It is perhaps no coincidence that National Parents Month and National Youth Month have been proclaimed November celebrations: dedicating an entire month to these two months is a brilliant undertaking. On the one hand, the emphasis is on the role of family and community in raising the next generation and, on the other, the emphasis is on providing young people with the necessary tools to They are equipped with the values, skills and support systems necessary to become future leaders.

This year’s Parents’ Month theme, “Surfing Beyond the Surface,” fits beautifully with the times and focuses on artificial intelligence and how it can improve communication between parents and parents. children.

The Youth Month theme, “Youth IMPACT 2024: Innovative Minds, Determined Action, Collective Triumphs,” seamlessly interconnects, focusing on inspiring young people to recognize their potential and ability to create meaningful change.

It is universally recognized that the task of building a vibrant society with young people who will become quality contributors and quality leaders begins at home, where values ​​are established. A positive foundation is the first crucial ingredient of this construction. But if parents are to build these foundations, they must also be empowered to lead and build responsibly, and give their children the tools to succeed. These tools – the support services, so to speak – require a concerted national effort, a national contribution, with the understanding that in the long term, the entire country will reap the benefits of this investment.

By dedicating the month of November to helping parents build these foundations, or for some, improve their existing foundations, parents can cultivate values ​​of empathy, discipline, ambition and leadership in their children. They are able to assess their role in the building process, seek advice from experts, and connect to resources, so they can more confidently navigate the intricacies of modern parenting.

These are the concrete tools and support young people need to develop their skills, understand their identity, explore their ambitions and make an impact. As such, Youth Month becomes a celebration of possibilities for Jamaica’s youth who, while facing unique challenges, are also brimming with untapped creativity, ambition and resilience.

Youth Month and Parents Month are deeply connected: a supportive and engaged parent has the power to significantly shape a child’s future, while a well-equipped young person can uplift their family and community. Our policymakers have been right to prioritize both parental effectiveness and opportunities for young people – helping parents shape their values, confidence and resilience; and, simultaneously, provide young people with real opportunities to explore their potential.

Let’s not look at these two celebrations as just one calendar event in November, but rather look at the bigger picture. Let’s support and celebrate the contributions that young people can and will make, help advocate and support policies and programs that support good parenting – from parenting workshops to job training for young people – and consider Parents Month and Month of youth as a call for collective responsibility. By working together to empower families and uplift young people, we are investing in Jamaica’s future.