A group of 23 students have been building their futures after graduating from a course that provides them with job placements over the summer.

Family Centre’s Building My Future youth programme teaches work habits critical to job success, and reinforces the connection between self-discipline and accomplishment.

Deneca Zuill, Family Centre’s community team leader, said the course exposed young people to career opportunities and positive role models.

She said: “The programme’s focus is on engaging youth in productive and positive ways while supporting their growth.

“The programme has two distinct phases. During May through July, youth participate in workshops and hands-on experiences to learn and practise professional etiquette and life skills such as how to give a great interview and manage their money.

“During the month of August, youth participate in a paid four-week work placement that puts the skills they have learnt to the test.”

The students gained work experience in a variety of professions, from hairdressing to catering to policing and law.

Leila Wadson, the charity’s director of community services, said the course was only possible because of the support of local organisations.

She said: “This is a programme where you can see young people transform before your eyes. This is made possible by the relationships that are developed and the opportunities provided by numerous community partners.

“Developing a workshop or providing a meaningful work placement is no simple feat. It requires time, dedication and the desire to be a positive change agent in a young person’s life.

“In a busy world, where we are all stretched, it is heartening to know that this summer, 44 individuals, businesses or organisations prioritised youth development by providing internship placements for our youth.”

Ms Zuill added: “Building My Future has been running for 12 years and as the lead co-ordinator, I must say that this year was one of the most powerful summers to date.

“This is a testament to how invested this year’s work-placement supervisors were in supporting the growth of each young person.

“While there are so many success stories to highlight, I would like to specifically acknowledge Jahkeel Smith, Christina Leverock and Sokiera Mosley-Lee, who won awards for best all-round programme participants of the year.

“Congratulations to Jahmaria Foster-Gilbert and D’Mori Havery, who received the award for most growth and improvement, and to Treazi Gibbons, who won this year's resiliency award.”

• If you are interested in being a community partner for the Building My Future programme next year, e-mail Deneca@tfc.bm. For more information about Family Centre, visit www.tfc.bm or call 2321116