Civil society organisation (CSO) leaders from 12 regional countries participated in the inaugural Caribbean CSO Conference in Jamaica, from Feb. 24 to 27.
The four-day event brought together 120 participants from nations including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Suriname, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The Seamoss Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines was represented by Audwin Andrews, while Voice of the Disabled was represented by Cheryl Adams.
The conference aimed to equip civil society leaders, funders, and policymakers with practical, execution-focused strategies. It was convened by the Canadian-funded Local Engagement and Action Fund (LEAF) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) Basic Needs Trust Fund to foster collaboration, encourage innovation, and promote strategic dialogue to strengthen resilience and drive regional impact.
Canada’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, Mark Berman, highlighted the indispensable role of CSOs in addressing entrenched development challenges, including climate vulnerability, youth unemployment, gender equality, and the protection of the most vulnerable.
He also underscored the need for CSOs to adapt to global shifts by strengthening governance, financial resilience, digital readiness, and advocacy.
Portfolio Manager for the CDB Basic Needs Trust Fund, George Yearwood, affirmed the bank’s recognition of CSOs as a central pillar of sustainable development in the Caribbean.
He noted that NGOs and CBOs are often the first responders in times of crisis and the most trusted advocates within marginalised communities, championing social justice, environmental stewardship, gender equality, youth empowerment, and inclusive growth.
The conference, held under the theme “The Shift: Igniting Civil Society’s Next Chapter”, focused on four core pillars: funding and sustainability, technology and AI, operational excellence, and advocacy and visibility.
The event culminated in a celebration of World NGO Day, featuring a regional showcase highlighting the vital contributions of CSOs to Caribbean development.