Welcome to TDONs first Podcast episode, ‘Diaspora Potential and Power.’ Our new podcast series will explore the intricate interplay of diaspora influence in the Caribbean. In this inaugural episode, we take you on a captivating journey into the heart of Trinidad and Tobago, where we uncover the historical roots, the profound impact on homeland development, and the multifaceted contributions of the diaspora.
What is the Diaspora? The term ‘diaspora’ has a long history, capturing the lives of individuals who live outside their homelands. Whether it’s the African diaspora or the Caribbean diaspora, this term reflects migration, with people leaving their birthplaces to create new lives in host countries.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Diaspora Landscape
Trinidad and Tobago has a large diaspora, with documented migrants living mainly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Trinidad and Tobago government reported over 300,000 migrants living abroad, making up about a third of the country’s resident population.
The Importance of Diaspora Relations As a diaspora engagement specialist based in Trinidad and Tobago, my focus is on the importance of diaspora relations, especially in the areas of sports, business enterprise, philanthropy, cultural heritage promotion, and emergency management.
A Changing Narrative: From Brain Drain to Brain Gain
Examining the diaspora’s impact reveals a change from the traditional ‘brain drain’ narrative to a promising ‘brain gain.’ The return of diaspora members to Trinidad and Tobago shows a deep interest in their country of origin.
Diaspora Tourism: More than Carnival Diaspora engagement also involves tourism, with homeland visits being a key component. Unlike the common assumption that diaspora visits are linked to Carnival, research shows various motives, such as educational projects, philanthropy, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship. These visits increase during certain months, adding significantly to the tourism industry.
Tobago’s Special Charm
Tobago has a special charm for the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora. Besides being a holiday destination, Tobago provides a unique experience for those looking for authentic connections, rejuvenation, and rediscovery of their cultural roots.
Reconnection, Rejuvenation, Rediscovery Homeland visits are more than vacations; they express a desire for reconnection, rejuvenation through cultural experiences, and rediscovery of the changing landscape. As Trinidad and Tobago opened its borders in 2021, over 40,000 passport holders returned, highlighting the diaspora’s major role in shaping tourism trends.
Conclusion
The diaspora’s influence on Trinidad and Tobago is a dynamic story, weaving together threads of history, identity, and socioeconomic development. Join us in the coming weeks as we explore diaspora engagement in sports, business, philanthropy, and emergency management, illuminating the diverse ways the diaspora continues to redefine its relationship with the homeland.
Stay tuned for more episodes that connect continents and generations, fostering a deeper understanding of the invaluable diaspora connection. Follow us on this enriching journey with ‘Diaspora Dialogues.’
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