Joshuanette Francis– Founder and President, Good Humans 268 Inc.
Antigua and Barbuda is known for its energy, rhythm, and rich cultural celebrations, especially during the much-anticipated summer season. Carnival, hailed as the “Greatest Summer Festival,” is a time for revelry, creativity, and unity. But beneath the glitter and glamour of the masquerade lies a troubling reality—one we can no longer ignore.
This year’s CIBC’s Jam for the Cure was more than just a concert; it was a wake-up call. It was a phenomenal event that reminded us that celebration and responsibility are not mutually exclusive. Spearheaded by a dedicated team, the initiative forms part of a broader movement which includes Hike for the Cure, Music for the Cure, Gala for the Cure, and the upcoming Walk for the Cure. The proceeds go toward Breast Friends and the Oncology Department at Sir Lester Bird Medical Center, offering tangible support to those fighting breast cancer. But beyond the worthy cause, something equally important happened behind the scenes—a shift in mindset around waste management.
Good Humans 268 was invited this year to support the event’s waste efforts, and it revealed something powerful: people will respond positively when they see sustainability being practiced intentionally. Our team was on the ground, collecting and sorting not just our own waste, but even that from other bands. This wasn’t just about cleaning up—it was a statement. A proof that with planning, Carnival can be joyful, vibrant, and clean.
And so, we issue a call to action—not just to the organizers of Jam for the Cure, but to all event planners, mass bands, promoters, DJs, and even patrons. It’s time we reimagine how we party. It’s time we jam with a purpose.
According to Sustainable Development Goal 12, we are asked to rethink responsible consumption and production. But if we’re being honest, how responsible have our practices been? Every year, streets are left littered with bottles, wrappers, and discarded costumes. Communities, particularly those near the landfill at Cooks, suffer the consequences of our negligence—facing fires, air pollution, and other hazards that directly affect schools, the elderly, and the vulnerable.
We must change the narrative. Every band should have a Green Team—a group responsible for collecting, sorting, and disposing of waste in a sustainable way. A truck behind the drinks truck should collect recyclables, compostables, and waste in clearly labeled containers. It’s not just about bins—it’s about vision, leadership, and commitment to a cleaner future.
Imagine the job creation potential, especially for individuals with disabilities. Imagine Carnival becoming a platform not just for expression, but for inclusion and climate action. Imagine Antigua and Barbuda, not just hosting the Greatest Summer Festival, but becoming the Greenest Summer Celebration in the Caribbean.–
Joshuanette Francis– Founder and President, Good Humans 268 Inc.
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