Local Filmmaker’s First International Feature to Premiere at CARIFESTA XV
- Vivian Tyson, NewslineTCI Editor
- 38 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The Turks and Caicos Islands’ film industry is set to take another stride onto the world stage as The Road Dogs Running Club, the debut international feature by local filmmaker Leonardo Lightbourne, has been officially selected for screening at the prestigious CARIFESTA XV Film & Video Programme.
This marks a significant milestone for Lightbourne, who first made waves in 2023 by winning two categories at the ADIP local film festival. Now, his work will be showcased alongside some of the region’s most compelling voices in film when CARIFESTA XV unfolds in Barbados from August 25–29, 2025. The screening of The Road Dogs Running Club is scheduled for Friday, August 29.
Festival organizers praised the film for its originality, emotional impact, and contribution to the Caribbean’s shared cultural identity. The documentary-style feature follows the Road Dogs Running Club during their inaugural international journey to the A1A Half Marathon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Along the way, it captures the group’s camaraderie, personal triumphs, and the transformative power of fitness, while weaving in messages of resilience, cultural pride, and community spirit.
“This is a big step for the Turks and Caicos Islands,” said Lightbourne, who also serves as president of the Road Dogs Running Club. “The film industry is a very lucrative one and a great way to tell the stories of our people to an international audience. This project celebrates our culture, promotes national pride, and encourages healthy lifestyles through sports like running. I’m looking forward to networking with other Caribbean filmmakers and showcasing the beauty of our islands.”
The selection is also a symbolic win for the Turks and Caicos’ emerging creative sector, which has seen a gradual rise in independent filmmakers, photographers, and artists gaining recognition beyond local shores. Industry observers say that exposure at an event like CARIFESTA can open doors for future collaborations, co-productions, and potential investment in local filmmaking infrastructure.
Founded in August 2024, the Road Dogs Running Club is a registered Non-Profit Organization (NPO) and a proud member of the Turks and Caicos Islands Sport Commission. Guided by the motto “Every Dog Has Its Pace”, the club brings together individuals passionate about running, community, and personal wellness. For sponsorship opportunities or further information, contact roaddogstci@gmail.com or 649-343-9582.