THE Grace & Staff Community Development Foundation (Grace & Staff) recently transformed its downtown Kingston Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Centre into a hub of smiles, discovery, and creativity, hosting students from Christel House Jamaica for a special experience in celebration of Children’s Day on May 15.

The interactive session was designed to inspire young minds by challenging them to think, create, and explore. Through exciting, hands-on STEM activities, the Christel House students sharpened their problem-solving skills while embracing the pure joy of learning in a fun, collaborative environment.

“It was incredibly inspiring to spend time with the bright young minds from Christel House Jamaica and witness their curiosity come alive,” said Frank James, group CEO, GraceKennedy Limited, who joined the students on-site.

“Early exposure to STEM concepts sparks the kind of critical thinking and creative problem-solving our youth need to thrive. At GraceKennedy we see our STEM Centre as more than just a learning facility — it is an incubator for future innovators, leaders, and change-makers who will shape Jamaica’s digital economy.”

Representatives from the Social Development Commission were also in attendance, lending their support to the youth empowerment initiative.

Recognising that celebration is just as vital as education on Children’s Day, the foundation partnered with Grace Foods to fill the day with extra moments of joy, providing special treats and refreshments for all the visiting children.

CEO of Grace & Staff, Sandrina Davis noted that events like these are central to their long-term vision for local youth.

“At Grace & Staff we remain committed to shaping and empowering our students for a future where STEM will continue to play a vital role in transforming lives and creating endless possibilities. Watching these children dive into problem-solving with so much enthusiasm reinforces why we must keep pouring into their potential,” she said.

Located in St Catherine, Christel House has, since 2020, been delivering kindergarten and primary education to underserved students in the parish. Last October it officially opened its state of the art STEM-focused high school.