The Game Changers of Barbados: Looking to the Future

When Barbados made global headlines transitioning to a republic, the country celebrated the prospect of a new, more independent future. With their new president, the country prepared to forge a new national identity. As the country navigates this new era, how do Barbadians see the future? From artists to entrepreneurs, it's time to hear from some of the trailblazers of this island nation as individuals and businesses look ahead, playing their part in a new forward-facing Barbados.

Sir Paul Altman

Real Estate Businessman

CEO of Altman Real Estate, the Caribbean's leading real estate company, Sir Paul Altman has been influential in the built landscape of Barbados for more than four decades. His remarkable impact includes developing the island's first mixed-use centre, where eateries, offices, the arts and luxury shopping sit side-by-side, as well as playing his part in preserving Barbados' rich heritage by restoring historic districts and reviving urban areas. Looking to the future, Sir Paul is certain that the uniqueness and natural beauty of the island will continue to shine but that "now is really the time to focus on redevelopment rather than brand new developments". He hopes that concentrating on this will make the most of the island's legacy, continuing to attract visitors from far and wide.

Brandon Best

Artist

Local artist Brandon Best has a reputation for striking paintings, full of bold lines and vibrant colours. Taking inspiration from his time as a waiter and bartender, abstract pieces are influenced by people he's met. In a local art scene where images of the country's landscapes tend to dominate, Brandon is pushing the well-established boundaries in a different direction. When asked about the future of his homeland, he seems unsure, saying "I hope my work can express that uncertainty". Certainly, Brandon's work seems to be transitioning into being more politically driven, but however his influences develop, his personal goal is that his art might inspire the generation of today - young artists starting their creative journey. Challenging yourself and society's expectations seems important to this trendsetting artist, a movement that is likely to extend to the local youngsters following in his footsteps.

Sophie Mitchell

Chef and Owner of Local & Co Restaurant

With over 20 years of experience as a Chef, Food Consultant, TV Presenter and Writer, Sophie Mitchell's list of career achievements makes for impressive reading. After living and working all over the world, she has now settled in Barbados, where she is at the helm of one of the island's most exciting restaurants, Local & Co. A farm-to-table ethos is key to the venue's delicious menu, with local, homegrown produce used wherever possible. Complementing the fresh food and beachfront views is a Rum Bar, where tasty cocktails call on the island's longstanding rum industry for their key ingredient, and the Marketplace, a space for local artists to present their crafts. Sophie says "the future of Barbados is exciting. There is a trend towards more sustainable and localised food sourcing, and we're seeing that customers want authentic, unique dining experiences that align with their ethics. Local & Co is my dream restaurant, and I'm thrilled to be a part of the evolving restaurant scene in Barbados".

Patricia Affonso-Dass

Group General Manager of Ocean Hotels Group

A successful career in tourism throughout the Caribbean now sees Patricia Affonso-Dass' considerable experience focused on Ocean Hotel's three unique properties on the island. The newest addition to the portfolio, the 5 Star all-inclusive O2 Beach Club, brings a fresh new approach, showcasing barefoot luxury on an idyllic stretch of south coast sand away from the traditional west coast location of many of Barbados' premier hotels. Patricia has always felt that travel should enable visitors to connect with the destination they are visiting, and it's with this in mind that fun-filled Bajan activities are on offer for hotel guests, staff are encouraged to let their personalities shine as they go about their day, and links with local charities allow visitors to make a meaningful contribution to the local community. Patricia is optimistic about the future, commenting "It's bright with possibility! As the world recognises the need to travel more responsibly, small island states like Barbados have an opportunity to craft a future for the industry that is more authentic, more connected, and where the focus is not just on the sun, sea or a particular coast, but an experience that highlights everything that makes the destination so unique."

Tiffany Skinner

Owner and Teacher at Flow Yoga

Tiffany Skinner is a big believer in the power of nature being supportive of wellbeing. She decided to take her yoga teaching outdoors - to beaches, gardens and even on the ocean itself (on paddleboards!) where soothing sounds and fresh air encourage relaxation. Having taught on the island for over 15 years, she hopes she can continue to lead by example, not only by focusing on self-care but by engaging with the local environment. She hopes there might come a time when visitors are more aware of their impact on the island, "perhaps not only coming to have a sunny holiday but also to participate in caring for the beauty around them." She adds, "Barbados has the potential to become the perfect example of a small island nation living in sustainable harmony."

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