Introduction: A Year of Empowerment and Community Impact
As 2024 draws to a close, Serenity Resource Connector (SRC) hosted its final Community Corner Live Forum, themed “Leading with Purpose: Inspiring (Youth) Leadership and Holiday Giving.” Moderated by Winsome Sherrier Witter, this empowering event highlighted extraordinary youth leaders dedicated to community development and societal transformation.
From groundbreaking initiatives to personal stories of resilience, the panel—comprising Termario Daniels, Justin Wallace, Ricardo Fairman, and Omar Bourne—offered a roadmap for youth empowerment through leadership and collaboration.
Spotlight on Inspiring Youth Leaders
1. Termario Daniels: Turning Passion into Purpose
A high school mathematics teacher, life coach, mental health advocate, and Clarendon Parish Youth Council President, Termario Daniels exemplifies the spirit of perseverance. This Governor General’s I Believe Initiative Ambassador for Clarendon uses his platform to champion mental health awareness through his podcast, “Di Bwoy Wid Di Lisp.”
Termario’s mantra is simple yet profound: start small. He believes that micro-level contributions—like mentoring or organising small events—can grow into transformative societal changes. His advice for aspiring leaders? “Perseverance makes the work feel lighter and the goals more achievable.”
2. Justin Wallace: Empowering Through Advocacy
Justin Wallace, a former head boy and Governor General I Believe Initiative Ambassador (2024), has dedicated his leadership journey to youth empowerment. His high school male empowerment club fosters emotional intelligence and vocational training, addressing societal gaps while inspiring others to take charge.
He stressed that giving back isn’t limited to financial contributions: time, skills, and mentorship are equally impactful. “Joining youth clubs or NGOs is a great way to begin creating meaningful change in your community,” he shared, inspiring others to take action.
3. Ricardo Fairman: Leading the Charge for Change
As President of the National Police Youth Club Movement, Ricardo Fairman is at the forefront of initiatives that empower Jamaica’s youth economically and socially. He navigates challenges like funding limitations with a collaborative mindset, proving that teamwork can amplify results.
Ricardo invites young people to get involved by visiting local police stations or engaging with his organisation’s social media platforms. His vision? A Jamaica where every young person has the resources to succeed.
4. Omar Bourne: Leading Through Servitude
Omar Bourne, Chairman of the Divine Beacon of Change Foundation, epitomises leadership through service. His annual holiday feeding initiative nourishes over 300 homeless individuals and underscores the transformative power of collaboration.
Omar’s journey from high school leadership to impactful community service highlights the importance of humility. “True leadership is rooted in servitude,” he shared, encouraging others to give selflessly and wholeheartedly.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Leaders
The forum wasn’t just a celebration of achievements—it was a call to action. Panelists shared actionable steps for young people looking to make an impact:
Start Small: Engage in micro-level initiatives like mentoring or volunteering locally.
Collaborate: Partner with NGOs, youth clubs, and other organisations for greater impact.
Pursue Mentorship: Seek and provide mentorship to foster leadership at every level.
Use Your Voice: Recognise your unique potential and step forward with conviction.
Upcoming Event: Join the Holiday Giving Initiative
The Divine Beacon of Change Foundation, in collaboration with the National Police Youth Club Movement, invites you to its annual Holiday Giving Project.
Date: December 21, 2024
Locations: Open Arms Drop-In Centre and Dry Hill Elderly Home in Kingston
Activities: Feeding over 300 homeless individuals and fostering holiday cheer.
💡 How You Can Help:
Volunteer: Join us on-site to serve meals and connect with those in need.
Donate: Contributions—big or small—help sustain this meaningful initiative.
Inspiring Youth Leadership: What’s Next?
From Termario Daniels’ mentorship drives to Justin Wallace’s youth advocacy, these leaders are paving the way for a brighter future. Looking ahead, the Clarendon Youth Awards in January 2025 and “Di Bwoy Wid Di Lisp” podcast’s third season promise to further inspire change.
Omar Bourne’s foundation is also reigniting its mentorship programmes, aiming to reach schools across Jamaica. These efforts exemplify how collaboration and purpose-driven leadership continue to shape communities.
Conclusion: Be the Catalyst for Change
The stories shared during the forum remind us that leadership and collaboration have the power to transform lives. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or amplifying these leaders’ efforts, every action counts.
As you reflect on the holiday season, consider how you can contribute to your community. Together, we can build a society rooted in purpose, compassion, and collaboration.
🚀 Take Action: Subscribe to SRC’s blogs, join our live forums, and become part of the change. Let’s lead with purpose and inspire a brighter tomorrow.
Happy Holidays from the SRC Family!
Comments