2024 Empowerment camp TESTIMONIALS
Jemoya Richards
Jemoya Richards
Jemoya Richards
Being part of the DSA Summer Camp has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From the welcoming atmosphere of the founder, Deidre Smith, and her team to the stimulating events, and the amazing children I met. I am incredibly appreciative of the opportunity to volunteer which allowed me to make a meaningful impact on the liv
Being part of the DSA Summer Camp has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From the welcoming atmosphere of the founder, Deidre Smith, and her team to the stimulating events, and the amazing children I met. I am incredibly appreciative of the opportunity to volunteer which allowed me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the community's children while also gaining great insight and learning opportunities. The DSA Summer Camp, built on deep love and passion, has truly inspired me, and I’m excited to see its continued growth and success.
Michael John
Jemoya Richards
Jemoya Richards
"Children are not things to be molded but are people to be unfolded." Working alongside Dee and my team has been a memorable experience filled with love and community. Interacting with the students and sharing my skills and experiences with them has been incredibly rewarding - it allowed me to connect with them in a meaningful way. I was
"Children are not things to be molded but are people to be unfolded." Working alongside Dee and my team has been a memorable experience filled with love and community. Interacting with the students and sharing my skills and experiences with them has been incredibly rewarding - it allowed me to connect with them in a meaningful way. I was deeply invested in their learning and growth, even within the short time we had together. As children, programs like these leave a lasting impact and will shape memories that will stay with them well into adulthood. I am forever grateful for leaving my influence and impacting these students.
Khalid Fleary
Jemoya Richards
Perry Cummings Jr.
Being a part of the Youth Empowerment Camp was an extreme privilege and one of the highlights of my Summer. As a facilitator, I had the opportunity to interact with the students on a wide range of topics - from goal setting to preparing for university life and even teaching Spanish. Throughout this time, I witnessed the talent, drive and passion of the students.
Perry Cummings Jr.
Perry Cummings Jr.
Perry Cummings Jr.
Greetings DSA Footprint Foundation FAMILY! First of all, let me congratulate the hardworking team at the DSA Footprint Foundation for their dedication, vision, and the passion to committing to such an important initiative - especially making adjustments this year to include our little boys. My heart is overwhelmed and all I can say is tha
Greetings DSA Footprint Foundation FAMILY! First of all, let me congratulate the hardworking team at the DSA Footprint Foundation for their dedication, vision, and the passion to committing to such an important initiative - especially making adjustments this year to include our little boys. My heart is overwhelmed and all I can say is that the entire experience was unforgettable and a solid 10/10. I would do it again! A big shout out to the UWI Mona Guild and by extension the External Affairs Chairman and his team for leading this project on our end. With God, all things are possible.
Rhaveen Kildare
Perry Cummings Jr.
Rhaveen Kildare
Serving as a facilitator at the DSA Footprint Foundation’s Empowerment Camp was a fulfilling and rewarding experience. It was a pleasure sharing with the young minds and witnessing their creativity, intellect and youthful exuberance. The future is indeed bright! Kudos to Ms. Dee and her team for organizing such a worthwhile and impactful
Serving as a facilitator at the DSA Footprint Foundation’s Empowerment Camp was a fulfilling and rewarding experience. It was a pleasure sharing with the young minds and witnessing their creativity, intellect and youthful exuberance. The future is indeed bright! Kudos to Ms. Dee and her team for organizing such a worthwhile and impactful initiative. It is heartwarming to know that there are individuals with a vested interest in empowering the nation’s children and equipping them with the skills and resources they need to excel. See you all next year! Rhaveen Kildare -Irvine Deputy Hall Chairwoman 24/25
Devonte Jackson
Perry Cummings Jr.
Rhaveen Kildare
Have students gotten smarter nowadays? I was very impressed by the level of knowledge and creativity the students displayed during this camp. They were engaged and introduced to very important topics such as preparing for interviews and self-affirmation. This experience has also provided me with a newfound respect for teachers. Children a
Have students gotten smarter nowadays? I was very impressed by the level of knowledge and creativity the students displayed during this camp. They were engaged and introduced to very important topics such as preparing for interviews and self-affirmation. This experience has also provided me with a newfound respect for teachers. Children are a bundle of energy, and it takes a lot of patience, passion and love to match their pace. Indeed, children are the future, and with the proper guidance provided by programs like this, they have a bright one ahead of them.
2024 Camp facilitators TESTIMONIALS
Shaney Freemantle
Nicole Aiken-Pinnock
Nicole Aiken-Pinnock
Author and Social Services Advocate
The Girls’ Empowerment Camp last summer was nothing short of transformative for the Steer Town Community, and it was such an honor to be a part of it. As a product of the Steer Town school district, I know the great impact programs such as this one can have on youths in the community. As a current author
Author and Social Services Advocate
The Girls’ Empowerment Camp last summer was nothing short of transformative for the Steer Town Community, and it was such an honor to be a part of it. As a product of the Steer Town school district, I know the great impact programs such as this one can have on youths in the community. As a current author and social work advocate, being a part of such a movement was inspiring.
The camp not only provided a safe and nurturing environment for girls to explore their interests and passions, but also instilled in them a sense of confidence and empowerment that will undoubtedly shape their futures. In a world where young girls often face societal pressures and stereotypes, the Girls’ Empowerment Camp offered a refreshing space where they could freely express themselves, learn new skills, and build meaningful friendships. I was delighted to contribute as a facilitator for one of the Author’s workshops.
The dedication and commitment of The DSA Footprint Foundation team were evident in every aspect of the camp. From the carefully curated curriculum to the passionate mentors who led workshops and activities, it was clear that the well-being and growth of each youth were top priorities. The camp not only focused on personal development but also emphasized the importance of community service and social responsibility, teaching girls to be leaders and changemakers. As a participant, I am deeply grateful for the invaluable experiences and opportunities that The DSA Footprint Foundation's Girls' Empowerment Camp provided to the young girls in our Steer Town community.
Nicole Aiken-Pinnock
Nicole Aiken-Pinnock
Nicole Aiken-Pinnock
Former Captain - Jamaica Netball Team
(Sunshine Girls)
Director of Sports — Moneague College
I want to express my gratitude for having been invited to be a part of a life-changing atmosphere. I have been privileged to have witnessed the eagerness and passion for growth and development. It was indeed a great experience to watch these young
Former Captain - Jamaica Netball Team
(Sunshine Girls)
Director of Sports — Moneague College
I want to express my gratitude for having been invited to be a part of a life-changing atmosphere. I have been privileged to have witnessed the eagerness and passion for growth and development. It was indeed a great experience to watch these young ladies show up at each session in an effort to understand that they have a responsibility to be better individuals, and most importantly, grow to become a more successful and powerful woman in society that will bring about change.
The panel shared experiences and engaged in discussion with them, captivated their minds. This was evident from how engaged they were, and the questions they asked. This showed us that there is a willingness to be more effective and productive beings in society, and they were also reminded that they are not limited to their circumstances.
It would be great to have more programs of this magnitude that can reach more young people to empower and realign them with their purpose and goal, while they are on their journey to self-development.
I am definitely looking forward to offering continued service and to help build our future generation.
T. Dwyer-Riley
Nicole Aiken-Pinnock
T. Dwyer-Riley
Educator
Attending the Girls' Empowerment Camp was an inspiring journey! The energy and enthusiasm displayed by these young girls was truly remarkable. Their respect and active engagement in every activity showcased their commitment to growth. It was heartwarming to see them grateful for the provisions made, a testament to the impact of s
Educator
Attending the Girls' Empowerment Camp was an inspiring journey! The energy and enthusiasm displayed by these young girls was truly remarkable. Their respect and active engagement in every activity showcased their commitment to growth. It was heartwarming to see them grateful for the provisions made, a testament to the impact of such initiatives. Kudos to the organizers for recognizing the importance of investing in the lives of these future movers and shakers. This camp is a beacon of empowerment, igniting the potential within each participant and shaping a brighter tomorrow for all.
Omar Chin
Gabrielle Williamson
Gabrielle Williamson
Author
Senior Business Consultant
My name is Omar Chin and I was a facilitator at the 2023 Girl’s Empowerment Camp in July. I had a wonderful time working with the young girls who were engaged and excited to learn about my book Dancing in the Rain and they were able to show their creative side as well. The girls asked many questions about m
Author
Senior Business Consultant
My name is Omar Chin and I was a facilitator at the 2023 Girl’s Empowerment Camp in July. I had a wonderful time working with the young girls who were engaged and excited to learn about my book Dancing in the Rain and they were able to show their creative side as well. The girls asked many questions about my path to becoming an author and they expressed some of those same desires. Working with Dee was a pleasant experience, and she made the lead up to the event seamless and stress free. I look forward to working with the team in the future.
Gabrielle Williamson
Gabrielle Williamson
Gabrielle Williamson
Camp's Volunteer
College Student – Criminal Justice Major
Attending the Girls’ Empowerment Camp hosted by DSA Footprint Foundation was an incredibly inspiring and empowering experience for me. The camp provided a supportive and encouraging environment where I could learn, grow, and connect with other young women. The workshops and activiti
Camp's Volunteer
College Student – Criminal Justice Major
Attending the Girls’ Empowerment Camp hosted by DSA Footprint Foundation was an incredibly inspiring and empowering experience for me. The camp provided a supportive and encouraging environment where I could learn, grow, and connect with other young women. The workshops and activities were engaging and thought-provoking, helping me build confidence and new skills. I want to acknowledge the program director, Dee Smith, for her leadership and dedication in making this camp a success. Dee's guidance and vision truly made a difference in my experience. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a positive and impactful program. Thank you, Dee, and thank you, DSA Footprint Foundation, for a memorable and empowering experience.
Minel Peart-Youton
Gabrielle Williamson
Patricia Pottinger-Bailey, JP
Founder/Executive Director
Milady’s School of Cosmetology
On behalf of the Milady’s School of Cosmetology, I would like to thank the DSA Footprint Foundation for having invited us to participate in their 2023 Girls' Empowerment Camp. I was honored to facilitate a cosmetology workshop where we discussed self-care tips, makeup artistry, mas
Founder/Executive Director
Milady’s School of Cosmetology
On behalf of the Milady’s School of Cosmetology, I would like to thank the DSA Footprint Foundation for having invited us to participate in their 2023 Girls' Empowerment Camp. I was honored to facilitate a cosmetology workshop where we discussed self-care tips, makeup artistry, massage and beauty therapy, nail technology, along with hair care and design.
As the theme for the camp stated “Empowered Girls Lead the World,” I was elated to facilitating a discussion about leading, inspiring and encouraging other young girls through beauty. Acquiring skills in the field of cosmetology would provide an alternative career path for young girls who are more interested in a skilled profession versus that of a traditional academic one.
I was intrigued by the level of interest displayed by the girls, who asked relevant questions, and were curious about the various avenues within the profession. I explained that within this profession, the sky is the limit, as is often said, due to the fluidity, nature and scope of the industry. Cosmetology moves with the culture, creativity, needs, warmth, freedom, inspiration, hope, emotions and beauty of our time. There will always be a need to bring joy, love, and happiness into the lives of the people we serve.
It is my hope that Milady’s School of Cosmetology will be invited to participate yet again in another remarkable event in the future. As for the foundation, keep going, as the work you have begun is life changing for all the young girls you have impacted and the ones whose lives you will change in this lifetime and the one to come.
Patricia Pottinger-Bailey, JP
Patricia Pottinger-Bailey, JP
Patricia Pottinger-Bailey, JP
Guidance Counsellor
Chalky Hill Primary School
It was a privilege being a part of the 2023 Girls’ Empowerment Camp. Serving in the capacity of a facilitator, I was able to interact with young girls from diverse backgrounds and was able to impact their lives positively. Special commendation to the DSA Footprint Foundation which is creating
Guidance Counsellor
Chalky Hill Primary School
It was a privilege being a part of the 2023 Girls’ Empowerment Camp. Serving in the capacity of a facilitator, I was able to interact with young girls from diverse backgrounds and was able to impact their lives positively. Special commendation to the DSA Footprint Foundation which is creating a positive impact among our girls and contributing to nation-building.
Dahlia Klein
Patricia Pottinger-Bailey, JP
Dr. Khadijah Williams
Attorney-at-Law
It was an absolute delight and honor to be a part of 2023 Girls’ Empowerment Camp. The young ladies were so eager and receptive, as if drinking from a fountain of fresh spring water. It is incumbent upon us, as a generation, to leave our positive mark on the hearts and minds of the next generation. This program is poised
Attorney-at-Law
It was an absolute delight and honor to be a part of 2023 Girls’ Empowerment Camp. The young ladies were so eager and receptive, as if drinking from a fountain of fresh spring water. It is incumbent upon us, as a generation, to leave our positive mark on the hearts and minds of the next generation. This program is poised to do just that. It is a well-organized and well-run program, with a singular mission, to shed a beacon of light in a community where there has been so much darkness. I congratulate Deidre and her team and look forward to the immeasurable success this program is destined to have. You will always have my unwavering support.
Dr. Khadijah Williams
Patricia Pottinger-Bailey, JP
Dr. Khadijah Williams
PhD: Educator, Counsellor and Human Development Consultant
Working with the girls/young ladies is a demonstration of my lifelong commitment to promoting resilience and support for vulnerable groups. The camp provided another vehicle for meaningful work to be done where lives are impacted positively. The girls experienced a safe space t
PhD: Educator, Counsellor and Human Development Consultant
Working with the girls/young ladies is a demonstration of my lifelong commitment to promoting resilience and support for vulnerable groups. The camp provided another vehicle for meaningful work to be done where lives are impacted positively. The girls experienced a safe space to talk about issues affecting them and the opportunity for follow-up reassured them that we take them seriously and care about their well-being. I am pleased to be part of this team.