The CW4CJ 2025 Keynote speaker, Kendria Ferguson is a sustainability and climate resilience specialist with over a decade of experience across the Caribbean. She holds a Master’s in Global Sustainability and is completing her Ph.D. in Sustainable Development at the University of the West Indies. Her work spans disaster risk reduction, renewable energy, environmental management, and sustainable tourism—supporting governments, international agencies, and NGOs on policy development, project implementation, and capacity building.

Missed a session or want to revisit your favourite moments?
Click here to replay Day 1 - Dimensions of Resilience: Live Case Studies from the Global South

Click here to replay Day 2 - Power in Her Hands: Cultivating Equity & Climate Solutions in the Global South

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Dahvia Hylton is an educator and an activist. She currently serves as the President of the Jamaica Climate Change Youth Council. She has been a staunch advocate for environmental protection and the rights of women and children, applying an intersectional approach to these issues. 

Join us for Caribbean Women for Climate Justice Conference 2025 virtual conference 

🗓️ 17 – 19 July 2025
💻 Online | Global South Voices, United
💥 Co-hosted by @TheClimateConscious & @GlobalYaadie

Register for Day 1:  https://streamyard.com/watch/45Fe8UE5nt4b

Register for Day 2: https://streamyard.com/watch/b2t3XDEQJduR

Register for the Grant Writing Workshop: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/MdtmSbUmSzmW1FmdNiTRig

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The Caribbean Women for Climate Justice (CW4CJ) Virtual Conference is back for its third edition. The voices behind The Climate Conscious and The Global Yaadie podcasts take the mic to share what’s in store. 

In this  crossover episode, CW4CJ organizers, Derval and Dainalyn break down the 2025 theme “Sowing Seeds of Sustainable Solutions”. The organizers discuss why centering women is critical to climate justice, and spotlight some of the dynamic speakers joining from across the Caribbean and the Global South.

From post-disaster recovery to agricultural resilience and youth advocacy, CW4CJ 2025 is more than a conference…it’s a movement rooted in lived experience and led by women.

July 17–19 | Virtual & Free
Co-hosted by @TheClimateConscious & @GlobalYaadie

Register for Day 1: https://streamyard.com/watch/45Fe8UE5nt4b
Register for Day 2: https://streamyard.com/watch/b2t3XDEQJduR

Register for the Grant Writing Workshop: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/MdtmSbUmSzmW1FmdNiTRig

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Keatlegile Mnguni is the founder & CEO at Agrinouri, a South African agroprocessing & vegetable farming company, dedicated to crafting exceptional handcrafted sauces using natural ingredients. https://agrinouri.co.za

Join us for Caribbean Women for Climate Justice Conference 2025 virtual conference 

🗓️ 17 – 19 July 2025
💻 Online | Global South Voices, United
💥 Co-hosted by @TheClimateConscious & @GlobalYaadie

Register for Day 1:  https://streamyard.com/watch/45Fe8UE5nt4b

Register for Day 2: https://streamyard.com/watch/b2t3XDEQJduR

Register for the Grant Writing Workshop: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/MdtmSbUmSzmW1FmdNiTRig

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Cherisse  Braithwaite-Joseph, CEO of the Cropper Foundation, speaks about her journey in climate philanthropy and the importance of linking environmental sustainability with community development. 

With over 14 years of experience across environmental management, disaster risk reduction, and community development, Cherise shares how her career has been a continuous journey toward people-centered, data-driven climate action.

Cherisse discuss innovative projects like the 'Writing for Our Lives' anthology, which aims to amplify Caribbean voices in the climate narrative. She emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to climate resilience, the vital role of civil society partnerships, and the call for philanthropic leaders to support local initiatives effectively.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in climate resilience, regional leadership, and building more equitable and effective climate solutions.

Key Takeaways

• The Cropper Foundation blends technical elements with grassroots participation.
• Climate resilience is interconnected with people's livelihoods in the Caribbean.
• Civil society should be involved from the planning stages of initiatives.
• Funders need to support local organizations beyond project-based funding.
• Sustainability requires a holistic approach that includes cultural impacts.
• The Caribbean has the expertise to lead in climate action.
• Investment in local initiatives is crucial for effective climate solutions.
• Partnerships should focus on co-designing projects that meet local needs.

Join the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance and become part of the Philanthropy For Climate movement, a powerful global network of changemakers.

Visit https://cariphilalliance.org/events-programs/clasp/ to learn more

Visit thecropperfoundation.org to learn more about their work. 

Partner with us as we elevate Caribbean voices in reshaping climate action through philanthropy.

Subscribe to the Climate Conscious podcast to stay inspired and informed.

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Pierre Noel is the Executive Director of the Haiti Development Institute (HDI), an organization advancing development by strengthening local leadership and institutional capacity across Haiti. 

HDI’s approach centers local communities as architects of their future, particularly in climate-vulnerable regions. Through infrastructure development, civic leadership, and cross-sector partnerships, HDI offers a model for locally grounded philanthropy that responds to crisis while building long-term systems for sustainability and equity. Pierre brings deep experience in the intersection of climate, governance, and philanthropic accountability—making his voice essential to the CLASP conversation.

In this episode, Derval Barzey speaks with Pierre about the critical role of climate philanthropy in supporting community-led solutions in Haiti. They discuss the importance of building resilience in rural communities, supporting farmers, and the need for collaboration among funders. Pierre shares insights on the challenges faced by local leaders and the innovative approaches being taken to drive climate adaptation. 

The conversation emphasizes the significance of engaging youth and leveraging technology to foster partnerships and collective impact in addressing climate change in the Caribbean.

Join the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance and become part of the Philanthropy For Climate movement, a powerful global network of changemakers.

Visit https://cariphilalliance.org/events-programs/clasp/ to learn more

Visit https://www.hdihaiti.org/ to learn more about their work. 

Partner with us as we elevate Caribbean voices in reshaping climate action through philanthropy.

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Rashema Ingraham is an advocate for community-engaged conservation, leading Bonefish and Tarpon Trust Bahamas. Rashima's connection to the ocean is deeply personal and rooted in her family heritage. In this episode of the CLASP series Rashema and Derval discuss the importance of marine conservation in the Caribbean, the role of community engagement in conservation efforts, and how philanthropy can support local initiatives. 

Rashema shares her personal journey into climate advocacy, the impact of Hurricane Dorian on the Bahamas, and the realities of climate justice and equity in small island communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for strategic partnerships to build a climate-resilient future.

Key Takeaways

• Marine conservation is vital for the Caribbean due to its reliance on ocean resources.
• Community engagement is essential for effective conservation efforts.
• Philanthropy can enhance local conservation initiatives by providing necessary funding and support.
• Building back better means integrating natural resources into recovery efforts.
• Climate justice must address the inequalities faced by vulnerable coastal communities.
• Women and children in small communities often bear the brunt of climate impacts.
• Strategic partnerships are crucial for creating inclusive climate solutions.
• A holistic approach to funding can amplify the impact of conservation projects.

Join the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance and become part of the Philanthropy For Climate movement, a powerful global network of changemakers.

Visit https://cariphilalliance.org/events-programs/clasp/ to learn more

Visit https://www.bonefishtarpontrust.org/ to learn more about their work. 

Partner with us as we elevate Caribbean voices in reshaping climate action through philanthropy.

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In this episode, Derval Barzey sits down with Carolyn Mahfood, CEO of the Grace Kennedy Foundation, to explore the powerful intersection of climate action and philanthropy in the Caribbean. 

They discuss the foundation’s evolution over the years, its deep commitment to sustainability through ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices, and highlight the remarkable impact of initiatives like the Kingston Harbour Cleanup Project. 

This conversation underscores the importance of partnerships, meaningful community engagement, and the influential role of philanthropy in tackling the region’s climate challenges.

Takeaways:

• The Grace Kennedy Foundation has a long-standing commitment to education and environmental responsibility.
• Their guiding mantra, “We care,” reflects a dedication to people, planet, and future generations.
• ESG practices have become central to strengthening their sustainability work.
• Philanthropy plays a pivotal role in shaping corporate climate responsibility.
• The Kingston Harbour Cleanup Project has prevented over three million kilograms of waste from entering the harbour.
• Community engagement is essential to raising environmental awareness and driving change.
• Collaborations with NGOs and government agencies amplify the impact of initiatives.
• Even small organizations can make a big difference at the local level.
• Successful models of environmental stewardship in the Caribbean can be scaled and replicated.
• Philanthropy must adapt and innovate to help close funding gaps for climate action.

Join the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance and become part of the Philanthropy For Climate movement, a powerful global network of changemakers.

Visit https://cariphilalliance.org/events-programs/clasp/ to learn more

Visit gkfoundation.org to learn more about their work. 

Partner with us as we elevate Caribbean voices in reshaping climate action through philanthropy.

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In this episode of the CLASP podcast series, host Derval Barzey sits down with Professor Rosalea Hamilton, Chair of the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance (CARIPHIL) and CEO of the Lasco Chin Foundation, to discuss how collaborative philanthropy is driving climate resilience, gender equity, and grassroots empowerment across the Caribbean.

With small island states facing the multiple crises of climate change and economic and geopolitical uncertainty, the time for bold, united action is now. Prof. Hamilton reflects on the timely launch of the CLASP Initiative and how CARIPHIL is building a regional movement to unite funders, stakeholders, and grassroots leaders to drive climate action, emphasizing collaboration and innovation.

We also explore the Lasko Chin Foundation’s rapid and deeply strategic response to Hurricane Beryl, including an innovative relief model that targeted community corner shops and micro-enterprises across Jamaica. With over 4,000 people reached in the first week, and gender-sensitive support for entrepreneurs, with the support of their partners, the Foundation’s work shows how localized, data-driven, and collaborative responses can transform disaster recovery.

Prof. Hamilton shares candidly about the need for deeper regional dialogue among Caribbean philanthropic organizations. 

“We know of each other,” she says, “but we must start talking to each other.” She calls for stronger intra-regional collaboration, trust-based partnerships, and a unified front when engaging global funders—because in the words of the Jamaican saying, “We’re little, but we’re tallawah.”

Key Takeaways

• Hurricane Barrel highlighted the urgent need for resilience in the Caribbean.
• The Lasco Chin Foundation provided immediate relief and long-term support after Hurricane Beryl.
• Gender-sensitive interventions are crucial in addressing climate impacts.
• Strategic partnerships enhance the effectiveness of philanthropic efforts.
• The Philanthropy fro Climate Seven Pillar Framework helps organizations assess and enhance their climate initiatives.
• Leadership at the highest levels is essential for effective response.
• Collaboration among Caribbean organizations is vital for success.
• Transparency in funding and actions builds trust with stakeholders.

Join the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance and become part of the Philanthropy For Climate movement, a powerful global network of changemakers.

Visit https://cariphilalliance.org/events-programs/clasp/ to learn more

Connect with the Lasco Chin Foundation: https://lascofoundation.org

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Welcome to the CLASP Podcast Series.

In this introductory episode of the CLASP podcast series, host Derval Barzey discusses the intersection of climate action and philanthropy in the Caribbean with Erica Miller, Head of Climate at WINGS and Anthea McLaughlin, CEO of The Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance (CariPhil). They explore the transformative potential of the CLASP initiative.

CLASP: Forging a Resilient Caribbean Through Climate Philanthropy and Strategic Partnerships. The CLASP Initiative is designed to align funding with impact—mobilizing resources for strategic, community-led adaptation solutions.

Through the CLASP Podcast Series, we’re bringing together funders, climate leaders, and local communities to explore how philanthropy can fuel climate resilience in the region.

Episode 1: The Role of Philanthropy

 Key Discussion Points: 

1. How can funders de-risk their investments in climate adaptation? 
2. Where should funding be directed for the highest impact? 
3. How can philanthropy accelerate long-term resilience in the Caribbean?

Why Fund Caribbean Climate Action?

The Caribbean presents both urgent challenges and immense opportunities for climate philanthropy. Proactive investment in adaptation today can significantly reduce future disaster costs, fortify economies, and protect communities. Strategic climate funding can:

✅ Maximize Impact 

Funders have the power to unlock scalable, locally driven solutions that ensure resilience. 

✅ De-Risk Investments 

A more climate-resilient Caribbean protects businesses, supply chains, and regional economies. 

✅ Align with Global Giving Trends 

The #PhilanthropyForClimate movement is growing—ensuring climate-smart giving is no longer optional.

Funders, This is Your Moment to Lead

The Caribbean needs bold, forward-thinking funders who recognize that climate action today prevents crises tomorrow. If you're looking to align your giving with real impact and measurable outcomes, this podcast series is for you.

Its Time to Take Action! 

The CLASP initiative is designed to help funders at every stage of their climate journey. Whether you’re just getting started or already funding climate projects, it provides the tools, frameworks, and connections to amplify your impact.

Join Cariphil and become part of the Philanthropy For Climate movement, a powerful global network of changemakers.

Visit https://cariphilalliance.org/events-programs/clasp/ to learn more

Key Takeaways

• The Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance connects global and regional philanthropy.
• CLASP seeks to unite diverse stakeholders to forge a resilient Caribbean through climate philanthropy. 
• Philanthropy must be strategic and collaborative for long-term impact.
• The Caribbean region remains underfunded in global philanthropy despite its vulnerability. 
• Philanthropy for Climate offers a structured framework for funders to align with climate action.
• Foundations can leverage the seven-pillar framework to impact climate change.
• The commitment to climate action must be tailored to local contexts.
• Technical assistance will help integrate climate strategies into funding.
• The CLASP podcast series will share commitments and strategies of funders and other stakeholders.

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