The Sandals Foundation has partnered with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus to deliver a transformative six-month programme aimed at preparing Barbados’ youth for success. Named “Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges,” the initiative, supported by a US $60,000 donation from the Sandals Foundation in collaboration with Rock Hard Distribution, is set to benefit 525 students from 21 secondary schools across the island, teaching skills in personal branding, financial literacy, conflict resolution, and more.

The programme is designed to provide students aged 16 to 19 with crucial soft skills, preparing them for both the workforce and higher education. Schools to be engaged include Alleyne, Alexandra, Coleridge & Parry, Frederick Smith, Grantley Adams, Graydon Sealy, Lester Vaughan, Parkinson Memorial, Princess Margaret, St. George Secondary, Springer Memorial, The Ellerslie, and The St. Michael School.

"When we empower young minds with the skills they need to succeed," shared Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, "we're not just planting seeds for their personal growth—we're cultivating the future of an entire region.”, “This programme, Clarke continued, “provides a unique avenue to help equip young people on how to confidently take their place in the next chapter of their lives. Building their capacity to express themselves, engage with each other, manage conflicts, negotiate, and build relationships to strengthen their capacity to operate in the world of work as well in their academic pursuits. That is a goal firmly supported by the Sandals Foundation. We are very happy to be able to work with Rock Hard Distribution to make this possible.”

“Equipping our students with the tools for success goes beyond academic achievements," said Dr. Francis Severin, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UWI Global Campus, "It’s about instilling confidence, resilience, and the ability to adapt in a rapidly changing world. Together we can empower Barbadian youth.”

The Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges programme began in 2015 reaching students across 12 schools. Targeting sixth form students in areas of communication, presentation skills, team building, leadership skills, time management skills, critical thinking, problem solving, and conflict resolution. Students also gained work experience through internships with Barbados Beach Club, DGM Financial Management and UWI Open Campus, to name a few.

"The PTTFTC programme transformed my life in ways I never imagined," said Jazzmin Rowe, President of the Barbados Association of Future Office Professionals. "It took me from being a shy, reserved student to developing critical skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership. Today, I am proud to say that the programme continues to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed. It has not only shaped my future but the futures of many others who now hold leadership roles in their fields."