Middle school students shared concerns with adults during a Youth Leadership Intensive course run by Family Centre.

The charity said that the programme aimed to build the confidence of young people to speak up and "increase the effectiveness of adults who work with or on behalf of youth“.

It added: “The training enables young people to meet with adults on an equal footing to discuss issues of concern and offer their ideas for solving community issues.”

A total of 16 students from Dellwood Middle School and 18 adults took part in the event.

The charity added: “This year, youth seized the opportunity to present their ideas for enhancing their school experience, addressing challenges to the natural environment, promoting community safety and creating platforms for youth-led conversations on issues of concern.”

Leila Wadson, Family Centre’s director of community services, said: “The impactful outcomes of YLI were due to the collaboration between the Dellwood Middle School staff and the active participation of youth advocates and engaged community leaders.”

Inspector Karema Flood, of the Bermuda Police Service, Kalmar Richards, the Commissioner of Education, Major Marc Telemaque, the Secretary to the Cabinet, and Sandy De Silva, Family Centre’s executive director, were among those who took part.

The YLI course is the first stage of the charity’s five-year Youth Leadership Academy, which offers Dellwood students mentorship, guidance and exposure to unique opportunities continuing through high school.

Deneca Zuill, a programme co-ordinator for the YLA, explained: “Through leadership opportunities and dedicated mentorship, young people are empowered to shape their future and drive positive change in their community.

“At the same time, YLA youth and families receive support with various challenges that arise.”