Empower Youth International (EYI) is a registered non-profit organization which was founded on November 2, 2012 against the background of a rise in youth crime, violence and gang activity. In Barbados, families, government and other youth agencies struggled to find effective strategies to control the type of behaviors our young people were exhibiting in relation to crime and violence that was permeating our communities.
The founders Franz and Troy Hamblin were already serving at risk youth in their community and felt compelled to create opportunities for young people to be empowered emotionally, intellectually and physically. Starting in 2012 with our first life skill programme entitled “Empower U”. This programme comprised of innovative workshops designed to tackle the many challenges facing the youth such as anger, conflict, drug abuse and promiscuity.
In 2019, E.Y.I expanded its programmes with funding from various agencies to create youth focus and holistic intervention programmes. Our programmes have not only empowered youth but have transformed their lives in many positive ways. To this end, many of the young people we work with between the ages of 12-21 are no longer exhibiting antisocial behaviors. In fact, many have become successful in achieving their life goals and ambitions.
