Inspiring the Next Generation: Highlights from the SRC Youth Empowerment Forum, Jamaica

At Serenity Resource Connector, we believe real change begins with youth. That’s why our recent Youth Empowerment Forum (Jamaica), held in collaboration with the National Youth Council of Jamaica, sponsored by Juici Patties, was more than just a talk; it was a rallying cry for action.

Hosted by the vibrant Clevena Brown, this electrifying live stream brought together some of Jamaica’s most inspiring young leaders. Their message? You don’t need permission to lead. Just start.

Youth Empowerment in Jamaica: Real Stories, Real Impact

Meet the Changemakers

We had the pleasure of spotlighting award-winning young leaders:

• Odane Brooks – 2023 Prime Minister’s Youth Awardee, CARICOM Youth Ambassador, and Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist at the Development Bank of Jamaica.

• Tahjae Wallen – Founder of the Youth Education Association and President of the Kingston & St. Andrew Parish Youth Council.

These trailblazers reminded us that youth empowerment isn’t about titles, it’s about action. Both Odane and Tahjae spoke candidly about:

• The value of community service,

• Resilience in the face of adversity,

• And using their platforms to uplift others.

“We’re not driven by the award—it just keeps us accountable.” — Tahjae Wallen

Youth-Led Initiatives - Inspiring the Next Generation

JCI Clarendon: Building Community, One Initiative at a Time

Led by the dynamic Monique Fearon, JCI Clarendon is on a mission to transform lives through hands-on engagement:

📅 Upcoming Event: Health & Wellness Fair

• Date: Saturday, 12th April

• Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Dental cleaning until 12 noon)

• Location: Youth Innovation Centre, 79 Trenton Road, May Pen

  
  

💡 FREE services include:

• Dental cleaning & health screenings

• Youth career talks from HEART/NSTA, SDC, and wellness brands

• Face painting, treats, and giveaways!

This initiative not only serves the community—it also recruits and empowers new youth leaders.

The GWEM Foundation: Purpose Meets Passion

Gabriella Matthews, founder of the Gabriella Women Empowerment Foundation (GWEM), inspired attendees with her story of service. She’s currently running:

• A Book Drive for single mothers and children—collecting school supplies like notebooks, pencils, sharpeners, and erasers.

• A Health Fair in planning, inspired by JCI Clarendon, to reach underserved areas like Milk River.

“Monique inspired me last year, and now I want to bring health education to even more communities.” — Gabriella

Youth Empowerment is a Movement, Not a Moment

As the forum drew to a close, the message from all speakers rang clear:

🗣 Final Words of Encouragement

• Embrace your purpose – don’t ignore the pull to give back.

• Surround yourself with positive energy – “iron sharpens iron.”

• Get it done – don’t wait for the perfect moment.

• Faith + Action – as one speaker shared: “Faith without works is dead.”

From purpose-driven leadership to wellness outreach, it’s evident: Jamaica’s youth aren’t waiting for change—they’re creating it.

How to Get Involved

Want to be part of this powerful movement?

✅ Watch the full forum replay here:🎥 Youth Empowerment Forum on YouTube

✅ Follow us on Instagram & Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates, event alerts, and youth opportunities.

✅ Subscribe to our blog at www.serenityresourceconnector.com to never miss an event recap.

Special Thanks

This event was made possible through partnership with:

🤝 National Youth Council of Jamaica

🤝 Juici Patties, our forum sponsor

Together, we’re building a stronger, safer, and more empowered Jamaica—one youth at a time.