News

Boys to Men, a pioneering organization dedicated to the holistic development of young men in the Cayman Islands, recently concluded its annual Culture Trip in Cayman Brac from Friday, April 12 to Sunday, August 14. This remarkable journey saw over 100 high school boys from Clifton Hunter High School, John Gray High School, and Hope Academy immersed in a transformative experience aimed at fostering personal growth, community engagement, and leadership development.

The “Culture Trip”, not only provided these young men with the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Cayman Islands but also instilled in them a sense of social responsibility and civic duty.

Under the guidance of Boys to Men directors, Simon Miller, Christopher Murray and Seaford Russell, along with dedicated parents, and other mentors, the boys embarked on a journey filled with enriching experiences. Marsha Tibbetts, a dedicated volunteer, also played a pivotal role in facilitating the trip, organizing air travel through Cayman Airways, which provided a charter for the occasion.

For many of the boys, this trip marked significant milestones, as it was their first time flying on an airplane and visiting Cayman Brac. The itinerary included community projects, cultural tours, team-building activities, and sports engagements.

Highlights of the trip included community projects such as painting an elderly person’s home and revitalizing the West End community park and beach, organized in collaboration with the Rotary Club and The Lions Club. Additionally, the boys enjoyed an All Island Tour, participated in team-building exercises with the Fire Service, and even joined an impromptu football game with Under 15 Boys Teams.

On the final day, some of the boys showcased their commitment to community service by participating in the Deputy Governor’s 5K run, where Boys to Men is one of three charities benefiting from the event, alongside the National Children’s Voluntary Organisation and the Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship.

The boys' accommodations at the Cayman Brac Multi-purpose hall fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie, enabling them to bond with peers from different schools and backgrounds—a testament to the inclusive ethos of Boys to Men.

Reflecting on the significance of the Culture Trip, Director Chris Murray, emphasized the importance of immersing the boys in local culture while nurturing their sense of social responsibility. He added, “The boys demonstrated resilience, camaraderie, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.”

Simon Miller described the trip as a transformative experience, thanking the Brac community for their warm welcome and support. Seaford Russell highlighted the personal connections forged with the boys, underscoring the profound impact of mentorship and friendship.

Boys to Men, founded over 11 years ago, continues to empower young men across the Cayman Islands, providing mentorship, education, and leadership opportunities. With a focus on community development and personal growth, the organization remains committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders.

Boys to Men extends heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organizations who supported the Culture Trip, including Ms. Stacey VanDevelde of Feed Our Future, Ms. Joanna Phillips of Cayman Airways, Hon. Moses Kirkconnell, Mr. Mark Tibbetts, Mr. James "Jamo" Myles of Youth Services, Mr. James Tibbetts of Tibbetts Enterprises and Faith Hospital Cayman Brac, G & V Transportation Cayman Brac, RCIPS, the Rotary Club, the Lions Club and group organizer Ms. Marsha Tibbetts.

For more information or news on how you can support Boys to Men, contact, Christopher Murray at 329-0021 or via email at boystomencayman@gmail.com