GOAT SKIN 242 | Beyond Showtime: The People, Passion & Power of Junkanoo 🇧🇸

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With her infectious smile and boundless energy, Sadira Levarity Cooper has been dubbed by some as the "Face of Junkanoo," representing The Bahamas' greatest showcase of culture both at home and abroad.

During the recent visit of His Majesty King Charles III, Sadira was seen performing alongside the King, showcasing the spirit and energy of Junkanoo on a global stage.

But beyond the colourful crepe paper, intricate tricks and goatskin drums, many may be surprised to learn that, by day, Sadira is an educator who has been teaching Spanish for 20 years.

Her love affair with Junkanoo began at just 10 years old when she accompanied her mother to a Junkanoo shack. When someone making costumes asked, "Doesn't she love to dance?" Sadira enthusiastically replied, "Of course I do!"

"And from there, it was history," she recalled.

More than 30 years later, Sadira continues to bring that same passion and energy to every performance.

"For me, it's a beautiful mix of anticipation. It's a beautiful mix of being excited and an exhilarating feeling," she shared, describing the adrenaline rush of performing.

For Sadira, however, Junkanoo is about much more than the excitement of the rush. It's about community, commitment and belonging.

Encouraging others to become involved, she shared, "Get into any of the shops. All of them are warm, welcoming."

"It gives you purpose. It gives you belonging," she added, reflecting on the pride and fulfilment that come from being part of the creative process.

With Junkanoo season in full swing, Poinciana Magazine is launching a new series, Goat Skin 242, telling the stories of Junkanoo beyond SHOWTIME!

We'll delve into the process, people, history and energy of Junkanoo, sharing the stories of those seen and unseen who bring The Bahamas' greatest cultural celebration to life.

Because long before the first drumbeat on Bay Street, there's a story worth telling.