SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Young people often have ideas about what could make their community better. What they may not always have is the opportunity, support or resources to turn those ideas into something real.
The St. Maarten Development Fund is inviting young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 to apply for the second cohort of its Young Minds Big Ideas programme.
Through the programme, participants will work together to develop and carry out a community project of their own. They will be supported by the SMDF team and mentors, but the ideas, decisions and direction of the project will come from the young people themselves.
“Young Minds Big Ideas is about giving young people the space to lead,” said Makhicia Brooks, Managing Director of SMDF. “We want them to know that their ideas matter and that they are capable of creating something meaningful for their community. Our role is to support them as they take that idea from a conversation to something they can see, experience and be proud of.”
The first group of Young Minds Big Ideas participants created the Bush Tea Garden at the White and Yellow Cross Care Foundation.
The project brought young people and senior residents together through gardening and food production. Participants helped to build and operate a hydroponic system for growing leafy greens while learning about sustainable agriculture and spending time with the residents and staff of the foundation.
More importantly, the young participants were involved throughout the entire process. They helped shape the idea, plan the activities and bring the project to life.
The second cohort will give another group of young adults the chance to work as a team, contribute to their community and develop skills they can carry into their education, careers and personal lives.
For participants, the experience is an opportunity to meet new people, build confidence, take responsibility and be part of something with a clear purpose.
For parents and guardians, Young Minds Big Ideas offers a positive and supported environment where young adults can grow, gain practical experience and discover what they are capable of accomplishing.
“You do not have to have everything figured out before you apply,” Brooks added. “What matters is that you are open to learning, working with others and playing an active role in your community.”
Young Minds Big Ideas is SMDF’s youth opportunity initiative. In addition to local community projects, the initiative helps connect young people with volunteering opportunities, youth exchanges and other experiences locally and abroad.
SMDF is also encouraging parents, guardians, educators and youth organizations to share the opportunity with young adults who may benefit from the experience.
Persons interested in joining YMBI can apply via the SMDF website at smdf.sx/young-minds-big-ideas or contact Shanica Romney, EU Programme Coordinator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 543-7711. Applications close on Friday, August 21st.
