WWKIDS Educational Conference to tackle literacy, neurodiversity in Jamaica

The WWKIDS Educational Conference will take place at the S Hotel in Kingston from October 1 to 3, bringing together parents, educators, and advocates to focus on building stronger support systems for children across the region.

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The non-profit organization Winsome Wishes for KIDS (WWKIDS), which operates in both the United States and Jamaica, is hosting the three-day event under the theme “Unlocking Potential with Literacy, Neurodiversity, and Family Empowerment.” Founder and president Simone Sobers Fisher said the conference will run daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with each day offering a distinct focus.

Day one will highlight the foundations and fundamentals of early literacy, day two will explore ways to support students beyond the classroom, and day three will provide practical tools and strategies for educators to use directly in their teaching. Keynote speakers include Mrs. Grace Bastin and Dr. Devin Kearns, both recognized for their contributions to literacy and educational development.

The event is the latest initiative from WWKIDS, which was established in February 2020 to strengthen schools and organizations in Jamaica by providing academic resources, professional development for teachers, and financial assistance. The organization is named in memory of Fisher’s sister, Winsome Kirkland, and reflects Fisher’s lifelong passion for education—a passion inspired by her years as a student at Vaz Prep School under the guidance of her teacher, Mrs. Roslyn “Auntie Rosie” Smith.

Fisher recalled Smith’s lasting impact: “Auntie Rosie recognized my weaknesses, took a keen interest in me, filled me with her spirit, and taught me how to soar to the top of the class. She is hands down one of the best human beings I have encountered in my lifetime.”

Now, as the mother of two children who graduated from New York City independent schools, Fisher says her goal is to help change the educational paradigm in Jamaica. “Everyone deserves a great education, and not every child learns the same way,” she said. “We are working to change the paradigm of education in Jamaica, one child at a time.”

Registration for the conference is open at https://tr.ee/WWKIDSEdConf.