Girlz with Goals camp inspires creative acumen in young girls

The recently concluded Girlz with Goals (GWG) BOSS (Building Opportunities for Sisterhood and Success) Summer Camp 2023 was a transformative and empowering experience designed to nurture young female entrepreneurs and unleash their creative potential.

This year from July 24 to July 29, the GWG BOSS Summer Camp opened its doors to girls aged 13 to 17 who have a passion for art and a thirst for business knowledge.

“Our aim is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can explore various artistic mediums, express themselves freely, and develop their skills,” said programme director Eleanor Nelson, who is also a former Peace Corps Jamaica volunteer.

The camp, held at the Rex Nettleford Hall at The University of West Indies, Mona, encouraged the participants to delve into their creative side not only to create functional arts, but also to make a business pitch.

Nelson shared that the camp had activities, beginning with self-care, which encouraged the girls to incorporate into their daily routine following the 21, 90 rule. “After 21 days of a routine we create a habit; after 90 we are on to a lifestyle,” Nelson said. They participated in yoga, meditation, high intensity interval training, and bullet journalling.

There were also social and emotional workshops. The girls also debated on understanding and navigating the complex issues affecting girls in Jamaica. “The girls engaged in entrepreneurship and life skills workshops, where they learnt the basics of marketing and utilising platforms like Canva to create their own brand logos and AI platforms to help create their own business plans,” Nelson said.

They were divided into skill groups, where they learnt how to make candles, block print and sun print tote bags, table clothes, tea towels, and notecards.

“This holistic experience was aimed to boost the confidence of these girls, hone their skill sets, and also to experience first hand to foster creativity and learn business exploration,” said Natalie Coache, GWG board member.

History

The participants, comprising a group of 30 girls, also visited the Jamaica Stock Exchange and the Bank of Jamaica. They also went to Devon House, not only for the ice cream, but also to learn about the history of Devon House.

“We firmly believe in the importance of empowering young girls through art and business education, enabling them to develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-expression,” said Tanya Isaie, GWG board member. “The GWG BOSS Summer Camp is not just about creating art, but also building confidence and encouraging leadership.”