Barbados Gospelfest Artiste Ministers 2011

All across the world, worshippers are raising their voices making the simple, yet profound declaration, “I Give Myself Away So You Can Use Me.” This heart-felt anthem is stirring up a movement of renewed abandon to the cause of Christ. Penned and first heralded by William McDowell, the song is the cry of his heart and the foundation of his worship ministry.

Born and raised in Chicago, IL., the city known as the birthplace of Gospel music, VaShawn Mitchell became the assistant music director of St. Mark Baptist Church when he was barely a teenager, working closely with nationally renowned choir leader, Lonnie Hunter.

Michelle McKinney-Hammond is the author of over 30 books on living, loving, and overcoming. As a relationship and empowerment coach, internationally known speaker, singer and television co-host, it is Michelle’s mission and passion to help women and men to first, be intimately connected to God, then, empowered to become their personal best in order to experience victory in every area of their lives.

Kevin Downswell is a Jamaican born Gospel recording artiste, who discovered that he was blessed with the gift to sing at a very tender age. In July of 2003 with the song “Praise”, he won the JCDC Gospel Festival Competition, a national event that sees thousands of entrants each year, and is also broadcasted to millions of viewers across Jamaica and overseas.

As a singer, songwriter and producer, John has worked with several artists in gospel and secular music. He has worked with such ministries as, Isaiah D. Thomas and Elements of Praise, The Barbados Gospelfest Mass Choir, The Alaska Mass Choir, just to name a few.

Positive began his onstage musical career in 2006 with a well received and critically acclaim ed performance at Carifesta Music Festival. A unique blend between reggae and Gospel is the foundation of Positive’s music and this signature style piqued the interest of Lion of Judah Sounds who offered the young performer, writer and producer a record deal in January 2008.

Singing has been as natural for Doreen Vail as breathing. Her powerful vocals have been compared to those of Yolanda Adams, Jill Scott, and even Barbara Streisand. However, most people agree that she has a unique style that is all her own.

King’s Ministries is a group of young people from all walks of life and from different denominations and backgrounds, but with one thing in common - a heart of worship and a desire to see souls saved through their ministry.

Hoszia Hinds is a passionate, singer and songwriter who began his journey of ministering the word of God in song from about the age of 10 years. Not content to sing other people’s songs, he spent long evenings improvising musical instruments, creating and writing his own music to whatever was going on in his head.

Trenacia Esseboom is currently the top female Gospel artiste in Guyana. With more than 40 original songs to her credit, this anointed soloist has appeared on stage with renowned international artistes such as Papa San, Prodigal Son and Chevelle Franklyn, among others.

Ekklesia was formed in 2001 when God called Nadine Lee to start a new vocal group that would touch Christians and non Christians alike. Over the following year the group developed its vocal sound, the news spread and Ekklesia, which means " The Called Out", began writing their own material.