Grenadian artist V’ghn has just made history by becoming the first Caribbean Youth Intellectual Property (IP) Ambassador appointed by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This appointment, announced in April 2025, marks a turning point in the recognition of Caribbean creativity on the world stage, and places Grenada at the center of debates on the protection of cultural works and the promotion of local talent.
Who is V'ghn?
A career forged by passion and excellence
Jevaughn John, aka V’ghn, is much more than just a Soca singer. Born in Grenada, he grew up to the rhythm of his father’s guitars and the rehearsals of the Spices Dance Company in Gouyave. From the age of 11, he was composing and performing, first as a duo, then as a solo artist.
At the age of 16, he distinguished himself at the 2013 National Soca Monarch. But it was in 2019 that he exploded into the international scene, taking third place at the International Soca Monarch in Trinidad and Tobago, a first for a Grenadian. His title “Trouble in the Morning became a Groovy Soca anthem.
A cultural ambassador and a voice for youth
In addition to being an accomplished artist, V’ghn is recognized as a cultural ambassador for Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. He has almost 100,000 listeners on Spotify and recently signed a deal with Virgin Records, while retaining control of his work. His trajectory inspires a whole generation of Caribbean creators, combining authenticity, innovation and wise management of his rights.
A historic designation by WIPO
Behind the scenes of an unprecedented appointment
V’ghn ‘s appointment as WIPO IP Youth Ambassador is the result of a process that began in 2024, when Grenada was honored at the WIPO Assemblies in Geneva. Despite the cancellation of its performance due to Hurricane Beryl, the support of CAIPO (Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office) and GOCA (Grenada Office of Creative Affairs) never wavered. In April 2025, WIPO made his appointment official, making him the 16th IP Youth Ambassador in the world, and the very first in the Caribbean.
An international role
As IP Youth Ambassador, V’ghn’s mission is to promote knowledge of intellectual property among young people, encourage creative entrepreneurship and defend the protection of cultural heritage. In particular, he will be taking part in international events, such as his planned performance at WIPO headquarters in Geneva in July 2025, on the 50th anniversary of Grenada’s independence.
Intellectual property: a pillar for the creative industry
A fundamental challenge for Caribbean artists
Intellectual property encompasses all the rights needed to protect creations of the mind: musical works, texts, trademarks, inventions, and so on. For Caribbean artists, IP is the key to transforming creativity into economic and social value. It guarantees recognition for authors, remuneration for their work and the transmission of a cultural heritage to future generations.
Copyrights, trademarks and designs: essential tools
Grenada‘s intellectual property legislation has been modernized in recent years. The 2012 Trademarks Act simplified procedures and encouraged registration, while the 2011 Patents Act aims to protect originality and innovation, although some procedures still need to be improved. Grenada also participates in international conventions such as the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), facilitating recognition of rights abroad.
V'ghn: a proactive IP ambassador
A concrete commitment to youth
For V’ghn, intellectual property is not just an administrative formality: it’s a lever for emancipation and durability. “You can’t stay on stage forever, but the music will live forever,” he asserts. He insists on the importance of protecting his works to ensure a sustainable income and a future for his descendants.
Strategic rights management
Before signing with Virgin Records, V’ghn carried out a real investigation into intellectual property. He opted for a ten-track contract in order to retain control of his recordings and remain independent. For him, IP isn’t just about copyright: trademarks, image and career management are just as essential. He also collaborates with companies to diversify his sources of income and ensures that he is always credited for his compositions, even when writing for other artists such as Nadia Batson or Konshens.
An inspiring regional model
As a member of the Eastern Caribbean Collective Organization for Music Rights (ECCO), V’ghn benefits from support in managing its rights in the region. Her story proves that a good knowledge of IP can protect you in a sometimes ruthless sector, where recognition and remuneration are never guaranteed in advance.
Grenada strengthens its legal framework
Encouraging reforms
Grenada has recently strengthened its intellectual property legal arsenal. The adoption of the IPAS (Industrial Property Administration System) promises to simplify procedures, improve collaboration and stimulate local innovation. These reforms aim to protect not only musical works, but also traditional knowledge and craft innovations, veritable treasures of Grenada’s heritage.
Added value for the local economy
Intellectual property is now recognized as an engine of economic growth. It encourages diversification, attracts investors and promotes local talent. For artists, it offers the opportunity to conquer new markets while preserving their identity and heritage. As Robert Branch of CAIPO points out: “IP is the currency of the future, and this appointment amplifies the power of owning and protecting our cultural expressions”.
V’ghn’s rise to the rank of WIPO IP Youth Ambassador symbolizes the emergence of a new generation of Caribbean creators, aware of the value of their heritage and determined to defend it. His trajectory inspires novices and experts alike, proving that intellectual property is a tool for autonomy, recognition and transmission. Grenada, strengthened by its reforms and its talents, is asserting itself as a pole of cultural innovation, ready to radiate far beyond the Caribbean.
