Fresh Start Program Re-Launched

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – After a two-year suspension, a youth empowerment program is back.

Keile Campbell reports on the return.

Forty young Bahamians attended the relaunch of the long-running ‘Fresh Start’ program since its suspension in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg encouraged the participants, saying he hopes after the 16 week period of training they’ll be ready to join The Bahamas’ work force.

Having already launched a program in Grand Bahama earlier this month, Bowleg says there are plans for other Fresh Start programs to commence in other Family Islands

Youth Officer & Progra Coordinator Shanda Roberts said the program offers training in various fields including beauty trades, culinary & baking, office procedures, web design, and mixology. Participants also receive Bahamas Host and food handlers training

Roberts spoke on returning to in-person instruction with the program, as well as the frustrations of having to conduct operations via zoom which lead to suspension of the program in 2020.