In embracing the heritage of his African ancestors, Local Steel Pan Champion, 20-year-old Hanana Ben Lewi, has for some eight years now been indulging in the arts and music. This is as the award-winning performer seeks to revive the culture of his forefathers by continuing the traditions which were brought to the Caribbean during the days of the plantation system.
While pursuing a secondary education at The Bishops’ High School, the budding artist became exposed to avenues which later led to several noteworthy accomplishments he now has under his belt.
It all began back in 2009 when the student picked up his first pair of steel pan sticks. Since then, Ben Lewi has evolved as an up-and-coming musical genius, even winning himself a number of prizes at various platforms, both at home and aboard. 
Among his achievements are his titles at the Republic Bank Panaorama Competition which saw the young artist securing second place in the Junior Solo category in 2015. However, this was certainly not enough for the overachiever who subsequently went on to cop the top spot and was crowned the first place Champion in the very category for two consecutive years to follow. Given his many successes, he now looks ahead to the senior championship, come next year.
Adding to that, the 20-year-old who is now a second year International Relations student at the University of Guyana, has also dipped his toes in drama and poetry. In doing so, the young man recently walked away with the 2nd place prize at this year’s Hip Hop and Poetry Slam Competition.
“I play pan because it acts as a link between me and my forefathers,” expressed the Junior Solo Champion is his attempt to outline what prompted his interest in music and more so this particular instrument.
Ben Lewi went on to say, “Given that steel pan is the only instrument invented in the 21st century and was birthed in the Caribbean, I am filled with pride when playing this instrument.”
Moreover, he explained the link to his art and that of his ancestors by noting, “I carry the torch of talent and innovation. This is to remind myself and the world that the Africans who were brought here were not savages but men of talent and intellect.”
Just last month, the young musician was a part of the Guyanese delegation that journeyed to Barbados to participate in Carifesta XIII. In fact, Ben Lewi was placed at the forefront as his band took to a local school to inspire interest in steel pan by hosting mentorship sessions with a group of students.
“This was my first time participating in Carifesta and it was a real honour to represent my country. It was also a pleasure to perform for a foreign crowd, especially given that our performances were amazing. Everyone was excited to see us play,” relayed the young artist.
In light of his expertise and pursuit of the arts, the young man recently returned to his alma mater as he takes on the role as a Music and Literature teacher, as well as the Pan instructor of the high school band from which he hails.
Stemming from his participation in a three-week cultural exchange to the United States as a part of the Youth Ambassadors delegation of 2015, the young enthusiast has his eyes on a career in politics and one day hopes to represent his country on a more official basis as an Ambassador of Guyana.
