Approximately 400 children and youth across Jamaica were equipped with essential life skills through the Department of Correctional Services’ (DCS) 2026 Challengers’ Day Camps. Fourteen camps were held simultaneously islandwide from August 10 to 14, with each location engaging approximately 25 to 30 participants.
Through mentorship, personal-development sessions and interactive activities, the five-day initiative provided participants with practical tools to manage conflict, strengthen their self-esteem and make responsible decisions. Participants included children supervised by the Probation Aftercare Branch, young people considered at risk, and those referred by the courts and schools.
The programme covered anger management, substance-use prevention, healthy relationships, career development, entrepreneurship, money management and social skills. Educational visits, recreational activities and engagement with positive role models also formed part of the experience.
Past participant Shannon Gordon shared how the guidance received through Challengers’ Camp helped with overcoming earlier challenges. Gordon is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in special education at The Mico University College.
“You made a mistake, but it is not your final destination. Your past does not define who you are or what you can become. Because I had people to work with me and support me, I was able to keep moving forward. You can create a better future for yourself,” Gordon said.
Addressing the closing ceremony at the Portmore Probation Office, Commissioner of Corrections, Brigadier (Ret’d) Radgh Mason, encouraged campers to take responsibility for shaping their lives.
“Your future is not something you simply wait to receive. It is something you help to build. Your circumstances may influence your starting point, but they do not have to determine your destination. Focus on what matters, use your creativity and design your future deliberately,” Commissioner Mason said.
He also underscored the importance of sustained support from parents, guardians, schools, communities and partner organisations, noting that adolescents require guidance, structure, encouragement and accountability.
First introduced in August 2003 as a residential initiative, Challengers’ Camp was established to address the specialised needs of children in conflict with the law and others requiring targeted intervention. It later expanded nationally and transitioned to a day-camp model, enabling greater participation and stronger community partnerships.
The initiative forms part of the DCS’s community-based approach to rehabilitation, prevention and diversion. It also highlights the role of early intervention and alternatives to incarceration in reducing the likelihood of young people entering or returning to the criminal justice system.
The DCS remains committed to working with families, schools and communities to help young people realise their potential and contribute to a safer and more secure Jamaica.
