Written by Kareem LaTouche
The RuJohn Foundation’s annual Celebrity Camps returned to Jamaica with a bang! This unique initiative offers Jamaican youth the chance to learn valuable life skills and explore their creative potential under the guidance of celebrities, athletes, and industry professionals.
Led by brother-sister duo Dr. Christina Bachelor and social media star Andrew “King Bach” Bachelor, the RuJohn Foundation is dedicated to providing educational tools to underprivileged schools in the US and Jamaica. Their Celebrity Camps are a cornerstone of this mission, offering workshops in athletics, acting, and personal development.
Lights, Camera, Action!
The 2024 Celebrity Camp kicked off at the luxurious Pegasus Hotel in Kingston. Kids from diverse backgrounds were welcomed with open arms and given the chance to explore their interests. From aspiring actors learning from industry veterans like Allen Maldonado (Straight Outta Compton), Lesley Ann Bryandt (Spartacus: Blood and Sand) and Marissa Brooks (CBS Studios) to budding athletes receiving coaching from former NFL player Toddrick Verdell, Christina Granville (I Hoop Too Foundation), and NBA star Paul Newman, the workshops catered to a wide range of talents. While speed coach John Garrish helped students refine their technique.
Video – Ru John Foundation
Building Champions On and Off the Field
The camp wasn’t just about honing athletic and artistic skills. Workshops on topics like self-esteem and building confidence aimed to empower these young minds. As Dr. Christina Bachelor explains, “The purpose of these workshops is to introduce students to the various activities and to develop their skills in different areas. This is why we bring professionals from the US, to provide guidance for these kids.”
Spreading the Love
The camp kicked off the second day at the historic Kingston College High School (KC High) for another day of interactive sessions. “My father went to KC and my mother went to Wolmers, so we host the camp, one of the days at KC and then we head down to UWI western campus,” says Dr. Bachelor. This commitment to giving back to their community shines through in their dedication to reaching students across the island.
From Ballet to Basketball: A Day of Discovery
At KC High, students were treated to a diverse range of activities. Aspiring ballerinas learned graceful moves in dedicated classes, while those interested in the television industry received valuable insights from Marissa Brooks. The energy on the basketball court was electric as students honed their skills under the watchful eyes of NBA player Paul Newman and coaches. Even cheerleading wasn’t left out, with students learning exciting routines from Amanda Robinson, a former dancer for the Brooklyn Nets.
King Bach’s Passion for Potential
The ever-enthusiastic King Bach wasn’t just a co-founder; he actively participated in the camp, his infectious energy motivating the students. “I love helping these kids because they have so much potential, plus they are taking the sessions very seriously,” he remarked.
The camp wrapped up with a final performance in Kingston, showcasing the incredible skills the students had acquired in just a short time. From confident acting to impressive basketball moves, the students truly impressed the audience.
Scholarships
The RuJohn Foundation announced that select students from participating schools, including Ruseas High, Duhaney Park Primary, Unity Primary, St. Hugh’s High, St. George’s College, Kingston College High, Mona Primary, and others across Jamaica, would be awarded scholarships for the 2024 academic year. These scholarships aim to further empower deserving students and remove financial barriers that might hinder their educational pursuits.
Be a Part of the Magic!
Inspired by the RuJohn Foundation’s mission? If you’re in Jamaica and know a child who would benefit from this incredible program, visit the RuJohn Foundation website at https://www.rujohnfoundation.com/ to learn more about upcoming events and how to get involved.
This summer camp experience goes beyond fun and games; it’s about empowering the next generation of Jamaican leaders, artists, and athletes. So, if you’re looking for a way to make a positive impact on your Jamaican adventure, consider supporting the RuJohn Foundation’s incredible work.
The 2024 Celebrity Camp boasted an impressive lineup of mentors. Aspiring actors learned the ropes from seasoned performers like Allen Maldonado (Straight Outta Compton) and sharpened their on-screen presence with guidance from Marissa Brooks, a VP in Drama Development at CBS Studios. On the athletic side, former NFL player Toddrick Verdell shared his expertise, while speed coach John Garrish helped students refine their technique. The energetic Paul Newman, an NBA player, brought his passion for basketball to the court, while Amanda Robinson, who formerly danced for the Brooklyn Nets, turned up the excitement with cheerleading workshops. This star-studded group, along with Christina Granville (I Hoop Too Foundation) and others, ensured a well-rounded and unforgettable experience for the participating youth.
