Each for Equal: Kiwanians Empower & Engage Young Women at St. Andrew Parish Church Home for Girls

To commemorate International Women’s Day 2020, The Kiwanis Club of Young Professionals Kingston in association with Canji International Foundation held a Paint and Sip Empowerment Session with girls at the St Andrew Parish Church Home on March 7, 2020. The event was one in a series of annual women’s day events put on by the club with various institutions tasked with the care of young women. President of the Club, Dr. Dalea Bean in her opening remarks noted that the event being held under the theme #EachforEqual, was designed to empower and encourage the young ladies to pursue their goals and overcome obstacles in their pursuit for progress in a relaxed and recreational environment. Representatives from Canji International, including President Donnette Anderson, also charged the young women to be relentless in pursing their dreams.

The group was treated to an engaging session with Motivational Speaker Mrs. Ornecia Blackstock, @valueinthevoice, who charged the young women at this facility to recognize the significance, sagacity and strength of women. She noted that there are many examples of women paving the way for equality and most importantly, equity for young women within our society and global community. She cited that having a quality education, hard work, tenacity and a relationship with God are a few of the key components that will enable them to achieve success despite their trials or any misfortune life may present. In addition, Mrs. Blackstock encouraged the young ladies to avow themselves and establish their mark in society as women continue to campaign for equality globally. The main event included the production of a scenic painting lead by Paint and Sip Ja, @paintandsipja. The event brought out unknown artistic skills by the young women, who were delighted with their creations.

The St. Andrew Parish Church Home for Girls was established in 1974, when the first set of girls was sent there by the Juvenile Court. The home has a capacity to accommodate 21 girls however; it currently house 13 girls between the ages of 12 to 17 years. For over three decades, it has served girls in need of care and protection. The girls are cared for in an atmosphere of Christian love and are required to attend Sunday Service and Sunday School at the Parish Church. They are also encouraged to become involved in other Church activities which seek to offer holistic development.

The initiative, which also included the involvement of Kirk Distributors who donated care packages to the girls and home, is the first such developmental event organized by the club, in keeping with the Club’s mandate as a global volunteer organization with a mission to serve children and communities; through service and leadership with community-based projects; focused on educational development projects, beautification projects and programmes geared towards at-risk-youths and children.

Contributed by President Elect Jermaine Young