[IPYG] We are not just the future. An interview with JCI Jamaica’s Marklon Bedward on changing the world right now
How much can one small action from a young person actually change a neighborhood? It’s a question a lot of us ask when looking at the world today. To find out, we caught up with Marklon Bedward, the 2026 National President of Junior Chamber International Jamaica (JCI Jamaica). His team has been driving youth leadership for over six decades, and this year, under the theme “Evolve and Connect,” they are taking things a step further. Here is what he shared about real community survival, breaking boundaries, and why peace isn't as far off as we think.
Moving past theory: A 65-year legacy of doing the work
Since its start in 1961, JCI Jamaica has grown into a community of about 140 members across five local chapters. But they aren't interested in just sitting in classrooms talking about change.
“JCI is not just a place to learn theory,” Marklon says. “It’s a place where lives and communities are transformed through practical experience.”
One of the most interesting parts of how they work is a rule called “One Year to Lead.” Instead of keeping the same people in power, JCI passes new responsibilities to different young members every single year. It keeps the energy fresh and gives everyone a real chance to step up.
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Mangroves, expos, and real recovery
This year, their focus is split between healing the environment and building up local skills under a simple slogan: “Evolve Your Power: Empower Your Community, Connect with the World.”
Instead of broad, vague goals, they are focusing on three very specific needs right now:
Rebuilding after Hurricane Melissa: Planting mangrove trees to restore the coastlines that protect the island.
The Autism Awareness Expo: Creating a space for inclusion and supporting families who feel overlooked.
JCI Elite Academy: Training young people in business strategy, debate, and leadership so they have real tools for the future.
“Our core goal this year is to support communities in recovery while also strengthening the practical skills of young people,” Marklon explains.
The IPYG partnership: Lowering crime through trust
What makes their current push even stronger is their three-year partnership with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG). This collaboration has moved far beyond simple events. From organizing regional Peace Walks across the Caribbean to sponsoring the Jamaica Peace Cup, the focus has shifted toward building lasting trust.
According to Marklon, the results are showing up in the community where it matters most:
“It goes beyond simple events, serving as a bridge that fosters harmony among vulnerable community members, the police, and NGOs. Building such relationships of trust has contributed to meaningful social outcomes, including efforts to reduce crime within the community.”
"Never underestimate your smallest action"
When asked what he wanted to say to other young people watching from different corners of the world, Marklon didn't hesitate. His message was a direct call to step out of fear.
“I encourage you to move forward without fear for yourselves and for future generations. We are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also the driving force changing the world today.
Never underestimate the power of even your smallest action. That small action will one day bear great fruit. I believe that the peace we seek can surely be achieved. If we truly desire a peaceful world, we as leaders must hold firmly to the conviction that we must expand cooperation and move forward together.”
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the headlines, but seeing a group of young people physically lowering crime rates and planting trees reminds us that change is just a series of small, intentional choices. JCI Jamaica and IPYG are proving that we don’t have to wait for the future to be the leaders our communities need. What’s one small thing you can do in your neighborhood today? Let's talk about it in the comments below.
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