Sound Waves: Transforming Youth at Risk

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) in association with Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF) as well as in collaboration with Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) launched the ‘Sound Waves: Transforming Youth At Risk Through Music’ project, promoting a comprehensive approach towards the amelioration of Saint Lucia’s music industry.

It has been proven through studies, music transforms the outlook of individuals who are at risk of danger or living in harsh environments, providing them with the opportunity to create the ability to express themselves freely and effectively by solving their challenges through creative expressions, boosting their cognitive functions throughout the learning spectrum.

The project being funded by the CDB together with CDF plans to launch with 50 persons, ages 18 – 35. The goal is to attract individuals who have some musical background as well as the general public who are interested in doing first year training of the programme.
Senator Fortuna Belrose expressed, “There has been much debate on the relevance of our school curriculums in today’s current environment. There are many gaps and we know that not everyone who enters the formal education system completes it, and is ready to face the challenges of the real world.” She continued, “I say the world because we never know where we will end up… We all have families abroad who may want to send for us or give us an opportunity. But, how many of us are really prepared to take these opportunities when they come to us?”

The top five main objectives of this programme are listed as to improve the music skills of youth at risk, improve the prospect of income earning for them, to create opportunities for them to network with other colleagues, improve social relationships among the participants, and to create employment opportunities.

The project also includes life-training skills, music training, and academic guidance in reading and writing music. They will also be taught how to play musical instruments through The Saint Lucia School of Music, and it also involves ICT training by the National ICT Centre, in website development. After completing the eighteen month programme participants will earn a Caribbean Vocational Services level one and two certificate.