Kevan Gilbert: Amplifying Jamaican culture through film

In the fast-paced world of film and media, Kevan Gilbert stands out as a director whose work is deeply rooted in Jamaican culture.

Passionate about storytelling, he brings the vibrancy of his heritage to life on screen, crafting narratives that seamlessly blend Caribbean identity with modern global trends.

Whether behind the camera or in the editing suite, Kevan sees every project as an opportunity to amplify Jamaican culture through compelling visual storytelling.

Kevan’s journey into film began in his early teens after moving to St Ann from St Catherine. Immersed in a rich storytelling tradition, he found inspiration in the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s competitions while attending Claude McKay High School.

This early exposure solidified his passion for the arts, leading him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a focus on Television Production at Northern Caribbean University. There, he honed his skills in creative direction and filmmaking.

“As Jamaicans, we are all creative in our own way,” Kevan reflects. “Growing up and seeing all these creative legends helped carve the path for me.”

Today, he channels that inspiration into every film, documentary, and campaign he works on. Whether through cinematography, narrative choices, music, or dialect, Jamaican culture remains the heartbeat of his work.

MERGING FILMMAKING WITH CULTURAL IDENTITY

Kevan’s talent for documentary filmmaking first emerged during an independent school project focused on a local monument. The experience gave him the creative freedom to experiment and refine his directorial vision.

“It’s sometimes heartbreaking when something doesn’t come out the way you pictured it,” he admits. “But what keeps me inspired is the love for the craft and continuously pushing my creative boundaries.”

Like many filmmakers, Kevan has faced self-doubt and imposter syndrome, questioning his decision to pursue a nontraditional career path. However, he remains committed to growth, refining his skills to keep up with the evolving film industry.

“One major challenge is staying ahead in an ever-changing creative landscape. I stay up to date through research and by adapting to new trends while staying true to my cultural identity,” he says.

Kevan recognises film as a powerful tool for cultural preservation, particularly at a time when global trends can overshadow local traditions.

“It’s crucial to stay true to our roots and tell stories that preserve our rich culture while expanding its influence on the global stage,” he says.

As a member of the Red Stripe Flavours Squad, Kevan brings his expertise in visual storytelling to a brand that embodies Jamaican culture and innovation.

Working on campaigns that celebrate Jamaica’s vibrant identity, he merges his directorial vision with commercial storytelling, crafting narratives that resonate both locally and internationally.

His work with Red Stripe has allowed him to showcase the energy, resilience, and artistry of Jamaican creatives, reinforcing the country’s cultural impact through engaging visuals and compelling brand stories.

EXPANDING INFLUENCE IN FILM

Kevan has set his sights on pursuing a Master’s in Film to further develop his craft and deepen his impact as a director. He dreams of collaborating with reggae icon Protoje, whose timeless music and powerful messages align with his artistic philosophy.

To young creatives forging their own paths, Kevan offers words of encouragement: “As Chronixx said, ‘Dweet fi di love, not fi di likes’. Making money is one thing, but when that stops coming in, you have to ask yourself – what is truly driving you?”

With every project, Kevan Gilbert is not just making films – he is shaping the future of Jamaican storytelling, ensuring that culture remains at the forefront of creative expression.