By Cdr. Bud Slabbaert
We all want a stronger, safer, more prosperous Caribbean. Innovation isn’t a luxury — it’s how we get there. We should not just talk about change but rather lead it. A problem may be that outdated models have boxed us in. Out-of-the-box thinking isn’t rebellion — it’s renewal. The path of innovation is less traveled but is bold and transformative. That’s the route we must take and build the Caribbean’s next economy. It requires fresh thinking and proactive leadership that embraces bold, transformative ideas. Embracing innovation will empower our youth and help secure future-proof jobs.
Innovation is the practical application of novel ideas to create economic, social, or functional value. It involves turning creativity into improvements in products, services, processes, or business models that boost efficiency and competitiveness. Effective innovation requires implementation that delivers measurable benefits. Great ideas die in the gap between concept and execution. Innovative ideas often emerge at the intersection of disciplines. Silos between departments, sectors, or islands prevent synergy.
The mindset for innovation isn’t about blind rebellion or constant skepticism; it’s about strategic curiosity and purposeful disruption. One will never become an eagle by thinking like a chicken. And being innovative is not like doing the funky rhinoceros in the disco. Innovators are people who don’t follow what is ordinary. Innovators are uncontaminated by the world around them. They are striving for knowledge, not noise. They have the courage to be afraid and do it anyway. No guts, no glory. They are not afraid of being received with skepticism or ridicule when presenting their innovation. Newborn eyes always cry with pain at the first look at the morning sun. So, what is the right mindset for innovation?
Intentionally question existing assumptions. Every answer is a doorway, not a dead end.
Challenge the status quo but not just for the thrill of it. If we wonder often, the gift of knowledge will come. A persuasive “why” is essential in the innovation process. Ask: “Why is this done this way?” and “What if we tried something else?” If it’s never been done, it’s probably worth exploring. “We’ve always done it this way” is innovation’s nemesis. Focus on uncovering hidden constraints or outdated standards that hinder progress.
Innovation can respect tradition and then reimagine it. Deep-rooted traditions or legacy mindsets can reject new approaches. Traditions hold cultural wisdom and emotional resonance. Instead of discarding them, reinterpret them to serve modern needs. Tradition is a compass, not a cage. This isn’t about rejecting tradition—it’s about reframing it as a launchpad for bold ideas. Tradition can be elevated by adapting innovation to today’s challenges.
A key factor enabling innovation is fostering a culture of openness, curiosity, and risk-taking. Stay open to learning, even in areas where you think to be an expert. Idea generation encourages creativity and brainstorming across diverse teams. Collaborate with partners, youth, and communities. Also invite fresh perspectives from outsiders or unlikely collaborators. Create knowledge networks like a think-tank for brainstorming.
Artificial Intelligence, AI, can be a powerful catalyst for innovation, like having a rapid and tireless brainstorming partner who never runs out of ideas. AI can generate hundreds of ideas in seconds based on prompts, trends, or gaps in the market. It can combine concepts from different domains (e.g., biotech + fashion) to spark novel hybrids. AI can model a “what-if” scenario simulation to explore futuristic or unconventional possibilities. It can refine raw ideas into actionable concepts and evaluate feasibility, desirability, and viability. AI can be your expert consultant who does not charge any fees.
You will be amazed at how AI can assist. Basically, what is needed to use AI for your purpose is internet access. Use ChatGPT and ask realistic questions, and one will get realistic answers and suggestions. It can provide competitor insights, summarize what others are already doing, and suggest ways to differentiate. It can identify emerging trends and unmet needs. It can highlight areas where innovation is lacking or ripe for disruption. It can simulate market responses to refine innovative ideas. AI can help design solutions for underserved communities by analyzing local needs and constraints. But regardless of the amazement, one may still have to think twice now and then or give it the benefit of the doubt.
Thomas Alva Edison was a prolific inventor whose groundbreaking creations include the phonograph, incandescent light bulb, and motion picture camera. He greatly influenced modern technology. He pioneered collaborative scientific research and was one of the first inventors to apply the principles of organized teamwork to the process of invention. Did he get everything right with the first try? “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work” - Thomas Alva Edison.
What common culprits stand in the way of innovation and cause delays or even stop the process? Innovation often stumbles not because of a lack of ideas, but because of systemic friction — barriers that slow momentum, dilute vision, or block execution. They may vary from a fear of failure or reputational loss to rigid structures like bureaucracy and overly hierarchical systems that slow decision-making; red tape kills momentum. Misalignment between leadership and execution teams is not desired.
Innovation thrives on bold moves, but they must be grounded in insight. Risk aversion leads to safe, incremental changes instead of bold breakthroughs. Yet, one can be bold without being reckless. Test it, don’t just debate it. Prototype and don’t wait for perfection. Build, test, learn, and iterate. Without prototyping, testing, and iteration, innovation remains theoretical. Create a culture where trying something new is respected, not ridiculed.
We would accomplish many more things if we did not think of them as impossible. Wouldn’t it be great if the media could report that backed by a coalition of creatives, technologists, and island governments in the Caribbean, the innovation initiative aims to establish 15 innovation hubs across the region and train 10,000 youth? So….., do we have an idea yet or are we still waiting for the lightning to strike?
