Our Grandmother’s medicines may be helpful but her foods may very well be the end of us

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, a blog for our generation

Ma Pampo, Dominican centenarian 128 years old.  Photo credit: Portrait by Gabrielle Le Roux Photographed by Wendy Walsh.

‘Health and wellness’ is a key phrase in this day and age that we live in. Especially amidst these coronavirus times as we all strive to live longer healthier lives past 2021. In addition to now diligently keeping a regular stock of vitamins at home in order to remain as healthy as possible, dear Gen Y, I think it’s time we had ‘The Talk.’ 

During the course of our life, getting sick with something like the common cold, a flu, stomach ache or even a strained muscle or two from playing sports or going on a hike is pretty normal. And it’s no real bother to us Gen Y, because with these ailments, something we could always rely on was a local remedy from our mother, which was passed on to her by her mother and her mother before her ‘granny and great granny’. 

Traditional medicine plays a big role in Dominican households despite the availability of western medicine thanks to our rich African and Kalinago cultural practices still existent today. A strong bush tea to clear a cold is easier accessed, healthier, more soothing and preferable over Tylenol any day. And for the sore legs and muscles there is always some homemade concoction to be rubbed on the area to make the pain go away. Drinking ‘young guava leaf’ to cure a ‘bad stomach’ and most of granny’s other methods work. As a matter of fact, many local bushes and plants have conclusive healing properties and have been documented.

It is always comforting to know a home remedy exists for basic ailments. Also comforting is granny’s cooking. From chicken pelaw to pig snout, souse, deep fried chicken, baked macaroni, fig pie and the works; delicacies handed down through out the generations. But just how good are these foods past the pleasures delivered to our taste buds? 

Let’s have that talk. Granny’s food is not good y’all. I mean not that it doesn’t taste good, that’s a given. What I mean is that it’s not good for our health over time to eat this way every day. There is a common misconception that because we are Caribbean and more so Dominican, that we are naturally inclined to live longer, but that’s not true. And while we can surely say that our daily diets thankfully do consist of less fat and sugar than the typical American fast food diet for instance, we are still not in the clear. We simply cannot keep riding off of Ma Pampo’s 128 years achievement, even if she has said that her claims to success were based on a diet of dumplings and bush tea (bush tea maybe). 

Research has shown that the foods that make up most of our Caribbean and local diet contain high levels of salt and starch which  are not good for our health. Needless to say, these are direct contributors to a major problem facing our and future generations today- Diabetes, hypertension and other such non- communicable diseases.  Granny’s secret ingredient to that Saturday broth is not just special herbs and seasonings from her garden, but salt salt and more salt. What about our regular weekday lunch packed with dasheen, yam, plantain, rice and sweet potato? These foods are super high in starch and can raise our blood sugar levels. Speaking of sugar, let’s not forget to mention the enjoyable confectioneries – tamarind balls, gooseberry jams, coconut cheese and all the like that are loaded with tons of it.

A Pan American Health Organization study on Dominica conducted in 2012, showed that trends recorded over 2006 – 2010 uncovered the leading causes of mortality in Dominica to be cerebrovascular disease, followed by diabetes and ischemic heart disease (page 263). Another study shows us the top 10 causes of death and disability by diseases in Dominica, depicted below. Check out the high ranking ones in blue.

From the looks of things, it seems like hypertension and diabetes appears to be in the family cooking pot more than in our family genetics. Here’s another little fact that you probably weren’t aware of, granny’s foods are handed down from slavery times. If Ma Pampo were still here she could validate the same, that “our enslaved ancestors were forced to eat whatever was provided to them by the slave owners. They often ate the entrails and appendages of farm animals, including pig’s feet, cow’s tongue, liver and oxtail. These foods had little nutritional value but the slaves made these scraps as palatable as possible by adding herbs as well as large amounts of the fat, sugar and salt that were readily available. This diet from the days of slavery was so entrenched in their day-to -day existence that most of them continued to eat the same food years after emancipation.” quoted from thecaribbeancamera.com. 

Judging by the statistics, this cycle of delicious but deadly foods need to be broken with us, and quickly. There is and must be a way to preserve the beloved African culture and flavors while maintaining a healthier lifestyle. This is not to say that we can’t enjoy local foods which have been handed down over the years, but it’s time to look at reducing the portions and or significantly reducing the unhealthy additives!  We also need to explore creative alternatives altogether. ‘Ital’ meals with beans and vegetables seasoned in the right way with natural herbs are also very delicious and extremely Afro – Caribbean.  Don’t we want our kids to be healthy?

And Gen Y, we know that you are concerned. Not only are many of us directly related to or know of someone whose grandparents or parents have suffered with and lost their limbs or lives to diabetes and the like, but the age range is getting younger and younger.. And amidst these Corona Virus times when people with diabetes are viciously struck down by this deadly disease, we know that you are most concerned. Google search trends (below) show the highest spike in google searches on diabetes from Dominicans, in 2020 for the month of March, which might likely be related to heightened health concerns during the outbreak of COVID. 

Dear Gen Y, let’s make our meals healthier. How about something as simple as adding more fresh vegetables to your plate, using less sugar in teas and juices or less salt to season our meats? It all starts here and it can begin right now. Let’s be that generation who will take the steps necessary to live longer healthier lives so that we enjoy the multitude of things that this life and world has to offer. That said, we love you granny.

Written by: Dilma Bastien

For: Generation Y Dominica

Species Extinction in Dominica. A major concern for Gen Y

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs is a blog for our generation

The Nature Island of the Caribbean, it’s where we live; the place we call home. The gorgeously breathtaking island of Dominica or ‘Waitukubuli’ as the first settlers, the Kalinago once called it because of its mountainous form.

Islanders and visitors agree that Dominica is a gem to explore filled with fascinating adventures, landscapes, flora and fauna both above land and below the sea. It only takes one leap into one of its many natural pools and one snorkel at champagne reef or any of the other alluring sites that Dominica has to offer, to secure for oneself an inescapable addiction.  

For conservationists, one of the unique features that put Dominica on the map is its plethora of wildlife; unique but mostly gentle animal kingdoms. Dominica is its own version of the Garden of Eden in this way. However, in recent years Dominica’s wildlife has been catching the eye of the regional and international communities for an unwelcomed reason. That is, the diminishing numbers of its species populations.

This has led to redoubled efforts to restore and grow the population of these now endangered species. For instance, the Mountain Chicken (scientific name Leptodactylus fallaxin and in local parlance called the ‘Crapaud’) indeginous to Dominica and Monsterrat, which was once considered the country’s national dish was very popular to be seen, heard and enjoyed when we were growing up. On rainy nights hearing this frog croak was a given. What about now? Do you hear that eerie call from one frog to another? Do today’s youth, the next generation even know what a Crapaud looks like? Have they seen a live mountain chicken or held one in their hands? The answers to these questions would likely be no.

Dominica’s Mountain Chicken

This is because this animal is sadly on the brink of extinction and has been labeled as critically endangered by the Forestry and Wildlife Division of Dominica. Interestingly, it is not the work of a predator or even man-made actions which have caused the drastic decline in the mountain chicken population, but rather the chytrid fungus which affects other amphibians worldwide and first appeared on the island in 2002. This fungus wiped out almost three quarters of the Crapaud population in almost no time. Several NGOs have lent support, conducted research on the remaining numbers in the wild, and even commenced projects to explore in-captivity breeding, which are still ongoing but so far with little success.

Another of Dominica’s native species, which is slowly dwindling in number, is the Green Tail Iguana or‘ Lesser Antillean Iguana’. I’m sure you can remember seeing these hefty green animals with their super long green tails perched upon tree branches almost camouflaged by the leaves. And of course, you have heard tales of these reptiles making a delicious and healthy meal choice for those who indulge in exotic meats. Well I’m sorry to report that these too are also at risk of being wiped out, and this time by an invasive species.

The Green tail Iguana. Photo credit Charles Knapp

A few short years ago, Dominica recorded the presence of the Striped Tail Iguana, which is a larger, stronger and more competitive iguana. This animal made its way to Dominica on one of many containers with relief supplies following the devastating Hurricane Maria in 2017. The Striped Tail Iguana beats out the local Green Tail Iguana for food sources, lays more eggs and therefore thrives in our country. The Striped Tail Iguana also mates with our local Green Tail Iguana hence not all striped tails you see are pure breeds, some are a hybrid. Efforts are ongoing to stop the growth and spread of this new species as it poses a threat to our ecosystem.

Here’s one more. You probably know of Dominica’s tallest mountain – Morne Diablotin. And another popular mountain named Morne Aux Diables. Well, you do know these mountains were named after the ‘Diablotin bird’? This bird, also known as the ‘Black Capped Petrel’ is considered extinct and according to the Ministry of Agriculture, the last known sighting of a nest was in 1862. Over the years due to excessive hunting, the introduction of mammals, and human interaction, development projects etc. the habitats of these birds were destroyed. Along with that, predators such as dogs, which invaded the homes of these animals contributed. The Diablotin bird is not a tree residing bird, but rather it burrows underground to nest and lay eggs, hence making it more prone to animals such as snakes, dogs and rodents.

The Diablotin bird

These Black Capped Petrels were considered to be fully extinct until the 20th century when a bird was found near Peebles Park in Roseau in 1932. The next sighting of a Diablotin bird was in 2007 at Trafalgar. The Diablotin bird, which is also categorized as a seabird, is known to live at high elevations inland. These animals have the habit of flying out to sea in the morning and staying at sea for the day, then flying inland at night.

Scientists have visited the island on several occasions to look for Diablotin birds, but to no avail. They do hold out hope of finding these feathered creatures, as night time radar imagery has shown there are animals flying inland at night.

Now that you’ve gotten all this information on just 3 species endemic to Dominica (and we haven’t even looked at the plant & underwater species kingdoms!), imagine the vast number of others that may be in danger as well. 

At this point you may be asking – So what? Why should I care? Why should I take part in the effort to conserve these species? What do I do about it? The answer is quite simple: Dominica is ‘The’ and ‘Our’ Nature Island of the Caribbean. We boast of things that other islands and countries only dream about so why not protect it in each of our own little corners of the island?

Having a healthy and diverse ecosystem full of flourishing and varied species only augurs well for the country. Apart from the right to survival, this island being a safe haven for these species can also be a great means of sustainable tourism where we can preserve the environment and generate some much needed revenue (yes, people pay good money for this sort of experience that we consider normal life).

Don’t you think that we, as Generation Y, should make a concerted effort to ensure future generations know what a Crapaud is? Above all, it is our responsibility to make our country and the earth a better place for all future generations (Isle to All so rich and fair, All must surely gaze in wonder at thy gifts so rich and rare…), playing our part is essential. Whether it is by standing firmly against hunting or harming these species if sighted in your area, or joining in on the many other ways that you can help by contacting the Forestry Division, It makes a difference. We can, and should be the generation to raise this awareness of species extinction, get this thing going, lend support however we can and leave our mark on this country in a remarkable and empowering way.  Think about it.

Written by: Andrea Louis

For Generation Y Dominica

Be sure to check out Generation Y Dominica’s video on Environmental Awareness. Subscribe, Like, Follow

Body Methodology

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs is a blog for our generation

‘Megan Thee Stallion’ performing

I’m sure we’ve all heard it by now ‘Body’ by ‘Megan Thee Stallion,’ coming off her Good News album released this November 2020. A hit song that has topped the charts and comes with a video that shows ‘Megan thee stallion’ performing all her ‘hot girl’ moves in all the skin that she’s in. 


With millions of views on Youtube alone and its popularity on Tick Tock, it’s no wonder that every DJ & radio station is spinning out the ‘body ody ody’. Actually when it comes to music videos, Megan isn’t the only one showing curves and  blasting sex appeal. From Cardi B, to Niki Minaj and other famous female rappers & artists, showing skin is definitely the methodology of the day to grow a large fan base.

But how much skin is too much skin?

A frame from Megan’s body video (censored)

A high school teacher once said to my entire third form class, “If you wear all the makeup and straighten your hair at 13, what else is there to explore when you become a woman?” And while many of us probably may have shrugged off that piece of advice then, this reflection comes to mind now. With all the commercialized skin wars going on, one can’t help but wonder, what will there be left to do ?

Now don’t get me wrong, embracing your body image and being proud of your curves, no curves, whatever you’re working with is a beautiful thing. There’s nothing more inspiring than someone who is comfortable in their own skin. 

Thanks to numerous transitions in the history of women’s fashions in the 20th century (mostly due to needing to save on fabric during world war II; thankful for the invention of the miniskirt, 1965) we no longer have to wear our grandmother’s heavily layered frocks and breath cutting corsets. Fashion is more stylish, free and liberating.

Image from glamordaze.com

So why does it feel like we’ve gone overboard with the outfits even with all this progress made in fashion? 

The modern day promoters don’t mind it. The promoters, artists as well as a multitude of hardcore fans claim ‘self – expression’, ‘embracing your body’ and ‘female empowerment’. 

But the fact of the matter is we know that ‘sex sells’ and sells big time. However, this evident leap into it becoming regular ole’ daytime TV over the past few years, and quickly transitioning into daytime fashion as well, is catching on at a ‘not so normal’ pace.  And what about all this superfluous twerking and thumping, is it really necessary? What happened to dance moves being more about dancing and vibing and when did it become – this? I mean with all these distractions in the videos, even Hugh Hefner might find it difficult to pay attention to the song itself.

Self expression and embracing your body are valid platforms, but there are other other ways to express individualism without riding on a wrecking ball (sorry Miley). As they say, the crop top wasn’t invented yesterday ( actually 1893 ) and neither was self – expression. When it comes to black women specifically, today’s most prominent theme of ‘black lives matter’ should supersede all others. Therefore, to commercialize hyper sexuality is not a clear and healthy support to the cause of black female empowerment.  

Image from Quotesgram.com

Black women are strong, vibrant, successful, beautiful and have a lot more to offer. Our very femininity is a powerhouse of its own. There’s nothing wrong with highlighting body beauty as part of visual arts in a video, but it can be done with class and a proper attention to detail that doesn’t seem excessive, or appears undignified or overdone. After all, the goal is to appeal to everyone, right?

Emphasizing authenticity in music videos would leave a longer lasting impression that could come in handy years after the skin wars are over. Artists and rappers such as Roxanne Shante, Queen Latifa, Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys & Mc Lyte to name a few, have done it in the past. Complimented with intelligent lyricism and quality talent, these female performers continue to remain timeless to this day.   

U.N.I.T.Y Queen Latifah

Written by: Dilma Bastien

3 easy ways to become an overnight entrepreneur

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs is a blog for our generation.

So, you’re thinking about becoming an entrepreneur and really want to make it a reality. With all the economic changes experienced due to 2020s global pandemic, you feel more than ready to take on this risk. After all, you’ve spent way too many days in mandatory quarantine, so you’ve resurfaced with new energy, confidence and the drive to venture into entrepreneurship. You used to think that entrepreneurs were ‘born and not made’ but thanks to numerous motivational videos and being glued to every episode of ‘Alux – The place where future billionaires come to get inspired’ you’ve changed that perspective and made up your mind to take that next step. Or maybe you’ve always wanted to be a business owner, pandemic aside, and feel like this is the right time.

An entrepreneur simply defined is as a person who organizes a venture to benefit from an opportunity, rather than working as an employee. So, once you’ve acquired the entrepreneurial mindset, the next step is to set up a business venture. But how do you get started as a business owner if you haven’t even decided what sort of business you want to own? Believe it or not, this key step is a sticky place for many aspiring business owners. If you’ve got no idea how or where to begin, you’re in the right place.

Here are three easy ways to help you become an overnight entrepreneur when you have no business in mind.

#1 Develop a business from something you’re already good at

When thinking up a business idea for the first time, it’s good to consider all the things that you’re already capable of doing and doing well. Several people spend at least the first quarter of their working lives experimenting in the job market and trying out different roles within and outside of their field of study to build up a colorful resume before they settle into one that’s comfortable. That journey becomes a discovery process, where you find a few roles that you’re good at.

When breaking out of the 9-5 bubble to build your enterprise, why not select one of those roles that you can probably execute with your eyes closed. It could even mean doing the last job that you held, for yourself rather than an employer. Deciding to go down that route not only makes designing and planning your new business venture easier to do, but it also helps with having a head start on predicting and preparing for challenges that you may face and will ultimately help you with your success.

#2 Commercialize your skills set or teach others

Similarly, you could create a new business by making use of your amazing skill set. Whether it’s QuickBooks or Customer service there are many skills that are sought after by others who want to learn them. You could decide to create a business teaching any skill that you may already have that is in high demand. Thanks to technology this can be done on social platforms like YouTube where you can reach international audiences making lessons free and profit off advertising. Or you can arrange the traditional ‘in person’ classroom setup and offer skills training in your local community.

What about turning your favorite craft making or cooking skills into a business idea? Commercializing the little skills that you never gave a second thought could surprise you. Just ask Gigi Butler of Gigi’s cupcakes, who never thought cupcakes would be her giant success story but launched a profitable cupcake business simply by applying baking skills that she had learned  growing up from her aunt, grandmother and mother.  Taking the risk with less than $30 in her bank account and feeling like she had nothing to lose at the time, she commercialized this skill and opened up a cupcake shop that is today a multi – million dollar company and franchise. Don’t sit on your treasure chest, share with others and start earning.

#3 Identify a problem and create a solution

Identifying a problem and creating solutions is probably the most effective way to create a successful start-up business and become an entrepreneur seemingly overnight. As consumers we are constantly looking for ways to make our busy lives a lot easier and we all share similar day to day challenges. Try sitting with a pen and paper and try to figure out what the gaps are in your own experience, then research whether other people feel the same way and determine how you can supply a solution. It doesn’t have to be a major problem; it could be very small but significant. Hootsuite for example is a social media management platform that supports social network integrations for Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube; all your favorite social media apps managed in one central location and with some wonderful supporting features such as analytics for performance monitoring. This very useful app was thought up and created when the owner Ryan Holmes decided that he needed a way to manage more than one social media networks for his company at the time. Hootsuite is now used by millions of users worldwide including small businesses.

There are many similar stories of great startups created from devising solutions to consumer problems or gaps in the human experience.  What will yours be?

There you have it, 3 easy ways to rocket launch your dreams of being an entrepreneur straight into reality, that are practical, make sense and work. With these in mind, you’re already on your way to becoming an overnight entrepreneur.

Written by: Dilma Bastien