THE Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI) hosted another impactful Conversations With Boys workshop on January 15, providing a safe and interactive space for grade six boys from Mico Practising Primary and Junior High School to engage in meaningful discussions about critical life issues shaping their development and aspirations.

Since its inception in 2018, the programme has been part of WLI’s commitment to nurturing young minds. This year marked a milestone of a total 222 boys from Mico Practising Primary being engaged over the years.

Led by Verol A Billet, associate clinical psychologist, the boys openly explored key topics such as respect for women and girls, bullying, peer pressure, the dangers of substance abuse, and empathy. The interactive session, at Talk of the Town, Jamaica Pegasus hotel, allowed the boys to share their experiences and challenges.

A highlight of the event was the new segment, ‘2025: Thinking for the Future’, which focused on financial literacy.

Oshane Allen, wealth advisor at GK Mutual Funds, shared practical, age-appropriate advice on early money management and introduced the boys to potential career opportunities in the financial sector.

“Financial literacy is an essential life skill, and it’s never too early to start. We are thrilled to be part of an initiative that equips these young boys with the knowledge and confidence to plan for their future,” Allen said, reflecting on the session. “The conversations today were inspiring, and we hope to see them grow into financially responsible individuals who contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s progress.”

Grace Burnett, chair of the Women’s Leadership Initiative, reiterated the importance of the programme.

“WLI and our sponsors are delighted to provide a safe and inviting space for the boys to openly discuss their challenges, dreams, and hopes for the future. Since the inception of the programme, we have remained committed to shaping young lives by addressing critical issues that affect their development,” she said. “We encourage the boys to speak freely, as their feedback not only enriches these sessions but also guides WLI in identifying and addressing advocacy gaps within the wider society. It is our hope that the tools and guidance provided through this programme will empower these young boys to grow into men who are positive contributors to Jamaica, land we love.”

Nadine Heywood, chair of the Advocacy Committee, emphasised the significance of the programme:

“The initiative is supported by research and feedback from stakeholders in education and child advocacy that shows early intervention could lead to behavioural change,” she said. “Conversations with Boys is now one of WLI’s main projects, and we are invested, as leaders and mothers, in playing our role in shaping Jamaica’s future society and fulfilling our mission to ‘contribute to the well-being of all Jamaica’.”