EmpowerHer programme making positive inroads

More than a year ago, the St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown (SJCK), implemented an impactful initiative aimed at helping to shape a new generation of confident, resilient young women. The EmpowerHer programme has continued to work towards enhancing the lives of female students by blending sport, wellness, and personal development into one powerful platform. Founded by Alexandra Walrond, EmpowerHer was also created to foster Resilience, Inspiration, Strength, and Empowerment (RISE), among young female student-athletes.

In an interview on Wednesday April 8, 2026, Walrond said that “EmpowerHer has highlighted sport as more than competition. It is a pathway to discipline, leadership, higher education, and even professional careers”. She noted that students are encouraged to see athletics as an avenue for both personal growth and opportunity.

“A key pillar of the programme has been its engagement with a diverse range of guest facilitators who bring real-world experience and inspiration,” she added. Students have had the opportunity to interact with accomplished athletes such as Olympics swimmer Shane Cadogan, West Indies cricketer Kesrick Williams, and Olympian middle-distance runner Kineke Alexander. They were also joined by national athlete and past student Shanique DeShong, along with wellness advocates and professionals including Dr. Tamira Browne, Kimmette Robinson and Dr. Jozelle Miller.

The founder explained that these sessions go beyond motivation by providing practical tools for navigating emotions, building self-esteem, and developing a healthy mindset. EmpowerHer also prioritizes hands-on engagement through a variety of creative and physical activities. Participants have taken part in obstacle challenges, team-building exercises with fitness instructors, along with vision board development, and creative arts programmes.

Additionally, Walrond said that the programme does not stop at inspiration but it actively invests in opportunity. “EmpowerHer has supported student-athletes by helping to facilitate access to structured training, including sponsorship opportunities for participation in programmes such as the Biomechanics Athletic Club,” she said.

“After more than a year of consistent work, EmpowerHer stands as a model of what holistic youth development can look like. It is not just building athletes, it is shaping leaders, thinkers, and confident young women prepared to navigate life’s challenges,” Walrond stated.