A Slice of the Bajan Culture: Kite Flying, Heritage, and Identity in a Barbadian Easter Tradition VOL.1 © 2025

Author: Dr.William Anderson Gittens, D.D.
ISBN: 979-8-90214-781-7

ABOUT THE AUTHOR DR.WILLIAM ANDERSON GITTENS, D.D.

2022 Featured Speaker at The Barbados Police Service“Annual Grand Conference 2022”Friday 11 th March, 2022 Topic Technology_Employed_As_A_Strategic_Management_Tool_(https://www.academia.edu/ 71361521/Technology_Employed_As_A_Strategic_Management_Tool_2022_ISBN_978_976_96824_5_0)
2018 Produced Multimedia Documentary Belmont Methodist Church Celebrating 180 Years in Barbados 2017 Produced Multimedia Trailer Codrington College Estate Committee
2017 Produced Centennial Multimedia Documentary & Murals Carrington Wesleyan Holiness Church 2015 CEO/Managing Director Consultant Devgro Media Arts Services
2011Project Manager Thorsby HONOURS AND AWARDS
Inducted in the Hall of Professionals of St.Giles Primary
Recipient of the 12th International Prestigious Scout Award Arco Italy
Presented to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of England for outstanding contributions in the field of art.
Presented to His Excellency Governor General Sir Hugh Springer for outstanding contributions in the field of art and Scouting in Barbados.
Received Special accreditation from Hackney England International Art Exhibition.

Designer of postage stamps commemorating 60 years of scouting in Barbados
Dr. William Anderson Gittens, D.D., is a distinguished Barbadian theologian, author, podcaster, photojournalist, media arts specialist, cultural practitioner, and theorist. His multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to culture, community, and creativity, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the Caribbean’s artistic landscape.

Dr. Gittens began his professional journey as a graphic artist, honing his skills in the private sector before transitioning into public service. From the 1980s until his retirement in 2014, he served the Barbados government in various significant roles, which included being the country’s first official police artist International Conference Coordinator and an HIV/AIDS coordinator. His contributions extended beyond art, as he played a crucial role in public health initiatives across multiple governmental departments.

His dedication to Barbados’ cultural heritage is evident in his involvement in national events and the design of postage stamps that celebrate local identity. Notably, during Barbados’ 350th anniversary in 1989, Dr.Gittens received international recognition by meeting Prince Philip and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, alongside His Excellency Sir Hugh Springer GCMG CBE, the Governor General of Barbados marking a significant moment in his career that underscored his commitment to public service and cultural representation.

Dr. Gittens’ educational background is impressive, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts and a Master’s in Cultural Studies from the University of the West Indies. His academic pursuits not only equipped him with valuable skills but also allowed him to share his knowledge as a teacher at the University, further promoting the importance of cultural education.

Dr. Gittens: A Commitment to Learning and Leadership

Dr. Gittens’s educational journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to learning and leadership in the fields of media and cultural studies. His academic pursuits, spanning several years across various institutions, reflect both an ambition for personal growth and a dedication to enhancing his professional capabilities. This essay will explore the qualifications he attained, the skills cultivated through his education, and the impact these experiences had on his career trajectory.

Beginning with his foundational education, Dr. Gittens attended Barbados Community College, where he earned a General Education Diploma in 1992, alongside a specialized diploma in Video/DVD Production. This early exposure to media production marked the beginning of his professional focus, equipping him with technical skills that would prove invaluable in his future endeavours. Furthermore, his qualifications from the London GCE examinations in 1987 and 1988, including distinctions in “A” Level Art and notable grades in “O” Levels for Commerce, History, and English, laid a solid groundwork for his academic and creative pursuits. These accolades not only showcased his intellectual versatility but also established his proficiency in both analytical thinking and artistic expression.

Dr. Gittens’s time at New Jersey City University from 1992 to 1995 saw the culmination of his undergraduate studies, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts. This degree provided him with a deeper understanding of media theory, aesthetics, and production techniques, enabling him to engage with contemporary issues in media critically. It was during this period that he honed his ability to produce compelling narratives and explore the powerful interplay between media and culture, thus cementing his role as a leader in the field. Dr. Gittens was a member of the judicial committee and the editor-in-chief of the New Jersey City University yearbook office.
In pursuit of further knowledge, Dr. Gittens continued his academic journey at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus, enrolling in a master’s program in Cultural Studies from 2004 to 2006. This experience broadened his understanding of cultural representation and its implications within various social contexts. The program allowed him to analyze cultural artifacts critically and to comprehend the nuances of identity, power, and representation in society. Through this advanced study, Dr. Gittens became adept at navigating complex cultural landscapes, positioning him as a knowledgeable advocate for cultural inclusivity and representation.

The skills developed throughout Dr. Gittens’s educational journey have undoubtedly propelled his career forward. His expertise in media arts and cultural studies has positioned him as a thought leader, enabling him to influence discussions on representation and diversity in media. His academic background empowers him to mentor emerging artists and media professionals, fostering an environment where creativity thrives alongside critical inquiry.

Moreover, Dr. Gittens’s commitment to lifelong learning exemplifies the spirit of modern leadership. In a rapidly evolving media landscape, the ability to adapt and re-skill is paramount, and his educational endeavours showcase a proactive approach to personal and professional development. By continuously engaging with new ideas and perspectives, he remains at the forefront of media innovation and cultural discourse.

In conclusion, Dr. Gittens’s educational pursuits illustrate a profound commitment to learning and leadership. His diverse qualifications and experiences have equipped him with essential skills that have not only enhanced his career but have also contributed significantly to the fields of media and cultural studies. As he continues to inspire others through his dedication to education, Dr. Gittens serves as a beacon of what it means to pursue knowledge with passion and purpose, ultimately shaping the future of cultural representation and media engagement.