Barbadians across the country are being urged to step forward and help shape the next generation of leaders as the President’s Trust launches a national call for volunteer mentors.
The appeal comes ahead of the official launch of the Chapman Challenge, a youth leadership initiative set to begin on September 23 under the patronage of President Jeffrey Bostic.
Designed to guide young people aged 10 to 24, the transformative programme relies on community engagement, service, and structured leadership development. Organisers are seeking dedicated volunteers from all walks of life, including educators, public servants, retirees, tradespersons, and entrepreneurs, to serve as “support anchors” and offer positive guidance to local youth.
Speaking on the launch of the recruitment drive, Captain Tevin Maynard from the Task Force for Mentorship highlighted the importance of adult role models in community building.
“Every young person deserves access to positive guidance, encouragement, and opportunity,” Captain Maynard said. “By becoming a mentor, volunteers will not only help shape individual lives but also contribute to building stronger communities and a stronger Barbados.
The Chapman Challenge offers an opportunity for citizens from every parish and every profession to leave a lasting legacy through service.”
The initiative operates through a structured system where local community councillors identify young people who would benefit from the scheme, pairing them with volunteer support anchors. Mentors will provide individual advice, lead group activities, facilitate workplace experiences, and offer virtual support.
Rather than focusing solely on academic success, the Chapman Challenge aims to build character, personal competence, civic responsibility, and active leadership through community service.
Organisers emphasised that the initiative is entirely volunteer-driven and operates under a robust safeguarding framework, including mandatory background checks and comprehensive training for all successful applicants, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for every participant.
By bringing together experienced adults and eager young minds across its primary stages, the programme hopes to establish a sustainable pipeline of civic-minded leaders. Interested individuals across Barbados who wish to volunteer their time and expertise as mentors are encouraged to reach out through the official communications channels of the President’s Trust.
