In October, the Authentic Caribbean Foundation (ACF), a Boston-based nonprofit, along with the Generation Grenada Foundation (GGF), will spearhead the inaugural Caribbean Disability Conference.
This significant event, set for October 9–13 at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort, St. George, Grenada, aims to bring critical issues surrounding disabilities into sharper focus in the Caribbean region.
Virtual launch and Conference themes
To set the stage, ACF and GGF will host a virtual launch on June 20.
The conference, themed “Community Access, Empowerment, and Inclusion,” is designed to underscore the importance of inclusive support systems for youth with disabilities.
It will address vital topics like advocacy, education, disability legislation, and barriers to inclusion, underpinned by a global study commissioned by UNICEF.
This study highlights the urgent need for well-tailored support programs for disabled youth.
Addressing a critical global challenge
Disabilities affect approximately 15 per cent of the global population, making this group the world’s largest minority.
In the Caribbean, individuals with disabilities face significant challenges, including limited access to healthcare, rehabilitation, and specialized support services.
This conference seeks to initiate robust programs to ameliorate these challenges.
Enhancing educational opportunities
In 2023, ACF and GGF launched the Futuristic Learning Through Youth Involvement workshop series.
This initiative was aimed at fostering coding skills among children, including those with disabilities, thereby revolutionizing educational engagement and inclusion.
Bridging the healthcare gap
The Authentic Caribbean Foundation has also been proactive through its Pediatric Disability Equipment Supply Programme.
By providing medical equipment and supplies, the foundation is working to bridge the healthcare gap for families in the Diaspora and across the Caribbean.
Collaborative efforts and long-term goals
The conference will bring together a diverse group of facilitators, including community groups, regional government agencies, and international advocacy groups.
Experts and educators in the field will collaborate to create a comprehensive white paper by the conference’s end.
This document will be presented to CARICOM and regional governments, offering insights and recommendations to support the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
The Foundation’s mission
The ACF is dedicated to transforming the lives of Caribbean children affected by disabilities and HIV/AIDS.
Its mission extends to providing essential services such as education, training, and healthcare, and supporting HIV/AIDS research, aiming for a more inclusive and empowered future for all.
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