Youth Month

The Ministry of Youth and Culture (MYC) celebrates Youth Month under the theme “#IAmConnected”. This is emanates from the realization that our nation’s youth are disconnected from important aspects of youth development that directly impact their lives. In discussion with youth at various sessions, a recurring comment is that youth feel as though many policy decisions affecting their lives are made without their input.

It is the goal of the MYC to connect youth to the programmes and opportunitiesthat will be of benefit to them, while engaging them into the decision making processes that impact their lives. “#IAmConnected” also highlights the need to engage key stakeholders, and in particular, youth themselves, in a holistic approach to positive youth development, that will result in the formulation of better youth programmes, deeper engagement, further reach and greater youth empowerment.

The #IAmConnected objectives for Youth Month are, to:
• Advance youth participation in the socio-political, economic, cultural and religious processes of society;
• Celebrate and highlight the outstanding contributions and achievements of Jamaican Youth;
• Showcase and display the best of Youth talents in Jamaica;
• Promote National Pride and Goodwill;
• Foster National, Community and Youth Development.

Last year, the Ministry reached over 15,000 of Jamaica’s youth through its range of island-wide youth month activities. This year, the MYC plans to surpass this number, with a full month roster of events geared toward education, entertainment and engagement of Youth in their communities.