Jamaican 'Yutes': Our Unique Approach
How we strategically engage and support young people in Jamaica.
Our future holds immense promise, yet it is also fraught with uncertainty. The youth of today will determine which path Jamaica will take. Their choices can either usher Jamaica into an era of unity and hope or contribute to deeper divisions and potential hopelessness. Regardless of social class, gender, or political affiliation, our youth wield significant power. So, why not invest in them now to shape the country we envision in a few years?
While this is easier said than done, we must hold on to the belief that it is possible. At Jalawelo, we have been working with young people in Jamaica for several years. Through our experience, we have refined our approach to engaging and supporting our youth, believing it to be the most effective way to impact their lives and, consequently, our future.
So, what is our approach? It can be broken into seven key components:
1. Disregarding Stereotypes
We strive to understand who our youth truly are. Our Young Adult Circle (YAC) program supports youth from volatile communities who are often ignored by society. However, this barely scratches the surface of who these young people are. Jamaica's youth are kind, honest, and selfless, bursting with creativity and innovation. They can be fragile and insecure, yet also possess rare confidence and resilience. They are complex individuals with incredible potential.
At Jalawelo, we recognize this because of our direct experiences. The media can sometimes portray a simplistic and gloomy picture of youth from certain social backgrounds, leading to misconceptions. While some stereotypes may hold true, we consciously approach each individual with an open mind, never assuming to know their character until we meet them.
2. Building on Unique Plans
We reject the "one-size-fits-all" approach for our young people. Acknowledging the common needs of at-risk youth, we also respect their differences. Every person is unique, with distinct fears, skills, problems, and dreams. We get to know each youth on a deeply personal level to craft a customized plan tailored to their individual needs. These Individualized Education and Development Plans (IEDPs) chart a course toward their next desired step in life, focusing on advancing their educational, personal, and professional paths.
3. Commitment for the Long Haul
We treat our young adults with patience and commitment. Some may have experienced trauma, but with God's help, we are dedicated to helping them overcome it. Complete healing may take months or even years, but we believe in their potential and are excited to walk alongside them, no matter how long or difficult the journey may be.
Personal growth is rarely neat and easy; it is often messy and long, with steps forward and backward. Our mentors form genuine bonds with our young adults, committing to being a supportive presence throughout their journeys. This faithfulness is a hallmark of all our programs at Jalawelo.
4. Belief in Their Ability
We recognize the damaging experiences some may have faced but do not believe these experiences strip them of their ability to take action in their lives. We aim to empower each individual to bring about positive change in their lives. While we offer support and resources, we also acknowledge their skills, talents, and ideas. By doing so, we ensure they are active participants in their own journeys, not passive recipients of aid.
5. Encouraging Youth to Help Others
We encourage our youth to look beyond their personal challenges and opportunities. By fostering bonds among our youth, we inspire them to support one another. Each YAC session provides a safe environment for open discussions, promoting empathy, respect, and healthy conflict resolution. Additionally, we create opportunities for them to work together through volunteer activities, helping them build their community and inspire others to do the same.
6. Keeping It Practical
We offer both personal and practical support. Our goal is to help each young adult take the next practical step on their desired life journey. Using technology, we offer virtual academic training and professional skills development, ensuring our youth are equipped to thrive in the modern world. We also connect them to income-generating opportunities to support themselves.
7. Commitment to Seriousness
We choose to work with young people who are serious about changing their lives for the better. We meet them where they are and help them from there, but they must be highly motivated. Our young adults understand that they must put in consistent hard work. With their diligence and drive, we believe our support will bring them closer to their dreams.
In conclusion, our youth deserve our best. They need support from people who approach them without cultural assumptions, acknowledge their uniqueness, are committed to their growth, believe in their abilities, encourage them to help others, and offer practical assistance. By respecting our future leaders, business people, artists, and teachers today, we can ensure a brighter tomorrow.