Alternative investment company Sygnus Capital has renewed its support for Project STAR, with a second consecutive donation of J$5 million in as many years to the social transformation initiative.

The endowment, according to Sygnus, will go toward expanding access to job readiness training, small business grants, and psychosocial services in underserved communities across Jamaica, reaching even more Jamaicans who are ready to reimagine their futures.

“At Sygnus, we invest in people, in communities, in potential, and in lasting transformation,” said Berisford Grey, president and CEO of Sygnus Capital. “We believe that every Jamaican deserves a fair shot at building a better future, and Project STAR is helping to create those pathways in the communities that need them most. This year’s donation is about more than funding; it’s about standing with individuals and families who are ready to rise, and helping to scale the kinds of initiatives that move people into real, sustainable opportunities. That’s the kind of change we’re proud to be a part of.”

This latest contribution brings Sygnus’ total investment in Project STAR to J$10 million over two years. The funds are helping to deepen the reach of Project STAR’s community-driven programmes, which are designed to unlock new possibilities through skills development, entrepreneurship, and psychosocial support.

Project STAR, a joint initiative between the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), has benefited residents across five communities, namely Parade Gardens, Rose Gardens, May Pen, Savanna-la-Mar, and Salt Spring.

Communities are selected based on rigorous assessments of crime data, vulnerability, and readiness for intervention, ensuring that solutions are both strategic and sustainable.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sygnus as a signature donor,” said Keith Duncan, co-chair of Project STAR. “The Sygnus Group continues to be a pillar of support to Project STAR. The additional donation of J$5 million is not just financial support; it is a reflection of Sygnus’ deep commitment to creating social and economic change in the lives of so many Jamaicans and their dedication to national development and inclusive growth. We are truly grateful for your generosity and partnership on this journey. This partnership enables us to do more, reach further, and sustain momentum where it matters most.”

To date, over 15,000 residents have been impacted by STAR-led or STAR-supported activities. In year three alone, which concluded in May 2025, some of the impact highlights were:

• 61 entrepreneurship-based activities were implemented, benefiting 1,150 residents
• Over 10,000 hours of job readiness training delivered across all five STAR communities

Behind these numbers is the daily work of people like Myshka Allen, community project officer at Project STAR, who helps turn community needs into actionable solutions.

“Our work begins with listening,” said Allen. “At Project STAR, we don’t walk into communities with a pre-set plan. We ask the residents what they need and build solutions from there. Companies like Sygnus make that possible because transformation isn’t cheap. It’s not just about hosting events. It’s about reshaping how people see themselves and setting a foundation for the next generation.”

Allen describes a visible shift in community attitudes: people are showing up differently, more confident, more engaged, and more hopeful. Many who once waited for help are now taking ownership of their futures.

According to Allen, this new mindset is the true marker of transformation, and it’s a shift enabled by consistent support from partners like Sygnus.