THE CAMPS ARE BEING HELD IN COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE ISLAND FROM JULY 21 TO AUGUST 14, 2026...

Hundreds of young people across Saint Lucia have begun benefiting from a series of summer camps designed to build confidence, strengthen life skills, and create positive pathways for personal development.

Hosted by the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons, the camps are being held in communities across the island from July 21 to August 14, 2026, providing children and adolescents with safe, structured, and engaging opportunities during the school vacation period.

The initiative forms part of the Ministry of Equity's ongoing efforts to reduce youth vulnerability by exposing participants to a range of prosocial and skill-building activities that foster resilience, encourage positive behaviour, and improve readiness for future opportunities in an increasingly competitive global environment.

Director of Social Transformation, Tanzia Toussaint says, "designed for children and young people between the ages of 5 and 17, the camps offer a dynamic mix of educational, recreational, and practical learning experiences. Participants are engaging in conflict resolution sessions, personal health and hygiene education, horticulture and rainwater harvesting activities, CPR and fire prevention training, entrepreneurship development, sports, creative arts, and educational field trips."

A key feature of the programme is its emphasis on entrepreneurship and practical skills development. Campers will have opportunities to explore activities such as soap making, candle making, arts and crafts, cooking and baking, fabric design, tie-dye production, and mask making—skills that encourage creativity, innovation, and self-reliance.

"Beyond technical skills, the camps are intended to nurture independence, responsibility, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles while helping young people build meaningful friendships and strengthen their social and communication skills," noted Toussaint.

The summer camps are being hosted at several locations across the island, including Grace Combined School, Desruisseaux Combined School, Canaries Primary School, Roseau Combined School, Fond St. Jacques Parish Centre, Babonneau Primary School, Odsan Combined School, and the Soufrière Parish Hall. 

Daily activities run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with participants receiving a morning snack and lunch. Transportation arrangements are also being made to accommodate children from surrounding communities, ensuring wider access to the programme.

 

-END-