KINGSTON, Jamaica – Project STAR successfully hosted its SPARK! Youth Innovation Summer Camp, engaging teenagers from Rose Gardens and Parade Gardens in Kingston; May Pen in Clarendon, and Savanna-la-Mar in Westmoreland.

The camp provided a safe, structured, and inspiring space for young people aged 13–16 to explore entrepreneurship, personal development, and emerging career opportunities in STEM and the creative industries.

The initiative was designed to address pressing issues such as youth unemployment, limited access to skills training, and vulnerability to crime, while showcasing the resilience and creativity of Jamaica’s youth.

“SPARK! is about giving our young people the tools, exposure, and confidence they need to thrive,” said Sharise Staines-Appleby, community services kead.

“By equipping them with practical skills in entrepreneurship, technology, and life development, we are investing in safer, stronger communities.”

Appleby said that the key objectives of the camp included providing practical training in entrepreneurship, product development, branding, and financial literacy.

Participants were exposed to STEM and digital careers, including artificial intelligence and technology innovation. Other areas of focus were promoting healthy lifestyles, self-confidence, and positive values through life-skills sessions.

Twelve-year-old Saija Kelly from Parade Gardens said she enjoyed the summer camp, as she took away lessons that will assist her in her future career.

“I appreciated the summer camp because it showed me how young people like me can think about business and opportunities. It gave me ideas I can use for the future,” she said.

Seventeen-year-old Jayvyn Small, also from Parade Gardens said he had a good experience at the summer camp and that it was informative.

“I learnt more about Artificial Intelligence. I found out how to start and manage a cell phone business,” he said.

Jayvn who will be attending Excelsior Community College to study engineering said he would encourage other participants to the programme as it was very educational.

The five-day camp featured themed workshops led by industry experts, community leaders, and partners, such as motivational sessions with media personality Emprezz Golding and financial literacy training with Jason Ricketts, youth empowerment officer at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information (MOEYI).

Meanwhile, participants learnt about building an entrepreneurial mindset with Akieme Wilson of Project STAR and had hands-on sessions in makeup artistry with Charissa “Zoé” Clemetson and carpentry with Rose Gardens resident Jason Longmore.

Omar Brown and Jaydon Hylton from Project STAR introduced participants to artificial intelligence for business and explored careers in technology.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force and Trinidad High Commission led sessions on human trafficking and child protection; the Ministry of Health & Wellness addressed physical health and wellness; and a ‘body talk’ workshop promoted self-confidence.

The summer camp culminated with participants displaying their business ideas and talents at an expo and talent show, where awards and grants were distributed to support further skill development.

“This camp represents our commitment to providing meaningful alternatives for young people,” added Staines-Appleby. “We are proud to see them step forward with innovative ideas and strong values, ready to make a positive difference in their communities.”