Olivier Janssens Unveils “Destiny” - The Bold Plan to Transform South Nevis into a Global Sustainability Hub
The southern coast of Nevis could soon look very different. Entrepreneur and long-time Nevis resident Olivier Janssens has unveiled “Destiny”, a billion-dollar sustainable development project that promises to create jobs, attract investment, and position Nevis as a model for the modern Caribbean economy.
Speaking to residents at a recent presentation, Janssens laid out what he described as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Nevis to become “the first country in the Caribbean to create a modern zone of this kind — one that uplifts its people and becomes one of the most desirable regions in the world.”
He said the plan would breathe life into the island’s underdeveloped southern corridor — an area he called “the engine of Nevis’ future.”
To deliver on that vision, Destiny has partnered with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the world-renowned architectural firm behind landmarks such as New York’s World Trade Center. SOM’s design partner Scott Duncan explained that the entire master plan would be shaped by Nevis’ natural landscape.
“Nevis is an amazing tropical paradise — really unspoiled,” Duncan said. “We want to preserve that feeling of remoteness and design something that works with nature, not against it.”
According to early plans, Destiny will include a fisherman’s village, oceanfront promenade, parks, lakes, family neighbourhoods, and a low-rise, pedestrian-friendly layout, blending development with green open spaces.
Protecting Nature and Empowering People
Environmental protection is at the heart of Destiny. A full Environmental Impact Assessment is underway, led by Dr Deborah Brosnan, an internationally recognised marine scientist known for her work on coastal resilience.
“Destiny recognises that nature is our ally,” Dr Brosnan said. “We’ll be rebuilding reefs, protecting coasts, and creating new local jobs in conservation.”
She added that the project will combine traditional Nevisian knowledge with modern environmental science to build a homegrown workforce skilled in restoration and sustainability.
But Destiny’s ambitions go beyond the environment — Janssens says it’s about creating long-term prosperity. The plan includes:
Thousands of new jobs during construction and beyond
A US$50 million investment in Nevisian infrastructure, including the Alexandra Hospital
A 20% permanent profit share for Nevis — split evenly between the government and a sovereign wealth fund
A US$1 million annual scholarship programme for students to study abroad
5% of profits distributed directly to citizens through a new technology platform launching next year
“This is not just about development — it’s about partnership, empowerment, and creating a future where Nevisians thrive,” Janssens said.
Clearing Up the Myths
Amid speculation about land ownership and access, Janssens was clear: Destiny is not a separate country. The Constitution of St Kitts and Nevis will continue to apply fully, and public access to beaches and fishing areas will remain unchanged.
He said land sales will be voluntary, with residents offered the option to sell or exchange property if they wish to relocate.
“We want to ensure everyone feels part of this project — not pushed out by it,” he said.
A New Chapter for Nevis
In closing, Janssens said Destiny represents a “shared promise” — a balance between innovation and tradition.
“Destiny is more than a development; it’s a promise to protect our nature, invest in our people, and put Nevis on the global stage where it belongs,” he said. “For centuries, Nevis has been the Queen of the Caribbean. With Destiny, we can make her the jewel of the world.”
Residents and businesses are being encouraged to visit www.destiny.com to register for opportunities or share input on the project’s next phase.
