Rousing performances from the participants were the highlight of the Food For The Poor (FFTP) annual band camp closing ceremony on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

This year’s edition of the summer camp was held under the theme ‘Where Passion Meets Purpose: Saluting the Next Generation of Musicians’ on the grounds of FFTP in St Catherine.

Activities brought together some 60 talented youngsters from across the island, providing them with hands-on training in various musical disciplines including brass, percussion, woodwinds, and strings.

Led by experienced music instructors, the four-week programme focused not only on technical ability but also on discipline, teamwork, and creative expression.

“The band camp is about more than learning to play an instrument,” said Camp Director Jeffrey Brown. “It’s about giving our youth a platform to grow, express themselves, and dream bigger; today’s performances are proof of what can happen when we invest in their potential.”

Over the course of the camp students benefited from mentorship, instrument care workshops, and opportunities to collaborate on musical pieces.

The initiative forms part of FFTP’s ongoing commitment to youth development, providing safe and inspiring spaces for creativity to thrive.

The closing ceremony featured graduates of the camp showcasing their achievements through stirring ensemble performances and vibrant renditions.

Andrew Mahfood, chairman of Food For The Poor Jamaica, remarked: “The band camp stands as a testament to the power of nurturing talent. The musical excellence on display is exceptional and it reflects the hard work of the students and mentors. This initiative goes beyond music; it is helping to build character and create brighter futures for our youth.”

The organisation is marking its 15th year of the camp and has influenced many of their students to establish their own music classes as a source of income.

Among the sponsors were dancehall artiste Sean Paul and prominent goods production company Wisynco, along with camp volunteers and families whose support made the camp a success.

Five-year-old snare drum player Terry Brown flashes an electric smile after collecting his graduation certificate at the end of Food For The Poor’s band camp on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at the FFTP headquarters in Ellerslie Pen, St Catherine.