Y.E.S Academy

05/10/2026

Hello Students,

What stories are hidden in the sugar mills you pass every day?

The Division of Virgin Islands Cultural Education invites you to join Claiming Spaces: The African Story of the Sugar Mill, an exciting project that will take you beyond the classroom and into the landscapes, histories, and communities that shaped St. Croix.

As a participant, you will visit sugar mill sites, work with historians, artists, photographers, genealogists, ecologists, and community elders, and investigate the African knowledge and stories connected to these places. You will have the opportunity to learn new skills, meet fascinating people, and contribute to a project that helps tell the story of our island.

You do not need to be a history expert to join. We are looking for students who are curious and interested in learning. Whether you enjoy photography, art, writing, science, storytelling, interviewing people, creating videos, researching family history, or simply exploring new places, there is a role for you.

Working in small teams, you will:
Visit historic sugar mill sites across St. Croix.
Explore the history and culture connected to these landscapes.
Learn from local community stewards and heritage experts.
Conduct research and creative investigations.
Create a final project that could include a photo essay, artwork, map, audio story, short video, exhibit piece, or other creative presentation.
Earn community service hours in accordance with your school's requirements.

Your work may be featured in a public presentation and shared with audiences in the Virgin Islands and throughout the Caribbean through the Caribbean Culture Fund network.

Interested? Send an email to [email protected] with:
Your name
School and grade level
Your interests (photography, art, history, science, writing, video, community stories, etc.)
Parent or guardian contact information

We are recruiting approximately 20–25 students from St. Croix Central High School and St. Croix Educational Complex High School. Space is limited, so let us know if you are interested!

Come help uncover the stories hidden in our landscapes and share them with the world.

Stephanie Chalana Brown
Project Lead, Claiming Spaces: The African Story of the Sugar Mill
The Division of Virgin Islands Cultural Education

02/10/2026

30/09/2026

Protect your peace.
Know your worth.
Choose yourself. 💙💛

28/09/2026

School stress, FOMO about the future, squad drama, cash flow issues, career confusion, and trying to adult... like, what's next?!

That's why we created YES Academy - a space where they can get the real deal, no sugarcoating! Guidance, opportunities, and convos that actually matter. Oh, and you'll be seeing a lot more of Luma, our awesome mascot! Luma's all about lighting the way for our youth, showing them what's possible.

Over the next few weeks, get ready for: 💡 Life hacks nobody teaches you, 🎤 real talk with youth, 🚨 opportunities galore, 🎓 college and career deets, 💰 money smarts, and 🤝 connections that count.

Welcome back to YES Academy - where it's all about going Beyond Books. Beyond Borders.

28/09/2026

Empowering youth for brighter futures! 💙💛 Through YES Academy, we provide youth development, mentorship, career exposure, and more. Join us as a mentor, sponsor, partner, or volunteer to create opportunities for young people in the Virgin Islands. Scan the QR code to learn more and say YES to brighter futures!