In brief
Joshuanette Francis, diagnosed with osteoarthritis at 24, is turning her personal challenges into a public campaign to support people with disabilities in Antigua. Her non-profit, Good Humans 268, focuses on advocacy, recycling, and empowering local residents with physical challenges to create a more inclusive society.
Joshuanette Francis was only 24 when she was diagnosed with osteoarthritis, but her story did not end there; instead, it became a catalyst for change. Subscribers to her YouTube channel, created to capture her journey, see the smiles and positivity she exudes, but they seldom witness the struggles she faces in private—like losing her job due to her condition or the weight of financial burdens.Facing the possibility of losing her ability to walk by the age of 40, Joshuanette took to the beautiful trails and beaches of Antigua, making the most of her life. Her journey is no mere personal endeavor; it has grown into a broad initiative aimed at shifting the narrative around disabilities in a society where access and support are severely lacking.Six years post-diagnosis, Joshuanette channeled her experiences into founding Good Humans 268, a non-profit aimed at improving the lives of those with disabilities. The organization's efforts span from advocating for an equal rights tribunal to launching successful recycling programs that provide employment for residents with disabilities.The recycling initiative has already seen considerable success in over 80 schools, creating job opportunities and diverting a million bottles from landfills. Individuals like Kelisha Pigott, who not only benefited from working with Joshuanette but also gained the confidence to pursue a university education, reflect the impact of Good Humans on the community.Joshuanette’s personal battles resonate widely, as evidenced by her recent efforts to address the need for accessible facilities in schools. She helped establish a wheelchair-friendly bathroom for a young girl who previously faced challenges at school, emphasizing the need for fundamental accessibility.“There must be a shift in how we approach disabilities,” Joshuanette urges. "Everyone should have the chance to live fully and independently.” Her ambitions do not stop here—there are plans for expanding the recycling program to households and establishing a center dedicated to her mission.However, systemic issues still pose significant challenges. Accessibility remains a concern in urban areas like St John's, where uneven pavements and non-inclusive infrastructure hinder mobility for persons with disabilities. Local advocates, including Bernard Warner, highlight the ongoing discrimination and the necessity for existing legislation to be enforced.Educational institutions, like the Victory Centre for children with special needs, are also calling for more opportunities for their graduates to enter the workforce. Principal Kelly Hedges is hopeful for a future through Good Humans, where her students can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.Despite her obstacles, Joshuanette holds onto a proactive stance, refusing to let her diagnosis define her. As she advocates for change and brings attention to the urgent need for disability awareness, her mission is clear: create a society where inclusivity reigns and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
