In the lush interior of Dominica lies the small village of Cochrane, a community that had for generations been known for one thing: rearing rabbits. Yet, despite their expertise, the villagers faced a persistent challenge. Business was slow, and the local hotels and restaurants were hesitant to embrace rabbit as a staple on their menus. The community was stuck, unsure how to turn their unique heritage into a sustainable livelihood.

Then, as part of the EU-funded Eco-Tourism Development Project, Dr. Auliana Poon and the Leve Global team arrived on the scene in Cochrane. Where others saw a struggling local industry, Dr. Poon saw the spark of a world-class celebration. Her vision was immediate and electrifying: create a festival, a vibrant, joyous event that would put Cochrane on the map and make its rabbits famous.

The Cochrane Rabbit Festival was born. It’s a celebration of everything the village had to offer. The festival features lively cooking competitions, with local chefs vying to create the most delicious and innovative rabbit dishes. Food stalls lined the streets, selling everything from rabbit stew to grilled rabbit, filling the air with irresistible aromas. A cultural show celebrated the village’s heritage, while games and activities provided entertainment for the whole family.

The festival was an instant sensation. It drew crowds from across the island and beyond, all eager to sample the famous Cochrane rabbit. The event not only created a massive surge in business for the local rabbit farmers but also instilled a new sense of pride and purpose in the community. The rest, as they say, is history.

Today, Cochrane is a must-visit destination for any foodie travelling to Dominica. The village is thriving, its economy revitalized, and its people empowered. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, the greatest opportunities lie in the assets we already possess, waiting for a bold vision to unlock their true potential.