Empowering Communities, Protecting Paradise
Dedicated to advancing sustainable eco-tourism practices in Trinidad and Tobago, preserving our natural environment and cultural heritage while empowering local communities through education, economic opportunities, and conservation initiatives.
Alphonso Philbert Theophilus "Fargo" James (1901-1962), born in Patience Hill, Tobago, was a Trinidad and Tobago politician who became a powerful advocate for Tobago's development. After working as a laborer, foreman, and independent contractor, he became politically active and was elected to the Legislative Council in 1946, becoming Tobago's first elected representative during colonial rule.
James was known for his strong advocacy for Tobago's political, social, and economic development. He firmly believed that Tobago could regain economic viability primarily through the development of its agricultural and fishing industries.
His advocacy led to significant improvements in infrastructure, including:
His legacy continues to inspire Trinbagonians, as evidenced by the naming of the A.P.T James ferry that serves the inter-island route between Trinidad and Tobago. This Foundation seeks to further honor his memory by embodying his vision for sustainable economic development in Tobago.
"He was involved with the Uriah Butler labor movement in the 1930s and was an advocate for labor issues, though he is best known for being the most ardent advocate for the political, social, and economic development of Tobago."
- Encyclopedia.com
Bonnie Peters is the granddaughter of A.P.T James, Tobago's respected son of the soil. She has a deep connection to Tobago and strives to live a naturalist lifestyle with a keen interest in encouraging others to grow and appreciate local resources.
As an accomplished educator, Bonnie graduated from the University of the West Indies, served as an educator at the secondary school level in Trinidad before migrating to the United States to further her education. Ms. Peters spent 25 years in tertiary level education in California, United States, with nine years as the Chief Student Services Officer (CSSO) for the State of California Community College Online Education Initiative.
She continues to provide her professional services as an online education consultant to the California Community College system – the largest tertiary education system in the world. Her expertise in education administration and management will prove valuable to the Foundation, particularly when implementing education based projects focused on cultivating economic growth and development in Tobago and Trinidad.
In 2019, Bonnie returned to reside permanently in Trinidad and Tobago with one mission - to give back. Her goal being to establish and manage a Foundation that preserves her grandfather's legacy by offering Trinbagonians and eco-tourists enterprises that promotes sustainable economic development, utilizing innovative education based practices to support these efforts.
The A.P.T James Foundation, under the leadership of Bonnie Peters, is deeply committed to bringing the Foundation's vision to reality through collaborative partnerships, sustainable practices, and community engagement.
As its flagship project, the A.P.T James Foundation aims to begin its mission with the restoration and adaptive reuse of the historic Roxborough Cocoa House in Tobago. Our vision is to transform the Roxborough Cocoa House into a vibrant, world-class organic farmers' market and cultural heritage site.
This project aims to preserve a significant piece of Tobago's cultural and agricultural history, while creating a sustainable economic opportunity that enhances both local livelihoods and tourism offerings in the eastern region of the island.
The proposed concept draws inspiration from the highly successful Oranjezicht City Farm Market at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa. This community farmers market supports over 40 local farmers and 80 artisanal food traders, attracting 6,000-9,000 visitors weekly.
Like the Oranjezicht market, which is positioned at a prime tourist location, the Roxborough Cocoa House enjoys a strategic location near Argyle Waterfall, Tobago's highest waterfall and a popular visitor destination. This synergy would create a compelling dual attraction, encouraging waterfall visitors to extend their stay in the area, increasing local spending and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The Roxborough Cocoa House Farmers Market project aligns perfectly with Tobago's tourism development goals by:
Based on similar successful projects, we anticipate significant economic benefits:
Creation of 10-15 full-time positions and 30-50 part-time/vendor opportunities
Potential to increase visitor numbers to the Argyle Waterfall area by 25-30%
Encourage tourists to spend an additional half-day in the Roxborough area
Generate approximately $500,000-750,000 TTD annually for local farmers and artisans
We welcome your questions, ideas, and interest in our work. Reach out to learn more about the A.P.T James Foundation or how you can get involved with our initiatives.
(868) 773-7669
(619) 204-7684
LP 67-68 Pipiol Rd, Santa Cruz,
Trinidad and Tobago
There are many ways to support our mission and contribute to sustainable development in Trinidad and Tobago.
Volunteer your time and expertise
Partner with us on sustainable initiatives
Contribute to specific projects
Spread awareness of our mission