AS a child, Kemar Henry was placed into foster care due to circumstances which he says he had no control over.

While not providing details of the circumstances which caused him to be placed in State care, Henry pointed out that through his dedication and with the help and guidance of Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) he has emerged as a dentist with his own practice.

Today he is proud to be referred to as Dr Kemar Henry, and on Thursday he encouraged 52 wards and former wards of the State to strive for excellence during his presentation as guest speaker at CPFSA’s 2024 Educational Achievement Awards Ceremony at Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in St Andrew.

“Today I stand before you as Dr Kemar Henry, a dentist. Just a decade ago I was just like my academically inclined audience — a youngster under the care of the CPFSA. Over the past 20 years the CPFSA has demonstrated unwavering commitment to its mission. Your work has not only protected the vulnerable but has also empowered them to thrive,” said Henry.

“How did I get here, coming from a young boy growing up in foster care in Port Antonio? Well, when I was much smaller, I was placed in foster care… Others may have thought that that would have been the beginning of the end of my journey but the CPFSA not only stood by my side in foster care, but the staff members I interacted with continued to support me and stand in my corner while I was growing up. It was only my CPFSA family that truly understood the difficulties of growing up in State care,” added Henry.

He told the awardees that even when he matriculated to university, the CPFSA never left him by the wayside.

“When it was time to go to university, the CPFSA assisted me with all my relevant fees such as school fees, boarding, examination fees, and even lunch money. I am forever grateful for my experience as I was well taken care of during my time in State care — to the point that children who have both parents and extended families would be envious of all I received.

“With the aid of the CPFSA I was able to achieve my bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene as well as my second degree in medical dentistry, which I achieved with high honours. Currently, I own my own dental practice and I am filled with a dream of giving back to all of Jamaica’s vulnerable children using my newly achieved licence to practise. Because of the CPFSA’s investment in me and my future I am now able to extend all of the same benefits I have received going out there, working tirelessly. It was a very hard journey,” he told the audience.

“The CPFSA stood in my corner and helped me all throughout my journey, and I am incredibly grateful for it. As I reflect on my own personal journey I am reminded of the profound impact that the CPFSA has had on my life. Your support and guidance have helped to shape me into the person I am today. As we look to the future I encourage all of you to continue elevating and pushing the boundaries of what is possible,” added Henry.

He stated that the CPFSA’s dedication to protecting children and strengthening families is testament to its unwavering commitment to its values.

“Your work has been guided by a deep understanding of the complexities of child protection and a passion for increasing positive change. As we look to the future I encourage you to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

“Your work has transformed lives and I have no doubt you will continue to make a profound impact on Jamaica’s children and their families. As they celebrate this milestone 20th anniversary I hope you will take the time out to recognise this incredible team. Their collective efforts have created a safer, more supportive environment for children and their families,” added Henry.