In brief
Joshuanette Francis, diagnosed with osteoarthritis at just 24, has channeled her struggle into a significant movement advocating for disability rights in her home of Antigua. After losing her job due to her condition, she founded the non-profit Good Humans 268 to address inequities faced by disabled individuals. Her initiatives include a recycling program that has employed locals with disabilities and a push for better accessibility and legal protections. Joshuanette's mission reflects her belief in empowerment through community support, while highlighting the urgent need for systemic change and resource access for individuals with disabilities in Antigua.
Joshuanette Francis, a native of Antigua, received the life-altering diagnosis of osteoarthritis at the young age of 24. Facing a potentially debilitating future, she turned to nature, hiking every trail and beach in her homeland to embrace life fully amidst her challenges. While her YouTube channel showcases her vibrant spirit, the emotional toll of her condition has also led to significant hardships, including losing her job as a restaurant supervisor due to arthritis-related issues.Six years post-diagnosis, Joshuanette has transformed her journey into a beacon of hope for others through her organization, Good Humans 268, which she founded in 2023. The non-profit focuses on empowering people with disabilities in a region where resources are scarce and discrimination is widespread. "Arthritis has changed my life so much," she stated, reflecting the profound empathy she feels for those with greater disabilities.Aiming to effect meaningful change, Good Humans advocates for an equal rights tribunal to address discriminatory practices while operating a recycling program that hires residents with disabilities. The initiative has diverted over a million recyclable materials from local landfills and employed eight individuals to process waste. Local resident Kelisha Pigott passionately recounts how working with Good Humans has inspired her to pursue an online degree in tourism management, hoping to unite her entrepreneurial spirit with the organization's mission.Joshuanette's advocacy also led to the creation of accessible bathroom facilities in schools for children like a ten-year-old girl who previously faced significant challenges. "We must shift the way we do things," she insists, emphasizing the necessity of accessibility in daily life. However, even simple strolls through St. John's reveal numerous obstacles for people with mobility impairments, highlighting the urgent need for reforms.Bernard Warner, head of the national disability association, echoes Joshuanette's concerns regarding legislative issues that have gone unaddressed since the passing of a 2017 act aimed at protecting the rights of disabled individuals. Despite battling personal challenges, including losing his right leg in a tragic accident, he remains a dedicated advocate, calling for societal change and better employment access.Kelly Hedges, principal of a center for children with special needs, agrees that youth entering adulthood require support for greater independence. She notes that many young adults with disabilities often stay at home due to a lack of employment opportunities. Good Humans' involvement introduces hope for future job placements for graduates, fostering community inclusion.Joshuanette believes mental health awareness is paramount within her advocacy work. Despite her positive demeanor, she confesses of battling depression as she strives for better living conditions and financial stability. "Fighting is exhausting," she admits, underlining the need for dialogue and action surrounding disability rights. "But change will only happen when more people talk about disability and demand change."
