KINGSTON, JamaicaFi — We Children Foundation, a youth-led non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to advancing social justice for Jamaican children, has launched an initiative aimed at empowering young people with comprehensive reproductive health education.

The project, titled ‘Youth in Reproductive Justice: Digital Media Advocacy’, seeks to provide 16 to 18-year-olds with accurate, judgement-free information to help them make informed decisions about their well-being.

By utilising social media and online campaigns, the initiative seeks to educate young people on reproductive rights, contraception and healthy relationships, promoting informed decision-making and reducing stigma.

Afrika Stevens, executive director and founder of Fi We Children Foundation, announced the initiative at a micro-launch event organised by the Council of Voluntary Social Services (CVSS), recently.

Expressing gratitude to the European Union (EU) and the CVSS for their support in making the project a reality, Stevens emphasised the urgent need for accessible reproductive health education, highlighting the barriers that Jamaican youth face, including misinformation, stigma, and limited access to services.

“Too often, these conversations happen too late, if at all,” Stevens said. “Education is empowerment, and when young people have the right information, they can take control of their health, their choices, and their futures.”

Nancy Pinchas, executive director of CVSS, commended the organisation on its initiative for its innovative approach to youth advocacy.

“We are proud to support a project that prioritises young people’s right to accurate and unbiased reproductive health education,” said Pinchas. “Empowering youth with knowledge and resources is crucial for building a healthier and more informed generation.”

As part of the project, Stevens said that Fi We Children Foundation has engaged key stakeholders, including parents, students, educators, and advocacy groups.

The initiative began with a focus group session involving 20 parents at Kingston Technical High School, providing a platform for parents to voice concerns and perspectives on reproductive health education. Feedback from the session helped shape the project’s content to ensure it remains youth-friendly while fostering open discussions within families.

Additionally, a student workshop was held on February 19 at Kingston Technical High School, where 40 students participated in discussions on reproductive rights, contraception, consent, and gender equality. Stakeholders such as UNICEF Jamaica, the Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network and the Office of the Children’s Advocate and other organisations contributed valuable insights.

A post-workshop survey revealed that many students had never received unbiased information on these critical issues before and struggled to find safe spaces for such discussions.

Recognising the importance of digital engagement, the project incorporates an innovative 20-page digital media booklet outlining key findings from the focus group and student surveys. The booklet will provide essential information on Jamaica’s reproductive health landscape, youth access to services, and policy recommendations for strengthening reproductive justice.

Stevens said that the goal is to educate, challenge misinformation, and ignite meaningful conversations both online and in real life.

Looking ahead, Stevens said the foundation aims to expand its digital advocacy campaign, conduct more workshops, and advocate for policy reforms that enhance youth access to reproductive health education and services.

Stevens called for collective action, urging young people, educators, policymakers, parents, and community leaders to play an active role in advancing reproductive justice.

“To our young people, your voice matters. Speak up, ask questions, and seek out the right information,” Stevens stated.

“To our partners and policymakers, let’s work together to ensure that reproductive justice is not just a conversation but a lived reality for every young person in Jamaica.”

The project is being funded through a micro grant from a 30-month intervention funded by the European Union (EU) to strengthen the capacity of local civil society organisations to engage in actions dedicated to promoting gender equality, women and youth empowerment and inclusion as well as promote cultural expression.