In a significant diplomatic engagement highlighting international support for women’s empowerment, the Canadian High Commission to Barbados is demonstrating its commitment to Grenadian youth development. Her Excellency Brenda Wills, High Commissioner of Canada to Barbados, alongside Trade Programme Coordinator Allison Miller, will participate in the Reach Within Crochet Collective (RWCC) on February 5, 2026.
The RWCC represents an innovative approach to youth empowerment, combining economic opportunity with psychological support through the traditional art of crochet. Funded by the Canadian Government through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), this program specifically targets adolescent girls and young women in Grenada, addressing both their economic rights and leadership development.
Since its inception, the initiative has conducted 37 specialized sessions serving 50 participants from local communities. The comprehensive curriculum extends beyond craft skills to include essential life competencies: Session Etiquette and Team Building, Self-Regulation & Rhythm, Communication and Active Listening, Goal Setting, Conflict Resolution, Self-Acceptance and Self-Love, Coping Strategies for Life Challenges, Mindfulness Practices, Positive Mindset Development, Resilience Building, and Time Management.
Donnet Williams, General Manager at Reach Within, emphasized the program’s therapeutic dimension: “This initiative transcends conventional skills training—it creates a healing environment. Our trauma-informed methodology enables young women to convert personal adversity into tangible opportunity.”
As a Grenadian charitable organization, Reach Within employs scientifically-validated practices that promote nervous system regulation, emotional intelligence, and resilience development. Their work spans multiple youth service domains including residential care facilities, foster care systems, educational institutions, and a youth drop-in center in St. George’s.
The project will culminate in a community exhibition scheduled for late February 2026, featuring participants’ crochet creations while simultaneously raising awareness about gender equity through artistic expression. Future plans include establishing a mentorship network connecting participants with established female entrepreneurs to facilitate economic independence pathways.
Stephanie Sprott, Political Counsellor at the High Commission of Canada to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, affirmed Canada’s dedication: “The Canadian Government maintains an unwavering commitment to advancing women and girls’ empowerment throughout the Caribbean region. We take pride in supporting Reach Within’s Crochet Collective, which masterfully integrates healing practices, cultural arts, and entrepreneurial training for Grenada’s young women.”
Through its holistic framework, Reach Within continues to foster leadership capabilities, creative expression, and strengthened community bonds among Grenada’s emerging female generation.