A race not made for individualists

Each November, I am reminded that not only is Barbados the birthplace of rum, but that our island ages just as beautifully and is mentioned with pride, as far as the taste of our rum has travelled.

We are often reminded of individual stories of success in business, politics, sports, science and many other fields: from producing one of the biggest global entertainment stars, to impactful climate change political activists who lobby on behalf of SIDS and other important issues, to world champion hurdlers and cricketers and even the creation of the first search engine. There are many more stories still being written.

Barbados continues to produce time and time again, much like our proud history of creating the first rum, which has inspired the creation of many other rums and drinks such as pina coladas, daiquiris, mojitos, mai tais and the world-famous Cuba libre. The joint efforts within one company in Barbados have helped to pave the way not just for enjoyment, but for the global success of many other companies to follow. This is why success as a nation cannot rest on the laurels of individuals, but rather, it must always be about teamwork.

Last year, we watched the world transform — evolving both negatively and positively and even “erupting” in some spaces.

We have watched the effects of climate change batter numerous countries and seen the economic impact from natural disasters like Hurricane Beryl last year and the devastating Category 5 Melissa just last month.

We have also witnessed nearby tensions boil over and worldwide conflicts erupt into full-scale wars. These impacts can individually destroy a nation and cripple economic progress. The bounce-back, or turning of a new leaf, can only be done through collective marathon efforts of many, both young and old.

As we face a change in mindset, beliefs and work ethic among future generations, we must remember that Barbados’ position on the world stage over the past decades of Independence was not achieved by one individual but by the shared dedication of many.

And as our Republic journey continues with new developments in various economic spheres, with evolving and new trains of thought amongst younger generations coming to the fore, we must continue to move forward as one nation.

We will always have disagreements and differing opinions but, at the end of the day, we cannot let negativity be a barrier to our progress. Equally, we cannot allow positivity to be blinkers to the challenges we may face in the future. We must pause, as the young people say, and be strategic in our next move. We must think like a Del Castillo (Bajan chess player) while acting like a King – Suki King (checkers world champion).

From reception days in primary school, the national anthem is embedded into all of us and one specific section that often reminds me that the success of our nation is a collective fight is: “Upward and onward we shall go / Inspired, exulting, free / And great will our nation grow / In strength and unity.” We survived slavery during pre-Independence and we continue fighting to survive and progress through the remnants of colonial systems and infrastructures that have crippled many opportunities for the average man and woman in our post-Independence journey.

The fight and struggle are real for many, especially as we face various issues, intensified swiftly and aggressively with the emergence of technology and social media. This ‘fight’ is not just specific to one demographic anymore, as the mental slavery created with the rise of technology, coupled with the speed at which we can be manipulated through fake news or great marketing initiatives, with economics at the core, affects us all. Therefore, if we wish to evolve as a mature destination, we must foster a collective mindset to survive this evolution and seek ways to make it beneficial for all — not just a few.

Reflecting on the past year — beyond union negotiations, millions in damage from Hurricane Beryl, geopolitical tensions near and far, rising tariffs and, of course, the “know it all” social media, I remain proud that Barbados continues to grow despite these challenges. As the governor of the Central Bank recently reported, Barbados has achieved 17 straight quarters of growth, along with multiple credit rating upgrades. This, along with other positives including numerous hotels and other developments in the pipeline, the completion of various cultural developmental infrastructures, new museums, a new geriatric hospital to open soon, airlift continuing to expand, new dining experiences, the beginning of education transformation, review of the road network, advancements in the paving of key country roads and a bigger focus on the water infrastructure challenges, demonstrates that as a country, Barbados is progressing.

That is why we need to be on this ride/journey together — through both the challenges and triumphs. No one can bear the responsibility alone. Equally important, there are many areas that we must continue to work on, such as the cost of living, the fight against crime, the ease of doing business, service standards, and generally reclaiming our reputation as the friendliest people in the world.

Thankfully, Barbados continues to possess a magnetic allure that touches both our hearts and that of our visitors. We see it daily in the tourism world. Year on year, from 2023–2025, our numbers have consistently grown and that is due to the collective efforts of all stakeholders, with Bajans in the front seat. Over one billion dollars of investment is being pumped into the tourism industry over the next five years. The domino effect includes support for families through employment, training and education, strengthening business connections across other sectors and promoting economic development/growth. The linkages fostered through the tourism industry are second to none.

As the lifeblood of the economy, clearly demonstrated through the COVID-19 pandemic, we must continue to advance the lives of our people in everything that we do within the tourism industry and we must do so collectively as a team and not as individuals.

Our focus must be first on our people — equipping them with the necessary opportunities needed to grow, lead and succeed. We must plot paths from internship to ownership and change the mentality towards our beloved industry by showing more young Barbadians that they, too, can be owners, directors, CEOs and general managers. If we wish to take tourism and all other sectors forward, then education, training and opportunity for development must be the core of that thrust.

The days of great speeches must now be transformed into realities. Phrases such as “I Have a Dream” and “You are the future of tomorrow” must not only be speeches of the past but become today’s realities and many of our people must continue to pivot and lead with purpose. As we embrace 59 years of Independence and race towards a monumental 60th year of Independence celebrations over the next 12 months, we must recognise the daily challenges, guided by the great quote from Maya Angelou: “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” Yes, we will continue to face climate change, geopolitical tensions, economic and political challenges and global shifts beyond our control. However, Barbados and Bajans must never be defeated. The Barbados we are all fond of exists because of the efforts of our people.

Today, on our 59th anniversary of Independence, I wish to express a warm embrace of love and affection to my Barbadian sisters and brothers. Puff your chest and speak boldly and proudly of every Bajan achievement, but also stay steadfast.

Question plans when necessary and be sure to also support each positive opportunity provided to our people.

Happy Independence, Barbados!