Tobago’s Autonomy Highlighted at Regional Youth Climate Conference

Luke James-Trim Links Climate Justice, Tourism, and Strategic Media Advocacy

In a commanding keynote address at the Bahamas Youth Climate Change Conference, CARICOM Youth Ambassador Luke James-Trim delivered a compelling case for legislative autonomy in Tobago, positioning it as a cornerstone of environmental resilience and sustainable development. His address, under the theme “Pressing Onwards: From Awareness to Action,” underscored how governance, tourism, and climate justice are inextricably linked for semi-autonomous, small island developing states (SIDS) like Tobago.

“Tobago’s ecosystems are uniquely fragile, its biodiversity deeply rooted in our identity, and its exposure to climate threats is becoming  increasingly urgent,” James-Trim stated. “Without the authority to craft and enforce environmental laws that reflect our specific needs, Tobago risks being governed by environmental policies that simply aren’t fit for our lived reality.”

Photo of Regional Youth Ambassadors from L – Jervon Sands : Climate Change Youth Ambassador, Amber Turner : National Youth Ambassador to the United Nations , Lashante Sampson : National Youth Ambassadors to the Commonwealth, Samantha Ruvalcaba : Sustainable Development Goals Ambassador, Luke James-Trim : CARICOM Youth Ambassador for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago , Waynisha Saunders : Climate Change Youth Ambassador

Chatting with Tobago Updates about a recent viral altercation involving so-called “beach bums” at the island’s iconic Nylon Pool & No Man’s Land , an incident that sparked public outcry over safety and tourism governance he stated:

“The incident we’ve all seen circulating online reflects a broader governance gap,” he asserted. “It speaks to the urgent need for Tobago to possess legislative powers that allow for a structured, responsible approach to tourism. The Nylon Pool and No Man’s Land are our most treasured natural assets and if the visitor experience is defined by disorder and chaos, we risk projecting an image that undermines the very essence of what Tobago represents.”

James-Trim, a 3rd year law student at the University of the West Indies,  acknowledged that some laws do exist to address these matters but argued they are often ill-suited for Tobago’s unique context.

“The real challenge isn’t the absence of law, it’s the misalignment in interpretation, the ambiguity in enforcement. That is why we must empower Tobago to craft legislation tailored to its nuances, informed by local realities rather than imposed uniformity.”

Later that day, James-Trim served as a panelist on Intergenerational Climate Action, where he drew on his background in media, as well as training from the U.S. Embassy and Tobago Updates, to offer a communications-focused perspective on climate advocacy.

When asked about the barriers to effectively communicating climate change realities to Caribbean citizens, he responded:

“Across the region, we continue to see a troubling gap , a disconnect between scientific messaging and lived experience, an over-reliance on technical jargon, and the absence of storytelling that resonates culturally. The problem isn’t that our people don’t care , it’s that the issue isn’t framed in a way that feels personal, immediate, or actionable.”

He called for a strategic shift in climate communication, led by youth who understand both digital tools and cultural nuance:

“Youth across the Caribbean must usher in a new era of climate storytelling …one that translates data into language and imagery our communities understand. TikTok explainers, animated skits, community radio in Creole or Patois ….these are not gimmicks, they’re gateways. If we want action, people must first see themselves in the story. And no one is better equipped to tell that story than Caribbean youth.”

In a heartfelt moment of gratitude, James-Trim acknowledged the key institutions that helped shape his communication voice:

“Tobago Updates has always been like a second family to me. And more recently, I’ve experienced that same sense of mentorship and care from the Communications team at the CARICOM Secretariat. They’ve reshaped how I view the intersection of media, diplomacy, and public service. They’ve guided me, educated me, and held me accountable. And now, to be sitting on regional panels applying what they’ve instilled in me — I’m truly grateful.”

His contributions resonated with delegates and observers alike, not only for their thoughtfulness, but for their ability to weave together the policy, people, and platforms needed to drive real change.

As Tobago approaches a new phase of constitutional reform, his message offered a timely reminder: autonomy is not an abstract political concept , it’s a practical tool for protecting local ecosystems, elevating public safety, and telling the story of an island that is ready to lead.

“Let us build a Caribbean where policy matches passion. Where ambition is resourced, innovation is nurtured, and youth are not relegated to the margins—but are instead recognized as full partners in progress.”