An evening filled with ecstasy, passion and exchange of ideas would be just a few words to describe the time spent with the Prime Minister and the young men of the Saddlers Community on Saturday, February 14, 2009.
The initiative was organised and coordinated by one of the village’s young ambassadors, Alicia Collins, who perceived the need for the young men of the community to interact verbally with not just the Prime Mister but also their Parliamentary Representative. Present at this session was the Prime Minister, the Honorable Nigel Carty, Alicia Collins, Gustina Mulley and just over 30 young men ranging from ages 17 through 31.
The evening commenced with the Prime Mister giving the young men an overview of the negative perception that is dispelled about the Saddlers community and its impact on the overall development of the country. “Let’s talk”, were the final words uttered by the PM just before listening to the concerns and grievances of those present.
The enthusiastic men then took the initiative to openly express themselves which gushed out several burning issues that might have been burdening their minds, hearts and souls. With composure of passion and concern, the Parliamentary Representative eagerly listened to the views aired by the individuals and assured them his willingness and commitment to amend the majority, if not all, of the expressed problems.
“PM, of all me 23 years of living, this the very first time I ever get de chance to be up close and personal with you and I feel good, good, good me nar lie”, were the words echoed by a compassionate Kemwell Matthew who did not withheld anything that he knew was a stumbling block for his existence.
“De boss, a lot a people see us and think that we ain nothing an that’s why we act so but seeing that you come now an show you interest in us is only now we realise we could do something positive wid we life”, were jus a few sentiments expressed by another young man whose views were never heard or respected by members of the community. The Prime Minister then encouraged every individual present to capitalise on the Youth Empowerment through Skills (YES) programme as it would be a driving factor for their improvement in life.
The greatest factor for the success of this session was due to the informal setting where everyone was encouraged to be their own self within a friendly atmosphere. Every individual was given the opportunity to air his concerns and make suggestions as to how he can make improvements within the community. The young men assured the PM that if he sticks with them they will in turn stick with him.
The evening climaxed with some light refreshments as every individual sat at the table and socialised with each other, just expressing their satisfaction and appreciation for the session which was deemed triumph of which the PM assured the men that was not the last session of its kind.
