As part of its ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and advocacy for human rights and sexual and reproductive health, the Caribbean Vulnerable Communities (CVC) recently collaborated with the St. Mary Youth Innovation Center to host a Sexual and Reproductive Health Sensitisation session. This initiative, rooted in Pillar 1 of CVC’s strategic plan, aimed to provide young people in the parish with accurate, relevant, and life-saving information on sexual health, gender-based violence, and HIV awareness.
Sexual and reproductive health education remains a critical issue, especially for young people in rural communities who often have limited access to comprehensive and medically accurate information. Misinformation, stigma, and cultural taboos continue to act as barriers to knowledge, leaving many young people uninformed about safe practices, their rights, and available resources. By conducting this sensitisation session, CVC is helping to bridge this knowledge gap, ensuring that young individuals in St. Mary are equipped with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
The impact of the session was reflected in the enthusiasm and feedback shared by participants. Young people in attendance expressed how beneficial the training was in expanding their understanding of sexual and reproductive health.
Ajahnique Smith found the training both informative and inspiring, saying, “I learnt a lot of things I didn’t know about. I learnt about gender-based violence and different sexually transmitted diseases. Before I came, I didn’t know I was going to enjoy myself, but I did. Trainings like these are very important for young ladies, especially in rural communities. It is very important for young ladies to know these things and how to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases.”
For Siara Sutherland, the session was an eye-opener on the importance of informed decision-making regarding sexual health. “We learnt new things about our health. Most teenagers tend to engage in sex without knowing the dangers and the possible long-term impact it may have on their health, so this session was very educational.”
Meanwhile, Andean Allen noted how the training helped the young men who participated to develop a deeper understanding of reproductive health, “I learnt a lot about the body parts for both male and female. I think it is very beneficial for young men because, for example, I didn’t know how to label the female reproductive system, and I learnt that here.”
The training would not have been possible without the active involvement of the St. Mary Youth Innovation Center, which recognized the need for credible and engaging sexual health education for young persons across the parish located in northeastern Jamaica.
Kadesha Smith, Youth Empowerment Officer at the St. Mary Youth Innovation Centered, explained why the partnership with CVC was so important: “It was important to invite CVC due to their expertise in delivering comprehensive and engaging sexual and reproductive health education. Their work aligns with the needs of young people in the parish, helping to address gaps in knowledge and creating a space for open conversations.”
She also highlighted the tangible benefits of the training, saying, “The training provided the participants with essential information to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health. It also helped build their confidence in discussing these often-sensitive topics, fostering a healthier understanding of their bodies and well-being.”
Beyond the immediate benefits for attendees, initiatives like this have a far-reaching impact. According to Smith, the knowledge gained by participants is not confined to the training session. “The training has the potential to create a ripple effect, as the participants will share what they’ve learned with their peers. This not only raises awareness but encourages responsible choices and reduces stigma around sexual and reproductive health issues in the wider community.”
The positive reception and effectiveness of the training underscore the need for continued collaborations and expansion of such programs in other rural communities. Addressing sexual and reproductive health is not just about knowledge but about fostering a culture where young people feel empowered, safe, and supported in making choices that impact their future.
Reflecting on the success of the session, Miss Smith extended her gratitude to CVC for their commitment to youth development and health education: “My overall assessment is very positive. The training was well-received, informative, and impactful. CVC did an excellent job in delivering the content in an accessible and engaging way. To CVC, I would like to say thank you for your dedication and for providing such valuable support to the youth in St. Mary. I look forward to seeing the continued impact in other communities.”
CVC remains dedicated to fostering community partnerships and advocating for sexual and reproductive health rights. Through sensitisation sessions like this one, young people across Jamaica are gaining the knowledge and confidence they need to lead healthier, more informed lives. By expanding these efforts, we can ensure that no young person is left without the tools they need to protect their health and future.
