PROJECT ELEVATE and Department of Agriculture Launch “Harvesting Hope” Initiative to Empower Youth and Strengthen Communities
Basseterre, St. Kitts – PROJECT ELEVATE, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, has launched the “Harvesting Hope” initiative to engage youth in agriculture and build stronger communities. This two-day event marked the start of an empowering journey for participants who have chosen agriculture as their skill development focus.
Over the past six months, participants have actively engaged in Life Skills and Financial Literacy Training, gaining essential tools for personal growth and contributing positively to society. This training lays a solid foundation for discipline, work ethic, and success in small business ventures, further skill development, and job placements, shaping a generation of responsible, community-minded individuals.
Deputy Director of Agriculture, Mr Shaune Clarke, and Mr Ian Chapman of Crop Management shared valuable insights into available programmes, addressed participants’ concerns, and gathered feedback to enhance their support. Key programmes highlighted included the St. Kitts-Nevis 25 by 25 agenda and Safe Agriculture Programmes, which aim to boost local food production and reduce import dependency by 25% by 2025.
Coordinator Alicia Collins played a crucial role in supporting participants and facilitating the programme’s rollout, which is set to begin next week. Participants are eager not only to work on their farms but also to mentor and inspire younger community members. They envision agriculture as a means of fostering positive engagement, self-reliance, community integration, and family sustainability.
The “Harvesting Hope” initiative reflects a broader effort to create opportunities for youth, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to society. By cultivating purpose, responsibility, and a sense of belonging, this programme aims to nurture a more resilient and unified community.
As the initiative rolls out, “Harvesting Hope” is expected to yield both agricultural success and stronger, more connected communities. Through this collaboration, PROJECT ELEVATE and the Department of Agriculture are planting the seeds for a brighter future for St. Kitts and Nevis.