Meet Kamau Hutchinson of Despers USA Steel Orchestra

Kamau Hutchinson currently serves as an Associate Retirement Benefit Examiner with the New York City Employees’ Retirement System (NYCERS), a role he has held since July 2017. In this capacity, he supports New York City employees by helping them navigate and secure their retirement benefits with accuracy and care.

Kamau’s commitment to community and culture spans nearly three decades through his deep involvement in the steel pan movement. He became a member of Despers USA Steel Orchestra in 1996, where he later served on committees responsible for the organization’s day-to-day operations.

His leadership extended beyond the band when he became the Despers USA representative to the United States Steel Band Association (USSA). In 2010, Kamau was elected to the USSA Board of Directors and subsequently to the Executive Board, serving as Treasurer for three years. After completing his term, he stepped down from the Board but continued to serve as a representative for Despers USA.

Following the dissolution of Despers USA Steel Orchestra Inc., Kamau, alongside two fellow members, reimagined the organization’s future. In 2015, they founded Despers USA Youth and Culture Association Inc., which later achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Kamau initially served as Vice President and, in 2023, assumed the role of President, where he now leads efforts to preserve Caribbean culture, empower youth, and expand access to steelpan education and community programming.

Through public service and cultural leadership, Kamau Hutchinson continues to make a lasting impact in both his professional field and the steelpan community.

Bio provided to When Steel Talks by: K. Hutchinson - 2026