YWCA to host charity concert this weekend

The Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) will be hosting the second staging of their now annual Professionals in Concert series on Saturday. The organisers are calling on the public to support the event, pointing out that the funds from ticket sales will go towards the development of the institution.

The concert is spearheaded by artistic director and dancer Karen Wright. Wright, who is known for her work with Baby Cham and other established acts, said that having seen the support the event garnered last year, she is looking forward to what this year's staging has in store.

She explained that the funds collected last year went a far way in getting some much-needed supplies for the school that predominantly caters to troubled teens and the disenfranchised, underage mothers who have been rejected by mainstream schools.

"The first staging was well supported, and the audience enjoyed it. After seeing how exciting, motivating and beneficial the show was to both the school and the students who participated, I was excited to be on board for the second leg. The school is finally getting more highlight, and it also motivated the girls to enter the JCDC (Jamaica Cultural Development Commission) competitions last year for the first time in many years," she said, noting that the school received two bronze medals and two merit awards.

The veteran dancer also revealed that after seeing how interested the girls were in the performing arts, the school has created a new department which will direct more focus to that area.

"We notice that the girls are strong in the entertainment field, and we are trying to help them reach their fullest potential," she said. "We have some talented ladies at the institution, and I believe the new department will go a far way in helping them improve on their talents."

The event, which is set for the grounds of the YWCA at 51 Arnold Road in Kingston, is expected to start at 5 p.m.