A Rich Legacy: Origins and Growth
The merger of the juvenile armof the Jamaica AgriculturalSociety (JAS) andthe Jamaica Welfare Limited, nowthe Social DevelopmentCommission(SDC),sparked the creationof the Jamaica 4-H Clubs in April1940.The Jamaica 4-H Clubs was establishedtoprovide specializedtraining toyouthinagriculture andits relatedareas, evolving intoa statutory body supportedby the thenMinistry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture, andFisheries, nowthe Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries andMining.
The organization’s mandate is tostimulate andempower youthtobecome engagedin agriculture andits relatedfields.Our key activities include training inagriculture, leadership, adaptable technologies, climate smartagriculturalpractices, agriculture management, entrepreneurshipandother relatedareas.These activities are geared towards improving the skillset of youthand future farmers ina bidtoimprove agriculturalproductionandproductivity drive foodsecurity
Empowering Youth through Strategic Partnerships
The success of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs is drivenby strategiccollaborations with stakeholders fromboththe publicand private sectors, as wellas international organizations.These partnerships acquire
financialsupportthroughgrants, donations, bursaries, scholarships, venture inputs and essentialtechnicalassistance, ensuring the effective implementationof mission-driven programmes andinitiatives.
Structured for Success: Organization Framework
The Jamaica 4-H Clubs operate under the Jamaica 4-H Clubs Actof 1966andthe Regulations of 1972, whichestablishedthe Boardof Management, funding guidelines, andoperationalprocedures. The structure includes Area Advisory Councils (Parish Advisory Councils) whichgoverns parish initiatives andthe IslandAdvisoryCouncil (IAC), ensuring organizedandefficient governance across allparishes, andsets their functions, membership, andoperating guidelines.ParishManagers serve as the mainofficer todrive membership, training andentrepreneurialsupportfor parish 4-H clubs, youthfarmers andClubites.
Volunteerism: The Heart of Our Mission
Volunteerismis keytoachieving the mission of the 4-H Clubs, inadditiontopreparing youthfor sustainable livelihoods and nation-building.Our voluntary armincludes the ParishAdvisoryCouncil(PAC) andthe IslandAdvisory Council(IAC), whocoordinates the work andthe activitiesof the 4-H Clubs throughoutthe Island, National Leaders’ Association(NALA) andthe Junior
Leaders’ League (JLL).ComprisingClubs Leaders/Supervisors andYouthPresidents, respectively.
Innovation and Growth: Strategic Objectives
Toaddress nationalyouthdevelopment, agriculturaltraining andenterprise support priorities, we have launchedprograms emphasizing:
1. Economic Viability and Productivity: Improving training andventure input supportopportunities throughinvesting inour Training andProductionCentres.
2. Technologically Driven School Gardens: Enhancing agriculturaltraining in schools throughequipping institutions withclimate smartandresilientschool gardens.
3. Agri-Related Value-Added Products: Fostering the developmentand commercializationof newproducts for increasedincome.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Awareness: Impacting 20,000+ individuals annually, driving healthy nutritionalandphysical activities.
5. Livestock Development: Expanding livestock enterprises toinclude piggery, smallruminants, layers andapiculture.
6. Agricultural Technologies: Promoting appropriateandadaptable practices.
7. Youth Empowerment: Providing entrepreneurialenterprise supportand training through(RYEEP RuralYouth EconomicEmpowermentProgramme.
8. Rural Development Partnerships: Supporting youth, persons with disabilities andruralwomenin agriculturalbusiness enterprises.
Collin Virgo Chairman, Board of Directors
Message
As we enter the post-coronavirus era in FY2024, I am privileged to reflect on the remarkable and value-driven journey we have undertaken.
At the 4-H Clubs we are leveraging intentional agricultural training, providing agricultural scholarships, supporting our youth through enterprise support initiatives, providing mastery level training and certification, and promoting climate smart agriculture practices, all driving the mission towards food security
Our programmes guide youngsters toward acquiring lifelong skills and talents, that can be transmitted to others, further driving sustainability in the sector and helping to transition vulnerable groups out of poverty Through our array of programmes, we have witnessed the value of our collective efforts.
Our success would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of our Clubites and the support of our valued staff, partners, sponsors and volunteers.
Thank you to all our stakeholders, and I look forward to sharing the continued success with you as we level up the skills of our youth to make their mark in society.
Peter Thompson Executive Director, Jamaica 4-H Clubs
As we embark on a journey of impact, it's essential to reflect on the collective purpose and the path we are forging. The Jamaica 4-H Clubs has continually demonstrated our relevance, and value through our robust lineup of youth enterprise support and training initiatives.
As we advance, I want to highlight the critical role of strategy in our organization. A wellcrafted strategy serves as our compass, guiding us through the ever-changing agricultural landscape with precision and purpose. This allows us to excel and adapt as needed.
In today's dynamic environment, particularly in our quest for food security, our role is more crucial than ever. Our dedication to our mission and our resolve to make a positive impact in the agriculture sector remain steadfast.
Together, we will continue to implement, monitor, and adjust our strategy to achieve our key objectives.
Organizational Structure
The Jamaica 4-H Clubs is overseen by a Board of Directors, which provides strategic direction and corporate governance, and comprises a mix of industry leaders, and representatives from various sectors, all dedicated to the advancement of youth in agriculture initiative.
The operational activities are managed by the Executive Director, who is supported by a team and staff compliment of 114 members nationally. The organization is required to identify, engage, train and retain qualified and competent employees and volunteers who can design and implement the strategies that achieve its mandate. Presently the organization has over 5,000 volunteers who work in close collaboration with staff through the Parish Advisory Councils, to tailor programs to meet local needs.
There are five (5) key departments within the organization, the Business and Entrepreneurship Development, Field Services, Human Resource Management and Administration, Finance and Accounts Department and the Marketing and Public Relations Departments.
The Field Services and Entrepreneurship Departments are the operational and project implementation hubs of the organization. Both departments are responsible for the implementation of all the major programmes, projects and initiatives, which are ultimately aimed at achieving the strategic objectives and achieving the vision“Tobecome the youthhub for agriculturalexcellence.”
EnGenDER: Empowering Farmers and Breaking Gender Barriers
Jamaica, like many other Small Island Developing States (SIDS), faces significant vulnerability due to the impacts of climate change. This includes the severity and unpredictability increase in the frequency of extreme weather events, rising sea levels andwarming of oceans.
In the face of these challenges, the Jamaica 4-H Clubs, the youth training agency in the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheriesand Mining, supportedby the Jamaica 4-H Foundation
implemented the Enabling GenderResponsive Disaster Recovery, Climate and Environmental Resilience in the Caribbean “EnGenDER” project
This groundbreaking project stood as a landmark initiative and a beacon of hope, designed to champion the push for gender equalityandtheempowermentofouryouth and rural women, in areas relating to agriculture, fisheries andagro-processing.
With support from the 4-H Clubs’ Youth in Agriculture Programme, the Jamaica 4-H Foundation in partnership with the United Nations DevelopmentProgramme (UNDP) Multi-Country Office in Jamaica implementedthe EnGenDERproject, which
Field Visit: EnGenDER Beneficiaries z
employed a gender equal formula, targeting youth farmers and fisherfolk in the parishes of St. Thomas, Clarendon, Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth and Manchester.
The project addressed the urgent need for sustainable adaptation and preparedness measures that male and female farmers, along with fisherfolk must integrate into their production systems to mitigate the adverseeffectsofclimatechange,alongwith equipping youth the knowledge and skills to address pressing environmentalchallenges.
Withaprojectvalueofover JMD$21Million the project generated awareness on climate smart agriculture, sustainable aquaculture and fishing practices, and the implementation of adaptive technologies, among 891 youth and volunteers, with a gender distribution of 46.6% (415) males and 53.4% (476) Females. Awareness sessions included modern agricultural techniques training, pop-ups at fishing villages, workshops, study tours and the hosting of, "Blue-Green Economy: Responding to Climate Change," webinar
which introduced adaptive strategies to our youthfarmers andruralwomen.
247 youth underwent comprehensive training in the areas of crop production, livestock management, agro-processing and fisheries, with 110 receiving venture inputs, marking a significant milestone in the agricultural sector's development and investmentinour youth.
As Jamaica continues to navigate the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring a food secure future, projects like “EnGenDER” are vital in empowering our youth and women to actively engage and adapt sustainable and climate resilient practices. The collaborative efforts and innovative approaches of the EnGenDER projectnotonlyequipthenextgenerationof farmers with the tools and knowledge to thrive, but also underscore the importance of investing in our youth to build a resilient, sustainable andinclusive future for Jamaica.
“Tobecome the youthhubfor agricultural excellence.”
“Toempower youthinagriculture and relatedareas using adaptive technologies tocreate wealthwhile contributing tonational development”
EnGenDER: Aquaponics Beneficiary Anna-Kaye Young z
in School Garden Support for 10
Rural Schools
Supporting school gardens, and the agricultural education programme across public institutions in Jamaica, is crucial in fostering sustainable agricultural practices, aswellasdrivinginterestandinvolvementin agriculture among our youth and rural women.
Under the Building Climate Resilient School Gardens in Two Rural Parishes Project, Sponsored by Australian Aid and ImplementedbytheJamaica4-HFoundation withsupportfromtheJamaica4-HClubs, ten (10) school gardens,five (5) in the parish of St. Ann and five (5) in the parish of Trelawny, receivedinfrastructure supportto
expand their school garden to tune of JMD $250,000per institution.
Benefiting institutions received a rainwater harvesting system that includes a 1,000gallon storage tank, along with a drip irrigation infrastructure covering up to a quarter (1/4) of an acre. Additionally, water retentionstrategieswereimplemented,such as mulching, water flow timers, humidity detectionsystems, andplantpropagators
Field Visit: Bensonton Primary and Infant School
These interventions help mitigate against water shortages and ensure a consistent water supply for school gardens, aid in maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, reducing water wastage, along with bolsteringtheresiliencetoclimatechangeto ensure sustainability in supporting agriculturaltraining.
Most importantly, school gardens provide fresh, nutritious produce for school meals, promoting healthy eating habits among students andstaff.
Overall, school gardens create a vibrant hub of learning, environmental awareness, and community engagement, enriching the educational experience for all involved, along with fostering the appreciation of eating localfoods.
The Jamaica 4-H Clubs prides itself on the establishment and registration of school gardens as they bring about transformative changes within the educational environment. Through interventions such as this, students develop a deeper connection tonatureandfoodsystems,fosteringasense of environmental stewardship, as well as
recognizing their agricultural potential and pursuing careers onagriculture.
By nurturing school gardens and embedding them into educational frameworks, the Jamaica 4-H Foundation, supported by the Jamaica 4-H Clubs and its volunteers have planted seeds of lasting change, cultivating not just gardens, but a future where environmental stewardship and educational excellence go hand in hand, ensuring a greenerandmoreenlightenedtomorrowfor generations tocome.
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Field Visit: Albert Town High School, Trelawny
Over JMD $14 Million worth of Nature-based solutions for Schools in
Kingston & St. Andrew
Urban planning has posed many challenges considering new developments in Kingston and St. Andrew, including both multi-story residential and commercial complexes. These have led to warmer than usual temperatures, increased density in our urban spaces, and hot, uncomfortable classrooms andschools.
TheobjectiveoftheCityAdaptProjectwasto increase the resilience of vulnerable urban communities to climate change by applying and integrating Eco-system-based Adaptation, intothe mediumandlong term, inKingston, Jamaica.
When we speak to Ecosystem-based adaptation, this is a strategy for adapting to climate change through harnessing naturebasedsolutions andecosystemservices.
The UNEP CityAdapt Building Climate Resilience of Urbans Systems Through Ecosystem-based Adaptation in Latin America and the Caribbean partnered with the Jamaica 4-H Clubs to facilitate and implement Nature-based interventions to build resilience to the changing climate conditions in the low-income community of Greenwich Town and at several schools in the city, including Tivoli Gardens High School,Camperdown HighSchool,Kingston Technical High, St. Andrew Technical High and the special needs institution Abilities Foundation.
CityAdapt: Youth Climate Conference
Under the CityAdapt project approximately over JMD $14 Million was spent to install rainwater harvesting systems, climatecontrolled hydroponic greenhouses and container garden shade houses across supportedinstitutions.
Residents of the Greenwich Town communitybenefitedfromastate-of-the-art rainwater harvestingandpurificationsystem with sediment and carbon filters to provide water for the community that is safe for drinking and general householduse.
Urban Beekeeping and entrepreneurship were also focus areas for the Jamaica 4-H Clubs.Under the projectapproximately JMD $7 Million was expended to supported 50 persons from communities in and around Kingston in specialised training in Beekeeping and Entrepreneurship, along with providing each beneficiary with a complete beehive and equipment to start, sustain and build their apiaries and colonies for increased production and diversification intovalue addedproducts.
Researchisanessentialfunctioninachieving wide stream adherence and uptake in climate change adaptation strategies. The reality is that research addresses the fundamental need to improve food security and ensure sustainability and optimize production.
Against this background the project invested over JMD $4 Million to support Graduate Students at the University of the West Indies Mona in conducting a 3-month research in environmental areas such as mangrove seedlings in sargassum compost, assessing sustainable tourism in rural communities, ecosystem services in fishery conservation and the potential of tourism earning fromJamaicancoralreefs.
AmongoneofthehighlightsoftheCityAdapt project was the Nature-based Solutions (NbS) advocacy and climate change conference held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. Students from supported schools gained the relevant knowledge and skills to drive interventions, as well as tounderstand the intricaciesof thesystems thathave been installedintheir respective institutions.
Field Visit: CityAdapt / Jamaica 4-H Team with Students and Teachers at the Abilities Foundation and their Rainwater Harvesting Model
Conference: Students take notes on hydroponic farming
The youth climate conference featured live demonstrations of rainwater harvesting and hydroponic farming systems, beekeeping and container gardening. These climateresilient practices not only demonstrate a scientifically grounded nature-based frameworkforrespondingtoclimatechange, but also provides economic and income opportunities.
“Aswe navigate aneramarkedby the signs ofclimatechange,our schools mustemerge as beacons of environmental stewardship. We are at the forefront of shaping the minds that will inherit this planet, and it is our duty to instill in them a deep appreciation for the ecosystems that sustain us”, Jamaica 4-H Clubs’ Executive Director, Mr.Peter Thompson.
“Although I knew about greenhouses, I learnt about the differences between greenhouses and shade houses. I learned about different types of irrigation systems, the benefits of rearing bees, especially the monetary aspects”, St. Andrew Technical HighSchoolstudent, Courtney Rodcliffe.
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4-H
Clover Online Training
Institute (COTI) – WUSC Support
The Sustainable Agriculture inthe Caribbean (SAC) Project promotes climate resilient agricultureforequitableeconomicgrowthto increase the economic prosperity of women and youth in more sustainable agricultural markets.
Implementing partners, the World University of the Caribbean (WUSC), with funding from the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada (GAC), partnered with the Jamaica 4-H Clubs to enhance awareness and knowledge in the small ruminant sector, as well as increasing practical expertise, with the aim of increasingproductivityandincomesthrough smallruminants, as well as herbs & spices.
Under the project, WUSC provided approximately JMD$2Million inInformation and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure support to expand and enhance the Jamaica 4-H’s Clubs online training capabilities through the launch of The Clover Online Training Institute online (C.O.T.I)
“C.O.T.I stands for Clover Online Training Institute. It camealive afew daysagowhen the team and I would have installed the server and tested all the necessary integrations. There is still some fine tuning that needs to be done, however, it is operational. There are two (2) courses that will be launched this month to further beta test,withanofficial roll out tobedone later this year” Information Technology Manager - Jamaica 4- Clubs, Mr.DeanCollins.
This ICT Support represents a major advancement in the training capabilities of the 4-H Clubs Curriculum to offer a more interactive and progressive agricultural training for our Clubites and youth farmers. Using online training sessions and practical experience, we will be able to further empower women and youth to choose agriculture as a feasible career option to support livelihoods. This support marks significant progress in the Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean (SAC) Project. Leveraging Information Technology through online training sessions paired with handson learning, the project focuses on empowering women to view farming, particularly Goat Care, as a viable career option for sustaining their livelihoods and contributing tothe nationatlarge.
"We wanted to design our program based onwhattheyouthandwomenweresaying. We've done training with youth in goat internal and external parasites, conducted demos, plots, and tested inputs while minimizing chemical usage and promoting theappropriateuseofchemicals." -Douglas GrahamDirector of WUSC.
The launch also saw a live demonstration of the site’s functionality and interactive learning elements by Mr. Dean Collins,
InformationTechnologyManager,Jamaica4H Clubs.
“Thiscollaborationalignsperfectlywithour shared mission at the 4-H, which is that of empowering and equipping young people to become successful and impactful leaders in the agricultural sector. Ultimately achieving our vision “to become the youth hub for agricultural excellence.” said Peter Thompson, Executive Director – Jamaica 4-H Clubs
This intervention is crucial in enhancing the 4-H online training resources, ensuring that Jamaica’s youth have access to a wealth of information to drive interest and participation.
JMD $23 Million in Agri-Scholarships: Empowering Jamaica's Agricultural Future
TheRioTintoAlcanLegacyFundScholarship, administered by the Jamaica 4-H Clubs through the Development Bank of Jamaica, is making a profound impact on the lives of young Jamaicans aspiring to build careers in agriculture.
With a significant student allocation and disbursementofoverJMD$23,000,000,this scholarship programme provides essential financial support to students pursuing agriculture-based studies at the secondary, tertiary, andvocationallevels.
Its reach extends to the parishes of Manchester, St. Catherine, and St. Ann, where many students face economic challenges that hinder their academic and careeraspirations,andasasocialinvestment by the Rio Tinto Alcan Bauxite Mining Corporation which had operations in the target parishes.
The programme attracted animpressive 540 applications, showcasing the enthusiasm and potential of Jamaica’s youth in the agricultural sector. Of these, 464 students met the eligibility criteria, highlighting the vastpoolofyoungtalentreadytocontribute tothe country’s agriculturaldevelopment.
Notably, 70% of the eligibleapplicants were female (324), while 30% were male (140), indicating a significantinterestin agriculture among our nations young women.
Interviews – Rio Tinto Alcan Agricultural Scholarship 1
The Rio Tinto Alcan Legacy Fund Scholarship ismorethanjustafinancialaidinitiative;itis an investment in the future of Jamaica’s agricultural industry. By equipping young farmers with the necessary educational resources and financial support, the programme helps these students gain the knowledge and skills needed to drive innovation, sustainability, and growth in agriculture. This support is crucial in transforming the lives of the beneficiaries and strengthening the agricultural sector, whichisvitaltoJamaica’seconomyandfood security.
During the scholarship cycle, 322 applicants were interviewed, and 253 were approved to receive scholarships or bursaries. The selection process involved an interview assessment and an evaluation of each applicant’s academic performance in agriculture-related subjects. Of the approved beneficiaries 151 were enrolled in secondary institutions and 102 were pursuing studies at the tertiary and vocationallevels.
A total of JMD $23,500,000 was earmarked and distributed among the approved beneficiaries, with JMD $14,500,000 specifically allocated to students attending the College of Agriculture Science and Education (CASE).
This targeted financial support ensures that students at CASE Jamaica’s premier institution for agricultural education— receive the resources they need to excel in their studies and prepare for future careers in agriculture. The scholarship not only alleviates the financial burden on students and their families but also motivates recipients tostrive for academicexcellence.
Ensuring the success of the Rio Tinto Alcan Legacy Fund Scholarship involves more than just financial support it requires active outreach and mobilization to connect deservingstudentswiththeseopportunities.
The Jamaica 4-H Clubs have taken a grassroots approach to mobilize students
Students Awaiting Interviews – CASE, Portland
Students Filling Out Application Forms – St. Ann
through their network of 4-H Parish Managers and Volunteers in the targeted parishes of St. Catherine, St. Ann, and Manchester, making the scholarship accessible tothose whoneeditmost.
Parish-level engagement led by 4-H Parish Managers who play a crucial role in identifying and reaching out to eligible students. By directly visiting schools, Parish Managers inform, inspire, and encourage students to apply for the scholarship. This personalized approach ensures that the scholarship information reaches those who fit the criteria, enhancing students’ awareness of the financial support available tothem.
Parish Officers conduct school visits in these extended areas to engage directly with students,promotethescholarship, andoffer assistance with the application process. This hands-on approach helps demystify the application process, making it more accessible and less daunting for students who may be unfamiliar with applying for scholarships.
While primary mobilization efforts are concentrated in the targeted parishes, the Jamaica4-HClubshaveextendedtheirreach through collaboration with Parish Managers fromneighboringparisheslikeClarendon,St. Elizabeth, St. Mary, and Trelawny. This strategic approach targets students who live in the designated scholarship areas but attendschoolsoutsidetheirhomeparish.By broadening the scope of outreach, the scholarship programme ensures that no eligible student is left behind due to geographical boundaries.
As the scholarship programme continues to grow,itholdsthepotentialtofurtherexpand its reach, providing opportunities for more students to benefit from this transformative initiative. The success stories of past beneficiaries serve as powerfulreminders of the positive changes that can be achieved when young people are given the support they needtosucceed.
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Scholarship Awareness & Mobilization
Scholarship Awareness & Mobilization
Okeito Thompson
Okeito Thompson's story is one of resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs' Rural Youth Economic Empowerment Programme (RYEEP). Born and raised in a single-parent household in the Colley Mountain District of Manchester, Okeito faced significant challenges early on. When his small goat herd succumbed to disease, it became clear that he needed a new direction. That's when RYEEP stepped in.
"It was right on time," says Okeito, describing the program as the “push”heneededtomoveforward.ThroughRYEEP,Okeitoreceived vital training in crop production, business planning, marketing, and financial management. He learned about soil management, pest control, and record-keeping — essential skills for any budding farmer. RYEEP's impact was immediate and profound. Okeito quickly expanded his farming operations beyond sweet peppers and sweet potatoes, venturing into yam, cocoa, and other crops. He also started constructing a pond for water harvesting, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
"My experience in the program was awesome!" Okeito shares enthusiastically. "The training we received in different agricultural areas was second to none, and the instructors provided full assistance with developing our business plans." His hard work and dedication were soon recognized. In 2019, Okeito was awarded the prestigious Prime Minister's Youth Award for Excellence in Agriculture. This recognition serves as a testament to both Okeito's relentless efforts and the effectiveness of the RYEEP program.
Okeito’s advice to aspiring young farmers is clear: "Get started today. Agriculture is a big deal and it’s lucrative." He urges young persons to seize the opportunities offered by RYEEP Looking to the future, Okeito dreams of expanding his production, employing fulltime workers, and implementing modern technology on his farm.
Okeito Thompson’s story is a powerful inspiration to all young Jamaicans. It is a story of overcoming adversity, embracing opportunity, and achieving success through hard work and dedication.
Dana Braham
Dana Braham, a dedicated youth farmer from the breadbasket parish of St. Elizabeth has been creating a positive impact in agriculture for the past few years. She started her agricultural journey thirteen (13) years ago in livestock and has developed her enterprise to include crop production.
Operating in Hunslow, St. Elizabeth, Dana is a proud beneficiary of Jamaica 4-H Clubs’ RYEEP Starter 1000 and RYEEP Builder Programmes, which have significantly bolstered her farming endeavors, helping to scale her enterprise to its current standing to
Dana currently occupies fifteen (15) acres of land for livestock production where she cultivates three (3) acres of eggplant and one acre of pumpkin, utilizing advanced technological innovations like drip irrigation systems and overhead sprinklers to maximize productivity and minimize waste. Dana is looking to expand her property to clear additional land for growing crops and rearing livestock as she believes this is a viable career option for her future. Dana's commitment to farming is evident in her adoption of modern techniques and sustainable practices. By integrating technology, she enhances efficiency and productivity on her farm, setting a benchmark for fellow young farmers.
Her farm is not only limited to crops; she also raises livestock, including thirty-five (35) pigs and seventy (70) heads of cow/cattle, showcasing a well-rounded agricultural enterprise. Her journey underscores the importance of youth getting involved in agriculture and the transformative impact of technological advancements in farm operations
Dana Braham's success story is a testament to the potential for income for our youth and young farmers in Jamaica, highlighting the critical role they play in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agriculture across disciplines.
National Expo ‘24: Small Ruminants
The New FACE of Food shines at 4-H National Achievement Expo
TheJamaica4-HClubsNationalAchievement
Expo stood as the landmark event for youth in agriculture, highlighting the exceptional skills and achievements of Jamaica's young agricultural enthusiasts
This year’s staging returned to its exciting face-to-face / in-person format at the Denbigh 4-H Centre, on the well-known Denbigh Showgrounds in Clarendon, attracting over three thousand (3,000) patrons. The 4-H National Expo is the crowning eventof 4-H Clubs' calendar,
celebrating a year of dedicated learning, trainings and hands-on experience of our Clubites and youth farmers across areas relating to agriculture, food production, Environmental awareness and leadership. Clubmembershonedtheirskillsacrossthese disciplines through their respective parish expositions that culminate their efforts in a vibrantshowcaseatthe nationallevel
This year's Expo featured 4-H parish champions competing in various categories crafted under the theme "Youth in Agriculture: Shaping the New F.A.C.E of Food." Which underscores the importance and role of our youth in shaping sustainable sector, driving food security, agribusiness development, climate change technologies, andexport
No4-H Expowouldbe completewithout the address from the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, the Hon. Floyd Green, who toured the grounds and made his charge to 4-H Clubites, students and youth farmers. In his address, Minister Hon. Floyd Greenhighlightedtheincreasedinvolvement of youth in agriculture, and their role in school gardens, innovating solutions to agricultural challenges, and viewing agriculture as a promising field for creating wealth and building sustainable and viable enterprises.
Youth in agriculture, are on track to benefit from the upcoming 4-H regional youth in Agriculture exchange programme, whichwill facilitate knowledge transference between nations. This initiative will allow participants to travel across the Caribbean, and visit Jamaica, to tour farms and agricultural institutions, and embark on agricultural training tolearnbestpractices.
Inaddition, the eventsawthe recognitionof this year’s Female and Male Ambassadors, Daniella Wright of Clarendon and Rhondre ElliottofSt.Elizabeth,whocollectivelyhave been awarded JMD $2,000,000 courtesy of
the ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining. Daniella was celebrated for her innovative Spirulina Hair Growth Oil, while Rhondre was highlighted for his line of skincare products made from Chayote, locally knownas “ChoCho’.
The National Achievement Expo 2024 was a memorableevent,showcasingthetalentand dedication of Jamaica's youth in agriculture, along with providing a platform for young people to learn about the latest agricultural techniques,technologies,andbestpractices.
It is integral that the achievements and innovations of young farmers are celebrated and the 4-H Expo in its design encourages our youth farmers and clubites to strive for excellence.
On display there were innovative and engaging showcases from the Jamaica Dairy Development Board and ACDI/VOCA, two of our major sponsors, along with the HEART NSTA/Trust, Agro Invest, RADA, Caribbean Chemicals Ltd, Jamaica Forestry Department, National Fisheries Authority among others. No youth event would be a comprehensive showcase without
STEM in Agriculture: Technology Integration
Awards Ceremony: 4-H Youth Ambassadors
entertainment directly linked to our youth. Entertainment was provided by “Kaka Highflames” along with the popular “High Flames” dance group, whose dance moves came made popular by the social media platformTikTok, captivatedandengagedour audience and had them singing and dancing along with some of their hits including ‘Flamez Rock’ and‘Charge.’
The 2024 4-H National Achievement Expo underscored the critical role that youth developmentandagriculturaleducationplay in the nation's future. By engaging youth in sustainable agricultural practices and leadership training, the expo created a lasting impact on both the participants and the wider community.
We are confidentthatthe future of agriculture is ingreat hands, thanks tothe dedicationandpassionof our young achievers.We proudly commendthis year’s awardees for theiroutstanding accomplishments. As these young leaders continue togrowandapply learnt skills,the positive ripple effects onJamaica's agriculturalsector andoveralleconomic developmentwillbe profound.The success of the 2024NationalAchievementExpo reaffirms the importance of investing inour youthandequipping themwiththe tools necessary tobuilda resilientand prosperous Jamaica. Together, letus continue toshape a NewFACEof Food, forging a brighter andmore sustainable pathfor the nextgeneration."
Distribution of Trees for School Gardens
Live Turmeric Cultivation Demonstration
Agency Highlight World University Services of Canada
Regional Partnerships: Cayman Islands Delegation Visit
On April 16, 2024, the Honourable Minister Jay Ebanks, Minister for Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development of the Cayman Islands, embarked on a three-day visit to Jamaica This visit, facilitated by the Jamaica 4-H Clubs, focused on fostering agricultural partnerships between the two nations, specifically looking at youth participation in agriculture, value addition, cattle and pig rearing, and possibilities for regional exchanges to drive agricultural success across nations.
Minister Ebanks arrived at the Norman Manley International Airport, along with his delegation that included: Mr. McKeeva Bush - Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of
Border Control and Labour and Ministry of PAHITD, Senior Policy Advisors Mr Demoy Nash and Ms. Tamika Peart and Mrs. Exie Tomlinson-Panton–PersonalAssistanttothe MinisterEbanks.Thedelegationwasgreeted by key representatives of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs including Dr. Clover Mattocks - Vice Chairman; Mr. Peter Thompson - Executive Director and Mr. Jovaughn Bailey - Public Relations andMarketing Manager.
Following their arrival, Minister Ebanks paid a courtesy call to several Jamaican dignitaries, including the Honourable Floyd Green – Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining; Honourable Franklyn Whitter –State Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining; and Mr. Dermon Spence – Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining. The meeting was also attended by Jamaica 4-H officials, where discussions centered around strengthening agricultural ties and exploring collaborative
Welcome Party: Cayman Delegation
opportunities between the Cayman Islands andJamaica.
The objective of the visit was to explore further opportunities for knowledge transference and sector development through additional strategic partnerships The agenda includes bolstering cross-border exchanges, expanding export opportunities, capacity building of youth farmers, and knowledgesharinginlivestockareasrelating tocattle andpig production.
TheHonourableMinister'sitineraryincluded comprehensive tours of several key agricultural sites in Jamaica including the: Ebony Park HEART Academy, Ebony Park Agro Park and Jamagro Tech Farms, among others.
The first stop on the tour itinerary took the team to the Ebony Park HEART Academy, a vocational training institution located in Tollgate, Clarendon. On a tour led by Mr. Calvin Weise, Principal Director, the delegation explored the academy's state-ofthe-art piggery, agro-processing laboratory, aquaponics system, fish farms and dairy and unit.
The Ebony Park Academy is one of Jamaica’s chief agricultural training institutions driving sustainability and helping to ensure food security through its production and agroprocessing and value-added operations. Occupying some 500 acres of land, the institution cultivates crops and rears livestock. The crop complex comprises ornamental horticulture, along with several greenhouses for cultivation. On the compound the institution also operates a commercial broiler house with a capacity of 25,000heads of chicken.
Discussions highlighted the importance of agricultural training and driving careers in agriculture for both nations. In addition, opportunities exploring the enrollment, trainingandcertificationofregionalstudents in Ebony Park Programmes were discussed withtheaimofencouragingandequippinga population of agricultural experts to drive productivity andtechnology integration.
The state-of-the-art agro-processing lab at the institution was a key highlight. The laboratory featured commercial mixers, sterilizationmachine, packagingandbottling machines to drive training and adherence to agro-processing regulations. Their training-
Courtesy Call w/ Hon. Floyd Green – Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining
Tour: HEART Ebony Park Academy Agro-processing Laboratory
based enterprises provide trainees with a real-world simulation working with a commercial agro-food processing enterprise knownas“EbonyPride”whichalineofagroprocessed items is created by the academy andenrolledstudents.
MinisterEbanksandhisteamontheirvisitto
Jamaica, toured the Jamagro Tech Farms Ltd.’s facility in Central Village St. Catherine. Thevisitunderscoredthe delegationsvested interestinmodernagriculturalpractices and technology integration into the production of leafy vegetables.
The Farm currently occupied about 400 acres,with25acresutilizedforgreenhouses.
The facility offers numerous benefits that enhance productivity, sustainability, and economic viability. Automated systems for irrigation and monitoring crop health, soil conditions, allows for resource management.
The greenhouses optimize crop growth and protects against pests and diseases. These soil-less farming methods allow for higher density planting andfaster growthcycles. By leveraging these benefits, these controlled environments allow for continuous production, independent of weather conditions, and contribute to a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient agriculturalsystem.
JAMAICA
Tour: Jamagro Tech Farms Limited
Greenhouse Crop Cultivation
Cayman Islands Delegation
Greenhouse -Hydroponics St. Ann 4-H Expo
Presentation to Hon. Minister Jay Ebanks
Ebony Park – Agro Park Jamagro Tech Farms
Ebony Park Academy
If you're interested in starting a 4 H club, joining an existing one, joining our Youth in Agriculture programmes or simply learning more about how you can become a part of the vibrant 4-H movement in Jamaica, our parish managers are here to help!
Reach out to them today to discover the opportunities and benefits of being involved in 4-H. Together, we can inspire and empower the next generation of Jamaican youth.
St. Catherine Elaine Campbell stcatherine@jamaica4hclubs.com 876-859-8291
St. Andrew Orinthia Brown standrew@jamaica4hclubs.com
Kingston Michael Whitely kingston@jamaica4hclubs.com
Portland Alain Cox portland@jamaica4hclubs.com
St. Thomas Natalie Byfield stthomas@jamaica4hclubs.com
876-552-8600
876-360-6311
876-360-7140
876-860-5209
St. Mary Halova Stubbs-Jones stmary@jamaica4hclubs.com 876-360-6321
Manchester Dwain Moodie manchester@jamaica4hclubs.com 876-360-6631
St. Elizabeth Keisha Johnson-Palmer stelizabeth@jamaica4hclubs.com 876-858-6627
Clarendon Melissa Trowers clarendon@jamaica4hclubs.com 876-859-1941
St. Ann Tedroy Gordon stann@jamaica4hclubs.com 876-861-2837
Trelawny Natanish Hines trelawny@jamaica4hclubs.com 876-861-1613 St.
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