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By: La Shawna Griffith
Five individuals, each with unique journeys and experiences abroad, have returned to Barbados, choosing to once again call the island home. Drawn back by a deep connection to their roots, a desire to contribute to the community, and the island’s unmistakable warmth, they have each found renewed purpose and belonging. Their return marks not just a homecoming, but a powerful reminder of the enduring pull of heritage, identity, and the vibrant promise of life in Barbados.
Here are some quotes from five Barbadians living abroad who have returned to the island.
- Ashley D. Hunte- Barbados is home, a place filled with nostalgia and a deep sense of community. When I am in Barbados, the stress I often feel in the U.S.A seems to melt away. Living on an island surrounded by supportive family and friends, rich culture, stunning beaches, and so much more is truly priceless.
- Tyone Downes- “What I love from St. Joseph, I love everything that is why I want to come back. I want to come back up hey. I want to get ah piece ah land in St. Joseph. Growing up in St. Joseph was so exciting for me, because I used to live in Parris Hill. I [went] to school at [Grantley Adams Memorial]. I also lived in Bathsheba. I could swim good. I remember getting quarrel wid for gine in de sea. I used to bade in a place called De Basin. It is a big rock, you could go up a dive down inside, it is down dey still De Basin,”
- Margaret Gill- “My family mostly was from St. John. My sister was brought up in St. John. We have a lot of family here.”
- Mona Gill- My aunt had a shop in Venture and many times she would give [to persons] and as a young girl I lived upstairs and there was a whole in the floor and she would wrap the candy and give to us,”
- Bernard Campbell- I got family that is from Barbados, so when Luisa told us we be coming to Barbados for the Gatherin I was excited to come. For sure, I am excited for the food. We don’t get this sort of food where I am from in the states.”
