The Garifuna Experience Podcast

Episode 36 - The Torch Exchange: Boomers and X Bridging Wisdom and Power for 2030

• Jose Francisco Avila • Episode 36

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Recruiting the Builders of the Garifuna Leadership Project

In this episode, José Francisco Ávila issues a call to action for the "Political Elders" and professionals of the Garifuna community. As we approach the 2030 Centennial, we are moving from being a "hidden demographic" to a visible force in NYC. Discover how the Mentorship Matrix and the concept of Sacred Time are creating a sustainable pipeline for 100 new leaders. Whether you are a Gen Z seeker or a veteran builder, this is how we secure our seat at the table.

Resources:

Books by José Francisco Ávila

[00:00 – 02:00] The Hook: The Hidden Giant

Soundtrack

Host: " Mabuiga! Welcome back to The Garifuna Experience Podcast. I’m your host, José Francisco Ávila. Recruiting the Builders of the Garifuna Leadership Project

Today, we aren't just talking about history; we are talking about hand-offs. Welcome to 'The Torch Exchange.' We have 250,000 voices in this city, but the question is: who is training the next 100 to speak for us? If you have the experience but aren't on the ballot, this episode is your recruitment notice.

I am calling on the Baby Boomers and Generation X. I am calling on the Builders of the Garifuna Leadership Project. We are officially recruiting for the Garifuna Leadership Project Mentorship Matrix."

[02:00 – 04:30] The Vision: Power, Prosperity, and Progress

Host:  "Our mission is simple: Garifunas Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress. But power isn't given; it is built, patiently, and strategically through a pipeline.

Think back to when you first started your career. Think about that first time you stepped into a Community Board meeting or a corporate boardroom. You likely had to figure it out on your own. You shouldn't have had to.

Mentors are supportive individuals who build relationships with young people by offering them guidance, support, and encouragement to help cultivate positive and healthy development.

We are planning to  train a cohort of 100 brilliant Millennial and Gen Z Garifuna leaders. They have the fire, they have the tech skills, and they have the passion. What they need—what they must have—is your institutional memory. They need the 'unwritten rules' that only you know." OUR HISTORY IS THE FOUNDATION. YOUR WISDOM IS THE BRIDGE.

[04:30 – 07:00] The Logistics: The "Sacred Time" Commitment

José: "I know what you’re thinking: 'José, I’m busy. I’m running a business, I’m active in my church, I have a family.' We respect your time. We call it Sacred Time. This isn't a nebulous commitment. Our Mentorship Matrix is built on a 1:3 structure:

  •  1 Hour a month: A dedicated 1-on-1 session to review your mentee's goals.
  • 3 Strategic Check-ins: A quick text, a phone call, or a resource share to keep them on track.

Whether you are in the Civic track, the Arts & Media/Digital Advocacy track, Non-Profit/Corporate Management track, or the Political Lobbying track, we have a 'slot' for your specific expertise. You aren't just a mentor; you are helping the mentee accelerate his/her Professional Development, enhance their skills, and provide advice to help them reach their full potential.

[07:00 – 09:00] The Call to Action: Passing the Torch

Host:  A longtime listener and advocate recently reached out. he said, 'I don't meet the age requirement to run, but I want to assist in any way possible.' You are exactly who we need. he is a Mentor. If you are like the listener, if you have the experience but you aren't the one on the ballot—then you are the bridge(The experienced and trusted adviser), you will be building the "Talent Bench and the Pipeline to Power”.

 “Still not sure? Visit the website and submit your question or inquiry .” To engage those who are curious and need even further clarity.

Here is your mission:

1.    Find this episode on The Garifuna Experience Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, and iHeartRadio and complete the Garifuna Leadership Project: Candidate Intake & Matching Survey Form.

2.    Tell us your 'Slot': Are you a connector? A technical expert? A storyteller?

3.    Join us for 'The Torch Exchange' during Garifuna Heritage Month.

Let’s stop being the 'hidden' demographic. Let’s start being the demographic that builds its own future. The torch is passed in the conversation, but the flame is kept alive in the work."  Remember "A leader's greatest legacy isn't what they build, but who they build."

[09:00 – 10:00] Outro

(Sound Cue: Music swells slightly)

OUTRO: And that wraps up another illuminating episode of The Garifuna Experience Podcast. 

Thank you for listening. Remember: The future of the Garifuna people is in our hands. By passing the torch, we are driving Power, Prosperity, and Progress.

Until next time, stay united, stay proud. Sungubei Lidan Aban! (Unity is Strength!) Ayo!

HOST: Find new episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, and iHeartRadio. 

Please follow, rate, and review the Garifuna Experience Podcast, your support helps us share our vital Garifuna experience with more people around the world.

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José Francisco Ávila

Host