Harold Hoyte

Mr. Harold Hoyte began his illustrious career as a copy editor at the Advocate newspaper in Barbados, in 1959 and he quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating his talent for writing and editing and his unwavering commitment to the highest standards of journalistic ethics and professionalism.

He went on to work as a freelance journalist at the Globe & Mail and Toronto Telegram in Canada. During the years he spent in Canada, he attained a Communications diploma from Centennial College and a Business Management diploma from Ryerson University.

He also served as editor of Contrast Newspaper where he showcased his unique style of journalism and his ability to bring to light, issues of importance to the Caribbean Community in Canada.

He returned to Barbados in 1971 to become the editor of the Caribbean Contact and in November 1973, he, along with some other Black Barbadians, co-founded the NATION Newspaper where Hoyte cemented his legacy as a journalistic giant. He served as the NATION’s first Board chairman, Editor-In-Chief and President. His leadership helped establish the newspaper, which turns 50 this year, as one of the most respected and influential newspapers in the region.

Hoyte’s commitment to journalism extended beyond his work at the NATION and did not stop at the borders of Barbados. He was a member of the Council of the University of the West Indies and shared his knowledge and expertise with the next generation of journalists, helping to shape the future of the profession in the region.

He served on numerous national Caribbean and International Councils and Boards, including the Commonwealth Press Union and as a director for the International Centre for Journalists in Washington DC. He has received several awards, including the Maria Moors Cabot citation from Columbia University for his contribution to Caribbean Journalism.

In 2005, he was conferred an honorary doctorate by the university and his contributions to the island were also recognized when he was bestowed with the Gold Crown of Merit by the Governor General of Barbados, on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

His love for writing went way beyond columns and political and human-interest features. To coincide with Barbados’ 50th independence anniversary in 2016, Hoyte authored Political Warriors of Barbados: Generals, Lieutenants and Foot Soldiers. The book tells the stories of Barbadians who have had a political effect on the country.

Harold Hoyte’s passing in May 2019, at the age of 77, marked the end of an era in Caribbean journalism, but his legacy lives on, and his contributions to the profession will continue to inspire and inform journalists for generations to come.

Mr Hoyte was inducted posthumously into the CBU Caribbean Media Hall Of Fame in 2023.