Team RUBIS St Lucia visits Upton Gardens Girls’ Centre for International Women’s Day

The vital work of Upton Gardens Girls’ Centre in rehabilitating girls at risk of delinquency has been commended by Team RUBIS during a recent tour and presentation at the Centre in recognition of International Women’s Day, celebrated this year under the theme: “Inspire Inclusion”.

The tour and presentation to the young ladies was held in collaboration with Safe Spaces Consultancy on March 7, 2024, one day ahead of International Women’s Day.

Tamika Celestin, Assistant Accounts Executive, said RUBIS was pleased to support with a presentation of personal care products, adding that the tour of the facility was an eye-opener. “It was a pleasure touring Upton Gardens Girls’ Centre and seeing their work with the young ladies. Sitting with them during the presentation, we were very grateful for the opportunity. We toured the establishment and saw the backyard farm where they plant peppers, Chinese cabbage and green bananas, to name a few. I can now see the impact that Upton Gardens Girls has on these young ladies in terms of helping them grow and develop and moulding them for success. We are certainly happy to contribute to their development and well-being.”

Celestin said RUBIS was also pleased to team up with Safe Space Consultancy who delivered an inspirational message on self-awareness, reminding the young ladies of how special they are despite whatever circumstances or challenges they may face.

Clarisa Alexander, Senior Social Worker, said: “We extend a special thank you to your team who visited the Centre. The girls received personal care items, which were a tremendous help in encouraging them to exercise self-confidence and increase their self-esteem. We hope your contribution to empowering young girls into women continues, as it takes a community to raise a child.”

Upton Gardens Girls’ Centre was established in 1979 with a mandate to rehabilitate girls who were considered to be on the verge of delinquency. The Centre had its first intake in February 1980. The Centre offers two programs: a six-month behaviour modification and a two-year training program. Both programs focus on ensuring that each girl is provided with the necessary services to facilitate positive social development, recognise her skills and set herself on a path to personal success.  Along with therapeutic support, training offered includes life skills, cooking, sewing, remedial Math and English.

(L-R) Germa Gomez and Tamika Celestin of RUBIS making the presentation to Clarisa Alexander of the Upton Gardens Girls’ Centre as Natasha Pascal of Safe Space Consultancy looks on.