Applause and enthusiasm greeted the opening of the Intergenerational Hub on Friday, 20 Oct., which aims to bring together different generations within the community.
The hub, located at 131 MacLendon Drive “offers a space for our young people and our elders to learn from each other and develop relationships,” said Bernie Bush, minister of culture and heritage, during remarks at the official opening.
Bush also announced the hub is home to the Youth Services Unit, “an important arm of the ministry,” he said.
The minister spoke of the vision for the hub.
“These relationships will better encourage the storytelling of Cayman’s history… Learning about Cayman’s culture and heritage, history and customs are all key components in establishing cultural identity and national pride, but these relationships will also provide our elders [the opportunity] to learn new skills, engage with our young people and bridge the gap across generations,” he said.
Leading up to the official opening, Bush said, the Cayman Islands National Museum developed a series of cultural workshops to take place at the hub.
“My ministry recognises the importance of keeping our older generation engaged and active and has already initiated a six-week, low-impact class with more physical and enriching activities on the horizon,” he said.
Bush also noted that his ministry is working with the education ministry to enable seniors to access the pool at Clifton Hunter High School for classes.
In addition, he said the connection to the Youth Services Unit is important to the mission of the hub.
“Through YSU, the intergenerational hub will be used for youth programmes, and activities including the Cayman Islands Youth Assembly and the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors. Workshops and meetings have already been hosted for youth leaders, partners and youth development and programmes seeking grant funding.
“This innovative project was born from the desire to have a centre for older persons, but the idea has since transformed into a community meeting place for all ages,” Bush said.
In his remarks at the opening ceremony, André Ebanks, minister of social development, said the hub would be a way to bring “people together, and gets us working as a country again.
“Let this intergenerational hub be another proof point, that’s how we are going to bring community back.”
Following the official ribbon-cutting, attendees were given a tour of the facility. The event also included entertainment by the John Gray High School string ensemble, Olujimi La Pierre playing pan, and a performance by the Radiance Dance Group.
Related Videos
