Destra has been nominated in the awards shows International category along with South African songstress Lira, Ghana’s Samini, South African rapper Khuli Chana, Nigerian pop star Waje and Barbadian soca queen Alison Hinds.

The awards ceremony is part of Canada’s Black History Month and, according to a recent news release Destra will not be able to appear in Toronto until June to receive her award.

“Being nominated for an award like this outside of the Caribbean circuit by the black community of Canada is humbling. It came as a surprise and is a step forward for soca music. I feel proud and I hope I win,” Destra said of the nomination.

Last year Destra was named monarch of Canada’s Caribana. She was chosen as the face of the festival and was featured prominently across the Canadian media.
“I was on mainstream media both visual and audio and made a lot of print newspaper and magazine appearances as well. So while I am surprised (at the nomination) I guess I knew something like this could be possible.

“I hope it can give the younger artistes something to aspire to. Hopefully if they see that I can do it they will realise so can they,” she said.

The BCA celebrates and showcases the achievements of Black Canadian artists, trail-blazers and leaders within the community. Past notable winners of the award include Canadian pop star Drake, rapper Kardinal Offishal and Olympic 100m gold medal sprint champion Donovan Bailey.