1 in 3 girls in Barbados are exposed to bullying, domestic abuse, sexual abuse and violence, in many forms. This project will provide non-traditional training, mentorship, and expose 200 girls aged 5-18, to first time experiences (STEAM Careers), while also providing free meals and school supplies. The aim is to empower those vulnerable, and coming from the poorest communities in Barbados, to become active female leaders that give back to their country under our philosophy 'Reach One Teach One'.
Due to economic instability in Barbados there are steady forms of abandonment among families towards youth. Many girls, as young as age 10, are required to contribute monetarily within their household, which exposes them to sexual abuse in order to provide. The high poverty rate means that 1 in 5 girls attending school are hungry daily, and thus unproductive. Some resort to bullying to get food, are bullied because of their poor state, or are not fairly exposed to development opportunities.
1. Assist in reducing the number of girls in Barbados exposed to sexual abuse because of poverty; 2. Allow 200 girls an opportunity to be productive at school through our feeding programme, and not having to worry about the financial strain which plagues them; 3. Allow girls to attain free training in soft skills and STEAM Careers, which is currently not mainstream within the educational system; 4. Provide support to girls through mentorship and guidance; and, 5. Provide scholarships for girls.
These girls most often feel alone in their circumstances, and unsure of where to get help. We aim to impact their lives and empower them in overcoming their current situations, while encouraging them in becoming leaders in their community for others. Integrated in our programme is the opportunity to see past their circumstances, and helping others as they have been helped. It will also impact upon their mental health, and combat issues such as self harm, depression and suicidal thoughts.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
