Sonia Whyte, a violence interrupter in Trench Town, has underscored the pressing need for sustained peace initiatives in communities like Trench Town.

She stressed the importance of equipping children with essential life skills, vital for their overall development and positive growth.

“We need to take charge in our homes and communities,” said Whyte. “We must stand firm in our beliefs and stop being friends with our children, especially when we see them heading down a destructive path.”

Whyte shared her insights at the Violence Prevention Alliance’s ‘Drumming for Peace Exposé’ held at the Trench Town Multi-Purpose Centre, recently where she served as the guest speaker. She emphasised that positive reinforcement is key when guiding young people: “Instead of talking down to our youth, we should affirm and uplift them. If we constantly highlight the negative, they begin to believe and embody it. We need to encourage them with positive messages,” she added.

Whyte also imparted advice to the young attendees, stressing the role of mentorship in their development. “Stay in school, listen to your elders, and be wary of trends that may not lead to the right path. Foster a culture of peace and respect for your fellow students,” she said.

The event showcased the talents of young drummers from the Trench Town Reading Centre and the Mount Olivet Boys Home, featuring dynamic performances that demonstrated their musical abilities. Renowned entertainer Owen ‘Blakka’ Ellis also addressed the audience, celebrating Trench Town’s profound influence on Jamaica’s music legacy. Ellis encouraged sustained investment in developing the community’s young creative talents, ensuring Trench Town continues to thrive as a center of artistic excellence.

A memorable highlight for the youth was the opportunity to record a live session at Jammin Music Studio. Guided by music producer Dave Green and an expert engineer, the participants experienced the complete production process and left with a professionally recorded track of their drumming, a meaningful keepsake from the day.

Jonelle Llewellyn, a Research Associate with the programme, announced the upcoming expansion of the initiative for the 2024/25 programme year. Returning and new institutions, including Trench Town Reading Centre, Mt. Olivet Boys Home, Kingston Young Women’s Christian Association School Leavers’ Institute, Kingston High School, Allman Town Primary School, and Chalky Hill Primary School, will participate.

“The children are central to this programme, with many already having completed six instructor-led drumming sessions,” noted Llewellyn. “Some institutions have integrated the drumming methodology into their activities with dedicated staff, ensuring the programme’s sustainability.”

In phase two, participants will receive an additional six sessions, bringing their total training to 12 sessions to enhance their drumming skills, emotional intelligence, resilience, and teamwork. Progress is being evaluated using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and participants are given external performance opportunities, such as Kingston High School’s upcoming showcase at the Trees for Peace 2024-25 campaign launch on September 21.

The initiative is supported by the American Friends of Jamaica and continues to make a profound impact on youth by promoting peace, discipline, and creativity across Jamaica.