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SHYEO - Extending a helping hand

Published:Saturday | September 22, 2012 | 12:00 AM
From left: Davian Grant, Nneka Deokoro, Tyson Gordon, Timoy Barrett, Lachelle Gordon, Chantal Smith, Kemoy Strachan, Natasha Stewart (founder of the group). Members not photographed: Rochelle Manderson, Okhi Miller and Anecia Miles.-Contributed

Sheena Gayle, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:Charity and nation building knows no bounds with a group of young persons in Montego Bay, who are intent making a positive contribution to the lives of others.

The Strong Hearted Youths Elevating Others (SHYEO), a non-profit organisation formed by young journalist and law student Natasha Stewart, consists of 11 members from ages 18 to 25 years. It is focused on helping the elderly, offering support to early-childhood students and providing positive role models.

"There is so much negativity going on around us, and one day after talking to my close friends about starting an initiative to help persons, the idea was born. All the volunteers and members of the organisation are my close friends, who shared the idea of helping others, however great or small," explained Stewart.

She recalled that when she attended St James High School and achieved academic success, it was not without the motivation of others who believed in her potential to do well.

"I want to be able to impact the lives of others the same way someone took the time to impact mine. Our group consists of young scholars, who have gone through high school and have done well, so we are about uplifting those around us," she added.

HELPING OTHERS

Since inception over two months ago, SHYEO has donated care supplies to the St James Infirmary, which were sourced after a fund-raising exercise. They also spent a day with the elderly helping them with personal care. In addition, the group also donated school supplies to Vaughnsfield Primary School in south St James.

"The little things that we take for granted is a blessing for others, and I think it is important for more youths to get involved in the process of helping others," Stewart said. "We don't have a lot of money, but what we have is effort, and the group is committed to the cause. We are currently in the process of registering the charity organisation so we can partner with other stakeholders in ensuring that SHYEO continue the mandate we set out."