Band launches have started. Prototypes are being constructed. Masqueraders are getting ready to select their costumes. As soon as the NBA season ends for me, another season begins: Carnival Season! Last week I let you know about the Children’s Breakfast Club and Second Chance Scholarships organizations; this week I’d like to tell you about my Toronto Revellers Cultural Association.

We are a non-profit organization that contributes to Canada’s multiculturalism through promoting and celebrating the traditions of the Caribbean. We first entered Toronto’s carnival competition back in 2005, and have since become one of the premier bands in the festival.

In 2007 and 2008 we won Band of the Year back-to-back, which really increased our profile in the community and expanded our group. Last year we had almost 2000 participants from the community including volunteers, musicians/DJs, masqueraders, and children. We call ourselves “The People’s Band” and are always trying to stimulate and cultivate our youth, and our community.

Carnival Season for me has always been my return to Toronto, after the basketball season. Last year, with the Miami Heat going until the NBA finals, I wasn’t able to return to Toronto until the summer and carnival preparations were well underway. Although I’m disheartened that my current team, the Raptors, did not make the playoffs this year, I am pleased that I will be able to be with my band and participate in the Toronto Revellers activities much earlier this year.

I love what carnival represents: the music, the camaraderie, the bridging of generations, and the beauty of mas. There is so much to love! The dancing, the energy, the anticipation, and of course…the competition. What can I say? I am a true competitor at heart, and go from one sport straight into the next. I love to win, and I always try my best to ensure that my team is strong, motivated, and enjoying the process.

This year, our theme is Bollywood: Lights, Camera, Action! The idea was presented to me by a good friend of mine, Nav Bhatia, otherwise known as the Raptors “Super Fan.” Nav, who is of Indian descent, thought that the theme of Bollywood would bring great colour, vibrant costumes, and a unique energy to the carnival. I think he was right, and I think we have great inspiration to work with. There is so much in the Bollywood industry that is bringing out the best in our section leaders and other creative members of our team.

So we’re ready! Our band launch is coming up on Saturday, May 12 at 45 Hallcrown Place (the Armenian Community Centre), where we will present our costumes along with the music, dance, and everything spectacular that Bollywood has to offer. It is a true pleasure to be able to provide this creative outlet for people in the community. I have worked with so many talented designers and visionaries over the years that it is a real joy to be able to start the carnival season each year and see how it unfolds.

The Raptors season came to an end, but there’s still another championship at stake for me. So here’s to wishing my Toronto Revellers family all the best as we pursue the “title” for 2012, and here’s a special thank you to everyone on my Revellers team who puts their heart and soul into our band each and every year, and makes my summer tradition an enjoyable one.

This year a unique opportunity has been presented for me to open up the carnival experience to the Raptors fans as well, and expand beyond our Caribbean family. Carnival in this city is such a wonderful tradition, that it’s only fitting that it is shared with the members of all communities in Toronto. It is just one element of our rich culture, but definitely a great one to share. Visit www.TorontoRevellers.com if you’d like to join us!