Episode Details

Host Wendy Aris speaks with Jamil Ninsoo (DouglaBwoy,) about tracing his Afro‑Indo‑Jamaican family history through powerful methods such as oral history, archival research, newspapers, and DNA analysis. Their discussion delves into the impact of colonialism on Caribbean historiography, revealing gaps and silences while illustrating the resilience of cultural retention and heritage across generations. They explore how everyday records and family genealogy help reconnect descendants with their identity and roots. The conversation also highlights Jamil’s children’s book, ABCs for the Jamerican Child, and encourages listeners to start their own family history research. This episode emphasizes the importance of representation and recovered stories in shaping individual and collective belonging within the diverse Caribbean landscape.

Bio:

Djamil Ninsoo, known online as "DouglaBwoy," is an Afro-Indo Jamaican cultural advocate, anthropologist, and author based in South Florida. He focuses on "Education through Representation," promoting Caribbean history, specifically highlighting Indo-Caribbean, Muslim, and African retentions. He is the author of Eva My Nani-Ji and ABC's for the Jamerican Child. 

Professional Roles: He is involved with the Art Prevails Project and serves as a lead archivist at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum

Book Link:

https://www.amazon.com/ABC-Jamerican-Child-Djamil-Ninsoo/dp/B0FK3WJC2K?ref_=ast_author_mpb

Caribbean Podcasts