In this powerful episode of Karibe Speak, Khadija is joined by Reyad Mohammed, a passionate environmental advocate and communicator from Trinidad and Tobago. Together, they unpack Reyad’s journey from childhood curiosity to becoming an Environmental Education Officer at the Environmental Management Authority.
The conversation dives deep into climate change impacts in Trinidad and Tobago, the challenges of extreme heat, rainfall, flooding, and the urgent need for culturally grounded climate education. Reyad shares insights on his work with Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE), the Youth Climate Ambassadors programme, and the importance of simplifying science through storytelling to bridge identity, advocacy, and community resilience.
From personal reflections to policy discussions, Khadija and Reyad explore the tension between development and preservation, the importance of behavioural shifts, and the call for Caribbean-centric imagery and narratives in climate spaces. The episode is a rich tapestry of lived experience, science, and a shared commitment to shaping a more informed, empowered, and climate-resilient Caribbean.
In this episode of the EcoVybz Podcast, host Khadija Stewart sits down with Dr. Theresa Rodriguez-Moodie, environmental scientist and CEO of the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET), for a powerful conversation on Jamaica’s environmental journey. Dr. Moodie shares how her connection to the ocean shaped her career, leading her from consultancy into frontline advocacy. She reflects on the urgent need for state accountability, public access to environmental information, and meaningful community participation in governance.
The discussion delves into the threats posed by deep sea mining, especially given Jamaica’s role as host of the International Seabed Authority. Dr. Moodie critiques extractivist models that compromise marine ecosystems and calls on the Jamaican government to uphold its constitutional duty to protect the environment. Released in honour of June as Ocean Month, this episode is both a celebration of Jamaica’s rich natural heritage and a rallying cry for justice in ocean stewardship.
To Learn more about the Jamaica Environment Trust check out https://linktr.ee/jamentrust1991?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLKa3tleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpyKAe7ekKqtlABikatMsliFzzXkZ2HPJOB8t0NISUMQduzyVi0_RBLS-_OI-_aem_7sxqVemD3dMbPt2IBxuoEw
In this episode of the EcoVybz Podcast, we dive deep into the critical conversation around decolonizing climate justice with our special guest, Damien Nicholas, a 23-year-old climate justice activist from Guadeloupe. As a co-founder of Observatoire Terre Monde (OTM), Damien is passionate about advocating for the dismantling of colonial structures that continue to shape the environmental and political landscapes of France’s overseas territories, including the Caribbean.
Together, we explore how colonization is not just a historical event but a present-day reality affecting climate justice. Many of the ecological challenges these regions face are deeply rooted in colonial legacies. To move forward, we must actively deconstruct these systems. Damien shares insights from his work at OTM, highlighting the need for climate solutions that reflect the voices and experiences of the most impacted communities, especially in regions like the Caribbean that continue to grapple with post-colonial realities.
Join us as we unpack the complexities of colonization in climate justice and discuss how decolonizing ecology is essential for a more just and sustainable future. To learn more visit here.
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In this powerful episode of the Ecovybz Podcast, we journey to St. Maarten to speak with Star Peterson, a passionate environmental activist and political advocate. Together, we dive into the complex dynamics of climate justice in the Caribbean, discussing how the region's colonial legacy continues to shape and hinder climate action efforts. Star provides deep insights into the systemic challenges facing the Caribbean and highlights the intersection of environmental degradation and political structures.
We explore the colonial presence in the region and its lingering impact on governance, climate policy, and community resilience. Star also shares his personal journey into environmental activism, his connection to nature and the ocean, and how his love for sports intertwines with his advocacy for climate action.
Tune in to hear a candid conversation about the need for systemic change, the fight for climate justice, and how Caribbean youth are standing up for their future in the face of political and environmental challenges. Be sure to follow @Ecovybz on all Social Media platforms.
In this compelling episode of "Climate Injustice," we are joined by Kjelld Masoud Kroon, a dedicated activist born in the Netherlands and raised in Rincon, Bonaire. Kjelld is deeply involved in anti-racism, anti-discrimination, and community inclusivity projects in Amsterdam and The Hague. He is politically engaged with Bonaire's M21 party and the youth think tank BiT-lab, while also collaborating with various organizations in the Netherlands supporting the Dutch-Caribbean community.
Kjelld, a plaintiff in a climate justice case led by citizens of Bonaire and Greenpeace, highlights the minimal impact Bonaire has on global CO2 emissions compared to major emitters like the Netherlands. Together, we delve into the pressing demand that the Netherlands, as a colonial overseer, takes its fair share of responsibility in protecting Bonaire and the other Dutch-Caribbean islands.
Join us as we discuss the whitewashing of the climate movement, the pervasive eco-colonialism and racism that undermine genuine environmental justice, and the crucial need for inclusive, equitable climate action. This episode sheds light on the intersection of climate justice and colonial legacy, offering insights and inspiring stories from the frontlines of the fight for a sustainable and just future.
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Isiah Cruz, a trailblazer passionate about leveraging technology and community to drive regenerative environmental projects. With a unique blend of AI/Data Science expertise and a fervor for grassroots initiatives, Isiah's work with Litter Token and his new venture, Ama Earth Group, has sparked environmental action across the globe.
Join us as Isiah shares his journey of blending indigenous wisdom with modern solutions for planetary healing. We delve into the importance of spirituality and environmental grounding, exploring how these elements are crucial for becoming effective advocates for a sustainable future. Isiah's insights highlight the intersectionality of technology, spirituality, and environmental advocacy, offering a profound perspective on how we can all contribute to the planet's healing.
Tune in to discover how Isiah's innovative approach is fostering a new era of environmental action, driven by both cutting-edge technology and deep-rooted spiritual wisdom.
To connect with Isiah follow him on Linkedin or email him at cruzisiah@gmail.com
Also be sure to connect with us @Ecovybz on all social media platforms
Join us on this episode of the EcoVybz Podcast's Karibe Speak Season as we sit down with Jevanic Henry, a distinguished climate and development professional from Saint Lucia. Jevanic has an impressive background, having served as the Climate Change Special Envoy for the Caribbean Youth Environment Network and as a Foreign Service Officer with the Government of Saint Lucia. His extensive experience in the multilateral space includes roles such as United Nations Foundation’s Next Generation Fellow, a position with the climate change unit of the Commonwealth Secretariat, and co-authoring a practical guide on enhancing access to climate finance.
In 2023, Jevanic became Saint Lucia’s first Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Fellow, working at the Permanent Mission of Saint Lucia to the United Nations in New York. He also achieved the milestone of being appointed the first Caribbean representative to the UN Secretary-General’s Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change.
Throughout the episode, we delve into the climate realities facing the Caribbean, particularly in Saint Lucia. We discuss the critical importance of climate finance, the intricacies of climate finance negotiations at COP 28, and the progress being made on Loss and Damage. Additionally, Jevanic shares his insights on the significance of community engagement and his ongoing efforts to support community-based youth entities in Saint Lucia. These efforts include building capacity, developing bankable project proposals, and accessing relevant financing facilities for climate change resilience projects.
Tune in to hear from Jevanic Henry and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in climate advocacy within the Caribbean. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about climate action and the empowerment of local communities.
Check out Jeo on LinkedIn
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Join us for an insightful episode featuring Trinidadian multimedia journalist Ryan Bachoo, hailing from Princess Town, Trinidad and Tobago. With 13 years of experience at Guardian Media, Ryan has become a prominent figure in the industry, rising from an intern to a junior reporter, producer, and anchor for various news and current affairs programs. His extensive coverage includes politics, sports, social news, and climate change.
In this episode, we delve into the significance of climate journalism in the Caribbean region, reflecting on Ryan's experiences, including his participation in the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Egypt and Dubai 2023. Ryan shares his insights from COP 28, highlighting the critical role of climate journalism in addressing regional and global environmental challenges. Additionally, he offers valuable advice for aspiring journalists looking to cover climate change. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the Caribbean's leading voices in climate journalism.
In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Danielle Clear Seales, an inspiring marine conservationist who has dedicated her life to protecting our oceans. After completing a BSc in Ocean Science and Marine Conservation at the University of Plymouth, Danielle is now pursuing an MSc degree in Marine Environmental Management. Her journey into sea turtle conservation and research began with a pivotal internship at the Department of Environment, which ignited her passion for marine life.
Danielle's commitment extends beyond the Cayman Islands, having represented her home at COP28. There, she highlighted the intricate connections between culture, heritage, and climate change, and advocated for vital climate finance in British Overseas Territories. Her main mission is to raise environmental awareness in the Cayman Islands, promote sustainable living, and foster collaboration among Caribbean islands for a more sustainable future.
Join us as we delve into Danielle's experiences and insights. We discuss the climate realities of overseas territories, the harsh impacts of climate change in the Caribbean, and her valuable advice for Caribbean youth eager to take climate action. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about marine conservation and climate resilience. Tune in and be inspired by Danielle’s journey and vision for a brighter, more sustainable world.
If you enjoyed this episode follow Dani on Instagram @dani.seales and EcoVybz on all platforms @ecovybz
Meet Amy Harff, she is a Force of Nature consultant, climate researcher and artist. She was recently selected to be a Youth Ambassador for the UN Ocean Decade, where she led workshops and gave speeches to over 2,000 participants aboard the Peace Boat. In August 2023, she completed the prestigious Thomas J. Watson Fellowship to conduct one year of independent research on how creativity can catalyze climate and environmental action. For her research, she spoke and worked with over 350 scientists, community leaders, academics, CEOs and artists to see how creativity and storytelling can be tools for change. Amy has been an art judge for Bow Seat Ocean Awareness and Chas also spoken at Goldsmiths’ Art and Ecology Conference and at NYC Climate Week. She is currently creating an illustrated book from personal interviews with 25 international female climate leaders including: Christiana Figueres, Dr. Kim Cobb, Xiye Bastida, Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner and Melati Wijsen. Her creative pursuits include: facilitating community murals in Zambia, New Zealand and Indonesia, creating costumes from trash for Taiwan’s Dream Community festival, and drawing large illustrations about projected climate impacts in her community.
Together we dive into the importance of creative tools to drive the circular economy, protect our oceans and drive climate action.
Connect with Amy Insta: @amyspencerart www.amyspencerharff.com
Be sure to also follow @ecovybz on all socials !
Continue with the Youth for The SDG's Series in partnership with Peace Boat US for the UN Ocean Decade of Science meet our next youth scholar Rigoberto Amaya!
Rigoberto is a third culture individual born in the countryside of Panama who moved to Southeast Asia at the age of thirteen to complete his middle and high school studies. Through his experience abroad, he developed a passion for cross-cultural exchange and recognized the disparities in access to quality air, water and natural resources.
Rigo is a firm believer that problems are best tackled through a multi-perspective approach and that current global issues need international collaboration and science-based actions in order to generate change. With a background in Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering focused on sustainability and process efficiency, Rigoberto has experience working in the energy sector at the regulatory level advancing the Energy Transition Agenda. He believes individuals must be lifelong learners and open-minded to be able to come together and mitigate the climate crisis. In his free time, you can find him playing sports, video and board games, as well as enjoying nature through hikes or scuba diving trips.
Together we explore SDG 7, the energy transition in Panama, the role of youth in achieving SDG 7 and the youth for the SDG's Program. If you would like to connect with Rigo be sure to follow him on
Welcome to season 5 which is the Youth for the SDG’s special edition series in partnership with Peace Boat US dedicated towards the UN Ocean Decade of Science.
The Youth for the SDGs program is a unique experiential learning and capacity-building program for young activists and scholars engaged in SDG-related initiatives from the US and worldwide. Youth Programs take place onboard voyages conducted by Peace Boat, travelling on a large passenger ship that sails regionally and globally running education and advocacy programs focusing on nuclear disarmament, climate action, and sustainability, with partner organizations and communities around the world.
Youth for the SDGs programs average two weeks in length where participants visit three to five countries and all programs include Onboard activities such as presentations, workshops, cultural activities and port activities where we participate in specialised experiential study programs with NGOs, academic institutions, governmental entities, and communities working to address SDG-related issues such as climate change and sustainable development.
To kick things off meet Kneyone Murray, an Entrepreneur, Renewable Energy Consultant, and self-taught Abstract Artist from the twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago. He holds a Master of Science in Renewable Energy Technology from The University of The West Indies with a focus on the implementation of a biodigester in the educational system to promote waste management. He is also the founder of KneyzusEnergy a company focused on the energy transition in SIDS, a Global Ambassador for Blue Planet Alliance, a young ocean leader with Sustainable Ocean Alliance and now a youth for the SDG’s scholar. Additionally, Kneyone had the opportunity to participate in the UN Water Conference in New York and The Our Ocean Conference in Panama sharing a panel as the only youth with industry experts at the closing plenary. Presently he is completing a program on Project Management in Canada. His research is focused on sargassum seaweed and developing innovative solutions using bioenergy to reduce its negative impacts in the Caribbean.
Together we dive into his environmental journey, the program and his future plans!
To connect with Kneyone follow him on
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Meet Saeed Hamid a Guyanese attorney-at-law with a keen interest in maritime law, environmental law, and human rights law. Driven by his experiences in the Caribbean region, he is constantly pursuing opportunities to contribute to the development of policies and legislation which target social and environmental issues. Saeed holds a Master of Laws from the University of Aberdeen, where he completed courses on international law, politics, environmental regulation, and human rights. Following private practice, Hamid served at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Guyana for two years, during which he participated in several national and international conferences and policy dialogues on numerous environmental matters, including Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). He is currently the international plastics fellow at New York University's Guarini Center and Plastics Advisor to the Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States.
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the plastics pollution issues plaguing Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and discuss the upcoming sessions on the road to a global plastics treaty. For more on Saeed be sure to follow him on Instagram and check out the additional resources below. 1. Recording of SIDS Talk Plastics: Part 1: Remediation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9glU9E7-Cdo&t=1087s2. Guarini Center's research on SIDS and Plastic pollution: https://guarinicenter.org/issues/oceans/plastics/ 3. Paper on States Submissions ahead of INC-2: https://guarinicenter.org/document/survey-of-state-inc-2-submissions/
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Meet Javier Pardo Díaz is a thesis student at the Biology School with an orientation in Marine Biology and Limnology at the University of Panama. He is currently working at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute on long-term projects on water quality monitoring and mangrove restoration in the Bay of Panama. Since the beginning of his career, he has been part of different NGOs such as Sustainable Ocean Alliance Panama, Reef 2 Reef Foundation, and the Ghost Net Removal project with the Panama Aquatic Resources Authority, among others, and is an active volunteer for many other foundations that they seek a more sustainable future for all. Javier was one of the 77 young people selected to participate in the Youth Leadership Summit and the Our Ocean 2023 conference, he also participated as a delegate to CITES COP 19 in 2022, both held in the Republic of Panama. In addition to being part of research projects, he works as an underwater cameraman focused on environmental education, educating the civil community, young students, children, and adults.
In this Episode, Javier and I take a deep dive into the importance of coastal ecosystems in Panama and some of the issues the country faces when it comes to marine conservation. If you are interested in learning more about Javier be sure to follow him on Instagram.
Be sure to also follow @ecovybz on all platforms and if you would like to be featured on the podcast shoot me an email ecovybz@gmail.com and lets create some magic!
Meet Bodhi Patil! Bodhi is a 19-year-old ocean climate solutionist passionate about the interconnection between Ocean Health and Human Health (OHHH). As the founder of Inner Light and co-creator of @oceanuprise, Bodhi believes in the power that young people have to create impact at scale. He is a second-year student in the Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Management program at the University of British Columbia studying oceans, environmental action, and business. He co-founded Sea Dragon Studios (SDS), creative arts and digital media platform supporting youth-led, ocean-climate action and launched One World Breath. With a team of 4 fellow young impact makers, he co-won the UN Oceans Conference Youth & Innovation Forum with project INVASEA - Innovating with Invasive Species. Along with the 130 other incredible delegates of the forum, he is especially recognized by the United Nations as an esteemed ocean activist. As an avid surfer, diver, kelp-lover, marine science nerd, ocean-climate solutionist, and hopeful realist, he loves mother nature deeply and truly believes that like the ocean, we are powerful creators that can make waves of positive impact.
In this episode, we dive into several things
To learn more about Bodhi check out his linktree and be sure to connect with him!
As always be sure to follow @ecovybz on all platforms and I shall see you at the next one!
Originally from the Dominican Republic, Andrés Bisonó León is a ClimateTech entrepreneur working at the intersection of social impact and Climate Action. Andres holds a dual major in Mechanical Engineering and Finance from Drexel University. Social and environmental impact has always been part of Andres' life endeavours. Since 2018, Andres has been leading SOS Carbon Inc. Sargassum Ocean Sequestration of Carbon (SOS Carbon) which is a spin-off company from the Mechanical Engineering department at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). SOS Carbon is focused on scaling its unique patented technologies to turn the sargassum seaweed invasions problem into an economical natural ocean carbon sequestering opportunity. As a member of the MIT Sloan School of Management and Legatum Fellow, Andres’ motivation is his capacity to transform society and the environment for a better tomorrow. SOS Carbon is committed to solving one of the Caribbean's most threatening problems, generating employment and value chains to the region, and fight climate change for a global impact.
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Sargassum invasion occurring in the Caribbean and its impacts in the region whilst also discussing the work of SOS Carbon in the Dominican Republic. Feel free to connect with SOS Carbon on Instagram or connect with Andres on Linkedin.
For more great content be sure to also following @EcoVybz on all platforms!
In this episode I chat with Shreya K.C., a passionate climate justice activist from Nepal. Being an active member of YOUNGO and also the Contact Person for the NDCs working group, she has worked with a diverse group of young people across the world to champion the meaningful participation of young people in decision-making spaces. She is also the climate change champion of UNICEF South Asia and a Campaign Coordinator of Mock COP. Shreya has received numerous awards for her work including 'Youth of the Year' award. She was also a part of the national delegation of Nepal to COP26 and SB56. Her story has been featured in two books "Stone Soup for a Sustainable World" and "50 Girls Saving Our Planet".
Together we discuss the impacts of climate change in Nepal, meaningful youth engagement in the climate space and what it takes to be a youth leader on their country's delegation at climate change conferences. To learn more about Shreya connect with her on Instagram , Facebook Twitter and LinkedIn be sure to also follow @ecovybz on all socials!
In this episode I chat with my colleague and friend Mark Haver! After graduating from Florida Southern College in May 2020, Mark became a policy and communications consultant for a start-up government and public affairs firm for ocean and environmental clients. Simultaneously, he launched Sustainable Ocean Alliance's inaugural Youth Policy Advisory Council. Mark has led youth engagement in national and international campaigns for ocean and climate issues, such as for the Global Blue New Deal, a youth-led, stakeholder-driven ocean and climate policy framework, and for a deep seabed mining moratorium. He has launched his own environmental action consulting firm, BlueGreen Generation. His clients include Sustainable Ocean Alliance as their North American Regional Representative and Global Policy Advisor and Global Fashion Exchange, as the founder and brand ambassador of Swap For Your Life to grow the sustainable fashion exchange movement in the global LGBTQ+ community.
Together we discuss the challenges of youth advocacy work, the climate crisis and his passion for sustainable fashion! To learn more about mark follow him on social media @oceanswarrior and be sure to also follow @ecovybz to keep up to date with all things podcast related!
Welcome to Season 3! In this episode, I chat with Carlos Perez Murcia aka Profe Tiburon, a marine biologist and scuba instructor from Bogotá, Colombia. He is a passionate shark scientist who focuses on ocean literacy and policy. These are his favorite tools to scale-up collective actions that allow us to live a healthy future. Profe Tiburón is now the new President of Sustainable Ocean Alliance hub for Colombia (SOA Colombia), and environmental educator for Fundación Mundo Azul, Guatemala, and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), United States.
To kick off this season Carlos and I chat about the need to use the arts to save our ocean, the importance of spreading ocean literacy to children, and the need for countries to have an ocean ministry to allow for organised and centralised governance of our oceans. Feel free to follow Carlos on social media @profetiburon on Instagram and myself @ecovybz on all social media platforms!
In this week's episode, I chat with Dr Kimberly Baldwin, a marine ecologist with specialized skills in geoinformatics, focusing on participatory research and the utility of information technologies to support stakeholder engagement and collaborative approaches to develop more holistic information for environmental planning and management. Presently her research includes the use of drone and information technology platforms to support mapping and modelling of the environment. Dr Kimberly also has extensive practical experience teaching and conducting: field surveys, mapping and monitoring applications; remote sensing, spatial data management, modelling and analysis; participatory mapping, marine spatial planning and stakeholder engagement techniques.
Together we discuss the role of information technology and marine spatial planning tools for marine conservation in the Caribbean and the importance of developing a participatory approach to ensure all stakeholders are involved in marine initiatives from idea to execution. We also touch on the importance of drone technology in the region and its use as a tool to empower local communities to engage with the ocean and provide data to the necessary parties.
To learn more about Dr Kimberly and to connect with her check her information below. Be sure to note that you came from the EcoVybz Podcast!
Email: baldwin.kimberly@gmail.com
Business website: www.marsis.us
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkimbaldwin/
Instagram: @dronesorbust
E-portfolio: www.kimberlybaldwin.tumblr.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarineSpatialInformationSolutions
PhD Research website: www.grenadinesmarsis.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grenadinesmarsis
