Kickin It University, an educational program dedicated to celebrating and preserving Virgin Islands culture, has surpassed its crowdfunding goal, raising over $10,000. This overwhelming support from the Virgin Islands community paves the way for an exciting September launch, brimming with passionate students and cultural immersion opportunities.
KIU’s success extends beyond funding. Over 150 students have already registered early, eager to embark on a journey of cultural exploration. In addition, KIU has formed an esteemed Advisory Board, featuring prominent cultural figures like Mrs. Bernadine Louis, Chalana Brown, Dean Greenaway, Dr. Katherine Smith and others. The program will be led by Kickin It’s Program Manager, Tiye Hodge.
Kickin It University has also fostered a unique collaboration with Carrot Bay Cultural Thursdays, a thriving community market showcasing the talents of local artisans and cultural bearers. This partnership bridges the digital divide, connecting KIU with a wealth of knowledge and experience held by older community members who may not have an online presence. Through this collaboration, KIU ensures its curriculum is enriched by the wisdom of those who have lived and breathed Virgin Islands culture for generations.
“We are incredibly grateful for the community’s outpouring of support,” says Kyra James Douglas, Founder of Kickin It. “This funding and early enrollment demonstrate a genuine desire to celebrate and learn about Virgin Islands culture. We are particularly excited about our collaboration with Carrot Bay Cultural Thursdays, which allows us to tap into the irreplaceable knowledge of our elders.”
The wait is almost over! KIU will soon unveil its exceptional instructor lineup, offering a diverse range of courses for students of all levels. Additionally, a sneak peek of the user-friendly online platform, MyKIU, is on the horizon. MyKIU will empower students to create profiles, access a vast library of cultural materials, and engage in interactive learning experiences. Importantly, all course materials will be accessible throughout the entire four-year program and beyond, ensuring a lasting resource for cultural enrichment.
Stay tuned for exciting announcements from KIU, and get ready to kickstart your Virgin Islands cultural journey this September!
