In the heart of Jamaica, where vibrant heritage meets modern-day challenges, remarkable initiatives are taking root to empower the next generation. The recent Culture Corner Live Forum spotlighted one such transformative endeavour: "Unsung Hero: Using the Arts to Combat Gender-Based Violence and Empower At-Risk Youth," featuring Iris 'Terri' Salmon and her visionary initiative, Y.A.R.D Empire.
Watch the replay to dive into the inspiring conversation about the power of arts in transforming lives.
The Catalyst for Change
Y.A.R.D Empire, which stands for Youth for Arts and Recreational Development, is reigniting hope among Jamaica's youth, with a primary focus on at-risk boys who often face societal neglect. Iris 'Terri' Salmon, drawing on her own experiences as a mother and her deep-rooted passion for the arts, established this organisation to instil discipline, creativity, and emotional expression through performing and visual arts. Her goal is to offer these young men an alternative to incarceration and violence by helping them discover their innate talents and potential.
Impact Through the Arts
The transformative power of the arts is at the core of Y.A.R.D Empire’s mission. Through music, drama, and dance, Salmon and her team inspire youth to uncover their hidden abilities and embrace their unique voices. This mission is more than theoretical—it's visible in the real, tangible growth of participants like Sho'mani Harley and Dante Saunders, who both earned gold in music at the JCDC National Awards. These stories reflect more than just success in the arts; they show these young men's emotional growth, resilience, and renewed confidence.
Success Stories and Community Engagement
The forum highlighted several inspiring individuals shaped by Y.A.R.D Empire’s work. Sho'mani, who once struggled with direction, is now on the path to earning a Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management, setting his sights on becoming an arts manager or starting an NGO. Dante, after only a year of involvement, unearthed a natural talent for drumming, leading him to receive JCDC accolades that far surpassed his initial expectations.
Parent and community involvement remains critical. Salmon's persistence and nurturing spirit extend beyond the stage, creating a familial bond with her "boys." From theatre visits to celebratory outings, she fosters their cultural and social development, proving that mentorship, coupled with the arts, is a powerful tool for change.
Engaging Stakeholders
Collaboration with local stakeholders like law enforcement and community groups is essential for those looking to support or replicate similar programs. Salmon stresses the importance of engaging with the police's Community Safety and Security Branch (CSSB) for guidance and deeper community integration.
Contact Information
Y.A.R.D Empire is open to support, partnerships, and community involvement. If you are interested in connecting with Iris 'Terri' Salmon or learning more, please reach out:
876-801-3596
876-327-0351
For gender-based violence support, the Bureau of Gender Affairs offers 24-hour helplines for males and females at 876-553-0387 and 876-553-0372, respectively.
Looking Forward
Looking to the future, Y.A.R.D Empire envisions its values and impact extending far beyond its current reach. Salmon dreams of developing a television series to promote the arts and expand opportunities for Jamaica’s youth. Sponsorship is essential to this vision, and she remains open to connecting with others who share her mission to enrich lives through creative expression. She leaves us with a heartfelt reminder: "Stick it out, pray, and pursue your God-given purpose."
Conclusion
The dedication of Y.A.R.D Empire echoes far beyond its local stage. It is a global call for communities everywhere to empower youth through the arts. As these young men continue their journey, they carry the promise of becoming pillars of their communities, poised to create a thriving future rooted in creativity, resilience, and cultural pride.
Watch the full replay here and stay connected with Serenity Resource Connector across platforms:
Engage, support, and join the movement as Jamaica’s future leaders paint their world with vibrant hues of hope and culture.
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