Under the Patronage of the President of Barbados
A structured youth development programme building leadership through service, discipline, and character for young Barbadians aged 14 to 24.
The Chapman Challenge is a three-tier youth development programme that creates structured, progressive pathways for young Barbadians aged 14 to 24. Grounded in service, discipline, and character, the programme operates through voluntary, part-time commitment alongside school, work, and life.
Participants progress through three tiers over multiple years. Each tier increases in responsibility, depth, and impact. From Explorer to Builder to Leader, every stage builds real skills through real community engagement.
The programme is built entirely on voluntary service. No paid staff, no tuition fees. Mentors, trainers, and programme officers give their time because they believe in what young people can become when given structure, support, and purpose.
Each tier is a one-year commitment. You progress by demonstrating readiness, not just age.
Tier One
Build your foundation. 50 hours of community service, 24 hours of leadership training, and your first mentorship experience. Learn what it means to serve without recognition.
Award: Bronze Service Award
Tier Two
Step up to lead. 100 hours of service with at least 30 in a leadership role. Design your own service initiative. Transition from mentee to peer mentor.
Award: Silver Service Award
Tier Three
Create lasting impact. Design, implement, and evaluate a signature community project. Mentor 2-3 younger participants. Prepare for lifelong civic leadership.
Award: Gold Service Award + Presidential Award eligibility
Every tier is built on the same five foundations. The depth increases, but the pillars remain.
Hands-on service in your parish and beyond. Beach cleanups, tutoring, senior care, disaster response. Real work that builds real empathy.
Monthly workshops that progress from personal responsibility to strategic leadership. You do not just learn about leadership. You practise it.
Every participant has a mentor. By Tier Two, you become one. The programme runs on relationships, not transactions.
Understanding Barbados in the Caribbean and the world. Climate action, sustainable development, cultural exchange, and diaspora engagement.
Maintain your studies. Build new skills. Whether university-bound or trade-focused, the programme supports your path.
Complete the challenger application form. Open to all young Barbadians aged 14 to 24 who are ready to commit.
You will be paired with a vetted mentor who matches your interests, goals, and parish location.
Start with Tier One as an Explorer. Complete service hours, attend workshops, and build your foundation over one year.
Meet your requirements and receive your Bronze, Silver, or Gold Service Award at the Annual Ceremony each August.
Complete the challenger application form. Open to all young Barbadians aged 14 to 24 who are ready to commit.
You will be paired with a vetted mentor who matches your interests, goals, and parish location.
Start with Tier One as an Explorer. Complete service hours, attend workshops, and build your foundation over one year.
Meet your requirements and receive your Bronze, Silver, or Gold Service Award at the Annual Ceremony each August.
Everything you need to know about The Chapman Challenge in one document. Share it with a young person, a potential mentor, or a community partner.
Any young Barbadian aged 14 to 24 who is willing to commit to a one-year programme of community service, leadership training, and mentorship. Parental or guardian consent is required for participants under 18.
The programme is designed around voluntary, part-time commitment. Tier One requires approximately 50 hours of community service, 24 hours of leadership workshops, 40 hours of mentorship, and 12 hours of global citizenship activities spread across one year.
No. The Chapman Challenge is entirely free. The programme operates through voluntary service at every level, including mentors, trainers, and programme officers.
You receive a service award (Bronze, Silver, or Gold) at the Annual Ceremony in August. If you meet the advancement criteria and receive positive evaluations, you become eligible to progress to the next tier.
In exceptional cases, candidates with demonstrated equivalent experience may apply for direct entry to Tier Two or Three. This requires a selection panel review and Advisory Council approval.
Mentors are vetted volunteers who provide one-on-one guidance through career exploration, academic support, life skills, and community service. All mentors complete background checks, safeguarding training, and adhere to a Mentor Code of Conduct.
Built on voluntary service, sustained by part-time commitment. Whether you are 14 or 24, there is a place for you in this journey.