Tarique Barrett expands Future Entrepreneurs after Mr World Caribbean title
Published:Friday | December 6, 2024 | 12:05 AMAinsworth Morris/Staff Reporter
Now that Tarique Barrett, Mr World Jamaica 2024, has returned to the island with the Mr World Caribbean title, he is ready to hit the ground with his flagship project Future Entrepreneurs.
“As Mr World Caribbean, I plan to focus on expanding the Future Entrepreneurs initiative which empowers young people in Jamaica and the Caribbean with essential financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills. The initiative addresses the gap in financial education by teaching practical skills like budgeting, saving, and managing small businesses through interactive workshops and relatable activities,” Barrett told The Gleaner.
Through the project, Barrett plans to partner with schools, community centres, and organisations to make financial education accessible to under-served communities and inspire a new generation of leaders capable of creating lasting change in their lives and, by extension, their communities.
“This role also provides a unique opportunity to represent Jamaica and the wider Caribbean on the global stage, showcasing our vibrant cultures, diversity, and talents. Community engagement will be a key focus, with a particular emphasis on participating in events, programmes, and initiatives that benefit the people of the region,” Barrett explained, adding, “This includes supporting local charities, hosting educational workshops, and collaborating with organisations that promote social development, education, and youth empowerment, reflecting the Mr World organisation’s commitment to positive change.”
RESPONSIBILITIES
As part of his Mr World Caribbean responsibilities, Barrett will participate in cultural showcases, charity galas, and public campaigns that reflect the organisation’s values.
He also intends to build new partnerships with sponsors and brands to amplify efforts and create more opportunities for youth empowerment.
“My goal is to use this platform to inspire change, create opportunities, and represent Jamaica and the Caribbean with pride and purpose.”
Jamaica participated in the Mr World competition for the first time in more than 25 years with Barrett’s crowning at the Mr World Jamaica competition in September.
The eleventh edition of the Mr World competition was held at NovaWorld in Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam, on November 23, where Barrett copped the Mr World Caribbean title.
Jamaica entered the competition in its first staging with Richard Nevers, then 20 years old, placing fourth. In 1998, Mr World Jamaica, Kinte Thelwell, also placed fourth.