Communities throughout the Caribbean suffer extreme damage because of increased population, habitat loss due to commercial development, as well as shifting climate patterns. However, with a multi-faceted communications program we can increase knowledge surrounding these issues, motivate behavior change and empower residents of the Caribbean to live sustainably and successfully into the future.
Marine and terrestrial habitats are over-stressed and declining, so residents of the Caribbean islands are facing extreme challenges in their everyday lives. Conserving water during times of drought and getting washed away during extreme floods are constant issues. Recently, there are added concerns of increase hurricane strength and frequency. Communities are at risk as invaluable mangroves and reefs that act as a natural storm protection are dying due to human activity and a changing climate.
A strategic Communications for Behavior Change program has been developed to create lasting social change among 15 Caribbean islands. The My Island-My Community program consists of three entities; 208-episode serial radio drama called Callaloo, 2 weekly radio call-in show to, and and hundreds of mobilization campaigns. Reaching up to 6 million listeners, the program's goal is to build knowledge, shift attitudes and change behaviors of the audience members around the target issues.
Listeners follow characters on Callaloo struggle with the same issues many Caribbean residents face daily. Callaloo captivates listeners with melodramatic story lines of infidelity, tragedy, murder, wayward teens, and citizens who cherish their environment and inspire others to do so. Paired with the other 2 elements, there is a large focus on capacity development. Because of this the program will flourish across the region for years to come, aiming to empower communities for sustained change.
