Culture camp helps St George youth strengthen identity, says commissioner

Youth Commissioner for St George South Sarah Holder said the Culture Camp at the Ellerton Community Centre is helping young people develop a stronger sense of identity and appreciation for their heritage.

Holder made the observation during the camp’s closing showcase at the Ellerton Community Centre, St George, where she reflected on the value of providing young people with opportunities to engage with culture in their community.

“I think it helps them to gain identity of knowing who they are,” she said.

(Photo credit: Lauryn Escamilla / Barbados TODAY)

(Photo credit: Lauryn Escamilla / Barbados TODAY)

(Photo credit: Lauryn Escamilla / Barbados TODAY)

(Photo credit: Lauryn Escamilla / Barbados TODAY)

(Photo credit: Lauryn Escamilla / Barbados TODAY)

(Photo credit: Lauryn Escamilla / Barbados TODAY)

(Photo credit: Lauryn Escamilla / Barbados TODAY)

Holder said the camp was designed to give young people more than just something enjoyable to do during the summer, with cultural activities forming an important part of their experience.

During the programme, campers learned about traditional cultural characters, including the Shaggy Bear, Mother Sally and stiltwalkers, before portraying them during the final-day showcase.

Holder expressed appreciation to those who contributed to the programme and supported the children throughout the camp.

“I just want to say thank you to the staffers who came out and give of their time to work with these children,” she said.

She also thanked parents for their support and cooperation, adding: “Thank you to the parents for being cooperative and sending them.”

Holder credited the Division of Youth Affairs with recognising the need for programmes of this nature in communities.

“Thank you to the staff at the Division of Youth Affairs for recognizing that these are things that we need for young people in our communities,” she said.

St George South hosted two camps during the summer: the Culture Camp at the Ellerton Community Centre and a general camp at Ellerton Primary School.

Participants from the general camp joined those from the Culture Camp for the closing showcase, where the young people demonstrated some of what they had learned during the programmes.

(LE)