Anyone who has a heart of passion to help youths rise above their adversities must be given three cheers.

So, when I heard of Marlon Graham’s journey, harnessing and exposing the talent of youths in Greenwich Farm and Arnett Gardens, Jamaica. I simply want the world to hear about him.

Born in Jamaica, a land which produced icons such as Bob Marley and Usain Bolt, gave Marlon the energy and confidence to make his mission a success.

“I was born in Arnett Gardens and grew up in Greenwich Farm. So, I am familiar with both worlds and artistes like Nesbeth and Peter Metro.

“They say youths are our future leaders, so as adults we must give them the opportunity to shine.”

“Whenever one mentions Greenwich Farm and Arnett Gardens, we are talking about people, including youths, who live in poverty. They see their grandparents and parents struggling to make life better, but conditions oftentimes never change.”

“This becomes a cycle and the youths are our future, so how do we change the picture.”

Marlon knew there was an abundance of talent among the youths. “My heart is still torn with grief when I recall the untimely death of an aspiring footballer from Arnett Gardens. He was murdered. We saw him making the Reggae Boys’ football team, representing not just his community but Jamaica.

“He was not just a role model for a few youths. They believe that if he can be a success they too can feel like Nesbeth’s hit song ‘My Dream’.”

Although it was clear music was part of Marlon’s DNA, he didn’t ignore his talent as a footballer but wanted the Almighty to intervene and show him the right path.

“My father had a sound system called Magnum Force which was changed to Earth and Stone. This sound not only played in the Greenwich Farm community but also in other communities, including Spanish Town. I couldn’t escape the music, not with those heavy bass sounds which seem to be shaking down the zinc fences and the plates rattling on our shelves.”

“At five years old, I knew the songs done by several artistes such as Admiral Bailey, Super Cat, and Papa San. These were hit songs played regular from my dad’s sound system. My two bigger brothers were deejaying on the sound. I never had that vibes, but always see myself in the position to guide youths.”

In 2001, Marlon migrated to Maryland US and his passion for youths continued. “I operated a youth club back home (Jamaica). As soon as I was settled I began sending back football gear and money to sponsor events. I must confess, there was something else I needed to do so I prayed about it.”

(Photo contributed)