MOM launches youth empowerment program in Region Six

THE Men On Mission (MOM) Initiative on Saturday launched its Youth Empowerment and Mentoring Programme, targeting youth in the region to provide support and guidance in Zone Six at Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Hampshire Civic Center and Line Path, Upper Corentyne.

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat explained to young people two key concepts for success: discipline and the importance of choosing a career that suits them.
He explained that discipline isn’t just about rules, it’s about habits that lead to success, like getting to school on time, completing homework, studying for exams, and helping parents at home.
The minister said young people are lucky to have the Men on a Mission program that will support their development and ultimately help them build successful careers in areas they may be passionate about.
More importantly, he told young people to remember that when choosing a career, it should be based on their own interests and not just on the wishes of their parents. As a result, he encouraged them to prioritize discipline and choose a career that aligned with their true interests.

MOM Chief Coordinator Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli explained that the groups will be based at Angoy’s Avenue drop-in centre, Hampshire Civic Center and Line Path Community Centre, ensuring every child in the area has access to vital support.
Murli stated that this initiative supported by President Irfaan Ali reflects his commitment to empowering youth to achieve their full potential.
Inspired by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s words, “We cannot always build a future for our young people, but we can build our young people for the future,” he stated that the program aims to provide children with the tools they need to succeed.

He noted that the Youth Empowerment and Mentoring Program is designed to offer comprehensive support, including homework help, mentoring and participation in various activities such as karate and games.

He noted that this is the third mentoring group launched, following successful initiatives in Georgetown and District 9, supporting at-risk children through academic guidance and life skills training.
He emphasized that the MOM initiative prioritizes mentoring as a powerful tool for positive change, aiming to promote confidence, ambition and personal development among young people.
The program will enhance the existing structure at the application center by combining regular meetings, group events and workshops. The initiative aims to equip young people with the necessary knowledge and skills to cope with life’s challenges by connecting them with supportive role models.

He also noted that private sector partners play an important role in executing the programmes; The collaboration promises to make a lasting impact on society and Guyana’s future.
Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development President Samantha Reid noted that the New Amsterdam counseling center consistently offers essential lessons and mentoring based on the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. Reid emphasized that the collaboration between the private sector and the Men on a Mission initiative is a transformative step forward not only for children but for society as a whole.

Reid’s personal connection to the referral center underscores his dedication to the cause, he said. On Saturday, he called for more members from the private sector to join the cause, emphasizing that even small contributions of time and resources can make a meaningful difference.

Meanwhile, Zamal Hussain, Regional Vice President from the Hampshire location, noted that youth empowerment and mentoring play a crucial role in shaping the future of countries.
He said: “You young people have tremendous potential to drive social and economic progress. Empowering you through mentoring not only fosters individual growth but also contributes to broader societal development.