David Jones’ Final Reflection

Jamaica has many things to offer youths like myself. In doing this documentary I’ve seen things that intrigued me in a lot of areas. The areas that really stick out for me are socializing, watching footage of various videos, and taking trips. These areas I feel will forever leave a mark on me and the 2013 scholars of Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School.

     First, in a social sense people can learn a lot. I say this because in a relaxed environment people are more comfortable, and willing to do things and activities. For example, when we, accompanied by the Yallahs High School students went to the beach, and displayed our unique dances from America and they displayed the dances from Jamaica, we found them to be very similar. This one social exhibition on the beach stuck out for me because even the adults connected with us on various dances, songs, and rhythms. I wish I had this type of environment at home because when I listen to my music, it only connects with me and my peers. The only music I share with my elders is the occasional Rhythm & Blues track.

Chimamanda Adichie: The Danger of a Single Story

                   Secondly, the videos I watched really connected with me. The video that really caught my attention was the Ted Talk on the danger of a “single story”. This video connects with me because I, have fallen victim to the “single story” attitude. The presumptions about ones’ life, culture, and living situations are hard to get away from, but this video made it easier to recognize and stamp out these thoughts. This video would help anyone think critically before saying certain things, or try to mock an accent. Being from America, coming to Jamaica, I’ve felt the cold shoulder of the “single story."

            Finally, I want to elaborate on the trips we took while documenting. We took trips to lots of places like the National Art Gallery of Jamaica, Bob Marley Museum, Long Bay Beach and Morant Bay Beach), University of West Indies, the Edna Manley College of Performing Arts and a recording studio. The trip that appealed to me most was the trip to the campus of Edna Manley College of Music and Performing Arts. This challenged me to take my writing music more seriously and to do what I have to, to be prepared for what the Edna Manley College of Performing Arts and other colleges demands.

            To conclude, Jamaica is a very, very good place to experience different things. As for me, it was hard to gather my experience into this one essay. But as a final thought, I would like to say to the next group to come into this experience with an open mind, open heart, and closed mouth. Take time to let the knowledge and wisdom flow into you.