GG launches 'I Believe Initiative'
Published:Monday | May 23, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Keisha Hill, Gleaner Writer
THEY SANG their little hearts out, inspiring the audience with their melodious voices and music that could send shivers up your spine.
These were students from El Instituto de Mandevilla, in Mandeville, singing the 'I Believe' theme song that created the perfect backdrop for Governor General Sir Patrick Allen to officially launch the 'I Believe Initiative' (IBI) at King's House on Thursday.
The IBI is a values-based initiative, which is developed on the concept that there is nothing wrong in Jamaica that cannot be fixed by what is right with Jamaica. The idea was born of His Excellency's inaugural address at his swearing-in ceremony in 2009. Sir Patrick said it became evident that his office needed to concern itself more actively with the situations, and for the past two years, a group of volunteers worked assiduously in evaluating data and identifying the character of the organisation.
"Many persons display low levels of confidence, self-esteem, and despair for their future. Concerns have been expressed that if these issues are not mitigated quickly, the situation will lead to a large, disenfranchised youth population, poor quality workforce, disrespect for people and property, disregard for law and order, high crime rate, greater socio-economic challenges, and further economic decline," Allen said.
Through strategic partnerships, programmes and the belief and support of Jamaicans, the IBI will lead a campaign to inspire and motivate persons through the family, the youth and education. By promoting value-based parenting and healthy relationships, personal and professional development through mentorship and training and supporting excellence in academic pursuits, His Excellency hopes to address these concerns.
strategic partnerships
The IBI also seeks to ignite and reawaken hope for Jamaica. Through strategic partnerships with service clubs, uniformed groups and other organisations and institutions, the IBI will seek to inspire Jamaicans to believe in their potential and to continue building a peaceful nation.
Prime Minister Bruce Golding in endorsing the IBI programme, said the initiative was timely, and urged Jamaicans to reaffirm confidence in themselves, and in their capacity to accomplish many things.