TRANSNATIONALISM PERSONIFIED: YOUNG RETURNING TRINIDADIANS ‘IN THEIR OWN WORDS’

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this paper we consider the nexus existing between returning transnational migrants to Trinidad and Tobago's adaptation experiences, matters pertaining to their transnational life‐paths, family and community experiences and their views on transnationalism and return. The research is based on an analysis of the detailed narratives provided by forty informants by means of semi‐structured interviews. The informants consisted of nine ‘second‐generation’, seven ‘one‐and‐a‐half‐generation’ and twenty‐four ‘prolonged sojourner’ returning transnational migrants to Trinidad and Tobago. The main conceptual themes that characterise Caribbean transnationalism are presented at the beginning of the paper. Addressing these in the context of Trinidad and Tobago, we present our narrative‐based findings under the following headings derived from analysis of our informant's experiences and views: transnational family and life‐course issues; transnational community relationships; keeping in touch; transnational mobility and ‘home as fixed anchor’; transnational identity; transnational economic and commercial interests; and strategic flexibility.