Caribbean Trailblazers & Heroes of Today

Welcome to a journey through the lives of 10 remarkable Caribbean heroes who embody the spirit of resilience, excellence, and the infectious energy the Caribbean is known for. From legendary cricketers to inspiring leaders in academia, sports, public health, music, politics, and more, these individuals have made an indelible mark on the region and the world. Join us as we celebrate their extraordinary achievements and contributions to the Caribbean’s vibrant tapestry of culture and history. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired by the stories of these remarkable Caribbean icons, past and present. Let’s dive in!

The vibrant and culturally rich Caribbean region is home to numerous personalities whose positive contributions have touched the hearts of their fellow islanders and resonated far beyond the turquoise waters and sandy shores. 

In our last video, we went over 10 of those heroes who are no longer with us, but whose impact and legacy still live on. In today’s video, we will instead focus on a few of those heroes still with us, and those who continue to make waves in their respective arenas. 

Join us on a journey through the lives of 10 remarkable people who embody the spirit of resilience, excellence, and the infectious energy the Caribbean is known. 

Brian Lara – The Cricket Sensation

To start our list, we go to one of the most prolific sportsmen in the field of world-class Cricket Brian Lara. This legendary cricketer from Trinidad and Tobago is a name that resonates with every cricket enthusiast around the globe. Lara’s journey through the cricketing world is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

With a career spanning more than two decades, Brian Lara left an indelible mark on the sport.  He topped the Test batting rankings on several occasions and holds several cricketing records, including the record for the highest individual score in first-class cricket, with 501 not out, which is also the only quintuple-hundred in first-class cricket history. Lara also holds the record for the highest individual score in a Test innings after scoring 400 not out against England in 2004.

Brian Lara is also the only batsman in the history of international test cricket to have scored 400+ runs in an innings and held for 18 years, the record of scoring the highest number of runs in a single over of a Test match when he scored 28 runs off an over by Robin Peterson of South Africa in 2003. Finally, as captain he led the West Indies team to win the 2004 ICC Champions Trophy, the first time the team won any major ICC trophy since winning the 1979 Cricket World Cup.

But off the field, Lara’s commitment to charitable causes and the development of cricket in the Caribbean only further solidified his status as a true hero of the region. He remains an icon and an inspiration, a living legend whose name will forever be synonymous with the grace, power, and artistry of cricket.

Professor Sir Hilary Beckles – Academic Visionary

Next on our list, we switch to the world of academia, and one of the most known regional historians and leaders in Caribbean academia, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles of Barbados. Standing as a beacon of knowledge and transformation in the Caribbean, Sir Beckles has had an influence on the field of academia in the region for more than 2 decades.

As the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Sir Hilary Beckles has held one of the most prestigious positions in the Caribbean’s academic landscape. Under his guidance, the UWI has evolved into a world-class institution, contributing significantly to the development and enlightenment of the region.

But his contributions extend well beyond academia. Beckles is a prolific author and historian, known for his extensive work on Caribbean history, particularly focusing on the transatlantic slave trade and its impact. His research has shed light on the painful past while emphasizing the resilience and strength of the people of the Caribbean. Additionally, Sir Beckles is a tireless advocate for social justice, reparations, and the plight faced by Caribbeans from globally oppressive institutions.  

In a world where knowledge and history play pivotal roles in shaping the future, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles is a guiding light. He continues to inspire and teach young Caribbean minds so they are prepared to be critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. 

Sir George Alleyne – A Leader in Global Health

Next on our list, we highlight a man who may not have been known to many of you, but whose work has been instrumental to Caribbean development and global health, and that is Sir George Alleyne. Hailing from Barbados, Allenye is a distinguished and trailblazing figure in the realm of global health and epidemiology, leaving an indelible mark on the international healthcare landscape.

Sir George’s illustrious career is characterized by his dedication to advancing the field of epidemiology and his tireless commitment to improving public health on a global scale. He has held various prestigious positions, including the Director Emeritus of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and served as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean during a time HIV/AIDS had a grip on the region. 

Outside of his role as a public health champion. Sir George Alleyne also became the first Barbadian to become chancellor of the University of the West Indies, and was also the first chancellor to have received his university education at the institution. These roles have allowed him to influence health policies and initiatives across the Caribbean and beyond.

These contributions and more to the field of public health have been instrumental in shaping strategies for disease control and prevention. His work extends to a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases, chronic illnesses, and health system strengthening, all aimed at enhancing the well-being of communities worldwide.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce – The Pocket Rocket

Highlighting another sports legend, we pay tribute to one of the fastest females of all time and the Pocket Rocket herself, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. Hailing from Jamaica, her remarkable speed and infectious enthusiasm have made her a beloved figure in the world of athletics. 

Renowned for her explosiveness off the starting blocks, Shelly-Ann has achieved extraordinary success in the world of sprinting. In the 100 meters, her signature event, she is a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a five-time world champion. In the 200 meters, she won gold and silver at the World Athletics Championships, as well as an Olympic silver medal. Overall, she won eight Olympic medals as she rose from relative obscurity at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

But it is her captivating personality and charisma that transformed Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce from an athletic legend to a true hero. She started the Pocket Rocket Foundation to give back after all of the help she received growing up in Waterhouse. Giving student-athletes the help they need to create a big impact as she has. 

Usain Bolt – The Fastest Man On Earth

Staying in track and field, it would be a grave error on our part if we do not highlight possibly the most prolific track athlete of all time, you guessed it, Usain “the Lighting” Bolt. Usain Bolt’s incredible talent, record-breaking feats, and philanthropic generosity have transformed him from a mere sports legend. 

When it comes to athletics, his notoriety spans continents. He is a triple Olympic gold medalist in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 4×100-meter relay and holds 8 gold medals, though one medal was stripped due to a teammate’s failed doping tests. His world records, particularly in the 100 meters and 200 meters, have set a bar so high they continue to remain unchallenged.

But Bolt’s appeal extends beyond the track. His infectious personality, wide smile, and playful demeanor have endeared him to fans worldwide. Off the track, Bolt’s philanthropic efforts and commitment to community development are equally remarkable. 

The Usain Bolt Foundation has contributed to various charitable causes, including supporting educational initiatives and healthcare projects in Jamaica and beyond. He is also a businessman who started his chain of Caribbean restaurants and continues to be an advocate when speaking about the Caribbean and Jamaica. Usain Bolt is not just a sprinter; he is a global superstar, a symbol of joy and celebration, and a true ambassador for the Caribbean.

Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty – International Music Sensation

Switching gears we come to another world-renowned Caribbean and one whose journey from a small Caribbean island to international stardom has been nothing short of spectacular, yes that’s right, it is Robyn Rihanna Fenty. Born in Barbados, Rihanna’s life story is a testament to the power of talent, determination, and unapologetic self-expression.

Rihanna’s remarkable career began in the world of music, where she quickly rose to prominence as a pop and R&B sensation. Her debut single, “Pon de Replay,” marked the beginning of a meteoric rise to fame. With numerous chart-topping hits, she has become one of the best-selling artists of all time, winning multiple Grammy Awards along the way.

However, her influence extends far beyond music. Rihanna is a dynamic force in the fashion and beauty industries. Her cosmetics line, Fenty Beauty, set new standards for inclusivity, offering a wide range of shades to suit every skin tone. Her fashion endeavors, including Fenty x Puma and Savage X Fenty, have disrupted the industry and shown that black-oriented beauty and consumer products have a place in the mainstream. 

Rihanna has also become a leader for her commitment to philanthropy and social justice. She is known for her work with the Clara Lionel Foundation, a charity with invests in climate justice initiatives in the Caribbean and helps communities prepare for and withstand natural disasters. She is also a champion of education, providing annual scholarships to Barbadian students as well. 

Rihanna’s journey from a Barbadian girl with big dreams to a global icon is a testament to the unwavering personality we have all come to admire in her. She is a symbol of empowerment, self-expression, and the limitless possibilities that arise when talent, ambition, and a heart for change come together. 

Dr. Carla Barnett – Economist and regional leader

Switching away from celebrities and international sensations, we pay tribute to someone who may not be as popular but who nonetheless has contributed greatly to the development of the Caribbean and her home country. Let’s give some respect to Dr. Carla Barnett, the distinguished Belizean economist and regional leader. 

Born and raised in Belize, Dr. Barnett is widely recognized for her exceptional work in the field of economics and currently serves as the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community or CARICOM. She started out working with the Caribbean Development Bank before going back home to her country to serve in several positions ranging from Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Belize also being the first woman to do so, to becoming Belize’s first Treasury Secretary. 

Her expertise in these various positions has been instrumental in formulating policies and strategies aimed at bolstering economic growth, stability, and integration in the Caribbean.

But as an economist, Dr. Carla Barnett’s contributions are not confined to the realm of numbers. As the head of CARICOM, she is a fervent advocate for social justice and gender equality. 

Her holistic approach to development underscores the importance of addressing the needs of the most vulnerable in society, ensuring that no one is left behind on the path to progress. Being a strong woman in the field has led her to chart the way not only for economic development but also for the inclusion of young girls into the world of diplomacy. 

Dr. Anthony W. Harriott – Criminal Justice Warrior

Moving on on our list, we come to one of the most distinguished social scientists and criminologists in the region, Dr. Anthony W. Harriott. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Dr. Anthony Harriott is widely recognized for his research and analysis of crime, violence, and social justice in the Caribbean, with a particular focus on Jamaica. Through his work, he has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and strategies aimed at addressing these critical challenges in the Caribbean. 

For more than 10 years, he has served as the director of the Institute of Criminal Justice and Security and led the inception of the Police Civilian Oversight Authority (PCOA) in Jamaica. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr Harriott’s work has not only shed light on the root causes of crime but has also proposed practical solutions to create safer and more inclusive communities. His expertise has been sought after by governments, international organizations, and academic institutions, making him a leading authority in his field.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Anthony W. Harriott is known for his dedication to mentoring the next generation of scholars and practitioners. As the Head of the Department of Government at the Mona Campus, University of the West Indies, he has inspired countless individuals to follow in his footsteps, making a positive impact on the region’s development.

Dr. Didacus Jules – Regional Education and Political Thinker

As we continue on our list, we come to a distinguished regional educator, politician, and civil servant who has done great work not only for his country but the wider region at large. None other than Dr. Didacus Jules. Dr Jules is a distinguished figure in the Caribbean known for his significant contributions to regional education and diplomacy. Born in Saint Lucia, his life is a remarkable journey and Dr Jules has been involved in many aspects of Caribbean society. 

His most recent and notable contribution came when he served as the Director-General of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), where he played a pivotal role in fostering unity and development among not only the Eastern Caribbean countries but the region as a whole. Under his leadership, the OECS made great strides in areas such as economic integration, climate resilience, and education.

Prior to his work at the OECS, Dr. Didacus Jules has been a strong advocate for education in the Caribbean. He was a principal actor in the National Literacy Campaign in Grenada during the revolution of 1979 and later went on to serve simultaneously as the Chief Education Officer and Permanent Secretary for Education, Youth, Culture, Women, and Social Affairs in Grenada. 

He has championed initiatives aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education, recognizing it as a key driver of progress in the region. He has also written extensively on critical education, education policy, and public sector reform. Dr. Didacus Jules continues to be an inspiration for many and his visionary leadership, both in the field of diplomacy and education, continues to inspire students and citizens alike. 

Mia Amor Mottley – Prime Minister of Barbados

Staying in politics and regional leaders, we come to a political leader who over the past 5 years has become an international sensation, but whose impact on their country and the region has been much longer and bigger.

Mia Amor Mottley, who is also the Prime Minister of Barbados is not only a charismatic leader but also a Barbadian trailblazer who is a champion for climate change and for developing countries. Mia Mottley has been a pivotal person in Barbados’ politics for years but her notoriety came when she was elected to serve as the country’s first female Prime Minister in 2018. 

As a leader, her work has been characterized as driven by social justice and the empowerment of her people. She is known in the international community for her commitment to progressive policies that address the needs of the most vulnerable in society, while also fostering economic growth and development. Top among these is her advocacy for climate change where at COP26 in 2019, she chided the world’s leaders for not working more diligently to limit the potentially catastrophic impacts of climate change.

Prime Minister Mottley, also led her island Barbados to a republic in 2021, completely severing political ties to the United Kingdom and replacing the head of state with a Barbadian-born national. It was no surprise then when she was listed among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2022. 

As we conclude today’s video, we must continue to pay tribute to our Caribbean heroes, past and present, who continue to uplift and improve the region. Their impact will transcend generations, as they fought for freedom, and economic prosperity and have been champions of peace and unity. 

Every person’s journey is a testament to the region’s vibrant spirit and resilience. From the world-class athletes who dazzle on the global stage to the leaders who work tirelessly for progress and the cultural icons who spread the Caribbean’s infectious charm worldwide. These heroes inspire us to aim higher, and while we may have omitted some who you think should be on a list, be sure to let us know in the comments below who you think else should be on here. 

We know that influence can be subjective, so be sure to tell us in the comments if you agree with our list. Who do you think we have missed and why?