I am thrilled to share my heartfelt gratitude to EcoVybz Environmental Creatives for their generous support in covering my airfare, enabling me to participate in the Climate Justice Camp Caribbean held in Sint Maarten from 28th to 31st March. Organized by Roots and several other organizations within the region, this camp brought together 120 climate activists from various countries and fields of action, creating a melting pot of ideas, cultures, and experiences that profoundly impacted me.
This camp was not just an event but a transformative journey. It offered me an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the complexities of climate justice while forging connections with like-minded individuals committed to environmental advocacy.
Each day was filled with workshops, discussions, and activities that broadened my perspective on climate action and sustainability. I had the privilege of attending a variety of workshops, including one on shark nursing conducted by a conservation group from Saint Martin, another on sea turtle conservation, and a session on citizen science. These are just a few examples, but my major takeaways were the importance of citizen science and how to implement spatial design, where different stakeholders come together to visualize action plans and the various consequences of their interventions. It was a very special camp because we learned extensively about how climate change is a cross-cutting issue that affects everything we do, from the oceans to social structures, and even human behavior and science.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the camp was the chance to meet 119 other incredible activists. These individuals, hailing from countries I sometimes had never heard of, are doing phenomenal work in their homelands. The diversity of backgrounds and experiences was astounding, and it reinforced the idea that climate action transcends borders. I now have friends from across the Caribbean and beyond, each bringing a unique approach to tackling environmental issues. It’s incredible to think about the ripple effect of our collective efforts.
The camp also allowed me to immerse myself in the rich, vibrant culture of the Caribbean. Despite being from a Caribbean country, there were countless aspects of this diverse region that I had yet to discover. From the food to the music, every element was a celebration of life and resilience. My newfound love for Soca music is a testament to this cultural immersion. The song “Togetherness” by Allison Hinds, with its uplifting rhythm and lyrics, truly captures the essence of the Caribbean spirit. It resonates with me as it speaks to unity and strength, two qualities that are crucial in our fight against climate change. As the song says, “One big family, togetherness”
The stories of resilience I encountered were both humbling and inspiring. The Caribbean, with its history of overcoming adversity, offers countless examples of communities banding together to face challenges head-on. This spirit of resilience gives me hope that we can confront the climate crisis with the same determination and solidarity.
I want to extend my deepest appreciation once again to EcoVybz for making this incredible experience possible. Your support has not only allowed me to gain valuable insights and connections but has also strengthened my resolve to continue my work in climate activism with renewed vigor and hope. The knowledge and practices I acquired are invaluable, and I am eager to implement them within my homeland. The Caribbean I discovered is indeed fun, united, and resilient, and I am honored to be part of this dynamic and determined community.
ECOVYBZ 