State minister in the Ministry of National Security Senator Pearnel Charles Jr has urged wards at the Metcalfe Street Juvenile Remand Centre for boys to find a positive goal to work towards and not allow the negative influences around them to become their downfall.

Speaking with the wards on tour of the facility last Friday, Senator Charles implored: “If you do not set a goal to accomplish something, then you will have nothing to work towards, and if you don’t have anything to work towards, then the wrong influences will overpower you.”

The minister’s tour of the facility culminated in an empowerment and motivational session for the wards, titled, ‘Talk Up Yout’, hosted by Emprezz Golding, in which wards were encouraged to be bold and confident in their approach to any situation.

Recording artiste, Nesbeth; president of the Universal Negro Improvement Association, Steven Golding and journalist, Abka Fitz-Henley showed their support by sharing their own stories while imparting key messages to the wards to motivate and inspire them along their life journeys.

The wards had the opportunity to share with the mentors and relayed their recommendations for improving the facility. While the facility boasts a well-developed aquaponics and hydroponics agricultural initiative, the wards wanted a more structured sporting programme and specific mentoring as it concerned their career aspirations.

One ward stated: “I want to be a doctor and I am just sitting here not knowing how to go about it, so I would like someone to come in and help me and point me in the right direction so that when I get out of here I know exactly what I am doing.”

Arising from the session, the facility has been promised a contribution of over 100 books to facilitate improving literacy and a historical understanding of Garveyism, as well as help in the form of matching mentors with a professional within the field or training area in which the wards indicate an interest.

The session ended with a rousing performance from entertainer Nesbeth who connected with the wards, telling them he had achieved musical success despite having come from a similar background.

Charles said he was committed to working with inmates, wards and correctional officers to create policies that would be practical, effective and bring optimal results in the rehabilitation process.