The Social Development Commission (SDC) is actively working to foster economic independence and break down negative perceptions within the Gregory Park community of Portmore, St. Catherine, by equipping its young residents with valuable entrepreneurial skills. This initiative, manifested through the Youth Entrepreneurship Skills Symposium (YESS), aims to provide a pathway to prosperity and positive engagement for the youth in this part of Jamaica.
Addressing Community Challenges Through Skill Development
Gregory Park has, in the past, been associated with challenges such as gun violence and gang activities. Recognizing this, the SDC has identified it as a key community for focused youth engagement. Parish Manager for SDC Portmore, Ishiwawa Hope, stated that the agency is going “extra hard” to involve young people in constructive activities. The goal is to offer viable alternatives and opportunities that can lead to economic self-sufficiency, particularly for those who may not meet the qualifications for traditional employment in call centres or the public and private sectors.
The second iteration of the YESS initiative, held on Friday, August 29, saw nearly 50 young residents participate in hands-on training. The symposium offered a diverse range of skills, including welding, candle-making, bouquet and gift basket creation, lash extension techniques, and photography. These practical skills are intended to empower participants to start their own businesses and create wealth within their communities, potentially leading to employment for others.
A Stepping Stone to Economic Empowerment
The SDC’s efforts go beyond just providing training. Participants were also informed about various grants and programs available through government entities such as the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, and the HEART/NSTA Trust. This comprehensive approach ensures that the newly acquired skills can be certified and further developed.
Furthermore, the SDC offers additional support through its Local Economic Development Support Programme (LEDSP). This program provides financial assistance, grants, market access and promotion, mentorship, networking, and advisory services. SDC Executive Director, Omar Frith, emphasized that the YESS initiative is part of a national drive to bolster entrepreneurship and create a resilient entrepreneurial base across Jamaica.
Building on Success and Sustained Support
The YESS workshop is an expansion of the SDC’s ‘Portmore Say Yes I’ project, which is a broader youth, economic, and sports initiative designed to engage young people across the municipality in governance and decision-making processes that affect their communities. The SDC plans to track participants for a six-month period, with community officers checking in to monitor progress and provide ongoing support. Some participants may also receive starter kits to aid in launching their ventures.
SDC’s commitment to community development is a long-standing one. The organization, established in 1965, works across Jamaica’s 775 communities to advance sport, social, cultural, and economic development. Initiatives like the Summer Camp Programme, which focuses on skill-building and personal development, and the LEDSP, which provides financial grants to small businesses, demonstrate the SDC’s continuous efforts to uplift communities and empower individuals.
The SDC’s strategic approach, focusing on identifying community needs and fostering partnerships, is crucial for sustainable development. By investing in youth entrepreneurship, the SDC aims to shift the narrative in communities like Gregory Park from one of challenge to one of immense opportunity, fostering economic self-sufficiency and contributing to a more prosperous Jamaica. The news of these programs highlights the ongoing efforts to build stronger, more resilient communities across the nation.