Press Release Derived Story
Roseau, Dominica – May 6, 2025
In a landmark initiative that bridges education, culture, and regional identity, thirteen second-year students from Maison Familiale Rurale Education Orientation Lamentin (MFR Lamentin) in Guadeloupe have arrived in Dominica for a five-day cultural and educational immersion focused on the Kalinago people — Dominica’s Indigenous population.
The visit, coordinated by Black Island Girl Multimedia, forms part of the students’ Caribbean history curriculum and is intended to deepen their understanding of the Kalinago people’s enduring legacy, resilience, and contributions to the region.
“This is more than a school trip — it’s a re-centering of history through the lens of lived Indigenous experience,” said Mahailiah Mellow, teacher and development officer accompanying the group. “We hope the students leave not only informed, but inspired.”
A Deep Dive into Authentic Kalinago Experiences
Throughout their stay, the students will engage directly with Kalinago heritage and leaders, including:
- Anette Sanford, Dominica’s first female Kalinago Chief
- Hon. Cozier Frederick, Minister for Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment, and Constituency Empowerment
- Earlson Matthew, Chief Cultural Officer of Dominica
The itinerary includes a rich selection of cultural and heritage activities: a traditional Kalinago naming ceremony, local culinary experiences centered on cassava and traditional foods, and guided visits to national landmarks such as Indian River, Fort Shirley, and Titou Gorge.
Community leaders and culture bearers are also being invited to engage directly with the students during this exchange. “We would be honoured if you could spare some time to share your knowledge on the significance of Kalinago civilization,” added Mellow. “Your stories will help reshape the students’ understanding of Caribbean history.”
Black Island Girl Multimedia: Centering Forgotten Voices
The program is spearheaded by Black Island Girl Multimedia, a media company founded by Dominican-Canadian journalist and cultural producer Jael Joseph. The company is committed to amplifying underrepresented voices and challenging colonial narratives across the Caribbean.
Their acclaimed documentary “Territory” — focusing on the Kalinago people — won Best Short Doc (2023) at the CaribbeanTales International Film Festival in Canada. The company’s mission is rooted in storytelling that highlights Black and Indigenous perspectives often left out of traditional accounts.
Through its initiatives, Black Island Girl Multimedia continues to drive:
- Documentary production and multimedia storytelling
- Digital cultural preservation
- Advocacy around history, identity, and marginalized voices
- Creative partnerships aligned with social justice and Caribbean upliftment
The name Black Island Girl itself reflects a mission and identity: to truthfully represent the richness and resilience of Caribbean life.
This educational exchange stands as a testament to that mission — placing Kalinago culture at the center of a renewed Caribbean consciousness.
For more updates and features on Kalinago heritage, community stories, and Caribbean cultural news, follow Nate Media — your trusted source in Marigot and beyond.
