Meet Kenene Senior | Educator, Associate Psychologist & Social Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kenene Senior and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kenene, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I am a social entrepreneur, driven by a desire to address the social, psychological, and academic challenges faced by youth in my community. My primary goal was never about making money, but rather about creating a positive social impact. The inspiration for my venture, God’s Investment for Today (G.I.F.T.) Foundation Jamaica Ltd., originally came from my father, who passed away in November 2020. In 2018, I realized that the foundation was no longer active, and I felt a strong need to revitalize it because of its importance to our community.

At-risk children and youth often encounter numerous obstacles, such as poverty, limited educational opportunities, exposure to violence, and a lack of emotional and social support. I believed that a venture dedicated to addressing these issues would be ideal for filling the gaps in their lives by providing essential resources and support they might otherwise lack. My thought process was centered on the idea that investing in the development of at-risk children and youth could create long-lasting positive effects, not just for the individuals involved, but for the community as a whole.

My educational background in education and psychology provided a solid foundation for this venture. It allowed me to utilize my knowledge and experiences effectively to make a meaningful difference. Additionally, my passion for mental health led me to establish a counseling practice as one of my businesses, which was a natural extension of my commitment to supporting the well-being of young people.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
God’s Investment for Today (G.I.F.T.) Foundation Jamaica Ltd. is a social enterprise dedicated to empowering at-risk children and youth, particularly those with disabilities, low self-esteem, a history of abuse, and those residing in low-income and high-crime communities. Our mission is to strengthen their educational and socio-emotional capacity and foster their creative and artistic abilities.

What sets me apart from others is my deep commitment to social impact combined with a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving. My background in education, psychology, and criminology has equipped me with a unique perspective that I bring to all my ventures. I am dedicated to empowering at-risk youth and fostering academic excellence, and I strive to integrate holistic and innovative methods into my work.

What sets G.I.F.T. Foundation apart is our holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by at-risk youth. We don’t just focus on one aspect of their lives; we provide comprehensive support that includes mentorship, academic support, psychosocial and spiritual nurturing, and the development of their innate talents. Our programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they receive personalized guidance and support. One of the most exciting aspects of our work is witnessing the transformation in the lives of the children and youth we serve. We are particularly proud of our success in integrating artistic development into our programs, which has unlocked the potential of many disenfranchised youths, allowing them to express themselves creatively and confidently. We have launched several impactful initiatives, including: Empowerment Saturdays, our monthly GIFT Box distributed to a family or families in need, our Talent Expo and Competition, Spelling Bee Competitions, Reading Club, Feeding of the Homeless program, Back to School Distribution drives.

I am most proud of the tangible differences I’ve been able to make in the lives of young people. From revitalizing the G.I.F.T. Foundation to the work I’ve done at Moneague College, seeing students thrive and overcome their challenges is incredibly fulfilling. I was the 2018 recipient of the Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica Instructional Leadership Award, as well as the John & Suanne Roueche Excellence in Teaching Award. In 2022 I was among the 8 Jamaicans who participated in the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship and in 2023 I was awarded the Governor General’s Award for Achievement. In May 2024 I was selected as a social entrepreneur to be among the inaugural cohort in the Clinton Global Initiative Fellowship.

The journey to where we are today has not been easy. Revitalizing the foundation after it was dormant for some time required significant effort and dedication. One major challenge was securing funding to sustain and expand our programs. Through persistent grant writing, building strategic partnerships, and cultivating donor relationships, we were able to overcome financial hurdles. advancing my career in academia and social entrepreneurship demanded a lot of hard work, continuous learning, and unwavering dedication. Additionally, being adaptable and open to feedback has allowed me to refine my approaches and improve my programs continuously.

Throughout this journey, I have learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. Social entrepreneurship demands flexibility and a willingness to innovate in response to changing circumstances. We have also learned that community involvement and collaboration are key to sustaining our impact. Engaging with local stakeholders and building a strong support network has been crucial to our success.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of persistence. Success doesn’t come overnight, and it requires consistent effort and a willingness to adapt and innovate. I’ve also learned the value of community and collaboration; building a strong support network has been essential in driving the impact I strive for. Lastly, I’ve realized the importance of maintaining a balance between professional ambitions and personal well-being, ensuring that I stay motivated and passionate about my work.

I want the world to know that my journey is driven by a profound desire to create positive social change. Through my work, whether at the G.I.F.T. Foundation or Moneague College, I aim to empower those who are often overlooked and provide them with opportunities to succeed. My story is one of resilience, passion, and a steadfast commitment to making a difference. I believe that with the right support and resources, every individual has the potential to achieve greatness, and I am dedicated to being a catalyst for that transformation. I want the world to know that at G.I.F.T. Foundation, we are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of at-risk youth. Our work is driven by a deep passion for social justice and the belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their background. Our story is one of perseverance, community, and the transformative power of support and education. By investing in the development of at-risk children and youth, we are not only changing individual lives but also contributing to the betterment of our entire community. We invite others to join us in this mission and help us create a brighter future for the next generation.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the north coast of Jamaica, I’d ensure they have an unforgettable week filled with adventure, relaxation, and authentic local experiences. We’d start with a luxurious stay at an all-inclusive hotel, enjoying the beach and live entertainment. The next day, we’d explore the iconic Dunn’s River Falls, followed by a delicious lunch at Miss T’s Kitchen to savor Jamaican cuisine. We’d then have an adrenaline-filled day at Yaaman Adventure Park with ATV rides and camel trekking. For a cultural touch, we’d visit Konoko Falls, exploring its botanical gardens and museum, and dine at Scotchies for some famous jerk chicken. A scenic drive to Little Ochie Seafood Restaurant would treat us to fresh seafood by the beach. At Camp Irie Adventures, we’d zip-line, river tube, and hike amidst nature. Our evenings would be spent enjoying beach bonfires, moonlit walks, and fine dining at the hotel. The trip would culminate with some shopping at Ocho Rios Craft Market, ensuring we have souvenirs to remember the vibrant and welcoming spirit of Jamaica. Along the way, we’d meet friendly locals and experience the rich culture and natural beauty that make the north coast so special.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d love to give a heartfelt shoutout to several incredible people and groups who have significantly contributed to my journey. First and foremost, my parents, Vivette & Clifford Senior, deserve immense recognition. Even though my father has passed, his influence and support remain a guiding force in my life. My mom remains the wind beneath my wings. She prays for me; she cheers me on and when life becomes overwhelming, she carries me. My extended family (my aunts, cousins) has also been a constant source of encouragement and love.

I am eternally grateful to the team at GIFT Foundation Jamaica. All team members are volunteering their time, and they have bought into the vision and are doing what is necessary to ensure that the mission is fulfilled. Words are not enough to say how appreciative I am for the part they have played in my story.

I am deeply grateful to my church family at the Church of God of Prophecy in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, Jamaica, for their spiritual support and fellowship. They have been a pillar of strength for me.

My work family at The Moneague College has provided an inspiring and supportive environment that has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge my friends- very few persons hold this title so they know themselves. Their encouragement and belief in me have been invaluable. Along my journey I have met quite a few persons who have become mentors and they have helped to guide me in the various areas of my life.

To all of these amazing individuals and groups, thank you for your unwavering support and for playing such a vital role in my story.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kt_senior?igsh=MXFoMmc5OWJjZzR3Yg== https://www.instagram.com/gift_jamaica?igsh=cTk4a3lpb2dhdnMy

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/kenene-senior-ma-pgdip-bsc-45577735

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kenene.senior https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078841057231