He is also a Sunshine Award nominee, and was nominated for a 2012 Toronto Star “Teacher of the Year” award.

 

A founding member and first Secretary/Chairman of the Calypso Association of Canada, now OCPA, he has played a key role in helping to make the organization a strong voice for Canadian calypso today.

 

His winning song, Christie, caused a media and political sensation in Canada as it addressed what was perceived to be the racist treatment of young black men in the print and other Canadian media.

 

King Cosmos has worked extensively in television, film, stage and radio; and was the second runner-up in the 2013 Canadian Calypso Monarch competition.

 

In addition to the above, King Cosmos (Henry Gomez) has served twice as the head of the CARIBANA™ organization that created the world-renowned CARIBANA™ Festival.  He is now the GM/Artistic Director of the Caribana™ Management Team that produces CARIBANA Flags and Colours, the Jane and Finch Children’s Carnival.

 

His academic background includes studies in Theatre at Ryerson and York Universities, and studies in Education at the University of Toronto. He holds a B. Ed from the University of Toronto; a B. A. (English) from York University and a M. F. A. (Theatre) from York University.

 

He is now retired from an active teaching career, after having worked for several decades with the Toronto District School Board. King Cosmos continues to be actively involved in the performing arts and various initiatives to improve communities in the Toronto area.

 

E: kingcosmos@hotmail.com T: 647.225.8977