Against a backdrop of shifting global career trends and growing demand for sustainable food systems, a senior Dominican agricultural official is pushing to reframe agriculture as an attractive, forward-looking career for young people across the island nation.
Lakeyia Joseph, Parliamentary Secretary within the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, delivered this call to action during the National Association of Youth in Agriculture (NAYA)’s Annual General Meeting, which was hosted recently at the Roseau Fisheries Complex.
Speaking directly to the young agricultural stakeholders in attendance, Joseph challenged outdated perceptions of farming and agribusiness as a last-resort occupation for those who cannot secure other work. “To the young people here today, I want to encourage you to see agriculture differently—see it not as a fallback option, but as a pathway to success,” Joseph said in her address. “See it not as a limitation, but as an opportunity.”
Joseph expanded on this framing, highlighting the multifaceted power of the agricultural sector to drive broad-based national progress: beyond feeding local communities, the industry acts as a powerful engine for wealth creation, new job generation, and the development of robust, shock-resistant local communities. That said, she was clear that building a successful career or business in agriculture is not without requirements, noting that long-term success in the sector depends on intentional vision, consistent discipline, and an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality work.
Joseph reaffirmed the Dominican government’s commitment to removing barriers for young people entering the agricultural space. “As a ministry, we remain committed to supporting you on this journey. We are here to provide technical support, training opportunities, and the policy environment necessary for you to succeed,” she explained. “But we also need you to step forward, take ownership, and fully embrace the opportunities that exist within the sector.”
She also laid out clear expectations for NAYA’s newly elected executive board, urging incoming leaders to govern with radical transparency and integrity, pursue ambitious, forward-thinking strategies, and build on the progress established by previous leadership teams. “Strengthen the organization, expand its reach, and ensure that more young people are brought into the movement,” she stated.
Joseph did not leave the contributions of outgoing NAYA leadership unrecognized, extending sincere gratitude to the board members transitioning out of their roles. “To those of you who have served, we say thank you. Your work has contributed to the growth of NAYA and to the development of agriculture in Dominica,” she said.
Closing her remarks, Joseph reaffirmed the critical, enduring importance of NAYA’s core mission. “Your impact will continue to be felt, and the mission of NAYA remains as relevant today as it was at its inception,” she said. “It is about empowering youth in agriculture, advocating for their needs, and creating pathways for sustainable growth and success.”