A closer look at Ashleigh Sean Rolle The founder of the Bahamian Citizenship Test. In the world of Bahamian culture and social commentary, Ashleigh Sean Rolle has emerged as a name that’s hard to ignore. As the founder of the viral Bahamian Citizenship Test (BCT), she ignited curiosity and a deeper connection to Bahamian heritage. But Ashleigh's journey isn’t just about fun trivia and cultural pride, it's a testament to resilience, and creativity.

Her love for storytelling began with her mother and grandmother, where old-school tales and family history melded into the foundation of her artistic vision. “I have always been absolutely obsessed with historical events—listening to my grandmother talk about figures in her life and sharing stories from her childhood,” Ashleigh says. “Some of the greatest stories to be told are often rooted in truth,” she reflects. This sentiment would later shape her career as a writer inspired by Bahamian history and culture.

In 2023, Ashleigh turned a fun poll into a cultural movement with the BCT. Celebrating 50 years of Bahamian independence through one daily question over 50 days. What started as a little distraction during a rough patch became a massive hit. “I’m still kind of surprised at the amount of love and support we’ve received,” Rolle beams. “I say it out loud, and sometimes it still doesn’t feel real.” In 2024, she expanded beyond herself, and thanks to her incredible team of seven Bahamian women: Marla-Joy, JD Hall, Sowmya Thottambeti, Shannon Evans, Tija Sawyer, and Tamar Ferguson Moss, they transformed an initial viral sensation into a tangible product.

Ashleigh's journey hasn't been the smoothest. Last year she faced a major setback when her student visa was denied. “It really was a gut-wrenching blow,” she admits. “I took this entire year to regroup, strategize, and remind myself that I am not the first nor the last person to have had a few stumbling blocks along their way.” This particular low moment highlighted the challenges of pursuing creative dreams with financial constraints and limited funding opportunities. “Many of the struggles I’ve faced as a writer in The Bahamas have been related to people seeing writing as a legitimate art form and also an unwillingness to actually pay writers what they’re worth.”

Through it all, she found strength in her community’s support. “I’m so grateful to have a community that held space for me in the moments I needed them the most,” she says. “This meant everything. There were times when friends called and we didn’t say anything, just sat in silence; no words needed to be said in those moments.”

Ashleigh’s latest project, The Ancestor Training Academy (TATA), is a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother and Bahamian folklore. “The Ancestor Training Academy seeks to bring life to Caribbean Islanders’ traditions around the concept of death and the pressure we often place on our ancestors once they have passed on,” she explains. “It reinforces the importance of matriarchs and their impact on Bahamian society.”

Through soul-crushing lows and last-minute miracles, Ashleigh’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and a profound love for her heritage. “My entire life has been a story of adapting, readjusting, and figuring out a way to move forward.” she admits, “I am more than confident that I wouldn’t have been brought this far only to be abandoned.”

For those navigating their own creative challenges, Ashleigh offers this advice: “Surround yourself with people that even when they can’t see the vision they believe in you so much that they’re willing to steady you when you forget it.”

To support Ashleigh’s journey, share her story, contribute to her GoFundMe, and keep the conversation going. “Honestly no amount is too small.” she says.

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X (formerly Twitter) has officially launched the beta version of its X TV app, marking a shift towards a video-first platform. The app, designed for big screens, closely resembles YouTube’s TV interface, showcasing trending content through X’s AI-powered system. Users will eventually enjoy cross-device compatibility, allowing seamless transitions between phone and TV viewing. Although ad options for the TV app aren't yet available, X hopes to increase video consumption through exclusive deals with creators like Tucker Carlson and WWE. While X's past attempts at TV integration faltered, this move could elevate its presence in the connected TV space.

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In recent years, The Bahamas has experienced a tech-driven cultural shift, especially among the younger generation. Technology is reshaping Bahamian identity by merging traditional values with modern innovation.

Young Bahamians are not only consuming technology but also creating it. For instance, digital platforms like Kanoo, Prospuh, and Kraven are revolutionizing local industries. Kanoo provides innovative digital solutions for traditional businesses. Prospuh offers investment opportunities in the U.S. stock market for everyday Bahamians. Food delivery apps like Kraven are transforming the industry by providing a unique digital experience for food delivery.

Social media plays a crucial role in this cultural evolution. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are used to highlight Bahamian talents—Junkanoo-inspired fashion, cooking tutorials featuring Bahamian cuisine, and digital storytelling exploring local history and folklore. These channels provide a global stage for Bahamian culture, enabling its preservation and modern reinterpretation.

Technology is also fueling Bahamian entrepreneurship. Innovators are developing apps and websites that cater to local needs and reflect cultural values. These ventures bolster the local economy and reinforce cultural pride.

As technology evolves, so will its impact on Bahamian culture. The emerging Bahamian identity embraces digital advances while honoring its rich heritage, proving that technology is not just shaping the future but also preserving and redefining the past.