Weathering the Storm: Why Insurance Matters
On July 1st, 2024, Hurricane Beryl swept south of Barbados and exposed a hard truth: the island’s fishing industry was far more vulnerable than anyone realised.
Hundreds of vessels were damaged, livelihoods were disrupted, and for many fisherfolk, the storm laid bare the harsh reality of operating without insurance or financial protection.
Staying Afloat: Beyond the Boat is a data-driven investigative documentary that explores what Beryl revealed, and what must change to safeguard Barbados’ blue economy. Through raw accounts from fisherfolk, analysis from insurance experts, insights from the Meteorological Service, and new data from the National Insurance Scheme
This documentary is jointly published by Nation Publishing, STARCOM Network Inc., and the Caribbean Investigative Journalism Network (CIJN).
Producers: Esther Jones, Kristojay Paul, Tré Greaves, Ashada Joseph, Gabrielle Williams
Graphics & Animation: Mikul Elcock, Gabrielle Williams
Survey Visualisation: Marianne Bouchart
Research Sources: National Insurance & Social Security Service (NISSS) — Self-Employed Unit Barbados Meteorological Service (BMS)
Music: Envato, Filmora
Footage: Hurricane Beryl footage courtesy of Shervon Bourne
Interviewees: Kathy-Ann Caesar, Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox, Kerry-Ann Howell Browne, Delbert Forde, Ryan Clarke, Carl Dorghty, Stevenson Tull, Vernel Nichols, Alethea Thomas, Cedric Van Meerbeeck
Special Thanks: Marianne Bouchart, Desilon Daniels, Barbados Fisheries Division, BARNUFO, NISSS Self-Employed Unit, CIMH, CERMES (UWI Cave Hill), Nation Publishing Co. Ltd., Starcom Network Inc., CIJN, UNESCO, PMA, Hei-Da With gratitude to the fisherfolk community of Barbados for sharing their stories.
Produced with the support of UNESCO, the Public Media Alliance (PMA), and Hei-Da.
