The economic slowdown in the Caribbean caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the circumstances of declining traditional employment opportunities for the region’s youth. This has provided the impetus for both young people and decision and policymakers in the region to intensify the pursuit and development of non-traditional avenues for career development and self-employment.

The Caribbean Youth Livelihoods Internship Programme (CYLIP), was conceptualised to provide one such opportunity for young, recent, Caribbean graduates. Through CYLIP, pathways for professional development and employment in the areas of science, technology and business are fostered, with a focus on building capacities and knowledge for future contributions to the climate resilience effort in the region.

Although in its inception phase CYLIP focused on youth impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic, the programme’s main objective is to provide young underserved Caribbean graduates with opportunities to develop scientific and technical know-how, and critical thinking and entrepreneurial skills through experiential learning while earning an income.

It is anticipated that some CYLIP interns will become part of the cohort of young Caribbean innovators who will help drive regional innovation especially as it regards climate resilience.