Borokeete International Inc, formally known as Borokeete USA. was founded in 1987 in Brooklyn, NY. Borokeete’s mission is to continue with their initial goal of educating people and maintaining important Caribbean traditions. Over the past 21 years Borokeete has worked towards their goal by participating in as well as sponsoring many Caribbean cultural events. It is no wonder that this years theme is all about the history of its people. Borokeete’s 2008 theme for their band is Beauty of the Dark Continent. Beauty of the Dark Continent refers to the natural beauty that comes out of the continent of Africa.
Borokeete held their band pre launch on July 4th at Elements in New York. They teased those who attended with a little taste by showing two well designed costumes. This pre launch only left attendees wanting more and eagerly awaiting the full launch. There was so much anticipation behind Borokeete’s launch that it brought out well respected people from the Caribbean community. Jamaica’s own, reggae superstar Tony Matterhorn was one of the many noticable attendees. On July 5th Borokeete revealed the full 13 sections at Secrets in Brooklyn.
Each section was reflecting some aspect of African heritage. The atmosphere of the night was mythical and exotic forcing all in attendance, including myself, to drift away to an African safari with the sounds of pan and drums in the background. That night Borokeete USA, officially changed their name to Borokeete International Inc.
Each of the designers this year did a wonderful job at capturing all aspects of African beauty. The sections highlighted the beauty of the continent’s animals, flowers, natural gems, and most importantly its people. With sections such as Orchid of Paradise which celebrated Africa’s beautiful flowers.
The red costume had a head piece which would make any woman want to become a flower girl. Another fabulous section Safari, featured a bold tiger print and a tail to match which certainly requires a woman with a great deal confidence to pull off. Other sections included Jewel Birds Kenya which celebrated the colorful birds of East Africa.
After the ladies modeled the costumes on stage, those who attended were allowed to look at the costumes up close as the models walked around the venue. There were certainly two sections that received
the most attention, Black Diamond and Empress of Africa. The name within itself, Black Diamond, initially attracted people and the black and white costume kept their attention. Empress of Africa displayed a blue and white costume that had three tall white extensions that were worn on the model’s upper back. To fit with the title of “Empress†this section will be leading Barokeete down Eastern Parkway at this year’s Labor Day Parade. Borokeete’s official sponsor is Courts Caribbean, A large Trinidadian furniture store. This Labor Day Parade, Courts will be participating with Borokeete on Eastern Parkway. They have bought out an entire section.
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-Written by V. Farnum
-Photography by Delon Chateau
Borokeete, Borokeete! Your costumes are great! You have indeed stunned the New York Labor Day Parade with a “style”, that has never been portrayed before. I fell instantly in love with Ol Donyo… the green.It is absolutely stunning. I wish you luck in this years parade…since Sesames game is just as FIERCE!!!
i’m interested in purchasing a bright costume and head piece. Will need by the end of January. Please contact me at your earliest.
Thanks