MUSTARD Seed Communities, one of Jamaica’s most respected charities, has been receiving support from a group of high school students who have signalled their passion for helping underprivileged children, teen mothers, and individuals affected by disabilities and AIDS.

Since founding Mustard Seedlings in September 2021, Campion College and Hillel Academy students Tarini Khemlani, Rhea Chatani, Nitya Kripalani, and Shamitha Chindepalli have held a medical camp in collaboration with the High Commission of India in Jamaica, a team of Indian doctors, and Satya Sai Organization.

More than 120 residents of Mustard Seed’s Jerusalem home received medical check-ups and free medication during the camp, bolstering the youth arm’s confidence and strengthening their relationship with another Mustard Seed facility, Mary’s Child.

Responding to a request from the teen mothers, Khemlani spearheaded the task of refurbishing the common area at Mary’s Child. Additionally the team, along with the residents, designed the interiors and planned the budget.

A bake sale at Campion College raised $250,000 which was used to upholster sofas, purchase a playpen, and add motivational decals to the space. The project culminated in a team effort to set up the newly decorated area, bringing joy and a sense of positivity to the teen mothers and their children.

Building on the trust that had been established, the team was invited to undertake another project — creation of a meditation garden space in the backyard. Khemlani proposed painting a mural symbolising strength, resilience, and peace on the blank wall facing the garden. With the guidance and support of their art teacher, Fiona Godfrey, the students organised brainstorming sessions with the club members and the young mothers at Mary’s Child to develop the mural’s concept, design, and colour schemes.

Godfrey’s mentorship was crucial in helping Khemlani lead the project and coordinate the efforts of the club members throughout the Christmas holidays, as they spent the time sketching, painting, and outlining the mural’s design.

“The most rewarding aspect of the project was the active involvement of the young mothers at Mary’s Child. Each of them contributed by designing and painting a butterfly — making the mural a deeply personal and collaborative creation,” a news release quoted Khemlani, president of Mustard Seedlings.

“The week spent at Mary’s Child painting and interacting with the residents was a profoundly enriching experience for my team and me. This project not only beautified the space but also strengthened our bonds with the young mothers, leaving us with cherished memories and a sense of accomplishment,” Khemlani added.

After three years of successful initiatives at Campion College, Mustard Seedlings is ready to expand to other schools. With the support of the Mustard Seed Communities’ management team the programme aims to sensitise students to the importance of service, leadership, and giving back to the community, while providing support and opportunities for the underserved.