Joshuanette Francis's life took a dramatic turn at the young age of 24 when she was diagnosed with osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition that can cripple mobility. Despite the prognosis that she might lose her ability to walk by 40, Joshuanette embarked on a journey not just to hike all of Antigua's beautiful nature trails and its famed 365 beaches but to alter the landscape of disability rights in her community.
Though her YouTube channel displays a vibrant, smiling persona, the reality behind the camera includes moments of intense emotional struggle, including losing her job as a restaurant supervisor due to her condition, as well as her home due to financial strains. Yet she has used these experiences to fuel her passion for advocacy, launching her non-profit organization, Good Humans 268, in 2023. The organization aims to create a better future for those living with disabilities in a society often characterized by systemic inequities and limited resources.
Reflecting on her diagnosis, Joshuanette shares, "I couldn't believe it when I was diagnosed. My biggest fear was, what happens to life now?" Her vibrant spirit defies the challenges she faces, and through Good Humans, she spearheads initiatives such as advocating for an equal rights tribunal and promoting a recycling program that employs locals with disabilities. The recycling initiative has already been operational in over 80 schools, successfully diverting around a million cans and bottles from landfills.
Joshuanette's impact resonates deeply with those she inspires, such as Kelisha Pigott, who found renewed hope through her work with Good Humans. The organization has fostered an environment where individuals with disabilities can gain confidence and pursue higher education. Kelisha, now studying tourism management, dreams of merging her path with Good Humans to enhance job opportunities for her community.
The fight for accessibility remains a pressing issue. Everyday life poses numerous challenges for individuals with mobility impairments in Antigua, from open gutters to uneven pavements, creating barriers that hinder their participation in society. Bernard Warner, head of the local disability association, highlights the urgent need for enforcement of protective legislation that remains largely unimplemented, leaving many disabled individuals marginalized and jobless.
Shifting the narrative around disabilities is essential. Kelly Hedges, principal of the Victory Centre for children with special needs, emphasizes the lack of post-education opportunities for her students. With Good Humans' initiatives, there is a hopeful perspective that these children can transition into fulfilling roles in society and overcome the stigma attached to disabilities.
Joshuanette stresses that mental health awareness is essential within disability advocacy. Although she upholds a positive perspective, she openly acknowledges the mental toll that setbacks, such as housing insecurity or employment discrimination, can take.
"Fighting is exhausting," she admits. "But change will only happen when people talk about disability and demand change." Armed with resilience and a commitment to her mission, Joshuanette Francis continues to strive for a more inclusive future in Antigua, inspiring countless others along her journey.
