Our Work

Our Work is Anchored in Three Interconnected Pillars:

  1. Education, as the enabler of opportunity and innovation

  2. Cultural identity, as the foundation of confidence and belonging

  3. Climate readiness, as the protection that ensures progress lasts

Together, these pillars support communities to adapt, imagine, and build resilient futures.

What We Focus On

Island Futures supports work at the intersection of education, culture, and climate readiness. These areas are distinct, but deeply connected. Education creates opportunity. Culture strengthens identity and cohesion. Climate readiness protects people, schools, and livelihoods.

Education

We support education systems and learning models that help children and young people build confidence, creativity, and practical skills. Our work prioritises:

  • Strong early childhood and youth-focused education

  • Teacher development and school leadership

  • Learning environments that are safe, inclusive, and future-ready

  • Addressing persistent learning gaps, especially among vulnerable groups

Education is not only about classrooms. It is a pathway to resilience, economic participation, and regional leadership.

Culture + Identity

Cultural strength underpins resilience. Island Futures supports initiatives that deepen cultural confidence, encourage cross-Caribbean exchange, and position culture as a driver of creativity and unity.

Our work includes:

  • Cultural education within schools and youth programmes

  • Regional exchanges for students and educators

  • Community-led approaches that honour local knowledge and heritage

Climate Readiness

The Caribbean is on the front line of climate change. We support practical investments like climate ready schools, youth training and community infrastructure that protect people and livelihoods before, during and after climate shocks.

This includes:

  • Climate-resilient schools and community infrastructure

  • Climate-smart livelihoods and youth pathways

Flagship Initiatives

Barbados Climate School

A new model for climate-resilient education that blends innovative pedagogy with regenerative design. Built to withstand extreme weather, the school is also a living lab where students learn through real-world climate challenges. The project is designed as a prototype that can be adapted across the Caribbean.

One Love School Initiative

A rapid-response and recovery programme supporting schools and communities affected by climate disasters. The initiative restores safe learning environments, provides essential resources, and supports emotional wellbeing, while laying the groundwork for stronger, more resilient schools.

Science Genius Barbados

An edu-cultural initiative that uses music to teach Science and Mathematics content to high school students. This STEAM approach is designed to increase interest in science and stimulate science-mindedness among students. Science Genius Barbados will re-engage young people and stimulate their interest, using Calypso and Soca, Spouge and Reggae music.