London-born, Oxford graduate, living in Kingston, Jamaica for 35 years. Writer, blogger, social media activist. A passion for human rights, the environment, climate change and issues affecting Small Island Developing States. Formerly Public Affairs Specialist at U.S. Embassy Kingston (16 years) and worked in publishing/retail book business (8 years).
Latest posts by Emma Lewis
Battle of the donuts: Can a foreign brand displace a local Jamaican favourite?
While the new brand's marketing blitz excited the taste buds, created some much-needed fun, and was generally acknowledged to be skilfully done, it may also spark a “donut war.”
In the Caribbean, World Parrot Day strives to raise awareness about the many threatened endemic species
Within the region, the capture and sale of parrots for the illegal pet trade is the greatest threat, followed by habitat loss because of deforestation for housing, tourism, and agriculture.
Jamaica ‘celebrates’ the 75th anniversary of Windrush, but should it?
"My mother and father-in-law, with great expectations, went to an inhospitable UK to help fill its need for cheap labour to rebuild the country after the war ... it's personal."
World Bee Day: A Jamaican organic farmer says these furry creatures play a critical role in pollinating her crops
Major threats to Caribbean bee populations include chemical use in agriculture, farming practices like clear cutting, drastic weed removal, and increasing urbanisation.
Whether the rape threat issued at a political meeting was directed at a journalist or not, ‘it’s time to address’ deep-seated issues in Jamaica
The incident has left many Jamaicans concerned that the island's “rape culture” is not being properly addressed.
The Nuh Dutty Up Jamaica beach cleanup points to the need for greater public education
In the Caribbean, though beach clean-ups and plastic collections help to reduce the amount of plastic and raise the level of environmental consciousness, they never seem to be enough.
World Migratory Bird Day celebrates extraordinary avian journeys, twice a year
World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) takes place twice a year in the Americas, in honour of the biannual movements of the migrating birds and the amazing distances they travel.
Brian Samuel’s extraordinary story of a nomadic Caribbean family and the father who held it together
In Caribbean families, fractures may appear due to migration, instability, and the search for a better life. A new book by a Grenadian author takes us along on the journey.
‘Jamaica Farewell': Harry Belafonte passes away and the Caribbean tries to find adequate words of tribute
"There are not enough words to say how GREAT this man is and the giant contribution he has made during his life in music, film, human rights, Black rights."
As Earth Day approaches, the Caribbean continues its struggle with a tidal wave of plastic, but remains hopeful
Despite the gloomy picture, it is fair to say that the Caribbean is fighting back against plastic, and is finding that in this effort, partnerships are effective.
Remembering Alwin Bully and Jah Shaka, two Caribbean pioneers with distinctly personal styles and a humble approach
Dominican playwright Alwin Bully and Jamaican dub pioneer Jah Shaka, both of whom passed away recently, were quintessentially Caribbean.
As deep-sea mining decision still hangs in the balance, young Jamaican activists continue to campaign
Dishearteningly for the campaigners, the talks ended with no clear conclusion, despite strong and growing concerns. The International Seabed Authority Council meets again on July 10, a critical date.
Meet Jamaica’s inaugural Literacy Heroes
The Book Industry Association of Jamaica's inaugural Literacy Hero Award honours people who promote literacy and reading as tools for change, development, inclusive prosperity, and cultural preservation.
Barbara Requa, visionary of Jamaican dance, passes on
"She was a beautiful dancer back in the day and [h]er life was totally dedicated to giving dance space and place in the education system and in people's lives."
A deep dive: Young Jamaican climate activists collaborate to raise awareness of deep-sea mining
Young Jamaicans are worried that time is running out as the ISA works to finalise rules that might facilitate deep-sea mining as early as in the next few months.
Usain Bolt and many other Jamaicans have been the victims of major financial fraud—and now they want answers
The fact that of Usain Bolt is one of its victims has made this fraud scandal personal for many Jamaicans.
Abuse of children in state care in Jamaica is a problem that won’t go away, but is the system to blame?
A recent report details a questionable relationship between the executive agency and the American founder of a faith-based organisation, who is accused of inappropriate behaviour towards several wards of state.
Artists reimagine Jamaica’s Nanny of the Maroons as much more than a warrior queen
Jamaica's only woman National Hero, “Grandie Nanny,” as she is called, is commonly portrayed as a fierce warrior, but a new art exhibition tries to paint a more comprehensive picture.
The Dutch state apologises for slavery, and the Caribbean wonders: Will reparations follow?
The Caribbean’s response to the Dutch apology was mixed — positive in some respects, guarded or even dismissive in others.
Did 2022 see the Caribbean become more ‘gay-friendly'?
While Barbados is the latest regional territory to deem its "buggery" laws unconstitutional, there has been some confusion — and even legal reversals — over LGBTQ+ rights in other Caribbean nations.
Why are Jamaicans crazy about Brazilian football?
Where did this devotion originate from? The similarity of the colours in the countries’ flags, the flamboyant style of play, or the presence of so many players of colour?
