MONTEGO BAY, St. James
The West Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists reached a major milestone in its mentorship ministry on Sabbath, June 27, as 154 mentors-in-training were officially pinned and recognized during the Conference’s first-ever Mentorship Day since the launch of the EYES Mentorship Initiative.
Held at the Seventh-day Adventist Conference Centre, trained mentors and mentors-in-training donned their distinctive red and black uniforms for the grand celebration. The newly minted mentors joined a growing movement designed to provide guidance, support, and positive influence to individuals across western Jamaica. The EYES Mentorship Initiative was the brainchild of then West Jamaica Conference President, Pastor Glen O. Samuels, now President of the Jamaica Union Conference. Since its inception in 2021, the programme has sought to establish sustainable mentoring relationships with at least 500 mentors and 1,000 at-risk youth throughout the Conference territory.
A section of the 154 mentors-in-training during the West Jamaica Conference’s first Mentorship Day. :: Photo credit: Cordel Brown
The pinning ceremony in the afternoon was the highlight of the day’s proceedings. Another defining moment came as the President of West Jamaica Conference, Pastor Vincent Rose, had the privilege of pinning Mrs. Marion Barrett-Popkin,Treasurer for the conference, who was among those being officially recognized as mentors. The symbolic gesture underscored the Conference’s commitment to mentorship at every level of leadership.
Mrs. Marion Barrett-Popkin, Treasurer of the West Jamaica Conference (left), receives her mentor’s pin from President of West Jamaica Conference, Pastor Vincent Rose during a special moment of recognition at the inaugural Mentorship Day. :: Photo credit: Cordel Brown
According to West Jamaica Conference Mentorship Coordinator, Mrs. Kediesha Mowatt-Grant, the significance of the occasion extends far beyond the number of mentors recognized.
“Each mentor represents a life committed to walking alongside another person, providing guidance and encouragement. So, to see 154 individuals complete the training process and publicly commit themselves to mentorship is a tremendous achievement for our Conference.”
Mowatt-Grant explained that the programme was developed in response to a growing need for intentional support systems within both the Church and wider community.
“We recognized that many of our young people and vulnerable individuals needed consistent support, guidance, and positive role models. The EYES Mentorship Initiative was created to intentionally connect trained mentors with these groups.”
Mentors-in-training receive their official pins during a special recognition ceremony marking the completion of their mentorship training. :: Photo credit: Cordel Brown
Among those recognized during the ceremony was newly pinned mentor Kevaughn Bernard, who shared the motivation behind his decision to become a mentor.
“I’ve always believed that the lessons life teaches us are not meant to be kept to ourselves. Growing up, I saw firsthand how much of a difference the right guidance at the right time can make. I was motivated by a desire to be that presence for someone else, to help them avoid unnecessary pitfalls and walk with greater confidence into their purpose.”
Newly pinned mentor, Kevaughn Bernard from the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Cornwall Court. :: Photo credit: Contributed
Bernard said his desire is to help others discover their God-given value and potential. “I hope to help them see themselves the way God sees them, full of potential, and capable of more than they may currently believe.”
The programme’s impact was further highlighted by Thandheka Myers, Parish Liaison Officer for St. Elizabeth, who highlighted the programme’s contribution to the mission of the Church.
“The mentorship programme is essential for the mission of the SDA Church as it facilitates spiritual growth as well as shapes the character of our youth. This in turn enables us to grow disciples rooted in the faith and retain members dedicated to the fulfillment of the Great Commission.”
Thandheka Myers, Parish Liaison Officer for St. Elizabeth, poses with some of the newly pinned mentors from the parish. :: Photo credit: Contributed
Looking ahead, Mowatt-Grant envisions continued expansion of the initiative across the Conference.
“Our vision is to see mentorship become deeply embedded in the culture of our churches and communities. We want to expand the network of trained mentors, strengthen support systems for young people, and see lives transformed through meaningful relationships that lead individuals closer to Christ and their God-given purpose.”
As the EYES Mentorship Initiative continues to grow, the 154 newly pinned mentors now join a team committed to helping others and strengthening their relationship with God. For more information on how to become involved in the EYES Mentorship Initiative, visit www.westjamaica.org.