Youth seminar series empowers youth with life skills

The PGDFF Caribbean Youth Advocacy Seminar Series, sponsored by Massy Foundation Barbados Inc., has launched a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young people.

The seminar series focused on equipping youth with essential life skills while addressing critical areas such as mental health, healthy eating, financial literacy, and building self-confidence.

Held at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Barbados Community College, with the Barbados Youth ADVANCE Corps (BYAC) Cohort, the event brought together facilitators who highlighted the importance of these skills in both personal and professional success.

Designed to educate and engage, the sessions included practical exercises to help young people apply these life skills in their daily lives.

Dr Don-Marie Holder, Acting Director of the Office of Student Services & Development at UWI Cave Hill, praised the seminar series for its impact on students.

“Through this series of workshops, our students were provided with practical tools to enhance their physical and mental well-being, professional growth, and financial stability,” she said. “To commemorate World Mental Health Day, we focused on helping our students build confidence and be the best version of [themselves]. These sessions offer a transformative path towards a more balanced and successful life.”

Dr Holder also noted the event’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #13 on Climate Action, noting a keynote address that encouraged students to think about how they could take action to address the climate crisis.

UWI student Jaden Downer shared his experience, saying, “The workshops were super informative and inspiring. As an aspiring future entrepreneur, the workshops gave me some great insights I didn’t know I needed, whether it be learning about money, health, or personal development.”

He particularly enjoyed the ‘Making Your Money Work for You’ workshop.

“My greatest takeaway from these is that learning is a never-ending journey. I’m definitely looking forward to attending future workshops,” Downer added.

The BYAC also expressed appreciation for the seminar series.

“It was indeed heartwarming to see the intended plan become reality. All the topics discussed were adequately executed, and the overall goal was achieved,” said a BYAC representative.

The diverse speaker lineup was also commended.

(PR)