IOJ Launches Youth Ambassador Programme

Kimya Anderson and Raimi Richards are the first Youth Ambassadors of the Institute of Jamaica (IOJ).

They were introduced at the programme launch on Wednesday (March 27) at the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport in Kingston, marking a significant milestone in IOJ’s commitment to cultural engagement and youth development.

The high-school students will be charged with carrying out various activities, including utilising social media, to inspire young people to embrace their cultural roots and contribute positively to society.

A cornerstone of IOJ’s cultural awareness initiative, the Youth Ambassador Programme is targeting students who demonstrate exceptional cultural awareness and creativity and are passionate about cultural promotion and community engagement.

Portfolio Minister, Hon. Olivia Grange, congratulated the new ambassadors and expressed confidence in their ability to represent Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage.

She said the programme will act as a bridge for the transfer of knowledge about the country’s traditions from one generation to the next.

“In so doing, it will heighten awareness of our youth and engender in them a sense of identity consciousness and a return to national pride,” the Minister noted.

Executive Director of the IOJ, Leslie Harrow, congratulated Kimya and Raimi on being the first representatives of the Youth Ambassador programme.

“I know your commitment to this programme speaks volumes of your dedication to making a positive impact… . Your efforts are shaping the future of our nation,” he said.

In her response, Cedar Grove Academy student, Kimya Anderson, pledged to be a strong representative for Brand Jamaica.

“In this capacity [we will be able to] ensure that Jamaica’s culture is passed down to future generations. Thank you for selecting us as your Youth Ambassadors,” she said.

For his part, Titchfield High student Raimi Richards said the Youth Ambassador programme will provide a platform to revitalise an appreciation for the vibrant Jamaican culture among the young and wider society.

He said he intends to use the positive aspect of social media to promote cultural awareness in his native parish of Portland, across the island and globally.

The IOJ’s Youth Ambassador programme is being sponsored by PROVEN Group Limited.