Empowering Youth in Criminal Justice and Peacebuilding: The Youth Showcase Awards Ceremony at Accra Beach Hotel

The Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit and the National Peace Programme are committed to making a positive impact within our communities. On Saturday night at the Accra Beach Hotel, the stage was set for a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and progress with The Youth Showcase and Appreciation Awards Ceremony.

The collaborative effort between the organisations highlighted the remarkable contribution of youth in the fields of criminal justice and peacebuilding. It also gave participants in the Build Your Own Door project the opportunity to showcase their talent.

Ishiaka McNeil, a mentor in the initiative explained, “The programme’s goal was to provide the catalysts for these young individuals to explore their passion for entertainment and performance arts and to create opportunities for them to build their own paths towards actualising their dreams and goals.”

Focusing on their personal and professional development, the seven delegates in the cohort refined skills in branding, performance techniques, production, music theory, personal style and fashion.

Jennifer King, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs delivered remarks on behalf of Minister Corey Lane, who was unable to attend. Acknowledging the honourees, she read, “I am encouraged that each of you would be recognised this evening, very deservingly so. I am very happy that you all have been able to participate, learn and benefit. At the same time, it is no secret that the issues along the way have created great discouragement for some of you, but you persevered and that makes it even more special for us.”

In her own address, she noted, “As someone who truly believes in the power of family and community, I find it inspiring to witness how much the difference we can make when we come together to uplift one another.”

King praised the Parent Wise programme, explaining “This initiative aims to equip parents with the skills, resources and support they need to nurture their children holistically, physically, mentally and emotionally.”

She elaborated, “Special support includes one on one counselling, support groups and initiatives ensures that every parent feels empowered to build stronger relationships with their children.”

King added, “By including parenting skills, boosting confidence and promoting emotional well-being we aim to foster healthier relations within families and reduce crime in our communities.”

Awards were presented to winners of various competitions. In the Youth Speak-Off Contest, Javonte Callender secured first place, with Shein Norville in second and Elesha Smith in third.

The Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit ‘s Poster Competition winners were Fabiana Holder of St. Jude’s Primary in first place, Deann Summer of St. Martins Mangrove Primary School in second, and Xane Skeete of St. Catherine’s Primary School in third. In the secondary school category Deighton Griffith Secondary took both top spots. Aliyah Morris claimed first place, followed by Aaron King in second and Regina Barry of The Alleyne School placed third.

All seven of the participants in the Build Your Own Door Initiative received gifts. Those participants were Tavian Alleyne-Herbert, Romario Barker, Ann Marie Brathwaite, Arlington Daniel, Malachi Desir, Stefan Lemon and Jamar Waithe.

Special prizes from the Art Hub were awarded to Jazarah Brewster-Lewis of St Jude’s Primary School and Taraji Punch of Belmont Primary School. The special Media Award was presented to Sharon Austin Gill-Moore. Director of the National Peace Program Alison Roach-Plummer was also acknowledged for her dedicated service.

Recognition was given to participants in the Parent Wise Initiative, who demonstrated commitment to fostering peace, understanding, and positive change within their families and communities. Partner organisations involved included AMMAR Empowerment, Parent Education for Development in Barbados (PAREDOS), Men’s Empowerment Network, Barbados Association of Professional Social Workers (BAPSW), and the Caribbean Institute for Social Emotional Learning (CISEL).

The night featured a variety of performances, including Kenaz ‘Bit Bit’ Walker, winner of the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Youth Community Pop-Up Karaoke Competition, who sang Bob Marley’s Redemption Song. Heating up the stage with some original material were participants in the Build Your Own Door initiative. Senator John King sang How Many More, followed by Grateful Co. with Product of Change and Coopa Dan with Reflections. The show was brought to a fitting close with Edwin Yearwood performing Peace Sign. (STT)