Cowley Road Works, the Charity responsible for Cowley Road Carnival has announced the appointment of a visionary leader, Roy McEwen, as the new Chairperson.
With an illustrious career marked by a passion for carnival arts, technology, and entrepreneurship, Mr. McEwen brings a wealth of expertise to the organisation.
Roy McEwen’s distinguished background includes serving as the Chair of the Caribbean Music Association, the Notting Hill Carnival Trust, and as the CEO of MaKING Carnival. His impactful leadership roles have played a pivotal role in shaping the vibrant world of carnival arts and entertainment.
At MaKING Carnival, Mr. McEwen pioneered innovative initiatives, including the conception and execution of the first and only reality TV show dedicated to training and launching the careers of emerging carnival costume designers for the iconic Notting Hill Carnival. His entrepreneurial spirit expanded MaKING Carnival’s reach, bringing it to the airwaves of JamTV on the Sky platform, where it showcased the immense talent within the carnival community to a broader audience.
Roy McEwen’s commitment to safety and well-being within the carnival community is evidenced by his authorship of “On de Road,” a comprehensive health and safety guide for mobile sound systems. Endorsed by the Metropolitan Police and referenced by the Greater London Authority in its Cultural Review of the Notting Hill Carnival, this publication underscores Mr. McEwen’s dedication to ensuring the safety of participants while celebrating the cultural richness of carnival events.
In his new role as Chairperson of Cowley Road Works Charity, Roy McEwen brings a unique blend of creativity, leadership, and a relentless commitment to excellence. His passion for celebrating culture and fostering creativity in all its forms aligns seamlessly with the mission and values of the organisation. Commenting on the appointment, Mr. McEwen stated, ““The Cowley Road Carnival is one of the most anticipated events that puts the people of Oxfordshire front and centre. Carnival provides a platform for artistic expression and a spectacular parade, embodying the true essence of masquerade. Our stakeholders are keen to see the sustainable success of the carnival on the Cowley Road. I am encouraged that 2024 provides an opportunity to return Cowley Road Carnival to the summer calendar and its contribution to the economic vitality of the Cowley Road community.
Pax Nindi FRSA, CEO of the Charity, remarked, “Roy is a breath of fresh air in an organisation that has struggled for the last two years. With his Carnival and business knowledge, we are embarking on a brilliant journey with such strong leadership.” The entire Cowley Road Carnival board of Trustees and its stakeholders eagerly anticipates the positive impact of Roy McEwen’s leadership as the organisation continues its mission to engage and celebrate diverse communities through the annual Carnival and year-round cultural engagement programmes.
The Cowley Road Carnival is one of the most anticipated events that puts the people of Oxfordshire front and centre. Carnival provides a platform for artistic expression and a spectacular parade, embodying the true essence of masquerade. Our stakeholders are keen to see the sustainable success of the carnival on the Cowley Road. I am encouraged that 2024 provides an opportunity to return Cowley Road Carnival to the summer calendar and contributing to the economic vitality of the Cowley Road community.
Carnival planning and fundraising are going ahead and we aim to be on the streets 7 July 2024!