Flight 7: traveLin W/ 1000 Books

Hello! We are halfway through the year already, which means you can no longer sit and wait to do what you love! That’s my opening charge to you, my fantastic readers. Welcome to another edition of #traveLin – and this time, we are travelling with 1,000 books. I am currently listening to this, while I sit at JFK airport to kickstart another round of “workcation”.

In November 2022, I launched an initiative aimed at reigniting a love and passion for reading among our boys. The activity was for International Men’s Day that year, but soon after it gained some legs of interest and went beyond a one-off engagement. Over a year later, I’ve had the incredible opportunity of reaching over 550 boys in 3 countries. Now, Reading N’Reasoning is shaping up to be a game-changing project and I am here for it.

What has also been a great accomplishment is forging the right partnerships to support my newfound love for reading. This year, I have teamed up with Kingston Bookshop Ltd to celebrate their 50th year of advocacy and changemaking movements in the literacy space. I am excited to be a part of their #GetCaughtReading campaign – which is quite on brand, as I get to showcase my many comfortable reading pods (the airplane, beach, etc).

Quick update – It took me three weeks to get back to this piece, so I am currently writing from a café in Grenada (the workcation I mentioned earlier). Now that’s out the way, I want to continue this incredible article.

So yes, Reading N’Reasoning – I spent the entire month of May visiting schools and hosting students at several sessions. May is celebrated as Child Month in Jamaica, so it was fitting to spread the joy of reading and literacy. However, these undertakings are only possible with the right partners, and here’s where I tell you about one close to heart, the GrassROOTS Community Foundation headed by Janice Johnson Dias (she/her) and Lisa Maxwell .

How I Met Janice & Lisa

I was introduced to Janice and Lisa by one of my good friend and impact partner, Latoya West-Blackwood . On our shared mission to promote literacy and reading across Jamaica, I was fortunate to meet these two extraordinary women. Our paths crossed through their remarkable goodwill initiatives, and I was instantly captivated by their dedication and passion.

Their work spans not just Jamaica, but also Africa and the USA, impacting countless lives. Their unwavering commitment to education and community development is nothing short of inspiring. Partnering with Janice and Lisa has been a pivotal moment in this journey, as they bring a wealth of experience and heart to our shared goal of fostering a love for reading among young Jamaicans.

It's A Community Effort

Literacy is the cornerstone of a prosperous society, yet it remains a significant challenge in Jamaica. It is essential for all of us to play our part in addressing this issue. Community involvement is not just beneficial but crucial.

Through the generous donation of over 1,000 books from the GrassROOTS Community Foundation, we have been able to distribute these treasures to over 300 students across three parishes. Each book handed out is more than just paper and ink; it represents opportunity, potential, and hope for a better future. This collaborative effort demonstrates the power of unity and the impact we can make when we come together for a common cause.

In addition to the students receiving their own books, 700 of these were distributed to three public libraries – one in each county.

Powering Dreams

Dreams often need a vehicle to transform into reality, and in this case, quite literally. I am thrilled to have ATL Automotive Group on board as our official transportation partner. Their support has been invaluable, enabling us to reach more communities and touch more lives.

Our inaugural journey with ATL Automotive took us to the Manchester Parish Library. There, we hosted an inspiring Reading N'Reasoning session with 50 eager students. The excitement in their eyes and their thirst for knowledge reinforced the importance of our mission. With ATL Automotive's support, we are now more equipped than ever to spread the joy of reading across the island.

From Non-Reader to Author

My personal journey from a reluctant reader to an aspiring author is a testament to the transformative power of literacy. I am proud to announce that I am about to present my first children's book, "Future Makers." This book spotlights 30 diverse careers for children to consider, aiming to broaden their horizons and inspire their ambitions. Writing this book has been a labour of love, driven by my desire to give back and ignite the imaginations of young readers.

"Future Makers" is more than just a book; it is a beacon of possibility, showing children that their dreams are within reach. This endeavour marks a significant milestone in my life, one that I hope will encourage many others to embark on their own journeys of discovery and growth through reading.

I am still in Grenada, fresh from consulting on a hugely successful music festival. In the next edition, I will be #traveLin with my great Grenadian friend, Kered Clement .

To follow the #ReadingNReasoning journey, check out our latest set of content.

Kingston Session – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMJFZQuUTn0

Montego Bay Session – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjOyng5Q6oA

Social Media - @amplifystu