A schoolgirl gunned down on Easter Sunday is "one of the stars" of Mirrors, according to those involved in the youth coaching programme.

Michéla Outerbridge, 17, who was shot three times outside Western Stars Sports Club in Pembroke, joined Mirrors last November and has since proven popular and dedicated to achieving her goals.

Jenea Scott, committed partner manager at Mirrors, said she was horrified to hear that the CedarBridge Academy student was injured in the midnight attack, which also left 39-year-old truck driver Antoine Tuzo in hospital.

"I found out shortly after it happened; a young person had texted me," Ms Scott told The Royal Gazette. "We create a sense of family and community and the young people really become enmeshed in one another.

"Once something has happened, we all come together and support one another. I had to do some calling and make sure everyone was OK.

"When they [the other teenagers in Michéla's cohort] found out, they were pretty upset about it but I took them through it and helped them stay positive and let them know it's a time to support her in her needs."

Michéla was hit in both arms, the chest and stomach and was told earlier this week that a bullet lodged in her lower right arm could not be removed.

Ms Scott said the teenager was a very active Mirrors participant, who had named herself "the princess of our group".

"She's very involved in her school and lots of extra-curricular activities and Mirrors has given her an extra boost in getting to accomplish the things she wants to do."

Ms Scott explained that though the Government-run scheme was initially aimed at "at risk" youth, it is now for any young person who opts to take part.

"I believe Michéla got orientated through her school," she said. "She decided that she wanted to do it. She went through a six-day intensive residential programme at the Willowbank Hotel. She was probably one of our star students."

The nine-month programme allows youngsters to benefit from a committed partner or coach — a volunteer from the community who meets them each week and help them fulfil their ambitions.

Michéla's coach Maya Furbert said she was devastated to hear that the teen was caught up in the shooting on St. John's Road.

"To be honest I just couldn't believe it; it was very shocking," she said. "I just don't really know where we go from here. I have been to see her many times but we haven't had time to really talk.

"I don't really know exactly where she is at with it but for the most part she's still herself and her spirits are up."

She described Michéla, who recently began working part-time at Mr. Chicken and wants to study law, as "really outgoing and ambitious".

"This has put us back," said the 27-year-old. "It just hurts. I have been coaching her since November and she is doing awesome. She is really committed to her goals."

Michéla's brother Sergio, 25, said last night: "She's doing well, although she is still in the hospital and will probably be over the weekend."

Police have yet to arrest anyone in connection with Sunday's shooting. Anyone with information should call 299-8115 or the independent 24-hour confidential Crime Stoppers Bermuda hot line on 800-8477.

l To be involved in the next Mirrors cohort call 294-9291 or e-mail mirrors@gov.bm.