Andrew Simmons (environmentalist)

Simmons is from Enhams, Saint Vincent. He originally trained in education. He completed a master's degree in economic development. In 2019 Simmons earned his doctoral degree at De Montfort University. His PhD considered the impact of climate change on young people and how communities can build resilience to mitigate its effects. == Activism and career ==

Simmons launched the JEMS Progressive Community Organization in 1978. At the time he was a teacher and the only employed teenager in his community. Prior to 1972, 95% of the island were employed, but after the 1973 oil crisis hit and fuel costs increased the agricultural estates closed down. It is of particular significance to Simmons as the Caribbean economy relies heavily on agriculture and tourism. JEMS started a literacy programme and offered training to women in electrical wiring and construction. The CYEN has continued to develop, teaching young people from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to be more vocal advocates for the protection of their islands. Together Simmons and the CYEN have monitored the changing environment of the Caribbean, with an increase in hurricanes, more intense rainy seasons and bleaching of coral reefs. In 2008 Simmons became the first person to be inducted into the CYEN Hall of Fame. For this workshop Simmons worked with Otis Joslyn, technical director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre. He was awarded the Goldman Environmental Prize. == References ==