I am convinced that Carnival needs to be a more central part of our tourism strategy. Yes, on the one hand, there may be bands that are content to visit Samaroo's in Port-of-Spain, design a BBF (bikini, beads and feathers) prototype, FedEx it to a supplier in China, who will mass produce it and ship it back to Trinidad for 'Carnival'. But on the other hand, remember that there are bands like Trini Revellers in Woodbrook. Speaking to Enrico Rajah about his band, he explained that his costumes are 100 per cent local, give masqueraders the choice of wearing a full costume, and be part of a presentation that consistently shows that it is possible to balance BBF mas with portrayals with genuine themes that impress judges and win competitions. (Check out trinirevellersmas.com) My name is Derren Joseph and I love my country. As always, I end by saying that despite our challenges, we are so blessed to live in this beautiful land. Let us continue to have the audacity of hope in the future of our beloved country.