The atmosphere at Sunday’s launch of Hanover’s Cauldwell Sunrise Police Youth Club shifted from formal ceremony to full-blown entertainment spectacle—thanks to an unexpected but electrifying showcase from members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).
What began as a celebratory community event for the youngsters at the Hanover Educational Institute in Cousins Cove, quickly transformed into something resembling a mini concert, as officers from the Community Safety and Security Branch turned up “in full force”—and not just in uniform. Many of them, still youthful themselves, connected effortlessly with the audience, blurring the lines between law enforcement and community in a way that felt both natural and refreshing.
Then came the moment no one quite saw coming.
As the formalities eased, the officers took to the stage—and took over the show.
Among performances was Corporal Ronald Bowen of the St James Division, alongside National Police Youth Club Coordinator Sergeant Ricardo McCalpin. The two delivered performances that could easily rival major dancehall stages such as Reggae Sumfest and Sting.
At one point, McCalpin—clearly enjoying the moment—had the audience roaring with laughter when he declared:
“Dem move Sumfest from Area One, you know, and put it at Area Two, suh mi haffi give oonu a Sumfest performance, right?”
The crowd’s response? Immediate and emphatic approval, with fellow officers backing him up in chorus.
And he delivered.
Bowen, for his part, blended entertainment with education, performing an interpolation of Deportee by Buju Banton, cleverly reworking the message to encourage young people to take their education seriously. It was a reminder that even in moments of fun, the mission of mentorship remained front and centre.
Constable John Wilks of the St James Division also left his mark with a powerful performance centred on discipline and unity. His message resonated deeply with the audience:
“The only thing we want is for you to live together. Unity is strength… Let’s save Jamaica. This a wi likkle treasure.”
If anyone entered expecting only speeches and formalities, they likely left pleasantly surprised—perhaps even wondering if a few of the officers might have missed their calling on stage.
But beneath the humour and high energy was a serious and longstanding mission.
The Police Youth Club movement, which dates back to 1954, was born out of a need to address youth unemployment and rising delinquency. Visionaries like social worker Basil Ferguson, alongside law enforcement leaders such as Corporal Everald Matthews and then Commissioner Col. R. T. Mitchelin, recognized the importance of building bridges between the police and young people.
From its humble beginnings in Sandy Bay, Hanover, the initiative has grown into a nationwide network of approximately 500 clubs, providing guidance, structure, and opportunity for thousands of Jamaican youths.
The Cauldwell launch served as a modern-day reminder of that vision in action.
Yes, there were speeches. Yes, there was structure. But there was also laughter, rhythm, and a powerful sense of connection.
And if the performances were anything to go by, the message was clear: community policing in Jamaica isn’t just about enforcement—it’s also about engagement, inspiration, and, every now and then, delivering a “likkle Sumfest” when the moment calls for it.
