Caribbean superpowers unite

In October 2023, Elspeth Duncan was invited to lead a morning relaxation and meditation session at the Good Deeds Day Regional Conference, held at the Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort. The event brought together participants from across the Caribbean, all committed to fostering positive intentions and actions. During the session, a participant from Spread the Love Curaçao gifted Duncan a handmade “love and kindness” rock inscribed with the message “Strong Together.” This simple yet profound token serves as a symbol of the Caribbean’s enduring unity and shared identity. Duncan reflects on the region’s unique strengths, including its cultural diversity, resilience, and collective spirit, which have historically enabled Caribbean nations to overcome challenges. She emphasizes that the Caribbean’s true power lies in its ability to come together, not just in times of celebration but also in moments of crisis. This unity was recently demonstrated in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica in late October. Despite the devastation, social media was flooded with calls for assistance and solidarity, highlighting the region’s deep sense of community. Duncan also draws attention to the often-overlooked victims of natural disasters—animals. Her NGO, Venus Doggess Of Love, is organizing a film-screening fundraiser to support the Montego Bay Animal Haven in Jamaica. While the funds raised may seem modest, Duncan believes that every contribution, when combined with others, can make a significant impact. The Caribbean’s ability to unite in adversity, she concludes, is what makes it a true superpower.