MANOEL ‘King Perai’Ferreira, who was crowned the 2015 adult Calypso Monarch with his song “King Perai,” received $100,000 from the Ministry of Amerindians Affairs, for being the first Amerindian to cop the title since 2002.At a handing over ceremony at the Ministry’s Quamina and Thomas Streets’ Office yesterday, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, congratulated Ferreira for his outstanding performance during the calypso competition, which was done during the month of February, as part of the Mashramani celebrations.
She said that the ministry was pleased to know that an indigenous dominated this national competition, and it shows that Amerindians have great talent. “We are very proud that an indigenous competitor…indeed it is a great honour for us to express our congratulations to and appreciation for you, to participate in this very important national event, Mashramani, which comes from an Amerindian word.” Minister Sukhai told Ferreira.
Meanwhile, the delighted calypso monarch expressed gratitude to the ministry for the support which he said will assist him is replicating his compact disc that is in high demand. King Perai noted that he is currently preparing for “Clash of the Champions” in which he will be participating.
He said that he had entered the competition three times before, with the hope of winning, but was unsuccessful. However, this year he went stronger, and was thrilled when he was crowned calypso monarch.  As for other young talented Amerindians, King Perai urged that they not to give up on their dreams. (GINA)