PHILIPSBURG:--- The Funtopia Youth Foundation recently hosted its 3rd edition of the Youth Talk at Carl's and Sons Conference Center. This edition of Youth Talk features individuals from the community who are excelling in the creative economy. The youth talk forum serves as a platform for them to share their experiences, particularly their challenges, to inspire the younger generation.
This session spotlighted the incredibly talented Sandrine Sasa Jerome, an active member of the organization since 2015. Through her journey with the group, she has acquired a diverse set of skills as a performance entertainer and now holds a senior position as a youth leader, conducting face painting workshops for new members. Sasa shared an empowering message about coping with social anxieties and offered practical life skills for navigating difficult situations in everyday life. She articulated how Funtopia helped her overcome barriers and nurture her passion for self-expression through performance art, delivering a truly inspiring speech.
Adding further value to the event was guest speaker King Vers, who is no stranger to public speaking. He recounted his personal story of growing up in a challenging household and how he found opportunities on the streets that diverted him from his reality. Despite facing troubles and negative influences, he managed to grow through these life challenges and transform his perspective through music and acting. Today, he stands as one of St. Maarten's cultural icons.
These opportunities to share life stories with impressionable youth, who may be experiencing similar situations, foster hope and bridge generational gaps.
The highlight of the Youth Talk was the certificate ceremony for new members who participated in various skills training sessions over the past three months. Members who demonstrated consistency and engagement were recognized for their achievements. An average of 35 participants, aged 7 to 27, engaged in the Funtopia Skills Academy training workshops.
The foundation is proud to recognize youth member Abigail Smith for her outstanding attendance and participation in the majority of training sessions.
They would like to extend their gratitude to the following trainers for their invaluable support in cultivating cultural heritage skills:
Orientation Day: Hosted by Foundation President Lucinda La Rich Audain and Vice President Apollonia Violenus, who addressed topics such as branding, customer service, and membership expectations.
Caribbean Music and Rhythm: They were privileged to have Gwoka Riddim teacher Sammy from Guadeloupe, who taught the djembe players various rhythms and songs. Active students showcased their talent at the Caribbean Drum Festival hosted by Swalika in October.
Traditional West African Djembe: Teacher Soulyeman Camara has been training the youth for two years, sharing the traditions of his African village through djembe and dundun ceremonial riddims.
Dance Techniques: Teacher Rudy worked with members on advanced dance techniques in Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Modern styles.
Face Painting and Henna Skills: Youth Leader Tamica Damier hosted workshops where members learned line skills and blending techniques for popular designs.
Stilt Walking Training: Youth Leader Quair Hodge conducted basic stilt walking training for new walkers aged 7 to 12, as well as advanced stilt stunts for skilled teen walkers.
Creative Art Expression Workshops: Foundation President La Rich Audain hosted Saturday workshops where participants explored their abstract inner landscapes through exercises that challenged them to convey emotions and feelings through shapes and colors with mixed media and surfaces.
At the end of the session, the newly established Funtopia Youth Initiative Foundation's Social Events Committee took center stage to generate excitement for the 2026 social event calendar, designed to engage both members and the broader community. The committee is chaired by Amanda Smith, with Zymani Bass serving as Treasurer, Zovanique Lugiss as Secretary, and General Committee Members including Nariah Marlin, Sue Kishana Bera Simon, Laniesha Webster, Zora Eeswijk, Krista Hyman, and Sierra Hodge.
The Funtopia Initiative Youth Foundation is immensely grateful for the community's unwavering support, which has been instrumental in making this event a resounding success. The Youth Talk continues to be a beacon of inspiration and empowerment, fostering a space where young minds can flourish, connect, and dream big. As we look forward to future editions, our commitment remains steadfast in nurturing the potential of tomorrow's leaders and creative thinkers.
For those inspired to join or contribute to our mission, we welcome you to become a part of our growing family. Together, we can build a brighter future, one inspiring story at a time. Thank you for believing in the power of youth and the strength of community.
The Funtopia Youth Initiative hosts these training and development programs through membership participation fees and fundraising efforts. If you are interested in supporting this initiative, please feel free to contact them via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
