NASSAU, BAHAMAS- Graduates of the Empowerment Hour Programme in the Fox Hill and Carmichael communities were celebrated this past week as the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting (MOSSIB), through its Community Affairs Division, marked the successful completion of another cycle of its community-based empowerment initiative.
Launched earlier this year in collaboration with the Ministry of National Security and other government agencies, the programme is designed to equip children, teens and adults with practical life skills, confidence and tools for personal and economic advancement.
Graduation ceremonies were held at the Fox Hill and Carmichael community centres, bringing together families, facilitators and ministry officials to recognise the progress, commitment and perseverance of participants.
Speaking to graduates in Fox Hill, Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles K. LaRoda, applauded participants not only for completing the programme, but for embracing the opportunities ahead.
“Today, we celebrate not only what you have accomplished, but also the promise of what you will do with these skills — how you will apply them to better your lives, uplift your families, and strengthen your community,” Minister LaRoda said.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to community empowerment, assuring graduates that government support does not end with the ceremony.
“As a Ministry, we remain committed to standing with you. Wherever our people are, wherever growth is needed, we will be there,” he said.
“Today, we celebrate because you matter, your achievements matter, and your future matters.”
The Empowerment Hour Programme is structured to address different age groups and needs through several components. The Daytime Empowerment Programme for Adults provides practical and marketable skills, including sewing, backyard farming, sign language and financial planning, helping participants move toward self-reliance and, in many cases, a pathway to employment or small enterprise.
The “I Have the Power” Youth Empowerment Programme focuses on adolescents and teens, with emphasis on self-esteem building, conflict resolution, emotional awareness and personal development. Meanwhile, the After-School Enrichment Programme offers homework assistance, arts and crafts and structured enrichment activities designed to support academic success and positive social engagement for younger children.
Together, these components create a holistic empowerment model that strengthens individuals while reinforcing family and community resilience.
Addressing graduates in Carmichael, Permanent Secretary Phedra Turnquest commended participants for taking the initiative to invest in themselves and their futures.
“You transformed your own story by being willing to come forward and learn new skills — new tools to equip you for success,” she told the graduates.
She encouraged participants to move confidently into their next chapter, urging them to “walk tall and become who you are meant to be,” while underscoring the importance of recognising progress.
“Graduation ceremonies are important because progress deserves recognition,” Mrs. Turnquest said, adding that MOSSIB remains committed to supporting communities in meaningful ways that empower individuals to level up and help themselves.
Through partnerships, accessible community spaces and responsive programming, the Empowerment Hour Programme reflects MOSSIB’s continued focus on prevention, empowerment and opportunity as key pillars of social development. Through Empowerment Hour, the Ministry continues to demonstrate that when people are given the tools, support and belief they need, entire communities are strengthened.
