UCC's Youth Day Ignites Passion for Entrepreneurship
Top Photo: Professor Colin Gyles CD, President of UCC, and Errol Campbell, Quality Support Officer and HOD of the College of Occupational and Applied Studies look at student exhibitions.
Bottom Photo: (From Left) Cheryll Stewart, Managing Director of Global Entrepreneurship Network, Ja; Davian Phillips, Student of UCC; Khalia Phillips, Student of UCC; and Russhaine ‘Dutty’ Berry, Social Media Influencer speak on ‘Youth Leadership in the Digital Age’ at UCC’s Youth Day Panel Discussion.
Kingston, Jamaica – December 4, 2024 – The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) successfully hosted its annual Youth Day on November 28, 2024, under the theme ‘Industrial Efficiency Meets Talent and Entrepreneurship,’ attracting luminaries from various sectors who inspired and empowered the youth to lead in the digital era.
The event kicked off with a heartfelt welcome from UCC’s President, Professor Colin Gyles CD, who highlighted the significance of the day: “This occasion carries profound significance for each of us, as it serves as a day dedicated to recognizing the remarkable potential and creativity of our youth. It is an opportunity to showcase student-owned businesses and reflect on the challenges and prospects that young people face in their efforts to pursue entrepreneurial activities.” This was followed by a panel discussion on ‘Youth Leadership in the Digital Age’ which was well received.
The panel discussion included social media influencer, Russhaine Berry commonly known as ‘Dutty Berry’ along with the managing Director of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, Cheryll Stewart, and student panelists Khalia Phillips and Davian Phillips. In this discussion, Russhaine ‘Dutty’ Berry, emphasized the importance of building a personal brand responsibly. He urged students to assess the weight of their digital footprints as they craft their online identities to ensure sustainable success.
Maxine A. Fagan, the Manager of Communications and Customer Service at the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) was the guest speaker. She delivered a compelling talk on the importance of maintaining industry standards while embracing innovation. Her insights were a cornerstone of the event, underscoring the critical balance between compliance and creativity.
Fagan's speech was followed by the Youth Talent Showcase and Expo, displaying the innovative projects and businesses developed by UCC students such as the Logistics and Supply Chain Management Group, Grung Natural Seasoning, and Petals of Nature Organics to name a few. This platform not only highlighted their creativity but also provided practical insights into monetizing their brilliant ideas with support from industry experts.
Having now successfully commemorated Youth Month in its 3rd consecutive year, UCC’s Youth Day concluded on a high note with several actionable takeaways for the students, and a reinforced commitment by the institution to foster an environment where young entrepreneurs can thrive and innovate.
