In a significant address at Graydon Sealy Secondary School, President The Right Honourable Jeffrey Bostic unveiled a transformative national mentorship program designed to create pathways for youth from economically challenged communities. The initiative, named the Chapman Challenge in honor of the President’s childhood community of Chapman Lane, represents a cornerstone of his presidential legacy, focusing on breaking cycles of disadvantage through structured support systems.
During the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations, President Bostic emphasized that socioeconomic circumstances should never determine a young person’s potential. ‘Your circumstances must not stop you from achieving your goals,’ he declared to assembled students, drawing from his personal journey to underscore leadership’s responsibility to inspire future generations.
The comprehensive program features multiple tiers of support, with schools serving as primary identification hubs for participants as young as twelve. Among its most immediate benefits are academic scholarships to Jordan’s prestigious King’s Academy, secured through President Bostic’s diplomatic engagement with King Abdullah II during his November 30 installation ceremonies. These scholarships specifically target academically qualified students from low-income households.
Beyond educational support, the initiative adopts an inclusive approach extending to vulnerable populations outside traditional education systems. The government will collaborate with the Barbados Prison Service to develop rehabilitation frameworks using mentorship to facilitate societal reintegration for incarcerated individuals.
A nationwide mentorship framework will leverage partnerships with religious organizations, athletic associations, and national institutions. Sporting icons will play pivotal roles in shaping youth development, utilizing athletics as a vehicle for instilling discipline and positive values.
The presidential visit featured cultural performances that received standing ovations and concluded with an interactive dialogue where students engaged the Head of State on leadership, career development, and constitutional responsibilities.