Barbadian men are stepping up to mentor and inspire a new generation of male leaders to reach their full potential and light the path to a brighter future.

On International Men’s Day recently, two such organisations were recognised and supported with financial donations from the Barbados Light & Power Company (Light & Power). The Rites of Passage: Boys to Men program, led by Anthony Seale and Reverend Derick Richards of the James Street, Speightstown Circuit of the Methodist Church, and the Purpose 180 Foundation, founded by Nigel Jules, were both lauded for their contributions during a presentation held at Light & Power’s Garrison, St. Michael Headquarters. Both organisations spoke about the impactful initiatives they have established to support young men in Barbados. 

Light & Power said it was pleased to support programs focused on mentoring and uplifting at-risk young men.

“These programs are crucial in empowering young men to reach their full potential, and Light & Power is pleased to support and partner with initiatives like Rites of Passage and Purpose 180 that actively work to create brighter futures for the next generation of young male leaders.”

Both programs focus on mentorship, character building, and equipping young men with tools to overcome challenges and achieve personal and professional growth. (PR)

Caption: Light & Power employees, including at left, Communications Advisor Adriel Richard, and to the right, Chano Belle, Manager, Finance (Supply Chain) and Curtis Brewster, Supervisor, Dispatch and Quality Control, with visiting organisation representatives Nigel Jules of the Purpose 180 Foundation (second from left), and Reverend Derick Richards and Anthony Seale of the “Rites of Passage: Boys to Men (BTM) programme” of the James Street/Speightstown Circuit of the Methodist Church in Barbados (at centre)

Kristian Yearwood won the inaugural 5k Run/Walk to Help 5k held on Sunday. He clocked 21:36 in the running race, 2nd place went to Ralf Luther in a time of 22:05, followed by Fr. Andy Nyga in 3^rd with a time of 23:40. The top three runners in the female segment were Adeline Lamorell,27:17, Phillipa Sylvester, 30:46 and Sumaya Desai, 47:22.

The event was organized by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgetown and is a fund raiser for church’s ministry to the poor in our community as well as to assist the Child Card Board. What started last year as a fun walk now features competitive 5k races in running and walking. The blend of race running and walking along with fun walking should see the event attacking a cross section of participants.

Anderson Maughan was the winner in the walk race in the male segment with a time of 30:59, he was followed by Anthony Phillips in 34:50 and Akil Bryan in 37:40. Angela Jackson crossed the line in 36:31 to win the female walk race she was followed by Fay Waithe in 40:42 and third place was taken by Mary Moseley in 41:57.

On November 28th, 2024, the eagerly awaited 4-H Fourward Curriculum which encourages 4-Hers to “DO 4-H YOUR WAY!”, was officially launched at the Central Agronomic Research Station at the Ministry of Agriculture,Food and Nutritional Security, in Graeme Hall, Christ Church! This innovative curriculum, designed to empower youth, is built on 4 key pillars:

1. Agriculture and Natural Resources: This pillar inspires our 4-H members to cultivate their own food, including small livestock such as rabbits and Barbados Blackbelly Sheep.

2. Healthy Lifestyles: This pillar encourages our members to engage in activities like dancing, singing, painting, basketry, and adopting healthy eating habits alongside their families.

3. Leadership and Citizenship: This pillar educates our 4-H members on the significance of community service, particularly in supporting the elderly, the homeless, individuals with disabilities, and those in need. We aim to instill a sense of inclusion and prepare them to become future leaders.

4. S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math): This pillar sparks curiosity in young minds by offering projects that help our 4-H members appreciate the science behind everyday things. This groundbreaking curriculum was unveiled by Mr. Osmond Harewood, Vice-Chairman, Barbados 4-H Foundation and Mr. Barney Callender, Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security, in front of an audience of 4-H Foundation Members, 4-H Leaders, Ministry of Agriculture staff, and students.

The event was hosted by Mr. Thedore Fraser, National Programme Coordinator, and included a curriculum brief by Ms. Jan-Yves Holder, PRO. A special Thank you was delivered to all who contributed to this milestone. (PR)