Ms. Segree launched her project under the theme “Better Men for a Better Tomorrow” on Sunday, October 14 at the Bamboo Anglican Church in St. Ann.

An overview of the project was presented by Ms. Segree who, encouraged members of the congregation to assist in whatever way possible.

A rap session was conducted where the young men introduced themselves, then proceeded to tell of their likes and dislikes and some of the difficulties they faced at the Centre. These included: · education · employment opportunites

The queen was impressed by the talents of the youths, who showcased their talents in the form of:

• speech
• dance
• music

Some expressed the desire to become better citizens by developing skills in auto mechanics, carpentry and plumbing, which they hope will enable them to make positive changes in their lives.

A concert, which will serve as a funding raising event as well as a motivational strategy, is being planned to showcase the talents of the young men.

The project will be launched under the theme “Boys to men” Growing up in the 21st Century with a church service at the Sav-la-mar Anglican Church on Sunday, October 28,2001. It will focus on motivating boys between the ages of 12 to 15 years from Petersfield High school, and helping them to deal with emotional , physical and mental issues. A total of forty (40) boys from five (5) grade nine (9) classes will be involved in the project. The group will meet twice per month where they will be exposed to various workshops and motivational sessions.

Activities will include:

• Motivational talks
• Etiquette
• Developing healthy relationships (personal, interpersonal)
• Career development

Representatives from different occupational backgrounds will also be asked to make an input in the project.

THEME: “Redefining yourself through Cultural Awareness”

The program was launched on Sunday September 30, 2001 under the theme “Redefining Yourself Through Cultural Awareness”. The aim of the project is to help young males within the parish of St. Mary become ambitious and self-reliant through positive psychological, social and moral values. It is also hoped that a scholarship fund will be launched to help individuals attain secondary education.

The objective of the project is to:

• Educate youth to place high value on their self-worth and accept their sexuality
• expose them to proper etiquette
• hold motivational talks
• have grooming sessions
• have rap sessions
• host Sunday evening dinner in and around the community

Youths will also be assisted in identifying and developing their talents, which will form the basis for productive skills, to be achieved through:

• talent searches
• art competitions
• job shadowing
• career day

To help the boys develop awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage there will be:

• an evening of culture
• a rap session
• visits to heritage sites

At the end of the project a grand dinner will be hosted.