Rescued from a dark place - Youth hail power of violence prevention programme

Grange Hill resident Orlando Cooper is singing the praises of a crime and violence prevention programme, which he said rescued him from a "place of darkness".

Cooper is among the approximately 650 youth to have graduated from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and FHI 360 (formerly Family Health International) Local Partner Development programme that targets young persons from 30 volatile communities islandwide.

"[The programme] changed me a lot, it taught me a lot [including] how to manage my anger, have respect for others, know how to talk to people, know how to approach a person. This programme turned me into a man, because I was a just a boy before," he confessed.

The Westmorelander gave his testimony during a recent award ceremony held at the Jewel Grande Hotel in Montego Bay, St James. Participants in the programme were trained in various skills, including customer service, food and beverage, and electrical installation. They also received psychosocial and mentorship support.

Approximately 109 participants were placed in jobs, while 140 persons received products and other support to start or improve their own micro businesses.

Cooper said that the programme has had a major impact on his life and he remains forever changed by the experience.

"I couldn't find myself. I had the thoughts [of positivity], but I didn't have anyone to guide me along the way. I must give thanks to FHI 360 [and USAID]. I am so overwhelmed, I don't even know how to say thanks properly...." Cooper said, his voice breaking as he fought to hold back tears.

"I can now tell every youth that is looking for a job, not to give up and don't try to 'turn down' yourself because there is always hope, there is always a chance; we must have self-belief, confidence and have an aim in life," he added.

Another participant, Sammaire Petgrave, of Glendevon, St James, spoke highly of the initiative. The 25-year-old said that prior to being a part of the programme, his life lacked direction.

"The programme came along and helped me with my anger issues, my thinking towards certain things and gave me an opportunity to work with other youth, socialise and share a lot of similar stories because we are from volatile areas," Petgrave said.