From Boredom to Capitol Hill: Termario Daniels' Remarkable Youth Leadership Journey
- Winsome M. Sherrier Witter
- Jan 19
- 2 min read
Who Is Termario Daniels?
“Start somewhere. Start small. Get up and do something you’re passionate about.”
That powerful advice comes from Termario Daniels, the dynamic President of the Clarendon Parish Youth Council. From volunteering during COVID-19 lockdowns to speaking on Capitol Hill, his journey is a blueprint for youth empowerment.
How It All Began
In 2020, while the world was on pause, Termario hit play.
With nothing but time, curiosity, and compassion, he began volunteering with local organizations during the height of the pandemic.
Community cleanups ✅
Youth outreach ✅
School support ✅
“It was me, my Lysol, and my mask against the world.”
His relentless spirit led him to a national platform: representing Clarendon in the National Youth Parliament of Jamaica in 2021.
Representing Caribbean Youth on the Global Stage
Fast forward to 2025 — Termario was named a Top 30 Under 30 Caribbean Changemaker and invited to Capitol Hill, Washington DC
There, he spoke to policymakers and senators about real issues facing Caribbean youth:
Crime & violence
Mental health
Youth unemployment
“If we are radical enough, we can institute change.”
A Man of Many Hats
When Termario isn't leading youth movements, he's:
🧑🏫 A Lecturer in Digital Literacy and Pre-University Mathematics
🎙️ A Podcaster – Host of Di Bwoy Wid Di Lisp, focused on mental health and personal growth
🌍 A Global Contributor – Active in 18+ local and international organizations, including the United Nations and European Union
Despite the pressure, he credits his family and community support for keeping him grounded.
Lessons in Leadership
Through years of juggling advocacy, academics, and activism, Termario gained:
📅 Time Management Mastery – From procrastinator to planner
💬 Public Speaking Confidence – Built from podcasting to global platforms
🤝 Appreciation for Support Systems – Friends, family, and collaborators made the journey easier
National Recognition
In 2025, Termario was nominated for the Prime Minister’s National Youth Award for Excellence — Jamaica’s highest youth honour.
“Four-year-old Termario would’ve laughed. But here we are.”
His work is no longer just a Clarendon story — it’s a national movement.
Honoured at Home: Clarendon Parish Honours Award
In 2025, Termario was also recognized locally with the Clarendon Parish Honours Award for Youth Development — a tribute to his tireless work uplifting young people across the parish.
This award, rooted in the very community where his journey began, served as a powerful reminder that impact starts at home.
Advice to Aspiring Youth Leaders
"Start somewhere. Anywhere."
Don’t wait for the perfect moment — start with passion, purpose, and even uncertainty.
“You may not have much, but your energy can inspire change.”
What Gives Him Hope for 2026?
📍 Reaching new communities
🌟 Gaining new experiences
🔥 Fueling new ideas
Even with a packed schedule, Termario is excited about what's ahead, and he’s just getting started.
Ready to Be Inspired?
🎥 Watch the Full Feature on YouTube
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