BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — Michael Joseph, a 25-year-old farmer from Antigua and Barbuda, has been named the CARICOM Young Farmer of the Year 2025, earning regional recognition for his resilience and commitment to agriculture.
Joseph received the award on September 29 during the opening ceremony of the 19th Caribbean Week of Agriculture, held in Basseterre. The presentation was made by St. Kitts and Nevis Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Ian Hanley.
In accepting the honor, Joseph reflected on his journey from growing up in a fishing household to becoming a successful crop farmer. “I did fishing straight throughout high school and then I transitioned into crop farming because I’ve seen it as a good, viable future for me,” he said. “I plant okras, tomatoes, and watermelon. Those are my three main crops.”
Joseph said the award is more than a personal achievement, describing it as a reminder of the strength and resilience of Caribbean youth in agriculture. “This award shows that we can still prosper with resilience throughout all the challenges that we face,” he said. “Even if you’re facing setbacks, it’s not a reason to be discouraged. You just have to keep moving forward. Don’t doubt yourself and keep pushing.”
Joseph has been farming for five years and hopes his recognition inspires other young people across the region to view agriculture as a sustainable career path.
? _Watch Michael Joseph share his story in the video below._