Tourism investor wants more tourism players to engage in social intervention

Western Bureau:

John Byles, executive deputy chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, says the tourist industry is the one that provides the most opportunities for children in today’s Jamaica, and he wants other investors to get involved in social-intervention programmes.

Byles, who was addressing a declaration of funds ceremony for a fundraiser staged earlier this year through a collaborative effort between Chukka Caribbean Adventures, Sandy Bay Outpost, and the Hanover Charities, expressed much delight that some of the funds will be used to complete refurbishing work at the Dalmally Basic School, in Dias, Hanover.

Approximately US$41,387 (J$6,456.372) was declared as profit income from the Polo event held recently at the Chukka Ocean Outpost, in Sandy Bay, Hanover. Funds from that amount will be used to complete refurbishing work which was started on Dalmally Basic School from 2023, a requirement for the school to be officially certified by the Early Childhood Commission (ECC).

“The annual fundraiser is more than just an event, it is a testament to the power of collective action, and our commitment to environment, social and governance principles,” said Byles. “Today, we focus on the social pillar, the funds we raised will directly support a school in urgent need of infrastructural improvements. These repairs are vital to them achieving their certification by the ECC.”

Byles further insisted that the contribution to the school’s improvement is not about charity, but about capacity building, as the eventual certification of the school will broaden the horizons of its students, providing them with significantly more opportunities for their educational journey.

“By investing in the education of our youngest citizens, we are investing in the future of our nation, while fostering a more inclusive society, where every child, regardless of their background, has the chance to succeed,” said Byles.

With emphasis on investments from the tourist industry within which he is a player, towards education, Byles noted that such a stance would ensure the long-term vitality and sustainability of the tourist industry, which is connected to the communities.

“As we move forward, let’s remember that social responsibility is an ongoing commitment that requires us to continuously seek ways to make a positive impact,” said Byles, in inviting other entities to join their effort.

Katrin Casserly, chairman of Hanover Charities, told The Gleaner that approximately $1.5 million has been spent on the Dalmally Basic school to date.

“We will really now have to do the finishing touches to the school, the playground equipment has been ordered, the furniture will be cleared next week, the community has started painting the classrooms, while the electrical, roofing and tiling work have been completed,” said Casserly, noting that the school is one of many institutions being helped through the collaborative effort between the Chukka Foundation and Hanover Charities.

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