Excell Agency, US Embassy partner to empower Jamaican youth

The Excell Agency, in partnership with the United States Embassy in Kingston, recently hosted a special film screening at the embassy’s Robeson American Center.

The event brought together 30 Jamaican students – including fifth formers, sixth formers, and university students – interested in business and entrepreneurship. Attendees had the opportunity to view and discuss the award-winning documentary She Did That.

Produced by Renae Bluitt, She Did That highlights the achievements of four trailblazing African-American women – Lisa Price (founder of Carol’s Daughter), Melissa Butler (founder of The Lip Bar), Luvvie Ajayi ( New York Times best-selling author), and Tonya Rapley (founder of My Fab Finance). Their stories showcase resilience, innovation, and the ability to break barriers – lessons that will resonate with aspiring Jamaican entrepreneurs.

Renae Bluitt is a New York City-based producer, brand consultant, and champion for women entrepreneurs. Her passion lies in creating opportunities and ecosystems for founders to thrive. Renae’s impactful work has been featured on CNN Headline News, in Forbes, Black Enterprise, The Tamron Hall Show, Insider, Essence, New York Living, and more – making her one of the most dynamic voices amplifying excellence in business and media.

Explaining her choice of film, Kith-Ann Excell, CEO of The Excell Agency, stated: “I want young people, especially aspiring entrepreneurs, to see what’s possible. These women took risks, overcame challenges, and built something remarkable. I want our students to see their journeys and recognise their own potential.”

YOUTH INVOLVEMENT

She emphasised the importance of including youth in discussions about their future.

“Too often, these conversations happen without them. This event changes that. We want them to see, speak, and believe in their possibilities.”

She also highlighted the power of film as an educational tool in today’s digital age.

“Film is a compelling and engaging way to educate, especially for young people who consume content visually. This format allows them to connect with the material, relate to the stories, and absorb the lessons in a lasting way.”

US Embassy Public Affairs Attaché Mike Lavallee said: “The US Embassy is delighted to partner with The Excell Agency to empower Jamaican youth through this inspiring film screening and discussion. By showcasing the achievements of the remarkable women in She Did That, we aim to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit and ambition of these students. This event aligns perfectly with our efforts to build entrepreneurism through other programmes such as the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) and the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE).”

Lavallee further stated, “These initiatives have demonstrated the profound impact that mentorship and exposure to success stories can have on young minds, and this film screening is a testament to our ongoing commitment to investing in the future leaders and entrepreneurs of Jamaica.”

Participants included students from the University of Technology’s Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics & Leadership; The Queen’s School; Meadowbrook High; and Vauxhall High.

Students shared heartfelt reflections following the event.

“The event was impactful. Watching the film show me that everybody go through dem struggles, but dem still push through and build successful businesses, making a lot of money. It motivate me fi know seh mi nuh fi listen to negative talk or let nobody hold me back. Anything mi set mi mind to, a jus dat mi fi go fa! Yeah, it really inspire and motivate mi,” said Nickoy Taylor from Vauxhall High School.

MOTIVATED

Anniska Grant, of UTech’s Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership, shared, “I am now motivated to never give up and to take care of my mental health. Sometimes, while trying to achieve the world, we carry it on our shoulders. It’s okay to rest, reflect, and accept praise – because you deserve it.”

Sasha Miller, a fourth-year student at UTech’s Joan Duncan School, noted, “What stood out most – aside from Ms Excell’s vibrant energy – was the final activity. I loved how teachers, university, and high-school students all came together to share ideas across sectors. The diverse perspectives were amazing.”

Shawntia Daley, a sixth-form student at The Queen’s School, added, “I was inspired by the event in a way that motivates me to keep striving to make my business one of the top players in the industry. I am committed to taking action and, no matter how long it takes to reach my goal, I firmly believe that, with determination, I will get where I want to be.”

The event was powered by the generous support of Long Story Short Jamaica and Short Story Short, Jamaica’s first and only storytelling showcase and live music experience, which celebrates the power of authentic narratives through storytelling and music. Additional support was provided by National Baking Company, which is deeply invested in early childhood education and community development.