The Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mrs Amanda Bernstein made her first official visit to La Digue in her new role on Saturday, 6 December 2025, where she attended the special December edition of Rendezvous Diguois, an event that continues to serve as a cornerstone for bringing community members and visitors together to celebrate the cultural heartbeat of the island.
Initiated by the Tourism Department in September 2022, the Creole Rendezvous events are held every quarter on La Digue and Praslin. Since its inception, the programme has evolved into an authentic platform where music, craft, gastronomy, and community come together to honour Seychelles’ cultural identity.
This special Rendezvous Diguois Christmas edition spanned two days, bringing together residents, partners, and visitors in a warm and festive atmosphere that blended the spirit of the season with the richness of Creole culture. The programme featured lively animations for children, including a visit from Santa Claus and gift-giving moments, along with Christmas carols, traditional Creole food, live music, moutya performances, and the sale of locally crafted products and gifts.
Speaking after the event, the Minister commended the collective efforts of local partners, artisans, performers, and organisers who have helped shape Rendezvous Diguois into a vibrant showcase of Seychellois heritage.
“La Digue is more than a destination. It is a feeling. There truly is no place quite like this island. I am proud of the efforts of all our suppliers, partners, and dedicated community members, and I am looking forward to seeing this event go from strength to strength” she said.
Looking ahead, the Minister for Tourism and Culture, emphasised her eagerness to collaborate closely with Diguois communities to continue celebrating the island and safeguarding its role as a proud pillar of Creole culture.
Maximising her time on the island, the Minister also met with a number of tourism and cultural stakeholders in an open meeting on Saturday morning at the La Digue Community Centre, where discussions centred on strengthening collaboration and future support for the island’s development. Her programme further included visits to important cultural sites, including L’Union Estate and the La Digue Library.
