Our story
Pablo Lambey holds a legacy of leadership and compassion that has left a lasting impression on the Garifuna culture. From political activist to grassroots politician, a community supporter, and most importantly, a man dedicated to his family, Pablo was a man of honor who was well-respected by many. His impact is still felt by those he served throughout his life.
Pablo was born the youngest of four children in San Juan Tela, Honduras, in 1932, to his mother, Apolinaria Petillo, and father, Etanislado Lamberth. His parents were active members of their community — Apolinaria a farmer, activist, actress, songwriter, and member of the Methodist Church; Etanislado an ambitious entrepreneur who owned his own ship. Tragedy struck the family when Pablo was just four years old: his father was one of nineteen people killed in the San Juan Tela Massacre on March 12, 1937. Soon after, Pablo's mother moved the family to Dangriga Town, Belize, to be near supportive relatives.
Though his formal education stopped in the eighth grade, Pablo became a charismatic influencer who accomplished notable things: President of the National Garifuna Council, a member of the Human Rights Commission, Secretary of the General Workers Development Union, and a mentee of the late Thomas Vincent Ramos. He was sworn in as a Justice of the Peace and was a significant contributor to the acquisition of the CDS Land in Dangriga, where the Pablo Lambey Cultural Centre now sits.
He met the love of his life, Alice, while she was working at the Kasibeer home in Gallon Jog — drawn in by her strength, humility, and caring nature. They wed in December 1957 and built a family of biological and adopted children alike, all equally loved.
Pablo faced real hardship throughout his life — a lack of support and funding chief among them — but never let it stop him from pursuing what he believed was right. His faith in God and his ancestors gave him the strength to persevere. As he would say: "Forward ever, backward never, Excelsior!" He was a proponent of speaking the Garifuna language and pushed for dignity for the yurumein, the homeland.
Pablo passed at 67 after a long battle with kidney failure. His message — to believe in yourself and fight for the equality of the Garinagu people — still moves through those he loved today. The Pablo Lambey Foundation carries that vision forward.
