Imagine a space where creativity flourishes, where young minds, ages 9–16, come together not just to learn, but to innovate, play, dream, and understand themselves and each other more deeply.
That’s exactly the atmosphere that buzzed through the halls of Sawubona in Calliste, the vibrant venue for the Imagine Grenada Youth Entrepreneur Camp, 19–23 August 2024.
This introspective and activity-filled 5-day camp was not a daycare experience, but a thrilling journey of self-discovery and inspiration. Wrapped in a dynamic blend of interactive experiences, the camp brought together art, vision boarding, creative writing, mindfulness, business planning, and even healthy meal preparation, giving every participant a chance to shine. The camp’s curriculum is based on the Inner Development Goals (IDG) framework, which emphasises 5 inner skills from the field of human development needed for sustainable development. They are:
- Being – relationship to self
- Thinking – cognitive skills
- Relating – caring for others and the world
- Collaborating – social skills
- Acting – enabling change
One of the many notable sessions was facilitated by Abegail Thomas of Prototype Learning. Thomas explored identity, belonging, purpose, goal-setting, and understanding your learning styles. She invited the young people to consider why they do the things they do, what they thought about themselves, and what their superpowers were. Thomas affirmed the participants. Some cried to hear someone reflect to them how beautiful and unique they are. “We wanted the participants to know that the way they see themselves and being seen by others matter.”
Reflecting on their unique experience, one of the campers enthusiastically shared, “I learned to believe in myself. That I am unique in every way. That I can be grateful for the things I have and respect others. I enjoyed the time with Abegail. It was very special.” Another camper expressed that they had good fun and enjoyed the breathing session. The kids were fed vegan meals throughout the camp. One participant said, “I like to eat meat, but I liked the vegan food. It was a nice surprise.”
The creative and grounded Ama JABA (Judy Antoine) coordinated the camp. The team and presenters included Joanne Paul-Pascal (a licensed clinical social worker who served as therapist), Godfrey Luke of Ashanti Footprints (who taught drumming), Lexan Fletcher of Flex Media, and Bernardo Bertucci of La Luna Boutique Hotel and Villas. The presenters shared their real-life experiences and provided pearls of wisdom. They encouraged the campers to tap into their own inner power, craft their own business plan, and identify their passion and convert it into a career.
JABA was enthusiastic and proud of the outcome of the camp and the transformative journey that the young people embarked on “witnessing their ideas come alive, their confidence grow and their skills blossom throughout this camp has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The youth seized the opportunity each day to be accountable to themselves and others. We are thrilled to be part of their transformative journey, paving the way for the future leaders of Grenada.”
The Imagine Grenada Youth Entrepreneur Camp is an initiative of Sawubona, House of Practice, and Akasha Metaphysical. This group of local businesses, owned by the Grenadian-based Atman Hospitality Group, is committed to human growth and flourishing. This year’s camp was largely sponsored by international friends of Grenada, including Cultivating Leadership, a New Zealand-founded, global leadership development firm committed to cultivating leadership that shapes a just, diverse, flourishing, and sustainable planet. Jim Wicks, Managing Director, said, “It’s a great privilege for us to support this initiative. It’s the kind of thing Cultivating Leadership cares about. I had the opportunity to visit Grenada earlier this year for a company retreat and fell in love with the place and people. We wish these young leaders the brightest future. We are committed to that.”
A staunch believer in the power, creativity, and growth potential of everyone, dr akasha, director of Atman Hospitality Group, said, “Seeing these young minds not just participate, but thrive, has reinforced our belief in the power of youth and our commitment to human growth and evolution. Their boundless energy, curiosity, and eagerness to learn and create are not just inspiring; they are also powerful reminders of the importance of such initiatives in shaping our future. Ama has done a great job coordinating this camp. Big thanks to our team of facilitators and our sponsors, who shared their experiences and resources to help make this camp happen. There is more to come.”
This year’s camp served 15 young people from Grenada and Carriacou. The camp ignited the entrepreneurial flame within Grenada’s budding leaders, laying a solid foundation for the country’s future innovators. The participants’ astounding enthusiastic engagement, and their heartfelt responses left the team deeply moved and inspired. Seeing the seeds of innovation take root in such a short span of time is a testament to the program’s efficacy and the boundless potential of our young people.
The next camp is planned for December 2024. Spots for the camp are limited due to the high degree of attention and support each participant receives. Contact Ronisha Lewis at 403-4769 and [email protected] or on Instagram @thehouseofpractice if you would like to learn more about Imagine Grenada Entrepreneur Camp and secure a spot for your child.
About Atman Hospitality Group
Atman Hospitality Group, a registered Grenadian company, facilitates connection, growth, and the expansion of consciousness. The company operates Sawubona (personal and business development services), Akasha Metaphysical (consciousness expansion products and services), House of Practice (yoga and meditation studio), and a vegan restaurant to help realize its vision of growth, evolution, and human flourishing for all. Sawubona is located in Calliste, just after the bowling alley. Akasha Metaphysical and the vegan restaurant are located at the new Galleria Mall in Grand Anse, just before the craft market. House of Practice is located at #29 Le Marquis Complex in Grand Anse.
Atman Hospitality Group
