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Unlocking Opportunities for Youth: Scholarships, Jobs and Initiatives

YouTube Thumbnail and Blog cover photo of Jahmel Brown and Oshane Dixon

Welcome to the highlights of Serenity Resource Connector's quarterly Youth In Action Live Forum, 'UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES: LIVE YOUTH FORUM—Scholarships, Jobs, Initiatives & More!' This event, in collaboration with the National Youth Council of Jamaica, featured dynamic youth leaders Oshane Dixon and Jahmel Brown, who shared valuable insights and resources to empower Caribbean youth.


Empowering Youth: Key Takeaways


The forum was packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories focused on youth opportunities, employment opportunities, scholarship resources, and impactful youth initiatives. Here are the key takeaways:


Employment Opportunities


Navigating the Job Market: Jahmel underscored the importance of understanding the job market. He advised young job seekers to research industry trends and identify sectors with growing opportunities. This strategic approach helps in targeting applications and preparing for roles that are in demand.


Vocational Training: Jahmel also highlighted the benefits of vocational training programs. These programs provide practical skills and certifications that can lead directly to employment, often in high-demand fields such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.


Targeted Job Applications: He emphasized the importance of tailoring job applications to match your interests and qualifications rather than applying indiscriminately. This focused approach increases your chances of securing a position that aligns with your career goals.


LinkedIn Networking: Jahmel highlighted the value of creating a LinkedIn profile. This professional networking platform allows you to connect with industry professionals, find job opportunities, and showcase your achievements, effectively acting as a digital portfolio.


Scholarship Resources


Navigating Scholarships

Types of Scholarships: Jahmel explained the difference between merit-based and needs-based scholarships. Understanding where you fit can help you identify the right youth opportunities.


Opportunities for Caribbean Youth: Jahmel shared the story behind his platform, Opportunities for Caribbean Youth. Motivated by his own struggles in finding scholarships, he created this platform to streamline access to educational and professional opportunities for Caribbean youths. Utilize this platform to find a wide range of scholarships tailored to Caribbean students.


Ensuring Legitimacy and Safety: Jahmel advised on how to verify the legitimacy of scholarship offers and job postings. He recommended researching the sponsoring organizations, looking for reviews or testimonials, and being cautious of any opportunities that require payment upfront.


Youth Empowerment Initiatives


Leadership and Skills Development: The Portmore Municipality Youth Council, led by President Oshane Dixon, is dedicated to engaging and empowering youth through various initiatives. Their programs focus on building leadership skills, conflict resolution, and ethical values.


Programs and Initiatives

Violence Prevention Program: Teaching conflict resolution and governance to youths in high-risk areas, transforming them into community change agents.


Goal-Setting Sessions: Helping youths learn how to set and achieve SMART goals, fostering a sense of direction and purpose.


Community Engagement Activities: Encouraging youth participation in local governance and community development projects.


Skills Development Workshops: Offering training in areas such as public speaking, project management, and entrepreneurship.


Skills Gained from Youth Initiatives

Leadership: Through participation in council activities, youths develop strong leadership skills, learning how to manage projects and motivate teams.


Conflict Resolution: The violence prevention program equips participants with the ability to mediate disputes and foster a peaceful community.


Goal Setting: Goal-setting sessions teach youths how to plan effectively and stay motivated to achieve their personal and professional aspirations.


Public Speaking: Skills development workshops help improve communication skills, boosting confidence in public speaking and presentations.


Community Engagement and Support Networks


Active Participation

Get Involved: Oshane urged the youth to be active in their communities by joining local organizations like youth clubs and citizens' associations. These networks provide essential support and opportunities for personal growth.


Collaboration for Greater Impact: He stressed the importance of collaboration among organizations, noting that collective efforts lead to more significant impacts on youth development.


Stay Connected and Get Involved


To stay connected with the Portmore Municipality Youth Council and explore more youth opportunities, follow them on Instagram at PortmoreYC or email them at portmoreyouthcouncil@gmail.com. For updates from the National Youth Council of Jamaica, follow them at NYCJA.


Discover More Opportunities:

Check out Opportunities for Caribbean Youth for the latest on scholarships and job openings.


Join the Serenity Resource Connector Community:

Visit SerenityResourceConnector.com to explore a wealth of resources on culture, safety, health, youth opportunities, local governance, and community engagement. To stay informed about future events, subscribe to our YouTube channel, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and connect with Winsome Sherrier Witter on LinkedIn.


Watch the Replay:

Did you miss the live event? Watch the replay on our YouTube channel to gain insights and inspiration from our incredible speakers.


Thank you for being part of our journey to empower youth and build stronger communities! Let's continue to unlock youth opportunities together.


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