SIXTEEN schoolgirls from Portland were given a day of discovery and empowerment in Kingston, thanks to Desnoes & Geddes (D&G) Foundation’s ‘No Mind Left Behind’ pillar, in partnership with Portland mentorship organisation Girls BECOMING (Bold, Empowered, Confident, Outstanding, Motivated, Intelligent, Nurtured Girls).

The ‘No Mind Left Behind’ pillar is built on the belief that every child deserves more than a classroom education.

Many children in rural Jamaica and underserved Corporate Area communities grow up with limited exposure to cultural, social, and professional environments which can expand their sense of possibility. Without these opportunities, their outlook can remain narrow, shaped only by what they see in their immediate surroundings.

Through No Mind Left Behind, DG Foundation seeks to expose under-represented youth to new environments, events, and experiences that broaden their world view; expand horizons by showing children that they belong in every space their ambitions may carry them — whether cultural, professional, or social — and equip them with networks, mentorship, and tools that spark curiosity, confidence, and resilience beyond academics.

“This pillar is not about ‘helping with school’ alone,” explained Totlyn Brown-Robb, D&G Foundation administrator.

“It is about whole-child development, blending education with exposure, mentorship, and life experiences that build confidence, social adaptability, and vision for the future. Our goal is to help children see beyond limitations and embrace the full breadth of what is possible,” added Brown-Robb.

As part of this mission, this cohort of girls from Girls BECOMING began their Corporate Area journey aboard the
Logos Hope book ship, browsing and selecting books to support their academic growth.

They then participated in a mentorship session before gathering for a celebratory luncheon at New Imperial Court Restaurant, an experience that combined learning, cultural exposure, and sisterhood.

“For many of our girls, opportunities like these are rare. A simple visit to a bookshop or sharing a meal in a new space can spark imagination and confidence. It’s about showing them that they belong everywhere their ambitions can take them,” said Ingrid Stewart-Bovin, founder of Girls BECOMING.

Since 2022, D&G Foundation has partnered with Girls BECOMING to support young women from Portland through mentorship, networks, and experiences that foster holistic growth. This annual out-of-parish experience is a cornerstone of that collaboration, reinforcing the foundation’s vision that no Jamaican child should be left behind due to lack of exposure or opportunity.

Together, the D&G Foundation and Girls BECOMING continue to invest in the future of Jamaica’s youth, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the chance to learn, explore, and thrive.

Girls BECOMING founder Ingrid Stewart-Bovin (left), greets D&G Foundation Administrator Totlyn Brown-Robb, at New Imperial Court Restaurant, where mentors and students connected over stories of resilience and growth.