The Social Development Commission (SDC) and Sandals partnered on an initiative that used dining etiquette to enrich the lives of more than 200 youngsters from the inner-city during recent camps held in Montego Bay.

Junior campers from Albion, North Gully, Rose Heights, and Sudbury were captivated by dining etiquette tutors from Sandals Montego Bay; Restaurant Manager Whitney Reid, and Restaurant Supervisor Renardo Quarrie. The adept hospitality professionals employed engaging activities to teach the children table manners.

“Table manners are more than just a skill, they offer an opportunity to introduce an age-old art form to children who have expressed to us that this is their first time learning it,” noted an elated Quarrie.

“We personalised the experience for the campers by helping them realise that a grasp of proper table manners is indispensable regardless of where life takes them or their future careers. It is our hope that the lessons we’ve imparted will go with them throughout life,” he added.

Both he and Reid agreed that knowledge of proper table manners can play a role in bolstering campers’ confidence.

“Our aim was for the campers to learn while enjoying themselves. The laughter that resonated throughout the room as they won prizes during the activities is memorable. What stood out to me, however, was the transformation from their initial nervousness when using the cutlery to the newfound confidence they exuded after the games we played,” Reid said

Randy Hale, parish manager for the Social Development Commission St James, expressed his profound appreciation for the collaboration between SDC and Sandals.

“Over the years the partnership between Sandals and SDC has proven mutually beneficial. Sandals, an internationally acclaimed luxury brand, reaching out to youngsters in these communities, encourages them to see themselves as connected to a global brand thereby elevating their mindset,” said Hale.

“Sandals has added value to these camps by teaching our campers proper dining etiquette over the three-week period. We are grateful that a brand like Sandals continues to show interest in growth for these youngsters,” he added.

The community of Mafoota received a visit from the Sandals Montego Bay human resources team at their SDC camp, focusing primarily on broadening campers’ horizons by making them aware of the myriad career options that exist in hospitality.

Anecia Pryce, Sandals Montego Bay’s human resources manager, and Shanique Cunningham, learning and development manager, engaged an enthusiastic bunch of eight to 16 year olds.

“It is always a pleasure to participate in sessions like the one in Mafoota, sessions that will hopefully have a lasting impact on the lives of these children as they navigate a world that is filled with opportunities if they only dare to pursue their dreams,” said Pryce.

“I see so much promise in the children we’ve interacted with and I trust that what we’ve shared with them will help to guide them down a promising path,” echoed Cunningham.

The campers expressed gratitude for their time at the SDC camps and eagerly recounted what they learned.

“This is my first year at this camp and I thoroughly enjoyed myself and the exceptional instructions. I learnt about etiquette and got complimentary school supplies from the Sandals team,” said gleeful first-year camper Cquejahniq Roberts.

The campers also had exciting sessions with other organisations such as the Jamaica Public Service, National Water Commission, National Solid Waste Management Agency, the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Municipal Corporation Disaster Relief Preparation Unit and others which primarily focused on raising awareness about the various services they provide to society.