Barbados to open new multipurpose space focusing on youth in 2 years

The Government of Barbados conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for a new multipurpose space at London Bourne Towers, Bay Street, St. Michael. The space is anticipated to open in two years and will enhance the community’s development and engagement, particularly youth empowerment.

The Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith called it a “pivotal hub” which has been designed to enhance youth and community development and change the lives of the youth of the city.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several government officials, community members, and young people who witnessed the commencement of a project that will significantly impact their lives and foster growth and opportunity in the community.

While shedding light on the new resource centre, Minister Charles Griffith stated it would ensure that they can bring programmes that will provide one, entry-level qualifications for the world of work or two, to allow persons to get involved in self-employment.

He outlined the significance of providing opportunities for the development of the youth, describing the new resource centre as “a new oasis in the city for the young people.” He noted that it will act as an extension of the Ministry’s diverse training programs, providing additional support and resources to the youth of Barbados.

The Minister also revealed that the center will also prioritize educational support. While highlighting the significance of study halls and job readiness programs he stated that they are the crucial components for him.

The center will also offer programs to help young people enter the job market and provide them with essential training in skills such as financial management and setting up bank accounts for their development.

He continued to say that this centre will not only host educational programmes but will also play a huge role in functioning as a community hub where residents will have access to several resources and opportunities.

Minister Griffith added that the centre will consist offices including social service agencies, six resource rooms with collapsible walls to create larger spaces, a large balcony overlooking the existing hardcourts, changing rooms, built in bleachers, a studio for aspiring musicians and sound technicians, a recreation room inclusive of stage and backstage rooms and two kiosks for vending.

He noted that all these facilities would be included with a vision to ensure that the centre caters to all the needs of the community and provides a support system for youth development.

Moreover, the Ministry of Youth, Sports has also established a Centre Management Committee, a community-based group which is responsible for overseeing activities beyond regular hours.

While shedding light on this committee, the Minister noted that the Centre Management Committee is being created to ensure that community members take on the responsibility for the center and allow activities to continue after 4:30.