Heavy rain in Island Harbour last Thursday, April 2nd, could not dampen the optimism and pride inside the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School, where ten young people graduated from the Community Services Planning Unit (CSPU) Social Upskilling Programme.
The graduates: Kervin Benjamin, Zhion Fleming, Kevontia Hodge, Ryan Hodge, Shamarie Matthew, Salime Mussington, Spawndisha Pogson, Jashawn Richardson, Javeth Vanterpool and Scott Vanterpool, completed 20 weeks of training in plumbing and electrical work, equipping them with practical skills to enhance their employment prospects and life direction.
The programme was funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the Government of Anguilla, facilitated through the CSPU, and led by tutor Kenswick Richardson and Dereck Gumbs.
The ceremony was chaired by Michael Douglas of the Department of Social Development and Melissa Edwards of the Department of Youth and Culture. Among those in attendance were Commissioner of Police Robert Clark; Permanent Secretary of Social Development Bonnie Richardson-Lake; and parent and mentor representatives Esther Thomas-Hodge and Vanroy Hodge.
Ryan Hodge welcomed attendees and reflected on the programme’s deeper impact. “We learned about plumbing, but more importantly, we learned about discipline, respect and responsibility—how to carry ourselves in a better way,” he said. “We learned to push through challenges and continue even when things got rough.”
He added that support was key to their success: “The CSPU team didn’t just teach us—they stood with us. They encouraged us, corrected us and, most importantly, they believed in us. Sometimes that belief is all a young man needs to start changing direction.”
Her Excellency the Governor Julia Crouch commended the graduates for their commitment and highlighted the value of skilled trades. “You showed up, you did your best, and you got involved,” she said. “The skills you’ve gained are practical and important—skills that will help build Anguilla and make a difference.”
She encouraged participants to see the potential in their new trade. “The skills you have learned lead to successful careers and even entrepreneurship. The future is yours,” she added.
Ministerial Assistant Jeison Bryan also extended congratulations. “Your completion of this programme represents far more than the acquisition of technical skills—it reflects discipline, resilience, and a commitment to self-improvement.”
He emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, noting, “This programme is making a real, tangible impact, and I am proud to say that the Government of Anguilla stands firmly behind it.” Commending the CSPU team under the leadership of Hyacinth Bradley, he added, “Your vision and commitment continue to create real opportunities for empowerment, equipping individuals with practical skills that can transform lives and strengthen our communities.”
Encouraging the graduates to continue striving, Bryan said, “Plumbing is not just a trade—it’s a pathway to employment, entrepreneurship, and independence. Remember, this is not the end; it’s the beginning of greater possibilities..”
Mr. Layne Robinson of the Commonwealth Secretariat expressed his delight at the participants’ perseverance. Reflecting on the programme’s growth, he noted, “It is wonderful to see how far this project has come from such humble beginnings. It reflects the strength of community support and the environment that has made this programme a success.” He further emphasized the importance of investing in youth, stating, “We believe that every young person has great potential, and no one should be written off or forgotten. This programme demonstrates that when we invest in young people, their outcomes can be different.”
The most powerful moments of the ceremony came from the graduates themselves, who shared personal testimonies of growth and transformation.
Kervin Benjamin described the experience as humbling and eye-opening. “When I first heard about the programme, I thought it would just be a chance to get together and gain a little experience,” he said. “But along the way, I realised there was something more.”
Drawing on his background in boxing, he added, “In boxing, if you make a mistake only you get hit, but in plumbing, if you make a mistake everyone gets wet.”
Mr. Benjamin highlighted the discipline and accountability required throughout the programme. “No matter your age or background, there is always room to learn, improve and become better,” he said, encouraging his peers to remain consistent and determined despite distractions.
Javeth Vanterpool also spoke about the group’s progress, noting how far they had come in a short time. “A few weeks ago, if you asked any of us about plumbing, you would have received a question mark,” he said. “Today, we can walk onto a construction site and assess the situation.”
He shared a personal example of how the training had already made an impact. “The reason I was late today is because there was a plumbing issue at my home that I had to fix,” he said. These skills have already come in handy.
Zhion Fleming reflected on his personal growth. “When it first started, I was hesitant about what to expect,” he said. “But after the first session, I realised this was more than just learning plumbing. We learned patience, discipline and how to take responsibility for our actions.” He added that the experience showed him the importance of commitment and personal change.
Awards were presented in several categories, including Participant Certificates, Outstanding Transformation, Leadership and Initiative, Commitment and Perseverance, and Team Spirit and Positive Attitude.
Tutors Kenswick Richardson and Dereck Gumbs commended the participants for their dedication and willingness to learn, emphasizing the importance of programmes like Social Upskilling in equipping young people for success.
Caring Hands President, Ms. Monique Webster and Vice President, Mr. Kelly Fleming took the opportunity to share gifts of appreciation with the supporters of the programme and to express their appreciation for the support given by CSPU and other members of the community.
The graduation marked more than the completion of a training programme—it’s a turning point for these young individuals as they move forward with renewed purpose, resilience and a commitment to building brighter futures.
By: Kareen Rogers
