KNOWING their rights can help young people recognise when something is wrong; having the confidence to speak up can help them seek protection. And SOS Children’s Villages Jamaica brought these lessons to life recently, engaging 36 children and young people in a YouthRISE Human Rights Edutainment Workshop at the Trench Town Ceramics & Arts Centre.

Through drama, poetry, music, games and storytelling, participants explored powerful messages about personal safety, equality, inclusion and respect.

The experience connected human rights to everyday situations, helping young people understand healthy boundaries, recognise abuse, and identify trusted adults and community resources they can turn to for support.

Facilitated by the Majaliwa Production Team — the performing arm of AY Krew Ltd — the workshop gave participants space to ask questions, express concerns, and explore how to advocate for themselves and others.

“A child’s voice should never have to compete with fear,” said Jowayne Robinson, assistant financial director, SOS Children’s Villages Jamaica.

“When young people understand their rights, know where to turn for help, and feel confident that their concerns matter, we strengthen the foundation on which they build their futures. Investing in that confidence is an investment in safer families, stronger communities, and a generation better equipped to stand up for themselves and others,” added Robinson.

The workshop addressed a critical gap between knowing that rights exist and understanding how to respond when those rights are threatened.

Discussions encouraged participants to consider what safety and respect look like in their own lives, how to seek assistance when they feel unsafe, and how their actions can help build more inclusive communities.

Omall Wright (left), facilitator with the Majaliwa Production Team, performs a musical piece during the workshop as participants look on and engage with the powerful messages being shared through the arts.

“The YouthRISE Human Rights Edutainment Workshop was created because we recognise that many young people face challenges that can impact their well-being, development, and ability to reach their full potential,” said Princess Boakye-Agyemang, programme coordinator intern.

“Through this initiative we wanted to create a safe and engaging space where participants could learn about their rights, understand the importance of safeguarding and protection, and gain the confidence to speak up for themselves and others,” she added.

The initiative forms part of YouthRISE, a partnership among SOS Children’s Villages Canada, SOS Children’s Villages Jamaica, and Scotiabank.

The programme supports vulnerable young people through learning opportunities, leadership development, life-skills training, employability preparation, and community engagement, helping to remove barriers to independence and long-term success.

“As part of the YouthRISE Programme this workshop goes beyond simply sharing information. It empowers young people with practical knowledge, encourages critical thinking, and helps them develop the life skills necessary to navigate the challenges they may face.

“By using creative arts and interactive engagement, we are able to connect with young people in a way that resonates with them and makes these important messages more impactful,” said Boakye-Agyemang.

For SOS Children’s Villages Jamaica, the workshop represents an investment in prevention as well as empowerment. Supporting children to recognise unsafe situations, understand their rights, and identify sources of help complements the organisation’s wider work to strengthen families, protect children, and prepare young people for adulthood.

The experience also encouraged participants to see themselves as advocates for positive change: Young people whose voices matter and whose choices can help shape safer, more respectful communities.