I’m excited to share an opportunity to support the St. Thomas Renaissance Foundation Inc. (STRFI) in the funding of its annual Paul Bogle and the Warriors Debate Competition. STRFI is an organization dedicated to fostering educational development in St. Thomas, Jamaica. Our work is essential for uplifting our community, and I believe that together, we can make a meaningful impact.

The Paul Bogle and the Warriors Debate Competition is an annual Parish-based debate tournament that seeks to improve academic performance, critical thinking, and self-confidence among high school students. Now in its fifth year, the competition provides an engaging platform for students to sharpen their communication skills, while addressing issues of national importance and celebrating the legacy of Paul Bogle, a Jamaican National Hero from St. Thomas.

Over the last three years of the competition, the top schools and top overall debate performers were given the opportunity to travel to the United States and participate in Debate competitions, workshops, and college tours in Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas. One of our students was awarded Best New Debater in the High School competition in Texas. The competition tackles several pressing issues: limited academic support for rural students, poor English Language performance in CSEC (secondary school exams), and limited access to

opportunities that build global and career pathways.

Your donations will help fund:

For the past four years we have been lucky enough to have sponsorship for this event. However, this year local sponsorship has been lacking. So now we are reaching out to you in the hopes of holding another successful Debate Competition.

Please join me in this mission to transform lives and give hope to our community. Every dollar counts, and together, we can create lasting change.

Thank you for your support!

Travis A. Smith

Director,

STRFI