Mentors Invited for ‘WE TRANSFORM’ Programme

The ‘We Transform’ programme is seeking Mentors for the second phase of its youth empowerment and reintegration initiative.

Speaking at a JIS ‘Think Tank’ on October 19, Programme Manager for We Transform, Ella Ghartey, said the Ministry of National Security is recruiting potential Mentors to assist in the development of the at-risk youth in the care and supervision of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS).

“Mentorship is an excellent opportunity for you to give back and impact the lives of the youth and the country. We want persons who are committed and have a genuine interest in the transformation of the lives of these youth. If that is you, then contact us at the Ministry,” Miss Ghartey urged.

She noted that mentorship has emerged as one of the most effective strategies used globally in reducing youth offending and recidivism, and promoting successful reintegration.

Miss Ghartey explained that although the Ministry is inviting volunteers, thorough screening will be done to select the Mentors.

She said once the vetting is completed, the mentors who are shortlisted will be trained and paired with a child to ensure individuality in the development journey.

“The mentorship programme will allow children within the care and supervision of the DCS to establish supportive relationships with positive caring role models, who will help them overcome their personal risk factors and guide them through the process of resocialisation, transformation and reintegration into their communities,” Miss Ghartey said.

She added that the Ministry acknowledges the seriousness of this issue and is treating it with priority, as the issue threatens the security of the nation and the healthy progress of youngsters.

“Since the launch of the programme in June of this year, a number of persons, churches and companies, notably JPS and more recently our own Miss Jamaica World, Solange Sinclair, have been pledging their support and signing up to become Mentors,” Miss Ghartey said.

“Everyone can play a part in the process. You can engage the children in motivational group sessions at the respective juvenile institutions, or help us build public awareness and our presence on social media by sharing or endorsing ‘We Transform’ media content,” she noted.

The Programme Manager said that contributions and other forms of aid are also welcome, to fund special events at the respective juvenile institutions.

She made an appeal to Jamaicans to join in the movement and offer solutions on how to empower and equip children in State care, and encouraged corporate entities and small businesses to play a more intimate role in the Government’s strategic plan to rehabilitate the youngsters.

“They will need internship and job placement opportunities, and you can give back in this way. For those on probation and those serving custodial sentences, they will need an income subsequent to their release,” she said.

The We Transform programme, launched under the theme ‘Save a Child, Change a Nation’, is being implemented through the Department of Correctional Services for the rehabilitation and reintegration of youth offenders.