A total of 30 youths, who are drawn from across Guyana, were yesterday inducted into the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s ‘Young Influencers’ programme, aimed at helping them be positive role models while addressing social issues to make a meaningful impact on their communities.
The latest batch comprise 19 females and 11 males between the ages of 15 and 25.
“I crafted this initiative because I believe in young people,” Minister of Human Service and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud said at the Induction and Awards Ceremony on Saturday at the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute (GWLI).
Persaud applauded both the new recruits and those who came before them for taking up the mantle to help other youths in the country.
During the course of recruitment, the young people were tasked with the responsibility of preparing a proposed project, and if it was found to be viable, funds would be provided to make it a reality.
Presenting at the ceremony yesterday from amongst the 30 new recruits, were youths who were responsible for the Palms Geriatric Home.
The group’s project, named ‘Garden’, and noted that it is primarily based on the positive impact that horticulture can have on elders, not only in planting, but also for their voluntary movement and their mental health when dwelling in a place filled with natural ambience. Their estimated budget for the project was $272,000.
Another group presentation was intended for the Sophia Drop-In Centre, where they highlighted the need for children to go on adventures where they will securely be exposed with others, in order to develop the skills of leadership and responsibility, along with self-control and discipline. They estimated their project to cost $310,000.
The 25 young influencers who comprised the inaugural batch in the programme graduated yesterday, with Jeremiah Kalekyezi being named the top-performing Young Influencer of the year 2021.
