The 2025 Ocean Fest celebration was significantly enhanced by the active participation of students from Sir McChesney George Secondary School’s Culinary Arts Program and the Media Apprenticeship Programme, both initiatives supported by the CGLF (Civil Society and Local Governance Framework). Funded by the European Union, CGLF focuses on fostering stronger ties between civil society and local governance through community engagement and advanced technical vocational training. Their involvement in Ocean Fest vividly demonstrated the initiative’s real-world impact. In the culinary domain, students collaborated with renowned executive chefs to prepare and present four signature dishes, highlighting sustainable seafood, local flavors, and innovative ocean-inspired cuisine. Their responsibilities spanned prep work, cooking, garnishing, and serving samples, offering them invaluable professional exposure and hands-on experience. Executive chefs praised their professionalism and eagerness to learn, underscoring the quality of CGLF’s culinary training. Meanwhile, the Media Apprenticeship Programme participants provided comprehensive coverage of the festival, capturing its essence through interviews, photography, and video documentation. Their work highlighted the event’s themes of ocean conservation, sustainable seafood, cultural pride, and community unity. Ocean Fest 2025 served as a powerful platform for youth empowerment, showcasing how practical skills and mentorship can strengthen community-driven initiatives. The contributions of these young participants not only enriched the festival but also set a precedent for future community engagement across the island.
Youth Talent from the CGLF Programme Makes a Powerful Mark at Ocean Fest
