In the final episode of Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica, Nicole Leotaud, Elected Representative to the Public for the Escazú Agreement, reflects on what’s next for Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. The conversation unpacks why ratification of the treaty is critical, the gaps in public awareness, and how greater participation can transform environmental decision-making.
Nicole highlights lessons from other countries, the role of civil society in holding governments accountable, and the collaborative push needed to secure stronger protections for environmental defenders. This closing episode looks ahead, offering practical ways advocacy can turn momentum into lasting change.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
What does it take to be a young advocate for the environment in Jamaica? Eleanor Terrelonge knows firsthand. In this episode, she shares her journey as a youth environmental defender, from navigating tokenism and limited access to information, to challenging the fear of speaking out.
The conversation explores how the Escazú Agreement could offer stronger support and real decision-making power for young people passionate about protecting their future. Eleanor also reflects on the urgent need for more inclusive spaces, greater policy support, and broader visibility for youth-led advocacy.
It’s a conversation about courage, climate action, and the hope for a more empowered generation.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
Beaches in Jamaica aren’t just pretty spots, they are part of childhood memories, family outings and local culture. But what happens when those same beaches are suddenly fenced off? In this episode, Dr. Devon Taylor of the Jamaica Beach Birthright Environmental Movement(JABBEM) talks about why public beach access is disappearing and why it matters to all of us. Dr. Devon Taylor unpacks the historical struggles for public beach access and JABBEM’s push for legislative reform.
He shares how outdated colonial laws, private development and community displacement fuel this struggle and how the Escazú Agreement could help Jamaicans reclaim their right to these spaces.
This episode looks at what it really means to defend public spaces and why access to our beaches is about culture, equality and our connection to the places we love.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
Environmental defenders face steep challenges, from limited access to information and justice to being excluded from decisions that affect their communities. Filmmaker and activist Dr. Esther Figueroa shares how storytelling can cut through these barriers, inspiring action and building awareness around environmental rights.
The conversation explores the transformative potential of the Escazú Agreement, a regional treaty that guarantees public access to information, participation in decision-making, and stronger protections for environmental defenders. Dr. Figueroa reflects on why community engagement is essential for lasting change and how art can empower everyday people to join the fight for a healthier, more just future.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
In this episode of Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica, award-winning journalist and attorney Dionne Jackson Miller explores how the media can help drive environmental awareness and accountability.
From challenges in accessing information to the importance of investigative reporting, she unpacks the role journalists play in making environmental issues relatable and urgent.
The conversation also touches on how the Escazú Agreement could strengthen press freedom and support environmental defenders. With insights on the limits of Jamaica’s Access to Information Act and the need for stronger environmental storytelling, this episode highlights why a well-informed public is key to protecting our natural resources.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
Diana McCaulay, founder of the Jamaica Environment Trust, shares how she went from knowing little about environmental issues to leading one of Jamaica’s most recognized advocacy groups for over 30 years.
Drawing on her decades of experience, she reflects on the risks faced by environmental defenders, the barriers they encounter in accessing information and justice and why public participation is critical to protecting Jamaica’s natural resources.
The conversation also explores the Escazú Agreement and how it could transform support and protections for those on the frontlines of environmental justice.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
Environment lawyer Danielle Andrade-Goffe takes us beyond the basics of the Escazú Agreement to explore the legal and cultural realities shaping environmental justice in Jamaica. From the gaps in meaningful public consultation to the limited legal safeguards for environmental defenders, Danielle breaks down why implementation, not just ratification, matters.
She explains why protecting Jamaica’s environment isn’t just about policy but about people. She breaks down how the Escazú Agreement could help everyday Jamaicans get better access to information, speak up in decisions that affect their communities, and hold leaders accountable.
The episode shows how law, policy and public voice can come together to shape Jamaica’s environmental future.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust and Global Yaadie.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
In this opening episode of Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica, Dr. Theresa Rodriguez-Moodie, CEO of the Jamaica Environment Trust, talks about the Escazú Agreement and what it means for Jamaica. She breaks down why environmental defenders need stronger protection, how public participation can improve decision-making, and why environmental rights aren’t just for activists, they are for everyone. This conversation lays the foundation for the series, aiming to raise awareness and build support for Jamaica’s ratification of the Escazú Agreement, while showing how everyday Jamaicans can play a part in protecting the places they care about.
The views expressed in this video are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jamaica Environment Trust.
Connect with the Defending Our Rights: Environmental Justice in Jamaica Campaign!
Visit - https://defenders.jamentrust.org/
Follow - https://www.instagram.com/defendersja/
Episodes also available at - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/global-yaadie/
This special podcast series explores what it means to stand up for the environment in Jamaica and why it should matter to us all. ‘Defending Our Rights’ breaks down the Escazú Agreement, a regional treaty designed to protect environmental defenders and ensure public access to environmental information and decision-making.
Through real stories and expert insights, the series also highlights the risks faced by those speaking out, the gaps in protection, and the power of community action.
Whether you are new to environmental issues or deeply involved, this series makes it clear why defending nature is also about defending our rights. It aims to build awareness, spark conversations and encourage the Jamaican Government to ratify the Escazú Agreement.
Why? Because a healthy environment is everyone’s business.
The Caribbean Women for Climate Justice (CW4CJ) Virtual Conference is back for its third edition. The voices behind TheClimate Conscious and The Global Yaadie podcasts take the mic to share what’s in store.
In this crossover episode, CW4CJ organizers, Dervaland Dainalyn break down the 2025 theme “Sowing Seeds of Sustainable Solutions”. The organizers discuss why centering women is critical to climate justice, and spotlight some of the dynamic speakers joining from across the Caribbean and the Global South.
From post-disaster recovery to agricultural resilience and youth advocacy, CW4CJ 2025 is more than a conference…it’s a movement rooted in lived experience and led by women.
July 17–19 | Virtual & Free
Co-hosted by @TheClimateConscious & @GlobalYaadie
Register for Day 1: Dimensions of Resilience: Live Case Studies from the Global South.”
Register for Day 2: “Power in Her Hands: Cultivating Equity and Climate Solutions in the Global South.”
"Women are not only producers and caretakers - we are educators, innovators, and changemakers."
Meet Keatlegile Mnguni, founder of AgriNouri in South Africa, who’s working on the ground to reduce post-harvest losses and empower women through agro-processing education.
From unpredictable weather to limited access to markets and finance, climate change is deepening the challenges female farmers face, but through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and practical action, women are leading solutions across the Global South.
Join us at the Caribbean Women for Climate Justice conference (CW4CJ) 2025 to learn, connect, and be inspired by voices like Keatlegile.
July 17–19 | Virtual & Free
Co-hosted by @TheClimateConscious & @GlobalYaadie
Register for Day 1: https://streamyard.com/watch/45Fe8UE5nt4b
Register for Day 2: https://streamyard.com/watch/b2t3XDEQJduR
Register for the Grant Writing Workshop: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/MdtmSbUmSzmW1FmdNiTRig
Dr. Gavin Campbell shares fascinating insights into his research on back swimmers, aquatic insects with the potential to help control mosquito populations in Jamaica. The conversation explores the delicate ecological balance between mosquitoes and their natural predators, the impact of climate change on these relationships, and the broader implications for public health.
Dr. Campbell discusses the feeding habits of back swimmers, their habitat needs, and the challenges of relying solely on biological control methods. He also highlights the resilience of mosquito populations and the importance of using integrated approaches for effective mosquito management. As research in this area continues to grow, the episode underscores the need to better understand the ecological value of insects and their role in sustainable solutions to public health concerns.
Takeaways
Marine scientist Dr. Dayne Buddo discusses the significance of the high seas and the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty. This episode explores the environmental and economic implications of the high seasfor the Caribbean, the importance of biodiversity, the challenges posed by climate change, and the need for regional collaboration to protect marine resources. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of ocean health,climate stability, and community livelihoods, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable practices and policies.
Takeaways
To learn more visit the https://highseasalliance.org/
PART 2
Part Two of the "Envisioning Resilience in Jamaica" series, bringing you deeper into the immersive atmosphere of this dynamic photo exhibit. This episode captures heartfelt reflections from event coordinators, training participants, andattendees as they explore the photo exhibit, sharing their perspectives on how the images resonate with their experiences and communities.
We explore the power of visual storytelling, hearing directly from the talented trainees, representatives of GirlsCARE & Lensational, and other voices from the event floor. Through these candid conversations, the episode reveals how photography can amplify marginalized voices, spark meaningful dialogue, and inspire collective action on climate resilience.
In this episode you will hear conversation snippets from event coordinators, training participants and attendees as they view photo exhibits.
Learn more about the Envisioning Resilience Programme:
PART 1
Global Yaadie Podcast dives into the "EnvisioningResilience in Jamaica" event—a vibrant showcase where photography, climate change, and community engagement intersect. This exhibit follows a six-month climate photography training program, where candid conversations in a live, pulsating atmosphere are captured directly from the event floor.
We feature insights from campaign coordinators GirlsCARE& Lensational, attendees, and the talented photography trainees. This episode highlights the power of storytelling through photography to amplify women’s voices in the climate dialogue. By sharing personal stories through photography,the episode explores how art can inspire policy shifts and deepen public understanding of climate issues that impact communities in Jamaica and beyond.
In this episode you will hear conversation snippets from roundtable discussions with the trainees sharing deeper stories from their photos and guests’ perspectives.
Learn more about the Envisioning Resilience Programme:
In this episode of the Global Yaadie podcast, Communication Consultant Khrystal Walcott sheds light on the vital role of clear and timely communication in preparing communities for the realities of climate change and natural disasters. She discusses how recent hurricanes in the Caribbean highlight the need for effective communication strategies that keep people informed and resilient. Khrystal also shares insights on tailoring messages for different audiences, including the importance of community-based organizations, gender and disability considerations, and how technology and digital media can enhance disaster preparedness efforts. This episode emphasizes communication as a key tool for building stronger, more informed communities.
In this episode of the Global Yaadie Podcast, Jamaica's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, Honorable Floyd Green, provides an insightful look into the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl and its impact on the agriculture and fisheries sectors in Jamaica and the Caribbean. With an estimated J$10 billion required to rebuild the farming and fisheries sector, the ripple effects are being felt by over 48,000 farmers and 11,000 fishers. Beyond the numbers, Minister Green highlights the collective effort needed to rebuild, emphasizing the power of community support and the pivotal role the diaspora plays in recovery efforts. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of climate resilience and climate finance for small island developing states to better withstand the impacts of climate change and future disasters. Beryl is behind us but the work continues.
Tune in for practical insights to support affected communities and help people to recover.
Managing environmental risks requires proactive strategies and a commitment to both individual and collective action.
As part of a World Environment Week reflection and the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, host Dainalyn Swaby discusses environmental risk management with Eleanor Jones, CEO of Environmental Solutions Ltd (ESL). They explore the importance of understanding natural systems and reducing vulnerability to extreme events especially in the Caribbean. Eleanor discusses the difference between preparedness, relief, and recovery, and the need for pre-disaster planning. They highlight the importance of community involvement, communication, and inclusivity in disaster planning.
The environmental risk management expert emphasizes the need for continuity planning in sectors such as tourism and agriculture, and the importance of building resilience and reducing environmental impact.
Tune in for insights on individual and collective responsibility in managing environmental risk.
Connect with ESL
Terrestrial Biologist and Wildlife Expert, Damion 'Rooster' Whyte, explains the impact of climate change Jamaica's wildlife. Damion's social media has grown into a huge citizen science platform and its changing local attitude towards animals and nature. The episode explores the effects of climate change on different species, local challenges with invasive species and the return of a rare, centuries-old Galliwasp specimen to Jamaica.
The conversation explores both helpful and harmful sides of human behavior on local ecosystems. Learn more about this Jamaican scientist harnessing the power of the public in environmental conservation.
In this episode Naomi Cambridge, Community Engagement Coordinator for the Ashley Lashley Foundation, shares their impactful work to build a movement of Healthy Environment-Friendly Youth – HEY, the flagship campaign active in over 50 countries worldwide and other engagement & empowerment initiatives. This episode delves into the vital intersection of climate change and health, shedding light on how climate impacts affect mental, respiratory, and cardiovascular health, and how rising temperatures are changing the work landscape in the Caribbean.
Naomi highlights the foundation's efforts to align climate action with the relatable interests of Caribbean youth. On the mission for meaningful youth engagement, the organization is one of the lead youth stakeholders in the upcoming SIDS Global Youth Climate Action Summit in Antigua & Barbuda May 27-30, which aims for inclusive representation from Caribbean and Asia Pacific youth. Tune in to learn about the foundation's local actions makinga global impact, and the transformative power of young people on the frontlines of climate action for the Caribbean region.
Discover The Ashley Lashley Foundation
