – BRAWIJAYA UNIVERSITY- UNIVERSITY MALANGE CITY INDONESIA

Visiting Lecturer/ Adjunct Faculty, 2016 -

  • Lectures and facilitates workshops in the areas of information gathering information dissemination and heritage preservation.

Digital Publications
&
Television Productions

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Trees! The Silent Sentinel (2015)

A captivating 17-part series exploring the historical

significance of trees, their diverse species, and their

crucial role in coastal protection, soil conservation, beautification, and natural cooling effects.

 

From Agrarian to Tourism and Services: The Economic and Social Transformation of Barbados Post-World War II (2011, 90 mins)

Commissioned by the Central Bank of Barbados to celebrate its 40th anniversary, this documentary chronicles the dramatic economic and social changes Barbados underwent following World War II, marking its transition from an agrarian society to a hub for tourism and services.

 

From Backyard Step to Pulpit (2010, 90 mins)

Produced for the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas, this documentary celebrates the 250th anniversary of Methodism's arrival in the western hemisphere, highlighting its profound impact on communities.

 

Callender’s Musical Legacy (2009, 90 mins)

This programme honors the life and contributions of the late Mr. Bentley Callender, Choir Master and Organist of St. Mary’s Church in Bridgetown for 45 years. It features testimonies from his former choristers, who have gone on to become renowned musicians, choir directors, and organists, as they celebrate his enduring influence.

 

Sophia’s Beloved Garrison (2011, 60 mins)

Based on the research of Sophia Lewis, this documentary delves into the history and heritage of Barbados’ Historic Garrison, part of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Power in the Wind (2016, 6 episodes, 30 mins each)

Historian and Anthropologist Dr. Lennox Honychurch takes viewers on a journey through the story of Barbados’ windmills. The series examines their role in the sugar industry, the introduction of wind technology by the Dutch, the effects of Slavery Compensation Money, and the resurgence of wind energy as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

 

A Piece of Our Past: Miss Barbados 1985 (2012, 30 mins)

This program revisits the controversial events surrounding the Miss Barbados 1985 competition, where the declared winner was found not to hold a Barbadian passport. Through archival footage and calypso performances, it places the incident in historical context and examines its cultural impact.

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An Endangered Palate (2008, 60 mins)

Addressing the growing reliance on imported food among Barbadians, this program showcases the versatility and flavor of locally grown ingredients in creating delicious traditional Barbadian dishes, encouraging a return to homegrown culinary roots.

 

An Act of Great Courage (2018, 5 episodes, 30 mins each)

This series discusses the major rebellion that took place in Barbados on Sunday, April 14, 1816. Featuring insights from prominent historians, including UWI Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Dr. Henderson Carter, Dr. Tara Inniss, and Dr. David Browne, it presents the latest research on the events leading up to the rebellion, the uprising itself, and its enduring legacy in Barbados’ history.

 

The Maritime Legacy of Eric Hassel (2018, 6 episodes, 30 mins each)

In an era when air travel was neither accessible nor affordable, inter-island shipping served as a lifeline for trade and connection within the Caribbean. This series explores Barbados’ maritime industry, focusing on the significant contributions of the late Eric Hassel and his shipping enterprise. It highlights the vibrant schooner trade, inter-island commerce, and the role of Bridgetown’s port in the region’s integration. Through stories of resilience in the face of adversity, the series celebrates Barbados' rich maritime heritage and its pivotal role in Caribbean history.

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Speightstown! A Forgotten Treasure? (2014, 16 episodes, 30 mins each)

Once Barbados’ primary port and commercial hub, Speightstown boasts a vibrant history dating back to the 17th century, when it was a key connection to England and the broader Western world. This series examines the town's glorious past, its decline into neglect, and its untapped economic potential, offering a compelling vision for revitalization while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

 

Landscapes (2019, 2 episodes, 30 mins each)

Barbados is home to numerous picturesque locations that have inspired writers, poets, and composers. This series takes viewers on a guided tour of Foul Bay in St. Philip, showcasing its stunning beauty through the perspective of resident Ivan Burke, whose lens brings its charm to life.

 

Today is a Funny Night (2019, 11 episodes, 30 mins each)

On July 26, 1937, social unrest erupted in Bridgetown, escalating the next day and spreading to rural areas. These events marked the beginning of significant socio-political change in Barbados. In this series, historians delve into the causes, the riots themselves, their aftermath, the subsequent commissions of inquiry, and the transformative social changes that followed, providing a comprehensive historical perspective.

 

Art Out of Nature: Harrison Cave Barbados (2017, 11 episodes, 30 mins each)

While visitors marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites of Harrison Cave, the engineering feats behind its creation often go unnoticed. This series celebrates the courage and ingenuity of the men who worked on Barbados’ second major engineering project, highlighting their role in unearthing this natural wonder. It also honors those who rediscovered the cave, operated it in its early years, and contributed to its redevelopment. Looking forward, the series explores the ongoing legacy and future of this remarkable attraction.

 

Tales from the Tombs (2014, 13 episodes, 30 mins each)

Gravestone inscriptions offer more than genealogical insights—they open a window into the cultural, social, and political history of societies. This series takes viewers on a journey through Barbadian cemeteries, where historians interpret these inscriptions to reveal worldviews, values, and rituals of past generations. Through these analyses, the series provides a rich tapestry of Barbados’ evolving societal narratives.

 

The Charter of Barbados (2009, 30 mins)

The seeds of Barbados’ journey to independence were sown as early as January 15, 1652, with the signing of the Charter of Barbados in Oistins. This pivotal document not only shaped the island’s future but also influenced the United States Declaration of Independence in 1776. This feature explores the historical significance of the Charter and its enduring impact on Barbados and the Western world.

 

The Monarch Speaks (2010, 90 mins)

Since 1960, the organised calypso competition has been a cornerstone of Barbados' annual Crop-Over celebration. This documentary highlights each year’s winning calypsonian, exploring the inspiration behind their songs, their recollections of the performances, and their lasting contributions to Barbados’ musical landscape.

 

Our Heritage (2011, 13 episodes, 30 mins each)

On June 25, 2011, Greater Bridgetown and its Garrison earned UNESCO World Heritage designation. This series follows guided city tours led by historians who explain the significance of the area’s architecture, customs, and stories, offering a captivating insight into what makes the city unique and historically valuable.

 

The Coconut: Something for Everyone (2019, 2 episodes, 30 mins each)

Coconut water has long been a staple in tropical regions, known in traditional medicine for aiding digestion and other health benefits. This series traces the history of the coconut tree and its fruit, delving into its nutritional value and showcasing the wide array of products derived from coconuts, including culinary and practical uses of its leaves.

 

From Swine Food to Fine Food: The Breadfruit with Dr. Lennox Honychurch (2016, 30 mins)

This feature follows the journey of the breadfruit from Tahiti to the botanical gardens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It recounts its use during the colonial era as sustenance for pigs and the enslaved, celebrating its transformation into a versatile ingredient featured in gourmet cuisine.

 

My Community (2020–2025, over 260 episodes, 30 mins each)

This series discusses the rich history and heritage of Barbadian communities through the voices of their residents. My Community explores the social, political, and economic evolution of Barbados in an engaging and personal style, fostering a deeper connection to the island’s past.

 

Barbados’ Seaportal (2016, 8 episodes, 30 mins each)

The construction of Barbados’ Deep-Water Harbour (1957–1961) stands as the island’s most significant engineering achievement, catalyzing major economic development. This series features historians and workers who share the circumstances leading to its construction, the technical challenges overcome, the grandeur of its opening, and the profound economic impact it had on the island.

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Voices from St. Peter (90 mins)

Parishioners share heartfelt stories and memories of the late Rt. Hon. Owen Arthur, reflecting on his legacy and transformative contributions to St. Peter.

 

Sir David Simmons: His Life in Focus (2021, 8 episodes, 30 mins each)

Statesman Sir David Simmons takes viewers on an intimate autobiographical journey, recounting his childhood, education, family life, political career, tenure as Chief Justice of Barbados, and his impactful work in retirement.

 

Our People: Albert Phillips (2022, 2 episodes, 30 mins each)

Barbadian engineer Albert Phillips dedicated his life to the construction of quality roads in Barbados, working for the benefit of all. Now, he expresses concern about the current state of road construction on the island. In this series, he reflects on his experiences, emphasizing the importance of building durable roads and the need for a well-planned maintenance schedule to ensure their long-term upkeep.

 

An Honoured Economist (2021, 30 mins each)

This program pays tribute to celebrated Barbadian economist Sir Courtney Blackman, founder and first Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados. It highlights his pioneering work and enduring legacy in shaping the nation’s financial stability.

 

Our National Botanical Gardens (6 episodes, 30 mins each)

This series chronicles the development of Barbados’ National Botanical Gardens, exploring the site’s rich history, the rationale behind its selection, innovative design concepts, and the legacy it aims to leave for future generations.

 

History’s First Draft (30 mins)

This feature chronicles the events leading to the inauguration of Barbados’ National Heroes, with special emphasis on how these moments were captured and portrayed by electronic media.

 

Dame Billie Miller: Her Life in Focus (2022, 13 episodes, 30 mins each)

Dame Billie Miller, former Deputy Prime Minister of Barbados, shares captivating stories of her upbringing, her father’s influence on her political career, her legal advocacy for social change, her diplomatic contributions, and her role in the redevelopment of Bridgetown.

 

Living the Legacy: Continuing the Journey (1 hour, 2022)

This documentary celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Central Bank of Barbados, emphasizing the institution's enduring stability and its pivotal role in Barbados’ economic growth.

 

Monuments: A Tribute to the Barbadian Family (30 mins)

Following the removal of the Nelson Statue from its central position in Bridgetown, a national competition invited designs for a monument honoring the Barbadian family. This program showcases the concepts of the three finalists, exploring their artistic and cultural significance.

 

Monuments: We Loyal Sons and Daughters All

The concept design by Vincent Jones and Hugh Holder was selected as the monument to adorn National Hero Square. This feature highlights the announcement of the winning design and includes a presentation from the artists, offering insights into their creative process and the significance of their work.

 

Christmas at St. Peter 2022

After two years without a Christmas recital due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the choir of the Church of St. Peter in Barbados once again fills the air with celebratory Christmas songs. This 90-minute feature brings the joyous sounds of the season to life, capturing the festive spirit of the church community.

 

Our Hospital

Barbados’ general hospital plays a vital role in meeting the medical needs of the nation. This series takes an in-depth look at the hospital's services, providing viewers with valuable information on how to access care and an understanding of the processes involved in ensuring the health and well-being of the Barbadian people.

 

Elombe Speaks

Barbadian cultural icon Elombe Mottley is celebrated for his monumental contributions to the development of the island’s culture and identity. This series honors his work in fostering self-love among Barbadians, exploring his enduring influence on the nation’s cultural landscape.

 

Dr. George Belle Speaks

Political scientist and retired Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of the West Indies, Dr. George Belle, is renowned for his scholarly research and insightful opinions on a wide range of topics. In this series, Dr. Belle reflects on Barbados' Republican status one year after the transition. He also discusses the decision to erect a monument to the Barbadian family in National Hero Square and the pivotal role played by National Hero Samuel Jackman Prescod.

 

Resilience of the Spice Isle

Resilience of the Spice Isle is a riveting TV series that examines Grenada's remarkable journey of endurance and recovery, with a particular focus on the turbulent political era marked by the overthrow of Sir Eric Gary in 1979, and the assassination of Prime Minister Maurice Bishop in 1983. The series discusses the island's rich cultural heritage, the strength of its people, and its ability to rebound from political upheaval, natural disasters, and economic challenges. Through powerful storytelling and vivid imagery, viewers are immersed in the events that shaped Grenada's history and witness the enduring spirit of a nation committed to preserving its identity and forging a brighter future.

Conference Presentations

  1. Creating a Broadcast Archives: “Collections in Islands, Setting-up and Promoting Cultural Heritage through Networking” 12 August 2011 Museum of Art of Puerto Rico San Juan, Puerto Rico.

  2. Preserving Barbadian Heritage, 5th Rizal Library International Conference, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines. October 2014

  3. Conservation Strategies for Greater Bridgetown and Its Garrison, The Past for Sale; The Economic Entanglement of Cultural Heritage, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts, Centre for Heritage & Society. 2013

  4. Heritage Erased? Cultural Heritage Protection in Times of Risk: Challenges and Opportunities Istanbul, Turkey, 15 – 17 November, 2012, Yildiz Technical University – ICOMOS ICORP International Conference proceedings.

  5. Reinventing Our Brand in the Post-modern Environment, Leadership and Change: 6th International Conference, Setting Directions, Braving the Odds, 23-24 October 2014, Leong Hall Auditorium, Ateneo de Manila University.

  6. Libraries: Millennials’ Treasure Chests CLICK! Connecting Libraries, Information and Community Knowledge, 16 -18, November, 2017. Leong Hall Auditorium, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines

  7. Why Does the Past Matter? Changing Vision, Media, and Rationales in the 21st century May 4-7, UMass Amherst Centre, Massachusetts, Centre for Heritage & Society.

  8. Pride in our Heritage and faith in the future: Our Intangible heritage. – MA Thesis, 2004 (Unpublished).

  9. Barbados in Scribble Magazine. – Jamaica: Scribbles Publication, 2004.

  10. Earwitnesses: Our Oral and Aural Heritage: Manifestation and Dynamics in the Caribbean-. Barbados: Presented by CBC’s General Manager Dr. Allyson Leacock as Keynote address during “Soundscapes Conference- Our Oral and Aural Tradition, Monday July 25th, 2005, Cave Hill UWI.

  11. A Democratised Celebration; 5th International Conference on the Inclusive Museum, University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus Barbados, 2 – 5 August, 2012.

  12. A Democratised Celebration Denmark: https://museumsformidlere.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/magasin-nr-26.pdf, Conference presentation, Denmark, 2013.

  13. A Preserved Festival: delivered as The Alfred Pragnell Memorial lecture 2010, for the annual Holetown Festival.

  14. Preserving Barbadian Audio- Visual Heritage - “Libraries, Archives and Museums: Common Challenges, Unique Approaches" 5th International Rizal Library Conference, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines. October 25- 26th 2012.

  15. Reinventing Our Brand in the Post-modern Environment - Leadership and Change: Setting Directions, Braving the Odds 23-24 October 2014, Leong Hall Auditorium, Ateneo de Manila University.

  16. Creating a Broadcast Archives. - IFLA/UNESCO Conference “Collections in Islands Setting-up and Promoting Cultural Heritage through Networking”12 August 2011, Museum of Art of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico.

  17. Information: The Social Instrument of Nationhood: Infotalks. Department and Library & Information Studies Seminar Series, Information & Nationhood, October 2022 – Jamaica, University of the West Indies, Mona Campus. 

  18. Heritage Erased? - Heritage at Risk: Cultural Heritage Protection in Times of Risk: Challenges and Opportunities Istanbul Yildiz Technical University- ICOMOS ICORP International Symposium- 15-17 November 2012.

  19. Digital Archives and Broadcast Narratives: Unveiling the Synergy in Information Forms,- University of Guyana, two-day Colloquium on the Development of the Digital Archive of Guyanese and Caribbean Festivals, Literature and Culture, 2024.

  20. Ship Ahoy: Decolonising Archival Thought through the Barbados Landship- International Conference on the History of Records and Archives (ICHORA) ICHORA 2024 Programme, University of the West Indies, November 2024.

  21. Beyond Our Shores: Celebrating Barbadian Legacy and Inspiring New Narratives. Presentation to the Barbadian Diaspora, Barbados Consulate General Office, New York, 2024.

Awards & Recognition

  • Best Climate Change TV Documentary in the Caribbean and Latin America 2023, Caribbean Broadcasting Union, 2024 sponsored by the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre AWARD “Info Insight: Rum & Sargassum”

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  • Caribbean Broadcasting Union, (CBU) 2014 Award: Best TV Documentary, Education and Culture in the Caribbean and Latin America “Speightstown: A Forgotten Treasure?”, (A 16-part series)

 

  • Caribbean Broadcasting Union, (CBU) 2010 Awards: Best TV Documentary UNESCO Education and Culture in the Caribbean Latin America “The Monarch Speaks”

 

  • Caribbean Broadcasting Union, 2009 Awards: Best TV Documentary in the Caribbean and Latin America 2008 “The Charter of Barbados”​

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