In commemoration of World Steelpan Day, steelpan innovator Akua Leith said pride in Trinidad and Tobago’s status as the birthplace of the steelpan remains a powerful force behind the instrument’s growing global appeal and the industry’s advancement.

Mr Leith, the Managing Director of Musical Instruments of Trinidad and Tobago Company Limited (MITTCO), says the company has come a long way and continues to explore new opportunities, including expanding access to global markets.

“It’s a huge accomplishment. I always tell my peers let’s measure the progress and if we have to measure the progress from the 1930s to 2026, I think it has been tremendous. It’s bright. As an instrument, as a people, all the different support systems in which we see our artistes develop, our performers develop, our educators develop. I think Trinidad has to be very, very, very proud.”