It’s all systems go for this weekend’s two-day schedule of activities in Porus, Manchester, that will benefit residents including students, artisans and adults.

Hosted by the Friends of Porus Association, the activities will kick off this Friday, July 18 with a Student Leadership Workshop which will include an annual Math competition and a Parenting Talk. This takes place at the Porus Primary School and goes up until 4 pm. It targets students who reside within the community of Porus.

“The Student Leadership Workshop aims to ignite leadership skills among our youth, and we at the Friends of Porus Association believe that strong leadership is essential for driving positive change within our community and society at large,” said Clayton W Robinson, Friends of Porus’ Director and Chairperson of the Student Affairs Committee.

“Students will engage with a diverse panel of speakers focusing on personal branding, entrepreneurship, organisational leadership, and community service. The speaker lineup includes Jason Jones, Attorney at Law; Robert Blount, Educator; and Allison Beharie, Business Professional. This will also feature a keynote address by Paul Richardson, retired US Marine, engineer, and patented inventor,” Robinson added.

Later that evening, from 6 pm, a Community Street Fair, hosted by dancehall artiste D’Angel, will be held at Persad’s Plaza, which will include games and prizes and surprises for residents.

Residents who sell local produce are invited to be a part of the festivities.

Carson Robinson, President of Friends of Porous Association, explained the addition of the Community Street Fair to this year’s schedule of activities.

“We want to foster unity within the community and revive a sense of love and spirit throughout the district of Porus. We also want to evoke memories of the Grand Market and holiday festivities, boost local commerce by supporting vendors, and raise awareness of Friends of Porus’ mission, highlighting the programs and providing support to residents,” said Robinson.

On Saturday July 19, the focus shifts to the focus of visual and performing art with Culture Yaad: Art & Craft Exhibition from 9 am at It’s All Good HQ on Old Porus Road, where primary and high school students will showcase their art for a chance to win prizes.

There will also be cultural cuisine, holistic herbs and remedies among other items from local manufacturers.

“Culture Yaad complements Friday’s Math competition by focusing on visual and performing art. Local artist display and sell their work and students with a passion for art are given the opportunity to showcase their work and a chance to win cash prize and computer to assist with their studies,” Robinson disclosed.

A Health Fair which runs from 9 am will be held at the Porus Health Clinic where students will receive free school medicals, while adults will be able to access free blood sugar, blood pressure, mental health, and diabetes checks among other services.

Medical professionals from local and overseas will provide their services free of cost.