The Food For The Poor (FFTP) Band Camp celebrated a major milestone on Thursday, August 21, with the graduation of 60 talented young musicians, ages 5 to 16, under the theme ‘Where Passion Meets Purpose’. The ceremony, held at their headquarters in Spanish Town, highlighted the transformative power of music and the legacy of a programme that has been shaping lives and surrounding communities for the past 15 years.

International dancehall superstar Sean Paul, through his foundation, has been a steadfast supporter of FFTP initiatives, with the Band Camp programme, especially close to his heart over the past three years. Although unable to attend the event in person, the Gimme The Light artiste tuned in via livestream— sending fire emojis during the performances and applauding the determination of this year’s participants. Many of the youths not only mastered new instruments but have also returned year after year to expand their skills and take on fresh challenges.

“Fifteen years is a blessing, and it shows the strength of this programme,” Sean Paul expressed. “What inspires me most is seeing these youths come back each summer, determined to master a new instrument, determined to do more, and determined to push themselves further. That commitment alone, deserves an applause. It proves that music is a motivational tool and also that Band Camp is producing great results. Big up to all the graduates, the parents, and the team of mentors.”

The showcase featured sectional solos, with saxophonists, keyboardists, trumpeters, clarinettists, drummers, trombonists, and guitarists performing local favourites such as Gregory Isaacs’ Night Nurse and Dennis Brooks’ Should I Have Faith In You. Adding to the excitement, past graduates returned to challenge themselves in new ways. Seniors Vaughn Brooks and Daina Craig, who previously played drums and clarinet, respectively, returned to master the alto saxophone and trombone. Their growth and versatility inspired the audience, who enthusiastically called for encores and participated in the traditional “money pull-ups”, this time contributing to Food For The Poor donation boxes.

Even guest speaker Keneil Delisser—drummer and producer credited on four Grammy-nominated projects—was left in awe, admitting he could hardly begin his speech as he was blown away by the talent and passion of the young musicians, particularly first-time participants in the four-week programme.

Representing for the Sean Paul Foundation, Steve Wilson, co-manager of Sean Paul, emphasised the Foundation’s commitment to Band Camp in pre-recorded remarks:

“For Sean Paul and the Sean Paul Foundation, music education is a vital part of our country’s culture. It’s about investing in the next generation of Jamaican musicians, leaders and cultural ambassadors. Music has always been a tool of empowerment—it’s not just about entertainment, it’s how we tell our stories, uplift our communities, and share our identity with the world. That’s why the Foundation was proud to contribute over JM$1.5 million this year to help provide meals, transportation, instructors and even new instruments for Band Camp. We see this as a partnership with Food For The Poor and with you—because your success is Jamaica’s success. As Sean has said before, our country’s diverse music has impacted the entire world and you are the future of that legacy. Every note you play, every rhythm you master, is part of carrying reggae and dancehall forward.”

One remarkable example of the programme’s long-term impact is Joshua Shreves, one of the first-ever graduates. According to Nahkle Hado, Director of Operations and Implementation, Shreves mastered the alto saxophone and went on to establish his own music programme in Canada, providing similar opportunities for other children to follow in his footsteps.

Hado highlighted Band Camp’s role as more than just a summer programme, describing it as a safe and inspiring space where children channel their energy into music and away from the dangers of crime and hopelessness.

“It is an absolute pleasure to welcome all of you as we not only celebrate 15 years of Band Camp, but also the powerful combination of discipline, creativity and heart. This year’s theme, ‘Where Passion Meets Purpose,’ is a true reflection of what we are witnessing right now—the birth of purpose through the nurturing of passion. Joshua Shreves is a shining example, a ripple effect of when passion meets purpose. So, instead of risking our children becoming another statistic of society, they become creators, leaders, and most importantly, young people with purpose,” he expressed.

Hado also emphasised the crucial role of sponsors: “Our sponsors—Food For The Poor Canada, Sean Paul Foundation, Wisynco Group, Ok Party Ice, and Jambisco Group—play a vital role in ensuring that the Band Camp’s legacy continues for generations to come. Their support goes beyond financial investment in the lives of young people, giving them opportunities to develop their talents, discipline, and confidence through music. Through sponsorship, we are able to provide the instruments, resources, and an environment that nurtures creativity while instilling values such as teamwork and perseverance. Band Camp remains not just an event, but a transformative experience, moulding future leaders and inspiring hope within our communities. In truth, the legacy of Band Camp is written in the success stories of the youth who pass through it, and our sponsors are co-authors of that story. Without their commitment, this life-changing program could not thrive.”

The coordinating team encouraged parents and guests to recommend Band Camp, with Jeffrey Brown noting that many past participants have joined the on-the-rise Blazing Genesis Band and are now securing paid performances. Registration for the camp runs from early June through the second week of July. Families from surrounding communities may sign up by contacting the FFTP office, through referrals from returning participants, or via FFTP’s social media platforms.

Looking ahead, the Sean Paul Foundation and Food For The Poor remain committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians—ensuring that passion continues to meet purpose in Spanish Town and beyond. Following the certificate presentations, guests were treated to performances by previous graduates who are now enrolled at the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts.