We decided to share this announcement from the Grand Bahama Island Promotional Board with readers of BAHAMAS CHRONICLE, which has a huge following among the Bahamian diaspora across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean.
FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA – The Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board (GBIPB) is honoured to support Keith G. Cooper: A Legacy Carried by the Tide, a moving poetic short film by filmmaker Anna Baker celebrating the life and legacy of the late Keith Cooper, founder of West End Ecology Tours and one of Grand Bahama’s most passionate advocates for conservation and eco-tourism.
The film, which recently premiered on the @bahamaland_ and @annabakerfilm social media platforms, serves as a heartfelt tribute to Keith’s enduring love for Grand Bahama Island, the ocean, and the conservation work that defined his life. The production was directed by Anna Baker, with additional cinematography by Madeline Kennedy, and will also be featured on the Visit Grand Bahama website later this month.
A valued GBIPB Allied Member, Keith dedicated his life to sharing the beauty of Grand Bahama’s marine environment with the world. Through West End Ecology Tours, he inspired countless residents and visitors to appreciate the island’s unique ecosystems while encouraging responsible stewardship of its natural resources. His educational experiences, including his work with the island’s often misunderstood stingrays of Sandy Cay, helped transform curiosity into understanding and appreciation for marine life.
For those who knew him, Keith was remembered for much more than his work. He was a trusted friend, a generous mentor, and an unwavering champion of Grand Bahama whose passion for the island was evident in every conversation, every tour, and every life he touched.
“Keith’s legacy cannot be measured solely by the tours he led or the visitors he welcomed,” said Ian Rolle, Chairman of the Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board. “It is reflected in the countless people who now see Grand Bahama differently because of him. He taught us that our environment is not simply something to admire, but something to protect and celebrate. We are honoured to help share this beautiful tribute, ensuring that future generations will know the passion, humility, and love for Grand Bahama that defined his life.”
Meshell Britton, Administrator of the Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board, said the tribute reflects the deep admiration Keith earned throughout the community.
“Keith had a remarkable ability to make people fall in love with Grand Bahama. Whether he was introducing someone to our marine life, sharing stories about our waters, or simply speaking about the island he loved so deeply, his passion was infectious. Anna’s film beautifully captures that spirit while celebrating not only Keith’s extraordinary contributions to tourism and conservation, but also the genuine person that so many of us were privileged to know. We are proud to support this tribute and help ensure his story continues to inspire others.”
Director Anna Baker said the project was both a privilege and a responsibility to preserve Keith’s extraordinary legacy.
“Keith had a rare gift for making people care about the ocean simply by sharing his own love for it. Spending the past three years working alongside him was an incredible privilege, and I wanted this film to preserve not only his remarkable connection with the stingrays of Sandy Cay, but the passion, kindness, and unwavering dedication that defined his life. I hope audiences leave inspired to see the natural world through his eyes and to continue protecting the places he loved so deeply. More than anything, I hope this film ensures that his passion, and his legacy continue to inspire future generations to care for our oceans.”
The Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board extends its sincere appreciation to Anna Baker and Madeline Kennedy for bringing Keith’s story to life through film, and thanks everyone who has already watched and shared Keith G. Cooper: A Legacy Carried by the Tide. By continuing to share the film, audiences can help ensure that Keith’s passion for Grand Bahama, marine conservation, and environmental stewardship continues to inspire generations to come.
Though Keith Cooper is no longer with us, his love for the ocean, his commitment to protecting The Bahamas’ natural environment, and his unwavering belief in sharing its beauty with others will continue to leave an enduring mark on Grand Bahama and beyond.