THE CHOISEUL SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAMME IS TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH MUSIC AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.

The Choiseul Summer Music Programme has emerged as a vibrant com- munity initiative that safeguards children, nurtures creativity, and breathes new life into the district’s rich cultural heritage.

Spearheaded by the Choiseul Music Committee (Choiseul Community Symphony) and funded by the National Lottery Authority, the programme aligns with the vision of the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment to strengthen communities through social protection, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment.

According to Social Transformation Officer for Choiseul and Soufriere, Nathan Deterville, the programme was deliberately designed to achieve both social and cultural impact.

“This initiative protects our most vulnerable children by keeping them safe, active, and meaning- fully engaged while parents are at work, and at the same time reignites Choiseul’s long-standing musical traditions. Through music, we are equipping our youth with life skills teamwork, discipline, leadership, creative thinking, and problem-solving that prepare them to be responsible, confident, and contributing members of society,” Deterville added.

The programme benefited from upgrades under the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) within the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), which financed the renovation of the music training facility at the Choi- seul Reunion School. The refurbished space now houses modern music production equipment and a range of instruments, all made available to participants.

Deterville noted that beyond music, the initiative strengthens community bonds, encourages diversity, and addresses social challenges such as weakened conflict resolution skills among youth.

The Ministry of Equity continues to support projects like the Choiseul Summer Music Programme as models for holistic community transformation where culture, education, and social welfare converge to create safe, thriving, and inclusive communities.