Empowering Change: The Inspiring Journey of Joshuanette Francis in Antigua

Diagnosed with osteoarthritis at 24, Joshuanette Francis embraces life through hiking and forms Good Humans 268 to advocate for disability rights in Antigua. The organization promotes recycling, accessibility, and equitable treatment for people with disabilities, aiming to inspire change in a society often marked by inequity.

Joshuanette Francis, faced with an early diagnosis of osteoarthritis at just 24, took an unusual route in confronting her challenges—she decided to hike the diverse trails of Antigua and embrace life fully while she still could. Her journey, which she shares through vlogs, belies the hidden struggles often unseen by her audience, including the emotional toll of losing her job as a restaurant supervisor due to her condition. Six years later, she channels her strength into advocacy for others living with disabilities through her non-profit organization, Good Humans 268.

The organization, founded in 2023, works tirelessly to uplift those facing similar hurdles in a society rife with inequity and limited resources. Joshuanette believes that "Arthritis has changed my life so much" and empathizes with individuals facing more severe disabilities. Her work spans from advocating for an equal rights tribunal to curb discriminatory practices, to running a recycling initiative that currently engages over 80 local schools. This project has diverted a million bottles and cans from landfills, while providing job opportunities for eight locals with disabilities.

The effects of her work extend beyond waste reduction; her impact has sparked change in individuals like Kelisha Pigott, who credits Joshuanette with inspiring her to pursue higher education and career ambitions. “Change starts with us,” Kelisha states, acknowledging the community’s potential for transformation.

Good Humans has even addressed specific needs in the community, such as developing accessible facilities for those who require them. Joshuanette’s advocacy led to the installation of a wheelchair-friendly bathroom at a local school, ensuring that the dignity of young disabled students is upheld.

However, challenges remain as she highlights the need for improved accessibility throughout Antigua. Open gutters and uneven pavements pose risks to persons with mobility issues, an issue echoed by Bernard Warner, head of the disability association. Both he and Joshuanette advocate for the enforcement of legislation aimed at protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, which remains unfulfilled years after its passage.

Challenges multiply post-graduation for special-needs students. Schools like the Victory Centre face the reality that their students often struggle to find employment opportunities as adults. This is something that Kelly Hedges, principal of the centre, voices concern over, stating, “People are still wary about hiring individuals with special needs."

Joshuanette continues to find strength in her role, though her journey has its emotional burdens. As she approaches 30 without a stable living situation, she emphasizes the importance of discussing mental health within disability advocacy. "Fighting is exhausting,” she admits, highlighting that real change demands persistent dialogue and awareness.

Through her tireless efforts, Joshuanette Francis is not just paving a new path for herself, but is also inspiring a movement towards a more inclusive and equitable future for individuals with disabilities in Antigua.